Tag Archive | love

Love Is Truth

I have to admit I have been troubled about my last post, “The Perspective of Love.”

This is specifically what was troubling me . . . “I gave the ultimate sacrifice that you not be judged–that was My mercy for you. Now I call you to be like Me–offer mercy to others; by casting your judgment aside, overlooking what they have done, and give that to Me.”

“How can we overlook what they have done and just give it to you, Lord?” I asked Him. Isn’t that just like the coverup that has been happening, that has everyone riled? It troubled my heart that it was advocating looking the other way. I wanted to take the post down, if that is the case, and yet, it’s not my message. I write what He gives me, without question–until now.

I questioned–wrestled with it and then He brought to mind the scripture, “If any lacks wisdom, let him ask.” It was an invitation, and right on it’s heels He said this, “Remember the disciples asked me to explain the parable.”

Yes, I can ask you for understanding!

Too often, when something seems uncomfortable to our theology, we turn away, reject, take down the post. That was the initial knee-jerk reaction of what I wanted to do. But I know I don’t make these messages up, and I won’t bring Him down to my size; that leaves only one solution, I need more understanding. I simply said, “Lord, in light of what is happening in the world today, that message bothers me. I need your wisdom and clarification”

“Would you please explain it to me?”

The following message is what poured forth and it settled my heart about the previous message. I hope it does for you as well. If not, please ask Him for more. He will be delighted if you do!

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously and without reproaching, and it will be given him.” James 1:5

Love is Truth

There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed.

The same, I can say, for those who have hidden from themselves. There are many that have lived in pain for so long, they have formed callus around their heart–the hidden man that no one sees.

At first, it seemed safe. A self-protection to keep others from wounding again and again. In time this ‘safety zone’ became a cocoon; a self-built blanket of peace; but it’s not real–a lie that proclaims–“I’m fine.”

They know it is a lie but they embrace it–telling themselves, ‘I’m not hurting anyone, and it keeps them from asking questions.’ “I can’t face it, don’t want to talk about it–just leave me be!”

But, it began with a lie–Deception opens the door.

Truth becomes less important as self-preservation takes over.

A progression of acting becomes a way of life until . . .

Truth is no longer recognized – Boundaries become vague – The cocoon that once was comfort, now a prison.

Hope dies, held hostage by trickery–ever increasing–to keep others from knowing that it’s all a facade. They no longer remember when or where it began–they no longer can stop.

Yes, Truth must come forth.
Yes, Deception must stop.
Yes, the Church must be accountable.

“Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure man, or one who is covetous (that is an idolator), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for it is because of these things that the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not associate with them, for once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, ‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light.'” Eph 5:5-14

But, I want you to look deeper.

I want you to look beyond the sin and look deeper within. Understand, you cannot simply rip the cover off and leave the wreckage to bleed.

I want you to see the need.

Love carries, to Me, the wounded soul – Love pours in the Oil and the Wine – Love leaves them with Me!

I do not ‘shake down’ to leave a battlefield in carnage.

I shake down to Restore.
I shake down to Rebuild.
I shake down to get to the Truth.

Plain and simple . . .

Truth is Love

and

Love is Truth!

I AM

“Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” Luke 12:2-3

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”John 1:1-5

“This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” I John 1:5=10

“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints, to those who turn to him in their hearts. Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land.” Psalms 85:8-9

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21

The Perspective of Love

Feb7

Judgment falls to those who judge, but it isn’t the judgment of salvation–it is the judgement of your words.

“–For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. the good man out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter; for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:34-37

Judge not, lest you be judged is a spiritual law.

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;–” Luke 6:37

Remember I desire mercy over sacrifice, for mercy triumphs over judgment.

I gave the ultimate sacrifice that you not be judged–that was My mercy for you. Now I call you to be like Me–offer mercy to others; by casting your judgment aside, overlooking what they have done, and give that to Me.

“For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy; yet mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:13

How many times have I spoken judgment in this brief time?

More than you’d care to hear.

Ever notice how many times you cast it about in your thoughts and words?

More than I care to hear. . .

Much more!

Forgiveness is a difficult decision sometimes–and yet, will never be as difficult as what I’ve gone through for you.

Allow My perspective to change you.

If you change your thoughts, you’ll soon change your words.

Judgment isn’t what you hear when mercy is clear. Your actions will speak louder than your words. Forgiveness is a decision to be acted upon through mercy.

It bears repeating . . .

Actions speak louder than words.

Choose forgiveness–have mercy!

That is Love.

“Judge not, that you be not judged. for with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye’, when there is a log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:1-5

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; And to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. Isaiah 55:6-8 NKJV

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in they sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14

To Peppi – Much Love

Jan19

It was a little over 4 years ago that the Lord led me to Peppi. I was leaving to meet a friend for coffee when He spoke to me. “Take your books with you.” “I have someone I want you to give them to.” I immediately obeyed the request, didn’t even think to question.

When He asks me to do something, I do it!

If you haven’t read it yet, you may look up the entire story from the July 25, 2022 archive. The post is titled, “Nothing is too Complicated for God.”

I had been writing books for prisoners and was working on completing the final book of a 3-volume set, when the Lord stopped my writing on June 6th, 2021. If I had continued writing, the book would have likely already been to the publisher the day I met him, but the Lord had a plan. He was all about answering Peppi’s prayers. Peppi was out of prison for the last time. Last, because in his final round of prison he had come to his end–his rock bottom, which is when Jesus met him with open arms and he never looked back! He was sincere when he gave his life to the Lord, and studied hard so he could re-enter the prison system, ministering, as a free man. He told me, “Inmates often don’t want to listen to people from the ‘outside’ but they’ll listen to me.” he nodded confidently, “Because, I’ve been there!” What Peppi didn’t realize is that everyone listens to him. Our beloved Peppi, with his big smile and gentle loving heart doesn’t just casually meet you and pass on by, he comes to camp in your heart–forever.

So, he had been studying hard and was hoping to soon be able to begin ministering when suddenly Covid hit. “How am I going to get into the prisons now Lord?” he’d prayed. This was not long before we met, and the Lord answered that prayer, far beyond what he could even think or imagine.

That day, in the coffee shop, Peppi, told me his story. He had previously suffered cancer twice in prison, along with an extremely large aneurysm, a stroke and seizures. He then proceeded to tell me he now had cancer for the 3rd time, stage 4. At this I interrupted, as faith erupted out of me like a roar. I quickly asked if I could pray for him, and at his consent, clasped his hands and boldly ordered that vile cancer to leave in the Name of Jesus! Peppi was healed that day, as we received it in prayer, but there was a small progression of time to be met, as he built his faith to receive the full manifestation. You see healing is already ours–it was provided for us at the Cross. Jesus bore 39 stripes on His back for our healing. He took our diseases upon Him, but by faith we procure the promise. So many do not believe they are healed until they see it physically. If things take time then they, too often, ‘guess’ that it wasn’t God’s will to heal them. I have never read an incident in the Bible where He refused to heal or that it wasn’t His will. He healed all who came to Him. I explained this to Peppi and urged him to place scriptures on sticky notes all around his house where he would see them. “Read them, Peppi, out loud. See them, and hear them to get them down into your heart.” I urged him. You see, Peppi needed to get that living Word down deep in his heart, until it became so full that it flows out his mouth to match the faith he is declaring. That is when faith becomes unshakable. Many keep begging God to heal, but that’s not faith, that’s not receiving, it’s really not even believing. Ask, believe, and continually praise Him for your healing; while simultaneously ordering that sickness to leave in the Name of Jesus! It is your promise from the Lord. It’s not manipulation or a formula. It’s finding what your promises are and acting on them in faith. It is your Blood-bought gift–received at salvation–the children’s bread.

That was in October. By January 21st the doctor said he could hardly see any cancer. On March 3rd the scan showed no cancer at all, and a pet scan the following July further confirmed no cancer anywhere in his body. He had been completely healed of cancer in his brain, face, neck, shoulders and bones, stage 4, third round.

Glory to God!!!

So now it is with a very heavy heart that I tell you Peppi (Bobby) Martin has gone home to the loving embrace of his beloved Jesus.

Above, one year after the Lord healed him. He was strong, healthy and in his happy place with his church family. Left, he is a bit speechless to learn that the book was dedicated to him. Much Love Peppi!

He Came to Say Goodbye

I had sensed something was very wrong and had been praying diligently for him, but one morning I really wrestled and the Lord spoke to me firmly, “Peppi is not your responsibility.” That stopped me up short, and I knew in my heart he was gone, though He didn’t state it. I couldn’t find anything by searching, and he didn’t respond to text. That night I had a dream: a male friend came to me dressed in the finest suit I have ever seen. He said to me that he had to go away and it was a long trip. I said I wanted to go too, but he said, no, that I wasn’t ready. I looked down to see that I was wearing my pajamas and robe and concluded that I surely wasn’t. When I looked up, he was gone. I awakened just then and started searching again, but still found nothing. It was 5 days later that I felt pulled to search again, and happened upon a facebook post of his niece. I don’t utilize facebook so I was grateful that she didn’t have it locked down and I was able to see it. It was there that I learned he had died. He died the day the Lord told me he wasn’t my responsibility and the day of the dream. It was Sunday, January 4th. I have searched since and have never again been able to find that facebook post or anything else about him, except after knowing, I found it on his home church facebook page. I hadn’t thought to look there and searching didn’t bring it up. If it hadn’t been for his niece I might not have been able to attend his life celebration and I would have missed out meeting his family.

Peppi’s family are such loving, welcoming people! I am so glad I was able to meet them. They did a very hard thing in coming all this way. Peppi is from Chicago, and so they held a service in Chicago, in the afternoon, the day before; and then made that long drive up here to do another service with his church family and two of his nephews that live here. You don’t really know someone until you meet a room full of people that love them and you see them, amplified, through many eyes of love. Peppi is cherished and more loved than most of us could ever hope for. It shows what a stronghold drugs can take on a body, when all along he was so loved and supported. Don’t ever take drugs; they will rob you of the best of life and for too many, even take their life!

Peppi’s pastor, Matt, gave the most beautiful message out of passages from Peppi’s own bible that he had highlighted. “This is what Peppi would want you to know, from what was important to him.” So personal, so beautiful. I had never heard anyone do that and he even uploaded images of Peppi’s highlighted verses.

BEAUTIFUL

Thank you Pastor Matt! Thank you Peppi’s family, for sharing your Peppi with me. Thank you, Jesus, for leading me to meet him and giving me the opportunity to share in his healing and carry out his heart’s desire. Peppi’s life was robbed short, but his voice was not silenced. His story is in the book, “His Voice in My Heart to Freedom” that is continually being sent to prisons, jails and rehab centers all over this country and the world; at the time of this writing, 38 countries. His story has been read all over the world in this blog as well. The Lord didn’t take Peppi, he received him. He is released from a lifetime of suffering.

He is truly Free!

I have much to say about the community that was relentless after Peppi–the community that eventually took him down. No, Peppi didn’t return to street drugs or his old lifestyle, and he remained totally faithful to his Lord Jesus, whom he loved with all his heart. I have much to say but have chosen not to. I am working on forgiveness. I choose to forgive, but I must deal with the anger and learn how to cope with the injustice that preys on the gentle and innocent. This world has been robbed of a beautiful light. Peppi loved his people. His family, church family and friends all received texts from Peppi filled with encouragement and love. He ended his texts making sure you knew that. . .Much Love! His tagline, usually with added hearts.

Peppi loved much — he was much loved!

Peppi I will see you again. You taught me more about you from your life’s celebration and meeting your loving family and friends than I ever understood in knowing you; but what I always did know is that you are special and you are amazingly strong! I am so grateful that the Lord sent me to meet you and for the tremendous gift of knowing you. I am thankful that He gave me opportunity to have a small part in fulfilling your heart’s destiny. I look forward to the day that we will all be together–celebrating, like there’s ALWAYS tomorrow!

Much Love, Lori

“With my whole heart, with my whole life, and with my innermost being, I bow in wonder and love before you, the holy God! Yahweh, you are my soul’s celebration. How could I ever forget the miracles of kindness you’ve done for me? You kissed my heart with forgiveness, in spite of all I’ve done. You’ve healed me inside and out from every disease. You’ve rescued me from hell and saved my life. You’ve crowned me with love and mercy. You satisfy my every desire with good things. You’ve supercharged my life so that I soar again like a flying eagle in the sky! You’re a God who makes things right, giving justice to the defenseless.” Psalm 103:1-6 TPT

Peppi, is a precious seed planted. May the harvest be great, and all glory be to God! AMEN!

Make Way For The King

Dec4

To traverse time, man would find it difficult, but I AM time.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Rev 1:8

I waste no time; though man wastes years–

I will redeem!

As the years speed away, I AM redeeming the lost. I AM recovering the blind, causing them to ‘SEE’ My purpose for their life.

“And I will lead the blind in a way that they know not, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I will do, and I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16

Unity is not something man can accomplish without Divine intervention, for each drifts to their own way.

I will gather.

I will fine-tune each heart as an instrument of My Love. I gather My orchestra– orchestrate My symphony.

A song so sweet has never been sung, for the music has yet to be written.

Angels long to hear!

Begin to sing praises – in this, you tune your voice to receive notes you have never sung.

This is a new season, for the reason is clear . . .

I AM no longer a baby hidden away . . .

No longer a carpenter explaining, ‘The Way’ . . .

I AM the Everlasting King — MAKE WAY!

“O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols; but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength! Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts! Worship the Lord in holy array; tremble before him, all the earth! Say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns! Yea, the world is established, it shall never be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity.’ Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the wood sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with his truth.” Psalms 96:1-13

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.'” John 14:6

“Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the end of the earth!” Isaiah 42:10

Was I Really Dreaming?

Sep3

Sometime in the night I was awake and thought about writing a post today, about the nearly dozen eggs that I had exploded all over my kitchen. Yes, it really happened, and I am shocked at how thoroughly an egg can explode. Not just blown open, but in pulverized fragments that covered my kitchen. I had put them on to cook, threw in some laundry and then proceeded into my quiet place where I got so caught up in spending time with the Lord that I had no memory of cooking them. Even when I heard the explosions, I thought it was an odd sound, but didn’t readily investigate. I thought it must be the neighbors. When I finally realized it was actually in my house, the pan then exploded the final egg!

What a mess!

My microwave, which was perfectly fine, now makes this very loud noise even though the eggs weren’t in it but cooked below it. I think the extreme heat/steam has warped the outer casing and now it vibrates. I am leaving it off for a bit to decide what to do. Too many online reviews say the newer microwaves, no matter the brand, just aren’t the quality they used to be. I am reluctant to scrap mine and hope I don’t have to. I don’t quite understand why the Lord didn’t clue me in on the brewing storm, except that maybe I needed to see the serious consequences of putting food on the stove to cook and leaving the vicinity. I have done this too many times. There are just so many more interesting things than cooking anymore. I’ve lost interest in it, and just cook to get it done!

The Dream:

So, this morning, I had a dream. In fact, I was sleeping so soundly that I slept until 9:34 and woke up from such a deep place that it took me a minute to realize I was awake and where I was. I had slept without hearing a text that came in an hour prior, and that is really not like me.

I woke up remembering the dream in every detail. The people, the conversation, what they were wearing, action, the miracle. I highly suspect the Lord had taken me there on a mission. You can believe or not, it’s up to you. I’m just relating what happened. I don’t even know myself, for absolutely sure, but it is just so very clear. Too clear–especially to make up the conversation in one’s head, back and forth in real time. He has done this before. I have experienced many miraculous things and I never limit the God who doesn’t know impossible. I related in a text to a friend this morning, “I kinda think we are going to be in for many surprises when we go to Heaven and learn of the many ways we were ‘used’ for Him and didn’t even realize it.” . . .

When there is a willing heart, He is able.

So in the dream, I was driving a car in a land that is foreign to me and just then a teenager, on a bike, rode up and kind of side-swiped into my car. He fell off the bike, so I got out of the car and asked him if I could pray for him, because he seemed so startled. He was agreeable, and we were about to, but a woman came up and said, “We can’t pray together, because we don’t pray to the same God.” I replied, “That may be so, and you can do what you want, but I am going to pray to the only God that can save and heal. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and it is only by His Blood that we can be saved, by His Blood that we are healed.”

At that, I was about to pray for this young man but I looked up to see a boy in a wheelchair that had apparently come with the woman. He had a look of determination on his face and he started to struggle, as if to get up. The woman looked over at him surprised and asked to him, “Are you wanting to try to stand?” She started to walk back to him, she had walked about 4 steps away from him to approach me, but he made a gesture with his hand that indicated he didn’t want her help. When suddenly, he stood–all by himself!

I hadn’t prayed for him, he had just heard and believed–and stood up!

He started to walk, very stiff-like at first, but he got stronger with each step. He looked almost like a straight stick, he was so thin. The woman then told me that he has never walked. I asked how old he is and she gave me an age range of around 4. I thought that was strange and said, “Don’t you know how old he is?” and then I learned that he was adopted and she really didn’t know his actual age. He looked older to me than 4. He was taller than I would think he would be for 4 and seemed more like a 6 year old. He was dressed in thin light pants and shirt, of what seemed like a cotton material. She had dark clothes and so did the boy with the bike.

The dream then ended and I woke up more rested than I have been in weeks. I needed that rest. I have been pushing hard all summer and the egg explosion was traumatizing to my exhausted soul.

Whether I was there or not will one day be revealed, but what is revealed right now is that Jesus is here for you. Whether you were taught to believe in Him or not–whether you believe or not. He wants to save you–He wants to heal you–He LOVES you!

The Holy Bible is very clear–He is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, but through Jesus. He is the One and only TRUE God. You can believe Him or not, it’s your choice. I am not trying to force Him on anyone.

I respect your right to believe what you choose, but I ask you . . .

Does your God Save?

Does your God Heal?

Does your God bring you Freedom?

Does your God bring you Joy?

Does your God give you Peace?

Does your God Love you?

Does your God answer your prayers?

Did your God die for you?

Do you know for certain where you will go when you die?

All these, and so much more, you should carefully consider–for if your answer is not yes to every one of them, then you are not following TRUTH.

If no, then you are not safe and you are not free.

I urge you to seek Jesus. ♥

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” John 14:6

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” John 3:16-18

“He who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. He who does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne to his Son. And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who has not the Son of God has not life. I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence which we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him.” I John 5:10-15

“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a cripple, by what means this man has been healed, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well. This is the stone which was rejected by you the builders, but which has become the head of the corner. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.'” Acts 4:8-12

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.” I Peter 2:24-25

“And just as it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no man could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb!” And all the angels stood round the throne and round the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying, ‘Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God for ever and ever! Amen.'” Revelation 7:9-12

Just Live

Jul29

It was nearly 40 years ago when I came across my parents and my aunt and uncle talking like their lives were over. I don’t remember what all was said, it was so long ago, but I remember that anger erupted out of my spirit like a roar. I verbally chastised them for thinking and talking that way. I do not choose to be disrespectful to my elders, but they were on a fast track of taking down their own lives.

We greatly underestimate the power of our words!

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Proverbs 18:21

The enemy knows this, and uses this as leverage throughout your life, planting thoughts and suggestions aimed at tearing you down. He can’t take your life; you have to partner with him for that to happen. ‘Oh, I would never partner with the devil!’, one adamantly declares.

Are you sure?

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you become aware of your words.

It takes discipline and hard work to re-train your speaking, but if you determine to do this, the Holy Spirit will help you. You will find your words echoing back at you if they don’t align with the Word. But words don’t begin in your mouth, they begin in your mind. To take control of your mouth, you must first control your mind. We must take every thought captive that rises against the knowledge of Christ. The Passion Translation says it like this . . .

“We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One. Since we are armed with such dynamic weaponry, we stand ready to punish any trace of rebellion, as soon as you choose complete obedience.” 2Corinthians 10:5-6 TPT

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they might have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Basically, when you become aware of thoughts that are not life, and are not pleasing to God, take them captive. Speak that out, instead of the thought. Speak the Word against it. You are not responsible, and are not held accountable unless you continue to entertain the thought or speak it and make it your own. “Take no thought saying. . .”

This is a discipline that is hard work, but bears great fruit and just may save your life!

One can never lay their guard down! I am thankful for those close to me, that remind me when I am getting off track, as my son did just yesterday. He courageously corrected my ‘stinking thinking’ and I am grateful that he loves me that much!

Go and love someone enough to tell them the Truth!

So, what happened when I corrected my loved ones from their stinking thinking? Well, they were in their early 60’s at the time, and that was nearly 40 years ago. They were speechless, which tells me they recognized the Truth. They didn’t try to justify, blame or excuse–just listened and took the reprimand to heart–as I did yesterday, when my son spoke.

Truth brings clarity, not shame.

I didn’t just tell them what they were doing wrong, I told them to LIVE! That they had a long, full, life ahead of them and they needed to stop living death and live LIFE!

Truth brings life!

They listened and made an immediate adjustment– so immediate that it even surprised me. The fruit of their efforts is that they lived long and full lives, with many, many, loving friends that enjoyed the life of God emanating from them. My uncle lived to be in his 80’s, his wife until age 96. My parents, as you may read from the recent post about them, are still alive at ages 95 and my dad will be 98 in September. That’s a very long life past 60! I am convinced it would have been different, had they kept up the talk of their death.

“I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice, and cleaving to him; for that means life to you and length of days, that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20

The Glenn Miller Orchestra

Recently, my parents and I celebrated their 76th wedding anniversary at a sweet, lakeside restaurant in a village about an hour drive away. On the way home my mom was reminiscing about all the great places they used to enjoy eating out at. “Why don’t you do that now?” I asked. “Because it’s so hard.” came her quick reply. “Yes, but didn’t we have a wonderful time, and wouldn’t it break up the monotony?” She was silent for a moment and then said, “Yes!” It was three days later that she asked me to help her get tickets to the “Glenn Miller Orchestra” which was coming to town to the Opera House. We had about a month of anticipation, while they eagerly looked forward to the event. I sweetened the anticipation by borrowing the “Glenn Miller Story”, from the library. A dvd starring Jimmy Stewart and June Allyson; a good movie, that enhanced my enjoyment of the concert, because I remembered the progression of his career as I listened to the music played. The orchestra leader informed us that the Glenn Miller Orchestra has been traveling and performing continuously over a span of 80 years! Adding new band members as needed, of course.

My dad wasn’t feeling well the day before the concert and prayers were intense that they not be disappointed by not being able to go. The next day he was better, thank the Lord, and we went. My cousin came along, and she also enjoyed the concert immensely. It is her mom and dad that I spoke of above, so it is only fitting that she was there to enjoy this with them. I grew up hearing this music from my parents, so I could appreciate and enjoy it even if it differs from my personal taste. We each have an era of music that takes us back to the youth that our spirit still enjoys, for our spirit doesn’t age, just our bodies. A time that is less stressful and reminds us of happiness of long ago. This was their happy place and it planted a sweet memory in my heart as I glanced over to see my mom and dad snuggle up, clasping their hands together, like teenagers on a date, and I realize that true love never ends–it just grows sweeter with time, and trust.

I love you mom and dad. ♥

Thank you, for sharing your happy place with me!

Thank you, for a memory I will always cherish–thank you, for truly living!

“With long life I will satisfy him, and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91:16 RSV

“You will be satisfied with a full life and with all that I do for you. For you will enjoy the fullness of my salvation!” Psalm 91:16 TPT

His Perfect Timing

Jul22

On my way to feed the homeless yesterday, the thought came to me to stop and check my post office box for mail. I keep that box strictly for book ministry mail and normally always check it on the way back. Reasoning, that I would have more time if I checked it later, resulted in my simply brushing the thought away. How many can join me in finding that, hindsight, often speaks louder than the Lord?

So after a delightful evening of beautiful sunshine, laughter with friends–my homeless and some, non-homeless family–after having served up a feast from, 5loaves2fish, of fresh-caught lake trout, thank you Carlson’s of Leland, fresh garden salad, potato salad, fresh fruit compote, dinner rolls and warm chocolate bread pudding. All homemade–all infused with love! Now, incredibly content, and heading home, I stopped to get my mail. My heart was already full and happy, but yet, there was more– for there in my box, leaned a long white envelope.

It’s always exciting to see real mail.

There is an old adage, “The road is paved with good intentions.” Many say, and intend to do something–even declaring it, but never do it. Truly, pavement, is all a ‘good intention’ is worth, if one doesn’t ever follow through!

However, in Heaven, the Bible tells us, the streets are paved with pure gold!

This ‘pavement’ in my mailbox is–pure gold!

The envelope contained a check from the U.S. Treasury Department, and it took me a minute to realize what it was. I had received a letter from Nicholas about a week ago. Nicholas is a prisoner I have written about before. He had contacted me for books for a class they had allowed him to develop for his prison, in conjunction with Duke University, Divinity Grad School students. He wanted my books to be mandatory reading for the class. With many thanks to Chaplain White, we were able to make that happen. The class was so popular, they graduated 3 classes of men and had over 40 men still on a waiting list to take it. Unfortunately, Chaplain White, either retired or transferred, and the new chaplain shut the class down–declaring that it wasn’t regulation. He also stopped Nicholas from preaching and nearly broke his heart. I urged him to be patient. The chaplain’s reasoning for not allowing him to continue preaching was that he wasn’t an ordained minister. No one can stop God’s plan though, and a visiting clergy came in a few weeks later, told Nicholas that God was pressing on him to come back and ordain him. Two weeks later, he did just that! Nicholas’ preaching has brought many men to salvation and his last letter to me stated that he is blessed to have baptized 119 men in 3 years. I am happy to report that the new chaplain has since gotten to know Nicholas, and he has been allowing him to preach again.

So, why am I telling you all this? Well, the check was from Nicholas, and he had told me that he wanted to join me in feeding the poor. He states that he has a heart for the homeless and wants to serve them when he gets out. He dreams of having a food truck that he can drive around and serve them, right where they are at. Since his circumstances prevent him from doing that, he is starting right now, right where he’s at, and sent a check asking me to get what I could for them.

In God’s and (my) eyes, that $5.00 is like 5 million!

It’s not about the amount is it?

No, it’s all about the heart ♥

“He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. And he said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.'” Luke 21:2

Nicholas tells me they take half of his check for restitution and out of the remaining he gives to 4 churches and a ministry that helps women that have become victims of sex crimes. This is a man that has repented, received the cleansing Blood of Jesus, and has a committed heart–

A heart of ‘pavement’–the purest gold of Heaven!

“Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” 2Corinthians 9:7-10

We can take a lesson from Nicholas–he KNOWS he messed up. It breaks his heart every day, the harm he caused others and especially the hurt his family is experiencing. Yet, he’s not sulking and shutting down. He has reached out to God and received forgiveness and His abundant love, to first be restored himself, and then to share it with others. He’s surely not free physically, but he is living the freedom the Lord Jesus has bought and paid for him–and doing more valuable work than many will ever do in their entire lifetime.

How about you?

Are you living the life Jesus bought for you or does it need tweaking? Do you even know Him–really KNOW Him???

Be encouraged, Nicholas, is proof that God can use you in any situation, no matter what you have done. All He needs is for you to turn to Him and say yes!

Don’t wait to the end of your life to find out what you may have missed. Life is too short and you are needed now!

Seek Him today!

So, why did I title this “His Perfect Timing”? It wasn’t just because of the check that came on the day I served the homeless, but also a letter, that I had written to Nicholas, took 6 weeks to reach him, and when did he receive it?

Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day, Nicholas. It’s long past, but your wife tells me your oldest son is getting baptized this weekend!! You won’t be reading this but I’m just throwing that out there to you. I know you are busting your buttons over him! It’s such a blessing to ‘hear’ you, through your letters, proudly talk of all your children and your wife. I pray that you will soon join your family again . . . In the meantime, thank you for the check and all your hard work in leading men to Jesus . . .

Thank you for doing your part right where you are!

Our Heavenly Father, is busting His buttons over you!

I am excited to announce that an order for 1,200 prison books, the “His Voice In My Heart” series, is at the printers now and will soon be sent to Prison Book Project, the ministry that sends them on to prisons, jails and rehab centers all over the country; and even to our men and women serving our country overseas. It’s but a widow’s mite in my heart because, frankly, I can’t get enough books into their hands; but for what I have been able to do, I am eternally grateful. A big thank you to everyone that has contributed to help me in this ministry!

To all of you, and to Nicholas, this scripture is for you . . .

“It is well with the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice. For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered for ever. He is not afraid of evil tidings; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.” Psalm 112:5-7

He Orders Our Steps

Jun30

God gave me the opportunity of helping a young woman in distress today by placing me directly in her path.

I was on my way to serve the homeless, but on the way had to stop at the UPS store. It’s usually a stop, drop and done, but tonight there was a line and it took much longer than expected. Now there was no time to stop at the library and pick up a movie my mom wanted to watch. Abandoning the plan, so I wouldn’t be late, I was heading past the library when suddenly I really had to go to the bathroom. Knowing it would be 2 hours before I would have another chance, I had no choice but to stop at the library after all. Might as well get the movie, since I’m already going to be late. A nice desk guy was looking it up on his computer, to save me some time, but his co-worker beat him to it. He had it looked up, dashed to get it, and placed in my hand before the other guy had even pulled it up on his screen. His little triumphant smile made me laugh.

There’s a festival in town and traffic is crawling, so now I’m calculating just how late, when the traffic in front of me abruptly stops–leaving me stretched over a crosswalk. So now I’m literally in this young woman’s path as I rolled the window down and apologized for blocking the crosswalk. She replied, “Oh that’s ok, but could you give me a ride?” “I’ve just been released from jail and I’m so hot I feel sick. Can you take me to my dad’s?” It took me about a second to think about how late I already was before saying . . .

“Yes, of course–hop in!”

She was nearly dropping from heat exhaustion. It was high 80’s and she had on a sweatshirt and had walked a bit. Thanking me profusely, she proceeded to tell me that she had asked 6 people before me, and every one had just turned away. I am so saddened that our world has become so cold and indifferent!

How would they feel if it was their daughter that was in distress and no one would help?

I’m glad I didn’t have enough time to say yes, because this is so great. . . I don’t know how He did it– you can see all the steps and delays it took to put me in her path; but somehow, even after driving miles out of my way and back again when I already didn’t have enough time to make it as it was– I made it on time!

All He needed was my–Yes!

Wouldn’t it have been terrible if after all that, I just shook my head at her and drove off?

Are you ready to say yes, even when it’s not convenient? If you are, then you can expect an opportunity. You’ll be really glad you did! She made the comment to me, “You’re really happy helping others.” “Yes, absolutely!” Then I just couldn’t help myself. . . I bubbled over telling her about my ministry to prisoners and the books from the Lord that I’ve written for them . . . gave her my books and no doubt pushed her over the edge, because I just can’t seem to contain my exuberance. . .

It’s all about HIM! ♥

But you know, I think that’s just how the Father is when He talks about us–He just can’t contain His exuberance!

God loves you so much. . . He goes out of His way to put someone across your path–at just the right time!

If you don’t believe me–just ask Him.

He orders our steps.

“When the Son of Man appears in his majestic glory, with all his angels by his side, he will take his seat on his throne of splendor, and all the nations will be gathered together before him. And like a shepherd who separates the sheep from the goats, he will separate all the people. The ‘sheep’ he will put on his right side and the ‘goats’ on his left.”

“And then those on his left will say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty and not give you food and something to drink? When did we see you homeless, or poorly clothed? When did we see you sick and not help you, or in prison and not visit you? Then he will answer them, ‘Don’t you know? When you refused to help one of the least important among these my little ones, my true brothers and sisters, you refused to help and honor me.’ and they will depart from his presence and go into eternal punishment. But the godly and beloved ‘sheep’ will enter into eternal bliss.” Matthew 25:31-33, 44-46 TPT

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And he delighteth in his way.” Psalm 37:23 KJV

Enduring and Everlasting Love

Jun19

Today I give honor to a couple that are near and dear to my heart. In fact, I have known them all my life–they are my mom and dad, Tom and Grace Bloxsom.

Today they celebrate something that is very rare and wonderful–

→ 76 years of marriage ♥

Very few will ever accomplish such a feat; sadly, these days, most do not even try. Sin, selfishness and rebellion have given marriage a negative connotation; but my parents have lived and demonstrated it in the true meaning of the word, two lives joined together as one–for always.

As anyone that has been married can attest, it is not always easy, and often can be hard work, but it is the commitment that determines the outcome. For my parents, this commitment has been non-negotiable. For better or worse, in good times and bad, sickness and in health, they have remained faithful to their vows and to each other.

So today, and every day, I honor them! ♥

Their commitment to each other and their willingness to persevere, even in the tough times has given them a resilience, also rarely seen in the elderly. At the ages of 95 and nearly 98 my parents are independent and their minds are sharp! In this, I believe, God too, has honored them; as they have lived their lives in honor to Him and their marriage–in honor to each other.

“And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 22:37-39

Who is our closest neighbor but those living in our own household? If you have failed the second commandment, it is likely that you have failed the first. Repent, and give honor to God; from Him, receive what you need to honor and love your spouse.

Is He truly Lord of your life or are you?

I believe He has something very special in store for you, when you sort that one out–it’s not too late!

God is faithful, even when we are not, for He cannot deny Himself.

“‘This saying is sure: If we have died with him, we shall also live with him; if we endure, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he will also deny us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful–for he cannot deny himself.'” 2 Timothy 2:11-13

Seek Him with your ‘whole’ heart!

So, this year brings another special, momentous, and rarely seen occasion, Our family business–Bloxsom Roofing Company; founded by my grandfather in 1925, now 100 years old! My dad began working for his dad in this business when he was just 12 years old. He and his brothers retired from it and passed it down to my brothers and cousins; it is still family run, now by my brother and cousin’s son, to this day. I am told that less than 1% of family businesses make it to 100 years. Just as in marriage, it takes commitment–perseverance in good times and bad. It takes commitment to each other when you don’t always agree. It takes honor, faithfulness, honesty and integrity. It takes a foundation built on the principles that God placed before us in His Word, the Holy Scriptures–it takes forgiveness and love.

My grandpa will be so pleased to learn that his business carried on for many years, long after he left to join the Lord in his forever home. . .

I expect he already knows ♥

Do you see? As hard as this life is, with its ever-increasing stress–the intensity of coldness increasingly taking over the hearts of men–yet you can accomplish it all by first receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Above all, give first, your honor to God. If you commit to Him, and to placing others before yourself–from your communion with Him you will receive all you need to do this. From His Presence, and from reading His Word, you will ever-increasingly be taking on His characteristics and His nature and then–naturally–love your neighbor as yourself.

“‘You shall not kill. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness. Honor your father and mother, and You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 19:18-19

This is the legacy my grandparents lived–handed down to my parents, and they have modeled for their world.

Thank you, mom and dad ♥ Today, every day, I honor you!

“‘Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you.'” Exodus 20:12, Deut. 5:16

“Give respect to your father and mother, for without them you wouldn’t even be here. And don’t neglect them when they grow old. Embrace the truth and hold it close. Don’t let go of wisdom, instruction, and life-giving understanding. When a father observes his child living in godliness, he is ecstatic with joy–nothing makes him prouder! So may your father’s heart burst with joy and your mother’s soul be filled with gladness because of you.” Proverbs 23:22-25 TPT

A Gift of New Life

May28

A Mother’s Day Gift From My Church

This rose was given to me on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025. It is now 17 days later and it has not lost a single petal. Its original leaves fell off fairly quickly but, no matter, as you can see it started growing new ones! With all this new growth, you would think it would be sprouting roots but not a single root has come forth from the cut stem. There are a few petals on the bottom that darkened and dried within; which I finally figured out it was because of my coffee cup that I had set just below it. I didn’t think about the steam rising. I have conferred with the other moms of my church, that received roses from the same batch, and every one has noted that God is doing something with this rose, and stated that their roses, though beautiful, did not last like this one.

This has reminded me of another rose, a long time ago . . .

Many years ago when my kids were small I was given a white rose from my church on Resurrection Sunday. What happened with this rose may sound far-fetched to you, but I stand before God and tell you it is the truth. He has done many, many things in my life that seem astounding, but He doesn’t know impossible, and often brings wonders to remind us of that fact.

The rose was pure white and absolutely beautiful. So beautiful that I was sad to see it droop over, as it began its decline. A cut rose doesn’t live forever and I expect this is what makes them a precious gift to the receiver. Now for the amazing part. . . remember I said it was given on Resurrection Sunday, well, three days after it drooped its head over, it lifted back up. Seriously it did, and you can choose to believe me or not, that won’t change the fact, it happened. So, this rose dried standing in water. It dried perfectly and didn’t brown. When I saw that it was dried, I took it out of the vase of water and hung it upside down in my kitchen. It stayed that way for 2 years, but everyone was so amazed by it, they kept touching it, because it looked so “real.” All the touching and probably oils from the fingers finally took its toll on it and ruined it. I’m just as guilty, the petals felt sort of like leather and it was so amazing, I just wanted to touch it– everyone did.

“And he began to teach them that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” Mark 8:31

Have you suffered many things?

Don’t give up hope. Lift up your head and seek Him for a new beginning. He has restoration for you! See your past as a springboard to your future. What did you learn and how can you grow from it?

Some have suffered horrific things from evil and those influenced by it. May God comfort you, heal you and release you from those painful memories. May His mercy be upon you and protect you. May you find that His comfort brings you to a place of safety and hope. May He give you peace and may you be filled with joy, once again.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:10-11

“I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25