Only In Jesus

I bowed my head and closed my eyes as our church family sang in chorus yesterday. I wanted to savor every word as we sang “In Christ Alone”. Wishing I could freeze time, as I fell down at His feet and my heart, absorbing the truth in each lyrics.

“You are indeed good to us Father,” I softly whispered.

“Forgive me for those times when I forget that when I worry, that means I don’t trust You. Thank You Lord for Your love, Your mercy and grace.”

Illness? Financial difficulties? At the verge of losing a precious relationship? Trapped in destructive habits? Taking pleasure from things that do not satisfy?

What is each of us facing now? Do you truly know Jesus?

Let us go to Him and truly surrender. Not just once but every day. If Jesus placed the sins of the world on Him, what else could He not take away from us?

Let us “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.” ~Psalm 34:8

Infected Dough

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." - Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

“So how do you like your new schedule now?” asked this one co-worker.

“Awesome,” I replied but at the same time with doubts brewing in my mind. This was not the first time she asked me. I was careful ever since changes were made in the night nurses’ schedule, being told that someone didn’t like the way it was before. So change was a must.

There was silence as she listened to the rest of my reply.

“I love it that I’m off now on weekends than working. I get to go with my family to our fellowship on Sundays and then, for some quality time, go out for brunch.” I continued. I wasn’t trying to brag. I intentionally gave that same reply because there were many who had asked me and it was a part of my discerning their intentions or motives.

The silence remained. I stopped talking because only then I realized that if someone had asked and became silent after hearing an honest reply, then, that person must not be truly happy for others nor truly cared for someone else.

I was happy then, working on my own in another facility for maybe almost two years. Then, some nights, I ended up working with another nurse they gossiped about that he was not a great nurse but I didn’t listen to that. We ended up getting along well, divided the work amongst ourselves. Our work completed by morning and we both grew compromising, helping each other, not complaining and doing our work cheerfully. Until….changes occurred and they wanted me back at the main prison. That was in 2003. I was hired in 2000. I went through so much pain and fear because I got so comfortable in that facility and working with that nurse the others despised. Too much grapevine just kept going on to the main facility. I wasn’t afraid of the people. I just didn’t want the atmosphere. I found my comfort the usual way. That was to seek the Lord for I knew that when change came, He would be there with me anyway. So, fear vanished and I had been working at the main prison for many years again, overcoming whatever came my way because of the strength He gave and continues to give.

That person who asked me professed that she was a Christian during those early days we met. And I remembered how many times I struggled to question God why couldn’t be everyone be just called Christians, instead of different denominations people follow?

With this battle I’m in, I’m thanking the Lord for giving me a part of His answer as I go through this battle at work. Not everyone can be called “Christians”. Only those who follow Christ’s steps are the “true Christians.” For it is easy to claim someone is a Christian, yet does not realize their motives are still selfish.

Paul asked, “You were getting along so well. Who has interfered with you to hold you back from following the truth? It certainly isn’t God, for he is the one who had called you to freedom. But it takes only one wrong person among you to infect all the others – a little yeast spreads quickly through the whole batch of dough! I am trusting the Lord to bring you back to believing as I do about these things. God will judge that person, whoever it is, who has been troubling and confusing you.” – Galatians 5:7-9 (LAB)

I am beginning to see the roots of this battle I am facing. One’s false perception became a huge desire to hurt someone’s joyful life. That someone is me. But what they don’t understand, if that person knows their true identity in Christ, even if changes come, that person’s stability comes from knowing God Who doesn’t change!

And as I recalled those pain and fear back in 2003 when I was being transferred to the main facility and with this huge battle I’m in now, I have no fear because I know how important it is to only please God not men.  Why? As a child of God and wanting to be His true follower, I know that truth that we are called to live in freedom. Not the kind that satisfies my desires but the kind of freedom where He is calling His followers to serve another in love.  I never desired to be a part of that batch of dough, infected with yeast. 

"Stop putting your trust in mere humans. They are as frail as breath. How can they be of help to anyone?" (Isaiah 2:22-LAB)

They accused me. They had said lies about me. But I wouldn't face them and make them hear what they want to hear. What they would hear would hurt. Because His Word is like a double-edged sword. The sWORD that can remove that yeast infecting the dough.

"As the Scriptures say, 'He will be proved right in what he says, and he will win his case in court." - Romans 3:4 (LAB)

I yanked out one of my guitars off the wall where it was hanging. I haven’t played it in a while. Remembering all the songs He gave me, I wanted to offer it back to Him. Stretching the strings of my guitar, I patiently compared it with the guitar tuner. The tighter the strings got, the better tune. Oh, how my life right now is being stretched by His hands. I just pray that I will bring my best tune to His ears.

The Lord gave this song into my heart during that time of pain and fear in August of 2003:

Spirit of Lord

Lord, how can I go on?

How can I do Your will

Without backing down on my own?

It’s hard, oh Lord,

I cry for everyone

Who does not follow Your plans

Chorus:

Spirit of Lord, come and fill our hearts

Let Your love overflow and guide us

Spirit of Lord, come and live in us

Let Your works shine, glory is Yours always

Spirit of Lord…

Lord, sometimes I don’t understand

But I want Your will

So, give me the strength

It’s hard, oh Lord

But I want to be

A servant to Your plans

(Repeat Chorus)

Facing The Battle Is A Must

“I don’t understand…” a friend uttered.

“Why do bad people seem to be having the best life here?”

“It’s hard to explain with my limited knowledge. But God wants us to know that bad things or trials happen to either good or bad people. Just because you’re going through a tough time doesn’t mean you’re a bad person. We’re only here temporarily.”

“We just have to trust in God because He is the One Who knows everything…”

And through the moment of silence between us, we shared tears. We shared each other’s pain. We shared each other’s grief.

Yesterday, my tears flowed, too. Quietly. In front of someone who was willing to help me with my battle. It wouldn’t be an easy one. It just started but it would still be a long way to go. There would be lots of changes. But I would remain trusting on God’s Word, His faithful promises of being there for those who love Him. Knowing that He is the only One Who doesn’t change.

We wear His Armor the moment we make that important decision to be on Christ’s side.

The sturdy belt of truth.

The body armor of God’s righteousness.

The shoes with peace that comes from the Good News.

Faith as our shield.

The helmet of salvation.

The sWORD of the Spirit.

It is real that we have a vicious enemy. And Paul did not make it an option to turn back when we are facing a battle. For going through trials is a must in our Christian journeys. It is essential for our spiritual growth.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” ~ James 1:2-4 (NIV)

And I would like to keep that in mind as I face a battle at this time. I know it will be uncomfortable at times. Maybe numerous times. But I trust in His promises, His Word, that I know in my heart will give me the spiritual victory. I know I have His victory no matter what comes my way. I may not know what to do at times. I may not see where it’s leading. But He does. His Word is truly a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105).

I got some hope from that person. But nothing will compare to the hope I have been given by Jesus Christ. I am taking up this battle so I can hold fast to the future and hope He promised to those who believe.

“We escaped like a bird from a hunter’s trap. The trap is broken, and we are free! Our help is from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth.”  ~ Psalm 124:7,8 (LAB)

“On the very day I call to you for help, my enemies will retreat. This I know: God is on my side. O God, I praise your word. Yes, Lord, I praise your word. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?” ~ Psalm 56:9-11 (LAB)

The Shepherd

“You didn’t say that…..” (Accusing)

“No! We only need this number of work hours…” (Lying)

“Think about other options…” (Tempting)

Glances…Smirks…Glad about crashing people under them… (Power)

Yes…I faced all those…I discerned all those characteristics as we met face to face. (Glory be to God for His gift of discernment!). But I won’t be afraid. These are the same characteristics that our spiritual enemy and his followers possess...

Like what our pastor said last Sunday during our early morning fellowship, the devil is not omnipresent. He is not omniscient. He is not omnipotent. Never will he be equal to the ONE and ONLY GOD ALMIGHTY!

God Who has a hold on me! I will not be afraid no matter what comes my way! Do you feel His hold on you?

The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.

He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid,

For you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.

You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,

And I will live in the house of the Lord forever. ~ Psalm 23:1-6 (LAB) 

I wrote this song on July 29, 2003, asking myself, “When is the right time for us to get together with God?”

Jesus Is The Shepherd

I was once lost like you, not knowing Christ

Every struggle means pain and I get deeply hurt

But please listen to me and to all the things I’ll say

Jesus is the only life, the truth and the way

How long are you gonna’ be lost like a sheep?

For when Christ finds you, you just have to believe

Oh, Jesus is the Shepherd Who will lead us all

Salvation comes from Him and from Him alone

Chorus:

Oh Jesus has so much love

All you need to do is open up your hearts

Turn away from all of your sins

And love and joy will grow within.

If your life is ever found, don’t let it go

Stop your wandering, let your faith grow

For Jesus is the Shepherd Who will guide your way

Nothing will go wrong, in your hearts He’ll stay

(Repeat Chorus)…

“All of us have strayed away like sheep. We have left God’s path to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the guilt and sins of us all.” – Isaiah 53:6

Let The Words Be Few

"As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut! Don't be a fool who doesn't realize that mindless offerings to God are evil. And don't make rash promises to God, for he is in heaven, and you are only here on earth. So let your words be few." ~ Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 (emphasis is mine)

They were determined to make me work only until April. As they uttered so many words contradicting their hearts’ motives, I knew those words were just empty, making promises that were already broken because of their desire to terminate me. Thousands of words were laid out on the table except their actions were not the same. The paper they prepared looked good but they did not reveal what they had been saying all along. They tried to quietly intimidate me, accuse me and instill fear about my future. But that just wouldn’t work.I refused to sign it. I saw her stealing quick glances trying to observe my emotions. She found none. She felt good and confident that I was like a puppet with strings she controlled with her hands. I got up and reminded them that I requested to be represented and yet, they proceeded with this planned tryst, with me unaware of others' presence.

"How can they not know in their power what is right and what is wrong?" I thought to myself as I got up. One hearsay was blown into something that would damage my career. And one inaccurate accusation got passed along because of this person's intention to hurt me. I tried defending myself but my words went out into their other ears.

The person who was supposed to be with me didn't call me back. All alone, I wasn't afraid because I know the Truth that there is One Who knows and directs everything that happens and He is in complete control over my life. Over their lives. With my limited knowledge, things may seem bleak but in my heart that sees Him, I know He already knows and that in everything, I trust He will turn this into good. He was the One after all, Who put me in this dark place from where I was before. He was the One Who gave me discernment to know what was going on.

Their empty words…They were all useless. That was plain foolishness.

“Open our eyes, Lord,” I softly prayed while sitting at the back of the car, driven by my son learning now how to drive and as my husband sat next to him on our way to His house, listening to worship songs from the radio station.

“Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord…” “Let our words be few…”

I know, no matter what happens, even if feeling this injustice, I know He takes notice of everything. I would rather not say thousands of words that are meaningless in front of Him. I don’t want to take a step way before Him. I don’t want to do the talking but rather just listen to Him. It’s not right to tell Him what I want. Knowing He is the only One Who is faithful and true to His promises, I know that I can fully trust in Him and on His perfect timing.And I am sad not because of the situation I'm in. I am sad for them because when truth is revealed, it will hurt them instead. For now, I would rather just FOCUS on Him. For now, I would rather not miss what He wants for me...

“Let my words be few…” “Lord, You deserve our praises and thanks. You alone orchestrate everything. Thank you for putting joy into my heart, instead of fear. Thank you for the comfort You cover me with as these people try to cut me deep. Thank you that You know their accusations are not true and I know that in Your perfect time, it will be revealed. Thank You that though it may seem like a fiery trial, You protect me and make me safe. Let my words be few Lord…And if words do come out, may they please You only. In Jesus’ Name.”

True Courage

Swamped by a horde of incoming newly-arrested bodies, I volunteered to help the Intake Nurse as we just got done with all the work in the Infirmary. A female Highway Patrol ordered her arrestee to sit on the plastic chair inside the Intake Nurse’s small clinic so we both could start screening him, health-wise.

He was slightly drunk.Seeing the flashing lights behind him, he made the crucial decision to step more on the gas pedal. Cruising through many streets at a very high speed, his car went through a median. He had laceration on two of his fingers on his left hand. They were cut so deep from the accident, he almost lost his fingers. It was fortunate he didn’t break a bone nor sustained a massive head injury. He had a female passenger being booked on the other side of the prison’s Intake.

“Sorry,” I uttered. “I can’t let you have that metal stabilizer on your fingers though I know your fingers needed to be immobilized. No one is just allowed to keep any metal thing here while incarcerated,” I explained.

“I understand, Ma’am,” he politely responded.

“What are we going to do?” asked the other nurse.

“It’s okay.” I replied. Stepping back toward the sink where a glass jar housed a few wooden tongue blades, I got two and broke them in half, leaving a length that corresponds to his fingers’. I applied it carefully after seeing him in pain and secured it with a gauze and tape. It worked about the same purpose as that metal immobilizer. To his relief.

As the other nurse was summoned to screen the other arrestee, the female Officer busy writing within a distance, I helped him take out his right arm from the long sleeve covering it so I could take a blood pressure reading.

There it was, I saw a beautiful font tattooed on his mid-forearm that spelled “J E S S E”.

“Who’s Jesse?” “You?”

“My son, Ma’am.”

“How old?”

“Only 2.”

Silence…I looked at him eye to eye.

“Sir, I usually try not to say anything.” (Knowing it was only him and I at that time, I wanted to take the opportunity to talk with the man as if he was my relative and not think of him as an arrestee).

“I hope that your son means a lot to you…”

He smiled as if he knew where the conversation was going.

“I love him so much,” he abruptly answered.

“Then, if you do, think about him always. Carry him in your heart. So, when you have to make decisions, he will always be a part of that decision. And if he truly is a part of that decision, then, hopefully, you will choose to take the right move, not the bad one. Because of Jesse…”

He was whisked away by the female Officer. He turned around and thanked me and gave me a smile. Softly, he whispered, “I will, Ma’am. Thank you.”

After being booked, I saw he would remain incarcerated for a long time because of all the violations he did. Jesse would grow up in that long amount of time. But I prayed for him. That it would never be too late to make that change. For him and Jesse.

In this life, true courage is not climbing the tallest mountain. It is not about sailing many seas. True courage is admitting you’re wrong and you’re truly sorry for it. True courage is knowing you are a sinner, just like everyone else and with true repentance, knees are bent and tears are shed as the heart cries for forgiveness from one, true God. And to Him, a broken heart and a contrite spirit is offered at His feet.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

~ 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

"The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God." - Psalm 51:17 (NLT)

He Showed His Love

They seemed so nice as one by one, they walked into the Clinic and said “Good Morning” to anyone who crossed their paths. Among them were those few whose smiles were so wide and seemed they were bringing such gladness into the start of this day but I had deciphered their inner beauty long time ago. What the outside showed was different from their inner attitudes and motivations displayed.

“Actions speak louder than words…”

“Good morning,” this one particular boss uttered to me as she saw me from a distance.

I nodded to acknowledge her greeting but without any words. Nothing came out of my mouth as my brain processed a greeting deprived of love? Like what Paul said, we can speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but without love we will be like a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. (1 Corinthians 13:1).

“Actions speak louder than words…”

People can speak with great eloquence and such great wisdom but without love, it will not mean anything.

“Actions speak louder than words…”

Jesus had shown His love to all. He gave His life to show how much love He has for everyone. He shed His blood and became the ransom for ours.

“Actions speak louder than words…”

^“19 We love because he first loved us. ²⁰ Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. ²¹ And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” – 1 John 4:19-21 (NIV)

Jesus came down from heaven to speak about God’s love to this world deprived of love.

“We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us.” – 1 John 3:16 (NIV)

The Battle Isn't Mine

^“10My people, you are my witnesses and my chosen servant. I want you to know me, to trust me, and understand that I alone am God. I have always been God;  there can be no others.  ¹¹I alone am the LORD;  only I can rescue you.  ¹²I promised to save you, and I kept my promise.  You are my witnesses that no other god did this. I, the LORD, have spoken. ¹³I am God now and forever.  No one can snatch you from me or stand in my way. “ – Isaiah 43: 10-13 (CEV)

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That unexpected meeting had me fully open to their winds of accusations that almost killed the light I tried to carry wherever I went. It flickered. The more wind, the more wavering it did and the little light became even lesser, to the point of going up in smoke.

Then, suddenly, a Huge Hand came and shielded my light against those strong winds of accusations that had no basis. The winds that came from three people in power who just wanted to serve their self-interests. Three people who were supposed to protect, and under our badges, were placed in their prominent positions, became the first ones to accuse and wanted to do a severe damage. They could only see the power that held them high. But they didn’t know. Any power from this world would not last. Any who was number one in position in this world would not mean it would be the same ranking in His Kingdom.

And my light didn’t die. Saved by His mighty Hand. And I saw the scars on His hands pierced by those nails. Nails that were driven by the same passion wrongfully used by those people in high power thousands of years ago. They wanted to kill him even if He was innocent. They didn’t want to believe anything He said though they were amazed by what they heard from Him. They thought they could plan for His death and made Him bleed as He walked through the narrow, dusty road leading to Golgotha, while carrying a heavy, wooden cross. But they didn’t know. It was already planned by God. He sacrificed His own Son to save humanity from their sins.

As I sat there battling those powerful winds, my heart glowed more with hope. Knowing that the God Who raised Him from the dead was the same One Who freed Him from death’s agony; as it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him. My light grew brighter as He shielded me from those attacks and reminded me of what was to come. Because of what He had done. And because I chose to believe and trust in Him.

I am reviewing what I wrote from day one that there was a big change at work. I keep playing the recorded messages over and over. Praying for God’s discernment daily, I had that gut feeling to start taking notes as I felt that there was an unseen powerful storm that would threaten to stop His work in me. As they smirked and laughed their hearts out, celebrating because of what they thought crippled me, I remained resting in His wonderful promises. His Armor remained intact all over me, day in, day out.

Next week would be a big leap for me. As I try to sort out what I have to fight back.  I feel good. I have His mighty tools He gave me. They will not hear a loud yell from me. They will not expect any disrespectful remarks. For I am not reacting in the flesh but I’m fighting in the Spirit. With my defense, they will cower because of His truth and His righteousness. With my stance, they will not see any fear but peace, love, and the joy of salvation. They will hurt because I will bring the battle into His light and their hearts will be pierced with His sWORD. As I remain not standing up in a stance while holding a fist into the air, I would rather continue to bend my knees and fold my hands together. Even if they get calloused. As I know many of you are also keeping me in your prayers. And because of that, as we gather and meet in the Spirit, I pray that I see everything through His eyes, not mine. To God be the glory! Thank you friends for your prayers and love.

 “And he said, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the Lord to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.” – 2 Chronicles 20:15 (ESV)

Your Love

“I’m sorry for crying, but I just can’t help it. I haven’t been feeling well and I just don’t feel good,” a young, female inmate rapidly stated as she just sat on one of the blue chairs we used for sick call. She was talking so fast that I haven’t even asked her what brought her down to the Clinic. I knew she had a history of anxiety and being bipolar was a possibility according to her records.

“Calm down…..Breathe…” I coaxed her.

“Ma’am, I’m sorry but I just don’t feel good and it’s difficult to breathe and tonight, I started coughing and…”

“Calm….Down….Take a deep breath…Don’t think I’m not listening. I am.”

“But…”

“Breathe! Calm down!”

Her lips pursed, I saw her let out a long breath.

“Again…”

To my command, she let out another. Seeing her more relaxed, I asked, “Do you think you need to see someone from the Mental Health Services? Are you feeling more anxious? Though I know that you were seen before but at that time, you told them that you were okay. It looks like you have a cold. And if you cry, it will make it more difficult for you to breathe. So, try to relax, okay?”

In a much slower rhythm, she replied, “I’m fine, Ma’am. I don’t think I need to see any from Psych. I do have history of asthma.”

“I saw that. I’m just waiting for you to calm down. I’m gonna’ take your temperature and other things and depending on what I hear from your lungs, I might give you an inhaler.”

“Thank you.”

"Try to relax, get a lot of rest if you can and drink lots of fluids as long as you’re not nauseous," I reminded her as I gave her yellow pass after giving the medications to help her with her symptoms.

Oh, how true it is in this life that even smaller things can overwhelm us and seem to choke us when we feel so inadequate in overcoming trials. It’s just hard to breathe. These things that choke us sometimes weaken our faith more and make us forget that God can do amazing things. But no matter what we feel and no matter how impossible the circumstances we are fighting, it doesn’t mean that God is not paying attention to us anymore.

“Be still…” He always reminds us.

“"I the LORD do not change. So you, O descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.” (Malachi 3:6 – NIV)

He is God of love. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. So, His faithful love doesn’t change.

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For this special day, may we remember the Author of Love.

“16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” – (Ephesians 3:16-19-NIV)

This was a song the Lord had given me on Nov.25, 2004 then He gave me the second part on June 20, 2007…(We will find him if we seek Him and look for Him with all our hearts)…

Your Love, Oh Lord

I can never understand the way You love every man
On the cross You died and You called us friends
I can never comprehend Your sacrifice and all the pains
Even on the cross, You welcomed us with open arms

Chorus:

(That) Your love is wide…..wider than what my eyes can see
Your love is long…it endures for all eternity
Your love is high….higher than the skies and the heavens
Your love is deep…deeper than the rivers and the seas

Your love oh Lord…

Help me be like You in all of my ways
Dwell in my heart, only in You I have faith
I wanna’ be rooted only in Your love
So I can begin to understand…

(Repeat Chorus)..

Your love, oh Lord…(Your love is wide)
Your love, oh Lord…(Your love is long)
Your love, oh Lord…(Your love is high)
Your love, oh Lord…(Your love is deep)

~rcubes 11/25/04

Happy Love Day to all of you and may God bless you all! Thank you for your friendships, sweet thoughts and prayers. It will be a long battle I'm facing in the coming days ahead, but I want to be still and know that it is the Lord's battle, not mine. Love to all of you.

Stuck Doing Nothing

“Why then have these people turned away? Why does Jerusalem always turn away? They cling to deceit; they refuse to return.” – Jeremiah 8:5 (NIV)

In and out of the prison, he had grown accustomed to seeking medical treatment for his high blood pressure. As an illegal alien, his life was spent stealing cars or committing other crimes to support his financial needs. It wasn’t only him who knew how to seek a medical treatment by faking their symptoms, but medical staff knew if their complaints were not valid.

“Give his chart to me,” I requested to the other nurse who was taking a phone call from the same unit where she was already expecting one inmate to come down to the Clinic, complaining of his hip hurting after falling inside the cell.

“How about this other one,” I asked, “What was the complaint?”

“Rcubes, he told Custody…”

Then I heard the radio call, “Unit 8 sending down 2 to the Clinic…”as I was listening to the nurse.

“…that he was complaining of chest pain.”

Reviewing his chart, I noticed he was already seen the day before for a very high blood pressure. The Physician Assistant had already given him a pill to lower the blood pressure immediately and when the reading came down to a less dangerous level, he was sent back to his unit. But he didn’t know that the PA had also ordered new medications to be given starting that morning, with a pill that was not the same as what was given to him during that critical time.

"They said Unit 8," I told that other nurse waiting for the other sick inmate, "I wonder if they were "cellies" (housed together in one cell)?"

After checking in the computer, the same nurse tapped my shoulder and said, "You're right, Rcubes. They are staying together in one cell."

"Thanks. That means one complained, the other heard so either one or both of them are lying anyway.

 

“What’s up, Mr.N?” I started asking through the huge, heavy glass partition window, as the deputy was not around so I couldn’t let him in, into the Clinic.

“Ma’am, they haven’t given me this (he named a particular medication that was supposed to be given that morning) and you don’t understand, if I don’t get that, my chest hurts and I could feel it radiating to my left arm and also around here. Oh, and I don’t want any Nitro. That stuff makes me feel sick (which I already knew anyway because he refused the Nitro being offered by the PA that day),” he uttered as he started rubbing his mid-chest with circular motions.

“So, let me make this clear, Sir,” I probed, “To me, it doesn’t sound like you’re having chest pain. You wanted this specific medication and if you don’t get it, that’s when you will have chest pain.”

“You don’t understand,” he replied and  his facial expression became uneasy.

“I didn’t say you’re lying. And yes, I did understand what you were telling me because I just repeated what you told me. You’re the one who didn’t answer me, Sir. It was only a “yes” or “no”.”

“Ahhh…,” he remained silent for a minute.

“Was it this one (I mentioned the name of the medication that he wanted as I showed him the envelope that morning with the lists of the medications he was supposed to be getting) that you wanted?”

“Ahhh…yes,”he finally answered.

“Sir, you are not patient. It was about to be given starting this morning. You are not giving the medical staff a chance to treat you in proper timing. You just got here yesterday and you’re demanding for so many things. Don’t you think the doctor knows what medications you will need already to keep your blood pressure under control?”

“You need to relax because you’re angry and that’s not helping your blood pressure anyway,” I explained.

He didn’t know what to say. He took the morning pills and a small cup of water I offered. Walking with the aid of a wooden cane, he said a soft “thank you” and motioned the deputy that he was ready to go back to his unit.

God’s grace has been available to anyone seeking healing. We are all sick because of sins. But some who have already known and tasted God’s grace, end up going back and forth sometimes, remaining contented to stay being just saved. After being forgiven, sometimes, the desire to move toward perfection, toward knowing more about God, and toward becoming a new creation end up getting stuck doing nothing for His glory.

Let Your Word Speak

“Good morning!” she verbalized as she whizzed by in front of a counter where I was gathering my stuff, getting ready to leave after a busy night.

“Good morning,” I replied softly as my mind started wandering.

Wandering back to that day when she was in front of me, during a crucial meeting with regards to my work situation. I thought about how she intended to pursue to not have anything available for my request. The way she answered the questions of two more people in power,  incompletely and  often  with half  truths.

Despite the painful wounds she created in my heart and spirit with her lies and her own motive to crush me, I managed to glance at her direction at the opposite side of the wooden, conference table and uttered, “Have a good day”. She didn’t expect that kind of greeting from me, after being wounded deeply and unexpectedly. That was also a signal I gave to conclude our private session in which they had me pierced  with their planned decision to end my career in the prison, as I refused to answer anymore and sign the  piece of paper they had prepared where things were written quite differently from what they were verbally saying to my face.

She must remember that short but powerful moment of the way I responded to her hurtful, piercing remarks with gentleness.  But I wished that she would realize it wasn’t because of my nature. I did that because He lived in me.

“But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law.” – Galatians 5:22

Lord, I am only but a shadow in Your light. Their words hurt but they will  not wound me deep enough to paralyze me. Their plans for me are already outlined but I know it’s You Who directs our steps and it is only You Who formed us in our mother’s wombs. I pray dear Lord that through me, they will hear Your Word that is sharper than a double-edged sword. This sWORD that will penetrate their souls and spirits, their joints and marrow and make them realize that it’s You Who truly alone judges the thoughts and attitudes of the hearts. Please empower me with Your Spirit so that any wrong desires can be overcome by the fruits of the Spirit. Help me with Your strength for me to continue to easily forgive them and may they see Your grace through me. Lord, let Your Word speak!!! To them who needs to hear You. And to me who needs to continue to get to know more things about You. Thank You Lord for Your faithful love and mercy. Thank You for Your grace. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

For Eternity

²² Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. ²³ For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. ²⁴ Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.


 ²⁵ Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her ²⁶ to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, ²⁷ and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. ²⁸ In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. ²⁹ After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— ³⁰ for we are members of his body. ³¹ “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” ³² This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.” – Ephesians 5:22-32 (NIV)

“You’re not even worried at all?”my friend uttered as we were riding in my car, enjoying some quality time as friends do.

“Not at all!” I replied with firmness, as I got done spilling my heart’s contents to her regarding what I was going through at work.

“Well, you got support anyway…”she added.

She meant I have a great husband who is always there to lend me a hand, who is always there to support me in every rough seas I encounter when I sail, the one who readily offers his love, kindness, his shoulders when I need to cry, the one who has not changed from the time we had made those vows to be “together whether in sickness or in health, for richer or for poorer….” Instead, he did change not for the worse but to be better and in each day that passes by, we both learn from both the good and the bad that comes along our married life.

“How true!” I thought to myself.

“I wonder if it would be different with my mental attitude if I didn’t have the kind of support that comes from him? And along with that support, I also have reassurance from the product of our love (our child) who despite the young age, understands the bumps we encounter on this journey we’re all in, knowing the truth that it is unavoidable. Yet, he knows, as he observes from my husband’s and my steps as we walk, the many divine assistance we all get from those nail-scarred Hands Who promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us.”

And how grateful I am that the Lord provides this kind of relationship that only exists and lasts if there is Love in the middle. The above Scripture just describes how truly our marriage is a beautiful analogy of what Christ’s relationship is with the body, His church! That’s us!And no wonder that our spiritual enemy will of course, take notice and devise plans to make this relationship not work! He can try all he wants to do but if a Christian's spiritual walk is deeply rooted in His love, He is there protecting His bride! The moment we are united with Christ, He gave us His power and might and dressed us up with His Armor.

It is a beautiful, tender relationship that can weather any storm. It is a precious relationship that needs love, ready to compromise, understands that “submitting” is not a losing ground but winning and persevering in the midst of the worst of life’s storms. It is ready to mend. Ready to compromise. Ready to sacrifice. Because He did it first. And Jesus is LOVE. That’s what He offered to us. Love that is not like what this world knows. This is the kind of love that is shared not only with Him, nor with others, but especially with our enemies...The kind that lasts forever…

Let us worship the Lord together and say "We love Him back! Thank You Lord for Your love that lasts for eternity!"



Eternity (Misty Edwards)

Eternities
Eternity's eternal song,
Is drawing me away, it's calling me away
It's calling me away

All flesh is grass, fading away.
Only You last, only You remain
All flesh is grass, fading away.
Only You last, only You remain same,
You never change.

Holy, holy, holy,
You are fairer than then sons of men

Eternities
Eternity's eternal song,
Is drawing me away, it's calling me away
It's calling me away

Surely man is like the flower of the field,
And life is but a vapor, at best but a vapor.
Surely man is like a flower of the field,
And the fragrance but a vapor, at best but a vapor.

But you O God,
Are better than a thousand blooms.
Hallelujah, Amen! (x6)

Eternities
Eternity's eternal song,
Is drawing me away, it's calling me away
It's calling me away

Eternities
Eternity's eternal song

Be Angry

I browsed at the State’s site for job openings for Correctional Nurses that could be near my home. I couldn’t imagine going back to the hospital because of my neck injury. I wasn’t disappointed. There were plenty of openings. But I questioned myself “Why?”

I shouldn’t look yet but wait for His perfect timing. I knew I worked so hard for many years, the moment He took me out of my comfort zone and blessed me with His strength to be in this dark place. The job wasn’t hard. It was always the people I worked with, that was the sole issue of having difficulties all around. Yet…I worked hard and respected everyone even if a person was known to be mean.

In working part time, I had learned to be contented. Yes, it was lesser income but the joy of having more quality time with my family was incomparable to any sum of money. The more time I had spent with my child, the more time I had to not only teach him, but also of myself in sharing His Word. I knew people noticed that…They were wondering why I had not been working many hours, working only 8 hours, 4 hours shorter than the rest did. They were wondering why I kept mum when it came to my own business. They wanted to know….

I told them…”Thanks be to God Who made my husband and I able to do this…” (“But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. – 1 Timothy 6:11).

But they wouldn’t want to believe that.

Many years, I endured many unfair treatments so obvious. And what I’m facing now seemed to be the worst. (Yet, I knew it wasn't deep inside knowing His yoke is light). It had gone to the point that they were looking for that reason to “kick me out.”

I wanted to be angry. They were not listening to whatever I said. I knew that their reason had no basis. Some of them were not even there yet when I started working. They didn’t know me… Yet, in my anger, I remained respectful. Careful not to reflect words and actions that would not glorify God, because I knew that it was what He always wanted. But deep in my heart, I knew they were wrong with their accusations. And my trust never wavered with the One Who knew it all. The One Who knew my heart. The One Who brought me to the prison. And I knew, I was truly fighting with unseen enemies. But I wasn’t afraid because of Him. He donned His Armor when I met Him.

God warned us to be “angry” yet NOT TO SIN….and not to give the devil an opportunity…” (Ephesians 4:26-27)

I am angry…with all their wrong motives and false accusations. While I tried to respect them, consulting Him many times, I knew I needed to defend myself. No one can be above the law. For there is One Who is the Highest Authority watching everything that unfolds. Recording every words, every actions.

I would not go to their level. I would not speak the way they spoke. I would not do things the way they did things. But when my response hit them, it would give them no dignity nor satisfaction. I did not want the kind of anger they were brewing. I wanted the kind of anger that only comes from God. Righteous.

Righteous against unbelief. Righteous against the hardness of hearts. Righteous against hypocrisy. Righteous against false teaching….Not exploding. Always slowly provoked. Does not take pleasure in seeing people suffer from their wrong actions. Always under control…

Lord, may You be glorified in all of this. Please continue to guide me with Your wisdom and give me discernment. Thank you for picking me up whenever I fall. Thank You for holding me in Your arms and comforting me when I am feeling weak. Thank You for healing my wounds. Thank You for loving me unconditionally. May Your light shine and illuminate those dark areas I am in now. Lord, may all the evil deeds be exposed under Your light and I pray that so these people will come to know Your love and grace. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Friends, oh how the Lord had quickly granted an opportunity as I took my first step yesterday…The fight has not begun. But I trust in His wonderful promises because He is faithful…We are all under constant spiritual attacks. Please do not forget to pray for each other. I want to let you know my hubby and I pray for you all. And we thank you from our hearts for your love and prayers. God bless and may you all have a wonderful Thursday!!! Be strong in the Lord’s mighty power!

God Allowed IT Though They Thought They Chose The Right Thing

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“So God let them go ahead and do whatever shameful things their  hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. Instead of believing what they knew was the truth about God, they deliberately chose to believe lies. So they worshiped the things God made but not the Creator himself, who is to be praised forever. Amen.” – Romans 1:24-25

They claim they have God by their side. But they love to see people hurting instead of being successful or happy.

They say they understand but they are quick to take the matters into their own hands and decide the way they want it done.

They say they want to be fair but their actions show how much favor they give to one group.

They say “tell me and promise I’ll keep it to myself,” and all of a sudden, the whole world knows.

They say they believe in God but they have their own ideas of what a god should be.

They are quick to judge inmates, quick to show hate and anger, based on their outward appearance and by them knowing their charges. How do they know a “changed heart?” How do they know that behind the metal bars and the prison walls, some are enjoying true freedom?

With all the things they do, rejecting God because God doesn’t stop anyone from making wrong choices, they become prisoners to their own rebellious acts. They lose their freedom because of SINS. So, “Who’s the prisoner now?”

This was a poem God gave me at the wee hours of May 1, 2009:

Who’s The Prisoner Now?

There he was, cramped up in a tiny, dark cell
Hiding his face with hands, drops of tears fell
Tracing back the memories that put him behind these bars
Tough as he looked before, his pride now starting to melt away

Hopelessness wrapped him, there was no doubt!
Shadow of fear that lurked, not sure of what would happen
Sleepless night that had seem to begin for him
As he watched his back, while others stared and were observing him

A tiny light coming from a small window caught his eyes
It was a little glimpse of hope, to see freedom which was outside
As more tears had fallen, he felt a stab of pain or two in his heart
He bowed his head and softly whispered from his broken heart:

“Dear God in heaven, I don’t know what I have done
I thought I can do everything and I don’t need you in my life
I never believed in You, because I was busy with my own desires
I just killed someone, aside from other bad things I committed with my own hands"

"God, whether You’re there or not, I have no one to talk to, You see
I just want to say “forgive me for my sins, Jesus, I’m really, really sorry”
“Jesus, please help me, and please save me if You can hear me!”
Not sure if his plea was heard from heaven, but his worries started being lifted from his shoulder

The weary man with the orange suit like everyone else climbed up on his tiny bed
Covered himself with a brown blanket, and felt the cold on his back
Closed his eyes, puffy from all the tears shelled
He didn’t know he just received “freedom” when he repented and opened his heart to Jesus

None of our righteous works will get us to heaven

For the Bible says they're filthy as "rags"

Whether we do good or bad, it's only through Jesus

When we make our relationship right with God

God sent His only Son to be with us and Jesus paid for the price

Yes, He suffered, was nailed and died on the cross

You must believe that for our sins, He was the ultimate sacrifice

If you have no way out, approach Him with a contrite spirit and a broken heart

The prisoner's mind began to wander, oh how he longed for the good things outside
Freedom to him meant not being behind those metal bars and tiny cell for the rest of his life
But he wasn't aware of this fact: That many people enjoying their lives outside are still prisoners

And he had gained eternal life and freedom from sins through the blood of the Lamb

"Who's the prisoner now?"

RRRS 05/01/09
0500 hrs.

This Is The Day!!!

“So what do you want?” asked the Nurse Supervisor during our meeting that morning.

“Ahh…Make her work for only 90 days and if there’s nothing available, we’ll see from then,” responded the one who also has power in another department of the Sheriff’s.

“I’ll be blunt with you,” chorused the other, as I looked at her eye to eye the whole time, with her moving her head away from my penetrating stare, “It’s hard to find another spot where we can place you. So…maybe you should start looking at other options…”

I saw that grin from the Nurse Supervisor from the corner of my eyes. I knew this was what she wanted to happen from the moment she heard about my case. I got up and thanked all of them. My strides and desire to leave that room was urgent. I felt suffocated from all of their derision I felt was going on as soon as I left. They loved to punish. But they would never see the way I saw things now. Under His light, I didn’t see it that way.

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I saw it as a “sacrifice”.

“The Lord is God, shining upon us. Bring forward the sacrifice and put it on the altar.” –Psalm 118:27

And how I wanted to be this “sacrifice”. On the brazen altar. For I was once like them…Who saw this light…The Light of the world…And made those who were darkness light. The darkness of ignorance and unbelief….That's where I was before...

Oh Lord, when they thought they are in control of someone’s fate, they are wrong. They don’t know Who truly has the control of everyone’s lives. Lord, may I be a pleasing sacrifice to You and through this trial, may they see Your light that You had given me. Lord, thank You for what  You had done to save us. That You sacrificed Your own life, suffered humiliation though You didn’t deserve that. With those who hated You thinking that they punished You, not realizing that You had given Your own life to conquer death and show Your holiness.

Lord, I want to be bound and be that sacrifice on the brazen altar. I pray that it will make these hateful people know Your love and grace as they think they have the hold on my fate. And in the fire, remove those impurities in me. Thank You Jesus for Your redemption. Thank You for everything You have given us. Your Love. Your grace. Your mercy. Because of You, I am rejoicing though facing this trial. I want to praise Your Holy Name. Write a new song in my heart oh Lord. Because of You, I will rejoice and be glad. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

“The stone rejected by the builders has now become the cornerstone.

This is the Lord’s doing,

And it is marvelous to see.

This is the day the Lord has made.

We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

~ Psalm 118:22-24 (emphasis is mine)

It's About....Me?

There were three of them…Against me…They felt so strong knowing I didn’t have anyone to defend myself. Tired as I seemed since I worked the night before, my mind had never been more alert than that scheduled crucial meeting to wound me and specifically intended to smother me.

What they didn’t perceive was I was not truly alone. If they thought that their words that were so far apart from what was being written on a piece of paper would get away, they were wrong. If they thought that I would not remember being stabbed, being punched, being beaten, they were wrong.

I had brought my God with me. They didn’t see Him, because if they did, their actions would have been done with LOVE. And He saw it all. His heart broken as they started lashing at me. He cried as I cried in my car. He did what He usually would do...To hold me tight in His loving arms. To make me rest in His faithful and wonderful promises...

I was sure they were talented. I was sure they knew a lot of things. And in power, they did serve. Unfortunately, not to serve others but just themselves.

“I want you to look at the person sitting next to you and tell them, “You are more important than me,” uttered our pastor yesterday during our earliest Sunday fellowship.

“You are more important than me,” I whispered to my husband sitting on my left, whose eyes were intentionally enlarged so close to my face as he was saying the same thing…

And to my right, where my precious child was sitting, “I am more precious than you…” And he started laughing, not expecting that I didn’t say what the pastor wanted us to say. But he knew I was only kidding, as he enjoyed a simple laughter with me. He knew what I told him often….

“Do not think highly of yourself but of others,” I often reminded before I sent him off to school.

“And?...”

“Stay humble, mom,” he answered as he would give me a hug and a kiss and uttered his “I love you.”

But I loved what my pastor quoted…

“No one is more important than He Who is the Chief of this house, Who is the Head of this church….”

“Jesus Christ…”

Yes, that was the Truth! I wasn’t important. You were not important. He is!!! And it would be easy to find that out in our lives who would be important. We could all just stand in front of the mirror and see what the reflection would be…

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21

Oh Lord, please empower me with Your Holy Spirit. Remind me that I had died long ago and that now, You are the One living in me.  Through this trial, I want to thank You for reminding me, to defend myself, yet respond with the kind of love that comes from You. Please cover us with Your Holy blood and surround us [Your children]with Your mighty angels. For once, I had never felt defeated even if that was what they were thinking. They didn’t know I had You. “What can man do to me?”

Please guide me, give me discernment as I get up after being replenished by Your power and might. And yet, Lord, I ask that You bless them even more, despite their wrong motives. Help me forgive them the way You have forgiven me. I love You Lord. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Friends, today is the day that I am getting up, fully energized by the Spirit, like I had always been. I never backed down knowing their accusations and motives were not true. I knew they were trying to wound me because their hearts were void of the Savior’s love. And all they wanted to happen was for their own motives. Please continue to pray for me. I feel that. And I thank you. Please forgive me if I haven’t been responding at this time but just know, that I treasure all of your comments, your prayers, your love and your willingness to stand by me…If I am responding to let them know that they cannot do everything that they want to do, it is because I want the Lord to be glorified. To Him be the glory forever. I love you all in His Holy Name….God bless.

Sanctuary

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Sanctuary….Those words first greeted me as I hurried my pace and made my husband and son did the same this morning…I’ve been hurt. Battered and bruised spiritually these past days. And I couldn’t wait to enter the Sanctuary…To be energized. To seek refuge. To be empowered once more. To allow Him to lead me. To obey…

The pastors’ s sermon this morning and all of the songs we sang brought up mixed emotions. Of goodness and feeling so blessed as we partook of His body and blood.

“We are clothed with His righteousness… When we approach His throne of grace, God sees Jesus’ righteousness on us, not our filthiness.” Those truth penetrated my heart. I opened my eyes only to find out I was the only one sitting and the rest of the family, standing and loudly singing.

“How come you didn’t tap my arm?” I asked my husband on my left side.

“That’s okay. I saw you in deep prayers and you were crying.”

“I know. Because I felt His awesome love. So deep. And I felt sadness at the same time. For those who don’t know His love,” I whispered as everyone’s voice drowned my words with their thanks and praises.

Oh, how so many people miss His desire to be with them. His wanting to live among the people. To be in their hearts. Those faces I met few days ago who were determined to end my job because they had the power and they thought they had the right decisions….but they haven’t met the One Who is the Most Powerful and the One Who has created us all.

Instead, some go to sanctuaries, rushing into worship and treating Him with disregard.

“Don’t think highly of yourselves but of  others,” reminded our pastor.

I pulled a small tissue from my purse and wiped the drying out tears. But in my heart and my mind, as we prepared to leave the fellowship, I would be forever reminded of Who brought us out of Egypt, of Who gave us the sanctuary here on earth and in heaven…

“I will live among the people of Israel and be their God, and they will know that I am the Lord their God, I am the one who brought them out of Egypt so that I could live among them. I am the Lord their God.”

~ Exodus 29:45-46

I Almost Forgot

I almost forgot sister Lisa's invitation to have another story of mine be revealed through her LOAM postings...If you want to know more about me and this was something you didn't know about me, please head on over to Sister Lisa's...

I want to thank all of you for keeping me in your prayers. This week, as I pray for the Lord's leading and His perfect timing, it will be a time for me to stand up and defend myself...The battle is really big and in His perfect time, I will reveal what it was about as I'm not sure right now what the purpose is...I want to let you all know that I deeply appreciate your love, friendships, leaving me email addresses and those precious Scriptures that I will read now and strengthen me....I know I was never alone and to Him be the glory Who gives me everything I need including all of you in my life. I love all of you and know that we are truly One in Spirit. May all the glory be given to our Lord Jesus Christ....For now, as I soak in His power and might, please forgive me if I might not be able to visit you for a while. But when I come back, I will reveal all the victory in His precious, wonderful Name!!!!

May God bless all of you, protect you and may you remember always to be strong in His mighty power! To Him be the glory forever and ever in all ages to come.

"Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble." -Psalm 119:165 [NLT]

Only A Child

I saw their smirk on the corners of my eyes. I felt the heat of being mocked. Not by these human faces I was facing behind a closed door meeting. They felt good thinking that I had no defense at all with what they wanted to say. With what they wanted to do. But I remained unmoved!  They wanted to see me hurt. They wanted my tears to flow. None of that happened. They wanted to see me scared or cower. I never felt as strong as I did. It was not because of my own strength. I knew He was there with me. Sustaining me with His.

The battle hasn’t even begun. I want to thank all of you for your prayers. I cried on my way home, tired after a busy night at work I had weathered. Tired after a scheduled conference right after work that didn’t leave me any room to be prepared. I cried because I wasn’t afraid. I cried because I wasn’t weak.

I cried because I found myself praying the same words He did….

Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people, because they don’t know what they are doing…”

I cried because once, I was like them. I cried because His grace was granted to me. So undeserved. I cried because I knew what ground I was standing on. On the Rock!

They were proud to be in power….but “pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” [Proverbs 16:5]

They favored some….but “in God there is no partiality.” [Acts 10:34-35]

They wanted to plan for someone’s destiny….but they have missed to see the right road [Proverbs 15:22]

They wanted to think that they were doing the right thing…”but it’s only the Lord Who examines their motives.” [Proverbs 16:2]

They thought they had the right answer to this trial….”but only the Lord gives the right answer.” [Proverbs 16:1]

They might scheme whatever they wanted to think….”but it was the Lord Who has made everything for His own purposes.”  [Proverbs 16:4]

Lord, thank You for this trial I am in. If this will bring glory to You, it is a privilege to be Your vessel. I pray that through this, people involved will come to know You instead. For them to know Your love, Your mercy, Your grace. Thank You Father for Your children who are praying and interceding for me. I pray that You bless them all the more and especially the ones, who are facing their own life’s storms. Father, please help us to remain strong. But thank You, for without You, we are truly nothing. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for always making a way when we are stranded in the desert or reach a dead end on a road that we are walking on. Thank You for Your power and might that sustain us. May You be glorified in everything for You alone deserve that. They don't know Lord.....behind this warrior is only a child! Glory be to You Oh Lord!  I love You Lord! In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Prayer Request

Friends/ Spiritual Warriors, I will not go into details, will you please pray for me regarding my work situation? One hurdle over, but it's not over yet...For the Lord to guide me, protect me, and strengthen me. For those evil doings to be exposed into His Light...I pray that in all of this, the Lord will be glorified! God bless. Thank you.

Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of whom shall I be afraid?

No Walls

No walls can ever enclose the freedom that comes from the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

^"18 “Forget the former things;
   do not dwell on the past.
¹⁹ See, I am doing a new thing!
   Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
   and streams in the wasteland." - Isaiah 43:18-19 [NIV]