For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17
Photographer
Nancy De Jesus
Photographer: Nancy DeJesus
Nancy DeJesus is an author and photographer who lives in Virginia with her husband. They have seven children and five grandchildren. She earned a B.S. in Art Education from the Pennsylvania State University. She taught art in the public school system and is a Visual Arts Subject Matter Specialist for an international homeschool provider. She and her family are devoted to their church. She sells her books, watercolor prints, and photos on her website.
Connect with Nancy here:
WEBSITE: https://www.NancyDeJesusPhotography.com
Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor
April - we made it!!
I thing everyone is ready for warmer weather with tons of sunshine. Yet, we need rain too. I believe most everyone in the country has had weather issues, some catastrophic over the past couple of years. I am praying for better weather for all, and for everyone to have time to restore their homes and businesses.
I want to take a little time to thank each of the writers for the magazine, and each of the authors I coach. I feel so blessed to be able to keep producing the monthly magazine and work with the authors to publsh their books. The past two years have been filled with change, mostly all good. The writers and authors I coach are some of the nicest and creative people I know. Thank you all.
Are you a writer, or want to become a writer? I am always looking for new writers, poets, and photographers to feature in the magazine. If you are interested, get in touch with me at the email below.
If you have any questions or suggestions, my contact information is below.
God bless you all and have a wonderful April!
Much love and many blessings, Karen karenruhl12@gmail.com Team@faithoneverycorner.com
They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Isaiah 6:14 NIV
PS: If you have submitted an article or poem to me and haven’t heard from me. Please resend to Team@faithoneverycorner. Thank you!
Proverbs 29:17 (ESV)
Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
Poems ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7
Sights and Sounds of Spring ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9
Walking in Love in a Divided World... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11
70 And Counting ... by Donna J. Miller.. Page 12-13
Seven Words... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15
A Weary Traveler ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16
A Heartfelt Thank You ... Karen Ruhl ... Page 17
Suffering Changes Us ... By Brianna Barrett ... Pages 18-19
Photos by Nancy DeJesus ... Page 20-21 (and several other pages)
God Never Forgets ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Pages 22-23
Hope In Jesus ... Andrea Marino ... Pages 24-25
Photos by Nancy DeJesus ... Pages 26-27 And Then The Door Opened ... By Linda Castro ... Pages 28-29
Hope In Jesus ... By Andrea Marino ... Page 30-31
Ungodly Influence ...by Jodie Glardon ... Page 32
Photos by Karen ... Page 33
To Be Fully Loved ... by Steve Wilson ... Page 34-35
I met Nancy online and started following her because of her beautiful photographs. The bonus for me is that she is so nice and has a big family that she photographs as well as photos from her travels.
I hope you enjoy looking at her photos throughout the magazine.
If you like to take pictures, I would like to hear from you and maybe you will be featured in our magazine!
God bless you all,
Send an email with a couple of photos to: karenruhl12@gmail.com
Blessings,
Karen Ruhl
John Alexander
April marks a change, a time when flowers break through the soil, leaves sprout on the trees and shrubs, and we are reminded of the Lord’s resurrection. I pray as you anticipate this season of change you are filled with joy as you see the marks of new life all around you. I’ve chosen poems that remind me of those changes. I pray you are blessed as you read and contemplate these springtime poems.
Blessings, John Alexander
Blessings, John Alexander
https://quiettimerhymes.com/
A Well Watered Garden
A garden well-watered, a beautiful sight, To those who behold it a constant delight. With roots that are nourished, and leaves bathed with sun
The flowers give pleasure to most everyone. A beautiful garden first forms in the mind, Then it takes shape and becomes a design. Every garden’s unique and it changes with age. There’s a beauty in gardens no matter the stage.
May the water of life find its way to your soul. May its nourishment penetrate, fill every hole. May the seeds now inside you sprout flowers galore. May your life be a fragrance that others adore. Feed your soul daily, let words touch your heart.
Fill it with love and to others impart
The beauty inside you that others may know The source of the water for gardens to grow.
Days Of Spring
The winds for days blew loud and strong, And after darkness all night long. But morning breaks with calm and still. A hint of gentle breeze I feel. The scent of flowers in the air, A fragrance that they gladly share. There on the branch a small cocoon, A butterfly emerging soon. These cherished moments, tastes of spring, Sweet echoes from the past they bring. My younger self spread on the grass Observing clouds to watch them pass. The days of leisure as a child, Remembering still brings a smile.
Risen
I know I’m not perfect. I let people down. I must seek the Lord daily and ask Him to fill My heart with His love. I remember His crown, The cross where He suffered and died on that hill. We celebrate Easter, remember the cross. He gave up His life, but He rose again too. He paid for our sins, we will not suffer loss. We walk in His light and each day is brand new. For all my transgressions the debt has been paid. Past, present, and future they’re not mine to bear. He carried them all, on His head they were laid. He buried my sins, they were taken away. I give thanks to the Lord, He has risen, I’m free. One day I’ll be with Him, His face I will see.
Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440
Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons
Sights and Sounds of Spring
By Melissa Henderson
The change of seasons fascinates me every year. As we leave the cold temperatures of Winter and jump into the blossoms and pollen of Spring, I marvel at the sights and sounds that are experienced every day.
This morning, I sat at the computer and occasionally glanced out of the window by my desk. I’m one of the first in our neighborhood to hang the hummingbird feeder in Spring. Folks question my thinking. “Oh, it’s too early”, is one of the comments I hear. Yet, I’m also one of the first yards the quick flyers visit.
I’ve read numerous articles questioning whether the hummingbirds return to the same yards every year or if they choose a new spot to drink. Either way, I’m happy to see them.
Today, instead of a colorful little flyer, I noticed a small purple finch drinking from the feeder. I didn’t worry because other creatures like to drink from that feeder, too. Lizards often climb the pole on a humid day and find a spot to enjoy the nectar.
Another interesting sight is watching the cardinals and bluebirds perch on the sideview mirrors of vehicles parked in driveways. I noticed this action a few years ago. The birds appear to be looking at themselves in the mirrors. They fly up, hit the mirror, become stunned, and fly to the ground. The birds repeat this action repeatedly. A neighbor told me that the winged creatures are attracted to the shiny mirrors.
The bees are visiting the pansies and azaleas as well. When I’m outside, the sound of buzzing alerts me that they are near.
Soon, I will visit the local plant store and purchase petunias, snapdragons, and impatiens. The more colors displayed in the flower bed, the more hummingbirds will visit.
Sounds are different in the Spring, too. I walk outside and hear the sounds of hawks calling to their mates. Canadian Geese are gathering in groups and preparing for the “fuzzies” to be born. Their honks tell everyone to stay away.
Another sound that can be heard in Spring is the splash of water as the gators enter the ponds. They sun on the creek banks and sides of ponds until their skin appears dry and rough. Then, they jump into the water. My children’s book, “Grumpy the Gator”, tells children to stay away from the pond. If you see a gator, tell an adult. There are many alligators here in the Lowcountry, and we must stay safe. The sights and sounds of Spring remind me of the birth, life, and death of Jesus Christ. He was born, lived on this earth, and suffered a cruel death. These things were done for you and me. God loves us more than we can comprehend. I thank God for His love and forgiveness.
This Spring, look and listen. In what ways do you see God in His creations?
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.
Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker
https://yvonne-morgan.com
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor
Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ YMMauthor/
Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)
Walking in Love in a Divided World
By Yvonne M. Morgan
In recent days, I have prayed over the conversations many Christians are having about immigration, compassion, and responsibility. Scripture clearly calls us to love the stranger and care for the vulnerable, yet faithful believers sometimes apply those truths differently than others. Rather than trying to settle a political debate, my heart is to reflect on what Jesus asks of me personally. How do I live out biblical love in a world filled with complex systems, laws, and human need? This post is an invitation to think prayerfully about our own obedience, our own compassion, and our shared calling to love people on every side.
As followers of Christ, it is worth asking whether our responses reflect His heart for peace, even when we feel strongly about an issue.
A Posture of Humility
This topic is sensitive and complex, and we will not find simple answers in one blog post. And I want to clarify that my goal is not political persuasion. Instead, my purpose is to examine personal discipleship and Christlike love regarding these tough situations. I invite my readers into a time of reflection rather than debate.
What Scripture Says About Love and the Stranger
We can find many biblical references that call us to love the stranger and care for the vulnerable. One example is Matthew 25:35 (NIV);“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” For the followers of Christ, compassion is not optional. And we see Jesus valued people over categories like status or background.
When I read the Gospels, I notice that Jesus most often directed His commands to the hearts and lives of individuals. He spoke about how people loved, served, forgave, and welcomed others in their daily lives.
It is also worth remembering that deep disagreement with a government policy can tempt us toward responses that may not reflect Christ’s heart. As believers, our witness matters. Jesus modeled peace, even in the face of injustice. When I read the Gospels, I see Him calling individuals to transform hearts and be faithful in obedience in everyday life. That challenges me to ask whether my actions, words, and reactions reflect His character first, before anything else.
I also think about how Jesus acknowledged earthly authorities during his ministry. He lived under imperfect leadership, yet he consistently modeled a posture of peace rather than hostility. That challenges me to consider how I live as a faithful citizen of heaven while also being a respectful presence on earth. It is less about politics and more about the posture of my heart and the witness of my life.
This does not mean every situation is easy or that believers will never wrestle with what this looks like. But it shows that faith and respect for order can coexist.
Love People on Both Sides of the Issue
We must acknowledge sincere believers hold different views, and I want to stress that disagreement does not equal a lack of faith. Jesus calls us to love even those we strongly disagree with which can be one of the hardest parts of discipleship. I encourage empathy for immigrants, leaders, and communities as we focus on seeing all people as image bearers of God. Behind every policy discussion are real people with real stories, fears, and hopes.
Practical Ways to Live Out Compassion
Here are some practical ways to start:
Prayer for immigrants and for government leaders. Supporting local ministries that serve newcomers. Practicing hospitality in everyday life. Being willing to build genuine relationships. Our Ultimate Citizenship
Let us always remember that our primary identity is in Christ and we are called to model Jesus in both truth and love. I encourage readers to seek the Spirit’s guidance as you ponder these questions about how to see these situations through our eyes of faith. For me, this raises heart questions about humility, witness, and trust in God’s sovereignty, even when I do not fully understand the bigger picture. Reflective question:
• Does my response point people to Christ or simply to my opinion?
• Am I acting from love, or from frustration and fear?
• How can I reflect Christ’s peace in the way I respond to authority?
• Does my response show trust in God or only frustration with people?
Final Thoughts
As I continue to pray through these things myself, I am reminded that following Jesus has always been more about the condition of our hearts than the certainty of our opinions. We may not all agree on solutions, but we can love as Christ loves. I hope the world will know us not first for our positions, but for our compassion, humility, and trust in God’s sovereignty. When the world looks at believers, may they see people who reflect the peace and mercy of Jesus in both word and action.
May we be people whose lives reflect the love of Christ more loudly than our opinions ever could.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, give us hearts that are tender, humble, and led by Your Spirit. Teach us to love as You love, to show compassion without fear, and to walk in wisdom and grace. Help our words and actions reflect You in a divided world. We trust you with what we do not understand and place our hope in your sovereignty. Amen.
Donna is a preschool curriculum writer for Lifeway and loves teaching two year olds at her church, Hudson First Baptist. She is a retired elementary school media coordinator and K-1 teacher. She loves all children - especially her 4 grandchildren! She loves to read, scrapbook, and make cards. Donna lives in Hudson, NC with her husband, Lewis. They enjoy traveling together.
70 and Counting
By Donna J. Miller
In February, I celebrated my birthday, and it was a BIG one -7-0! How did that happen? I don’t feel 70. I don’t think I act 70. I have never let my birthdays bother me before. 30, 40, 50, 60… they were just days to shrug off and to remind myself that my grandfather always said, “Everyone ages one day every day.” Tomorrow, the 98-year-old will be one day older, and the week-old baby will be one day older.
To be honest, I must admit, there was one year that my age bothered me: the year I turned 42. When I was 14, I went on a month-long school trip, and one of our counselors turned 42. I remember distinctly thinking that 42 was so old! That was even older than my parents, who were 37 at the time. We joked about 42 most of the trip… it seemed old to all of us high school students. So the year that I turned 42, I remembered how old I thought it was when I was 14, and had to deal with the fact that I was THAT OLD already. Even worse was when my son and later my daughter turned 42. How old do you have to be to have kids that are 42? According to my former teenage reasoning, positively ancient!
Children are not known for having an accurate view of old age. We went to a family reunion a couple of years ago, and after I had stuffed myself with all the good food and delicious desserts, a cousin came in late carrying a big tray of my absolute favorite dessert. I said, “Oooo. That’s my favorite but I have already eaten so much.” My seven-year-old grandson looked at me and said, “Oh, go ahead Mimi! Get a piece. You are old, and you don’t need your teeth much longer.” He startled me at first, and then I could almost hear his mom saying, “Brush your teeth. Those are the only ones you will have, and you need them for a long time.” According to him, my time is almost over, so I don’t need my teeth!
My granddaughter was about 10 when she told my husband and me that we had OPD. We asked what OPD was, and she said, “Old people’s disease.” Apparently, we weren’t keeping up with all her busyness. Even though grandkids can make us feel old, we cherish time with them.
Proverbs 17:6 says: “Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” Grandchildren are truly a blessing of growing older.
Despite what society tells us, the Bible teaches that age is something to cherish and honor. Job 12:12 says: “Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life.” Hopefully, we have learned lessons of faith, resilience, and wisdom during our years of life. We recognize that true wisdom comes from God. James 1:5 tells us: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.”
Proverbs 16:16 says: “Get wisdom—how much better it is than gold! And get understanding—it is preferable to silver.” We spend much of our lives seeking money to fund our lives, but God reminds us that wisdom is even better than gold! Our experiences praying, studying His Word, and obeying God help us to grow in understanding, and we can apply those lessons to everyday life.
Senior adults can use their maturity, experiences, and wealth of knowledge to guide younger generations. Titus 2:2-4 says: “Older men are to be self-controlled, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love, and endurance. In the same way, older women are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not slaves to excessive drinking. They are to teach what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands and to love their children.”
Even our gray hair is recognized as a gift of God. Proverbs 16:31 says: “Gray hair is a glorious crown; it is found in the ways of righteousness.”
Isaiah 46:4 says: “I will be the same until your old age, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will bear and rescue you.” What a blessing that God is with us from birth to gray hair.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says: “ And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.” I am so thankful for the Senior Adult group at our church, most older than me, who set an example of continuing to be active in our church, who encourage each other, who show love during hard times, and have fun together!
I am looking forward to being 70, 71, 72, and counting. I know God has plans for me that will include times of joy, challenges, growth, and hopefully many more birthdays. You can also look forward to your future, knowing that God will guide and carry you throughout life, and that this life is just the beginning of a glorious eternity.
All Scriptures are from the Christian Standard Bible.
Morning Coffee
by Michael E. Wells
Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.
SEVEN WORDS
GOD
Creator and Sustainer of all that is known and unknown without beginning or end supreme in all things
Of all the books that attempt to describe the nature and character of God, the origin and purpose of man, the Bible stands out as unique and definitive. Only here will you find direction and fulfillment, knowledge and understanding. The word God can mean many things to many people but what book best describes the most detailed interaction with His creation? There is truly only one that gives purpose and plan, intention and relationship.
Of all the stories of ancient peoples only those detailed in the Bible are constant and coherent. To read of a loving Creator, forgiving Redeemer and returning Deity is to bring awareness and purpose, peace and contentment to all who would believe. The question today is not do I believe in a god but will I wisely choose the only God in which to place my life and eternity.
CONSCIENCE
An awareness of moral considerations for actions taken unique only to man in all of creation
This observation alone should remove all doubt that man is truly special and separate from the animal kingdom. This is the God element and moral compass our soul is given at birth. The apostle Paul in writing to the church (Romans 1:19, 2) expresses this truth; God places within man an awareness of Himself and also confirms His existence through creation.
Yes we are unique but with that awareness comes remorse over past mistakes and a longing to make all things right. So God, as He gives us a conscience also provides reconciliation. Here is where Creator becomes Redeemer. God speaks over us three life changing words through Christ, “I forgive you.” It is ours for the asking and gives us something we can never find anywhere else, that of a good conscience towards God. IPeter 3:21
BELIEVE
To have confidence in the existence or truth of something
This is where it all begins. The Bible states that those who desire to come to God must first believe He is God and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. And what is our reward? Jesus said it best in John 6:38-40. I will quote verse 40, “And this is My Father’s will and purpose, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in and cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up from the dead on the last day.”
Paul wrote of the tangible result now of our belief, the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians he writes we who believed were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise who is the guarantee of our inheritance. Jesus said He would not leave us as orphans but would send a helper in this life. The Holy Spirit is not only sent to us in this life but at death will carry us to the next...only believe!
FAITH
The ability to believe a truth that is not discerned through natural thought
Everyone exercises expectant faith; lights to come on, water to turn on, car to start, elevator doors to open, etc. But real faith is spiritual in nature and eternal in consequence. It is not just the act of believing but what to believe on. Bible faith is not a term used much these days but it is exactly the kind of faith that is needed to receive the outcome for our believing. There may be many beliefs but only one faith with the result of heaven. As the apostle Paul wrote there is only one faith and one Lord.
Faith is encouraged by devotion and meditation by experience and revelation. It is not something to be swayed by the external but protected and nurtured within. Confidant faith is necessary for a desired end. Many have heard the acronym for BIBLE, a very true statement but I have added a second word acronym; it is FAITH. BIBLE FAITH...Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth For Arrival In To Heaven!
HOPE
Confident expectation of a fulfilled desire
It is unique to humankind to hold fast a belief of desired change through earnest longing. To some it is wishful thinking to others it is a confident belief. To the Christian it is the belief in One Who acts upon their requests. Sometimes it is because of past experiences that one has these assurances, other times simply because they have read...it is written...and have spoken it out. This is where hope ignites and faith burns bright. James writes you have not because you ask not. Jesus said ask what you will (according to His will) and it will be done for you by His Father. God says to put Him in remembrance of His word.
Paul said the word of faith was in our mouths. If the spoken word brings us into relationship how much more for answered prayer the continued proclaiming of His written word. God says His word will not return void but will accomplish that thing for which it was sent out. In the movie Ten Commandment Pharaoh played by Yul Brynner after he had made a decree would say to the scribe, “So let it be written, so let it be done.” But with God His word is already written so our decree is, “So let it be spoken, so let it be done in the Name of Jesus.” I have an acronym for HOPE. It is... Hold On Praying Earnestly!
DISCIPLINE
The training of the mind and character
“But like a boxer I buffet my body and handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit and not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit.” Amplified Bible -1 Cor 9:27 This is not an easy task and seemingly it needs to be done daily. But there is a valid reason we try.
We all have lines we do not want to cross but sometimes after straddling it we fall over. I’m reminded of Dorothy in Oz who while walking on the fence fell into the pig pen and had to be rescued. When this happens we shouldn’t beat ourselves up but rather dust ourselves off, receive the rescue and move on. Remember the Bible says, “The just shall live by faith.” There is truth to the old saying, “Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven.”
PERSEVERANCE
Continuing in a state of grace leading to a state of glory
This is how Webster’s Dictionary actually defines the word perseverance. The writer of Hebrews states, “You have need of steadfast patience and endurance so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God and thus receive and enjoy what was promised...” John in his writings to the church clearly states the promise of God...eternal life. Paul said, “If in this life only do we hope we are of all people to be pitied.”
There is a life to come, one worth waiting for. So it’s too early to quit and too late to turn back. Listen to that still small voice that reminds you, “This is the way, walk in it. Do not turn to the left or to the right.” Paul said all who compete in a race do not win therefore run in such a way that you may receive the prize. They run for an earthly reward; ours is eternal. Godspeed!
A WEARY TRAVELER
By Irene Surya
Standing by the riverbed, Gazing afar at the horizon, I look up to the heavens above Reminding myself of the futility of life.
I am just a weary traveler Passing by the hills and the valleys, Living the solemn life on this planet Which may be seventy or eighty.
Dr. Irene Surya is an awardwinning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.
Teach me to count my days, O Lord That I may walk with wisdom Redeeming the time Because the days are evil.
Help me to understand your will, To sing and make melody Always in the Lord And give thanks for everything given.
Guide me to be a stream in the desert, To be a life giving fountain, To be a source of joy To the sojourners to the eternal kingdom.
Click on book to purchase from Amazon.
A Heartfelt Thank You
By Karen Ruhl
I am so grateful that God gave us this magazine to publish. I am going to tell the story about how this came about. You may have read it, but many haven’t.
Craig and I loved to take long drives as often as we could. I am a photographer and Craig was the best navigator around. He knew what I liked to shoot and would pull over, or turn around so I could ge the shot.
On one of our photography missions, we drove through the Smoky Mountains. As we drove, God was laying something on my heart and I told Craig what was happening. He said, he was also feeling that God was telling us something. At the time, I was a writer for a magazine in Rutherfordton, NC and submitted articles to other magazines. All at once, I looked at Craig and said, God is telling me that we should produce our own magazine, and it should be a Christian magazine. We pulled over for a bit, I wanted to write down the information that I was receiving (something very new to receive instructions that were so clear.) When we got back on the road, snapping photos, we started talking about the title of the magazine.
As we drove around this small little mountain town (I can’t remember the name), there were churches on every corner and Christian signs in yards. We had been tossing around names, one was Faith On Every Corner. As we drove, we saw an auto shop, they had a sign on their wall, it said “Faith On The Corner.” We pulled in and I took a photo of the sign. The owner came out and we told him why we took the photo. He smiled when I told him the name we had been tossing around. He said, I think Faith On Every Corner is a great title for your magazine. We exchanged business cards and prayed for each other’s family and our businesses.
When we got home, I immediately started to come up with a logo for the magazine. Craig started looking for where we could publish it, and we both started writing articles. I posted on FB and other social medias inviting writers to send articles. We had our first addition within a month.
I want to thank each writer, photographer, poet, and reader. The magazine is all about God, and I will continue to pray for each of you and invite you to send more articles, photos, poetry, etc. May God bless you and your family.
Brianna is a Carolina girl who loves Jesus and her family. She enjoys watching the sunrise, photography, reading, writing, and paddleboarding. According to her teenage son, she’s a master chef in the kitchen, making gluten-free cuisine from around the world. Her writing and photography have appeared in numerous publications including Faith On Every Corner, Creation Illustrated, and Our Story Magazine, and she is a contributor to The Grit and Grace Project and Broken But Priceless Magazine where she writes the column, “From A Homemaker’s Heart”. Her first devotional book, “Hope in the Healing: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through Chronic Illness” is due out this spring. Check out her latest works at www.briannagrams.com and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
Suffering Changes Us
By Brianna Barrett
As I looked out my office window, I noticed the trees frantically waving in the fierce wind. A severe thunderstorm was likely because of favorable weather conditions. The sky had changed from a perfect shade of blue to a dark grey, filled with rain clouds. The air had changed, and the temperature was falling. I thought about how I felt like my life was in the middle of a storm, but Iknew God would use it for good. (Romans 8:28).
God takes us through pain and storms because no one is immune to the storms of life. The painyou are experiencing could be physical, relational, or financial. The physical pain I’m experiencing stops me from hurting myself because it makes me slow down and rest.
Pain comes before something beautiful, before the healing or the mended heart; before the good stuff.
We all have pain in our lives, but how we deal with it depends on us. I can choose to numb my pain, or I can carry it all to the One who understands the pain. He endured the cross. Understanding and seeing my pain, He is with me. He knows my past shame and hurts, and He also knows the good He will use it for. Pain doesn’t always go away with medicine or boundaries, and forgiveness.
God uses our valleys and our weaknesses to bring growth and new things from suffering. God doesn’t waste our experiences.
Suffering alters our perspectives and changes how we see things, often improving them. At other times, the suffering becomes too much for us to handle, bringing out the negativity in our lives. The wounded, burdensome part of our lives we try to hide from others. Recently, while flipping through a book I’d read, I saw a quote by Christian writer and missionary ElizabethElliot, “Suffering is having what you don’t want or wanting what you don’t have.”
Suffering is the experience of pain, loss, distress, or death — all things no one likes to hear or endure. Some believe that suffering comes because of the sin in our lives. I don’t agree 100% with that. I think God uses suffering to take away the things that hold us back from Him. Suffering takes what I was holding onto and strips it away, leaving me standing there with Christ.
In Psalm 119, we find the unknown author of the psalm saying that God had been good to him despite his own challenges. “Teth. You have done many good things for me, Lord, just as you promised.” (Psalm 119:65 NLT). Teth is the ninth letter in the Hebrew alphabet. God is good. He is a promise keeper. When He says He will, He will. It may not be immediate, but He is faithful.
“I used to wander off until you disciplined me, but now I closely follow your word.” (Psalm 119:67 NLT). The Lord uses suffering to discipline us, but when you endure these trials, He’s using it as discipline, not punishment. The Lord is good, no matter what. “My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in good and silver.” (Psalm 119:71-72 NLT).
I’ve written beside these verses “RA pain” (Rheumatoid Arthritis). The pain that I endure daily is good for me because I’m learning to depend on the Lord’s strength, not my own.
I’m so guilty of the “I do it myself” attitude. The one who’s deemed independent, assertive, and confident. I used those qualities to hide my insecurities and shame, and to mask the pain I was enduring.
Leading, confident, independent, and successful, all on my own. Things of this world. Those things came to a screeching halt after our son was born. I didn’t feel independent anymore. Stubbornness got me through, even when I needed a hand. I guess I was trying to prove something to someone, but I’m not sure who. I floundered in silence. Between my marriage falling apart and a new baby, I was exhausted, and I was trying to do everything myself—I wasn’t sure I could handle it. I tried really hard, and I failed a lot. Flat on my face
But God didn’t leave me there. When I was flat on my face, I was on my knees in prayer asking God to intercede for me. Sometimes life overwhelms us to the point of breaking, but just remember God is using this for His good. When we are in the trials and storms, may we crawl, kneel, run, and cling to the One who created us. The one who breathed life into us, creating us in His image (Genesis 1:27). He will not let us stay in the pit.
God is faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). God is a promise keeper (Joshua 21:45). He is a healer (Psalm 103:3) and a restorer (1 Peter 5:10). God is good. The next time those storm conditions are gearing up in your life, take a moment to know that God is using this for His glory.
The healing doesn’t always come on this side of Heaven, but the strength to keep going does when we rely on Christ.
Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for never leaving me but holding onto me. Life is hard and things are overwhelming. Draw me near to you today. Thank you, Lord, In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Nancy DeJesus
Photographer:
Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/ songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and awardwinning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.
Our friend is an artist. A good one. (I’ll nickname her Lorraine to protect her privacy.) Years ago, she offered Bruce, my husband, and me a beautiful painting of a doe and her two fawns next to a stream in a brushy hollow. We were honored by the offer, but we almost didn’t accept it as we didn’t know where to hang it in our living quarters horse trailer where we live.
However, we received this special gift and figured out later where we could display it. It now proudly hangs on the door between our kitchen and bathroom, where it complements our decor.
One day, a few years later, while staying with her and her husband in their mountain cabin, she led us to a cute little outbuilding on the property. Her studio—a sanctuary of creativity. Finished, as well as unfinished, drawings and paintings hung and leaned against the walls, with some propped on easels around the room. Special knick-knacks and plaques placed in strategic positions throughout the small space, offered artistic inspiration. The typical layout of a true artist.
Painting and drawing are Lorraine’s giftings. When she creates, she’s “in the zone” for hours. However, she was frustrated because she had not been able to paint or draw much, if at all. Her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and required most of her attention.
One particular pastel painting sat to the side of the room, propped on a delicate easel. A rough draft of a bull, with no head, and his rider bucked across the canvas. She was having trouble completing the bull’s head as its body was at a certain, difficult angle. She had left the painting as is, a bit discouraged.
Enter Bruce. Back in Texas, as he packed for our trip, (we didn’t take our rig or the horses), he came across a rodeo T-shirt he didn’t wear much. On a whim, he decided to pack it.
The moment Bruce saw Lorraine’s pastel, he knew why he was prompted to bring that T-shirt. Later that day, Bruce pulled the shirt from his bag and showed it to Lorraine. Her jaw dropped. The bull rider could have been the same inspiration for her pastel. And the bull’s head? It was at the exact angle Lorraine needed as an example to finish her bull’s head!
Tears welled in Lorraine’s eyes. Fresh life seemed to breathe into her.
When life’s obstacles seemingly get in the way of using our God-given gifts, sometimes it feels as though we’ve been sort of “kicked to the curb” and God has somehow forgotten the talent he’s blessed us with. He hasn’t, of course, but it takes some doing to renew one’s mind to the fact that He promises “never to leave us or forsake us” and, “our gift will make room for us.” (Hebrews 13:5)
Lorraine may have to “think outside the box” as to when she paints and draws, letting God guide her to the best time. Or, ask Him to send her help to free up some of her time? Who knows? But, it is certain that the Lord will make a way. She just needs to find that trail. (Isaiah 43:19)
Life may be challenging, but we must never give up on our gifts. God hasn’t. He loves to bless others through the gifts He’s given us.
Hope in Jesus
Andrea Marino
In my attempt to read through the Bible I came across instructions given to Moses for the construction of a tabernacle; a sanctuary where God’s glory would dwell among the Israelites and where He would be their guide. I wondered how they would accomplish this task in the wilderness; the materials were quite specific - rings, poles and curtains among other things- the entire structure to be covered in a tent of goat hair. You can read all about God’s first ‘earthly dwelling’ (often referred to as the Temple of Moses) in Exodus 25-27. While the particulars are overwhelming, a spiritual picture of what God was doing is something to see here. Jesus often used illustrations to help His disciples understand what in the world is going on, namely the miraculous undertaking of God in His plan to save mankind.
“Hang the veil under the clasps and bring the arc of the testimony there behind the veil, so the eil will make a separation for you between the holy place and the most holy place.” Exodus 26:33. Before we come to Christ there is a separation from God we must deal with. A veil is over our eyes. This is due to sin, passed down to everyone from the first people who decided to listen to Lucifer, father of lies. Sin is an inherent bent within us to do what is wrong. Even what is evil. In my book, The Hobble from Ai to Bethel, I portrayed my main character as such – with a lower limb that was bowed. Consider this inherent aspect of human nature that prevents us from receiving the perfect gift of life, as God originally intended for His creation. Then marvel at the mercy seat to be placed in the most holy place behind the veil. Exodus 26:34
As a Groundwire Coach, I had the privilege of chatting with a person who shared that he saw what was wrong with him and found God’s mercy, recently accepting Jesus as his Lord and Savior. I wrote back how joyful to hear and welcomed him into the family of God. His response was, “You don’t understand; I was one who idolized those who fly planes into buildings.” Chills ran down my spine as he further explained he was now willing to live for Jesus and give his life to share the Gospel. “Jesus shouted with a loud voice and gave up His spirit. Suddenly, the curtain (veil) of the sanctuary was split in two from top to bottom.” Mathew 27:50,51.
As time goes on it becomes easier and easier to see evil. It is consuming all that is good. But God allows the explosion of evil to be exposed for the good. Hopefully, more people will understand their need to be rescued. Though we are separated from God at birth, the message from Moses Tabernacle is an invitation for sinners to come to Jesus for the salvation of their soul. Sent to accomplish the bridging between the gap, Jesus has been offered to us so that we could receive the greatest gift, namely, life beyond this world. Now, from His throne, The Lord declares He makes all things new. Revelation 21:5.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5. As a table was part of the first tabernacle, so is a table in place for whosoever will come to Jesus. He is the bread of life. Because of His sacrifice for us while in sin, we are able to feast upon the words and hold within us the precious possession of eternal life in Heaven. Jesus is the Light of the world, the symbolic lampstand of the first Temple. God is calling people out of darkness and into the marvelous light of His Son. 1Peter 2:9b.
Photographer: Nancy DeJesus
As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns.
Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.
AND THEN THE DOOR OPENED
By Linda Castro
“I’m glad that’s over!” she thought, “I am so tired of Mom dragging me to Church every time the doors open!” As a 23-year-old college graduate currently living with her widowed Mom, Sharon Beasley complained to herself while waiting for her Mom to finish the usual after Church chit-chat with the ladies of her Church group about their next luncheon for clothing donations.
Checking her phone’s messages, Sharon was waiting for the confirmation of the position she had applied for the previous week, as well as approval for the small apartment that would give her the independence she had become used to in college. But for now, during this waiting timeframe, she was living with her Mom and smiling at all the Church ladies.
As a youngster, Sharon had learned about the Bible and Jesus and memorized scriptures in the Youth Group at Church, but as she got older, it didn’t seem to have the same importance in her life. There were even times when she felt like she had left all that behind to pursue other interests.
But, for some reason, there was always that one particular scripture about Jesus knocking on the door that stayed with her through the years. She even kept the scripture card it was printed on. It was, Revelation 3:20 (KJV) “ Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
This had been explained to Sharon that it represented Jesus wanting to come into your heart. You just had to open the door and let Him in. It seemed she had struggled with that decision for years growing up. And now, as she patiently waited for her Mom to finish her business with the ladies Church group, that scripture came back to her memory, loud and clear!
The Pastor’s sermon that morning had been about the reality of Heaven and Hell. He had also requested volunteers to work with those who were still struggling with that decision as Sharon had been for many years.
As Sharon stood there with all those thoughts running through her mind, it was like something very powerful yet very tender called her name.
Through her tears, she said “Yes.”
“And then the door opened and then the light shined and all those who had been living in darkness can see the Light of Jesus.”
Andrea is heavenly minded. Often misunderstood, her perspective is one of hope beyond this world according to Hebrews 11:16. As such, she is passionate about sharing the Gospel with the lost and hurting. Her book, ‘The Hobble, from Ai to Bethel’ draws upon God’s timeless truths for eternal life. Andrea enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family and good friends. She is currently a coach with the online ministry, ‘Groundwire/Jesus cares’, helping others discover the love and saving grace ofJesus Christ. Anyone who knows Andrea knows she lives with great anticipation of the Lord appearing in the clouds to rapture His church.
Hope In Jesus
By Andrea Marino
The apostle Paul said, “He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6. For sure, Christians are a work in progress (WIP). I see this verse in Philippians providing ‘balance’ for Christians against anxious striving while enduring to the end. It’s comforting to consider myself a WIP to God, as my tendency is to view life through a lens of perfection. I can get down on myself for not doing more, for not being better than I am. Along with a mindset of all things perfect, seems everything in this world falls short in some way, shape or form. I even struggle with perfect Love pursuing me. Here again, maintaining balance is necessary lest we take God’s grace as a license to sin.
Lately, more and more I am coming across people thinking they don’t need God, believing they can be their own god. It’s an evil influence of great deception sweeping over our world. Rebellion against the Creator of everything is sin, the wage of which is death. Jesus is the only remedy for sin and consequential death. Willingly, He offered His body so whosoever would come to Him could be saved.
The serpent said to Eve: “You will not die. In fact, God knows that when you eat it (the forbidden tree) you will be like God.” Genesis 3: 4,5. The lie bought by the majority is that there is no accountability before the Creator. Psalm 14:1. How foolish to think there is no God to one day stand before. How naturally it comes to want to do what we want without a care for a result. Pride has a blinding effect; it is the downfall of Lucifer. You can’t help but see people in high places possessing the same mindset of the Enemy. All of us are eternal beings and the Lake of fire will be an eternal dwelling place for those whose names are not written in the book of life. That’s downright chilling to me.
God was, is and forever will be Sovereign. Only those washed in the blood of Jesus are promised eternal life upon the new, restored earth that Jesus is coming back to put into place. The Good News cannot be spoken enough, as many people are yet focused on a world that is passing away. The Word of God encourages us not to focus on what is seen, but to focus on what is unseen. 2 Corinthians 4:18. It is Jesus who holds the unseen riches of the Father’s Kingdom that is coming.
I am not suggesting Christians sit back and do nothing until Jesus takes us home. We continue to be the positive influence in the world. However, it is not the church or any mere man that can eradicate evil. Only Jesus can do this. Only He is the Prince of peace. I’m seeing a lot of things happening that make me concerned, scared even. Walking with the Lord’s helps in these uncertain times is what sustains me and keeps me not giving in to fear. Until the final day of God’s grace whatever Satan means for harm, God promises to cause it to turn into something of value and for our benefit.
Jodie Glardon has wanted to be a published author since she was seven years old. Around fifth grade, she submitted several poems to the Creative Communication poetry contest, and all of them won! Jodie is currently taking classes at Pellissippi State Community College and loves hiking, crochet, and piano in her spare time.
Ungodly Influence
by Jodie Glardon
Beware of strangers luring you beyond the gates of home, For Jesus knows temptations lie in wait when you’re alone. It all begins when someone “kind” (professing as a friend) Implants a seed that brings about a sad and bitter end.
Distraction is the seed he plants by way of sly deceit; A heart that’s taken off its guard may not withstand defeat. He seems well-meaning; nonetheless, be sober. Know God’s plan. Oh, never take your eyes off Christ to trust in feeble man.
Through mangled brush, he leads astray; he’s won you with his charm.
God’s ministers give warnings, but you’re sure he means no harm — ‘Tis then that carnal seed shall sprout; bewail this earthly gain! What does appear of value now may reap eternal pain.
This sinful, sturdy tree grew tall with branches to the sky It formed an obstacle to block God’s glorious light on high.
Spring is here! Take rides with your family, if you have a camera, take it with you, or, use your cell phone to capture the beauty that God has created for us. -Photos by Karen Ruhl
To Be Fully Loved
by Steve Wilson
Almost everyone has a yearning to be loved and appreciated, to be that special someone to another person. Some might even go to extreme lengths to fill that lingering need. And when you do finally find that special someone, you’ll do almost anything to make sure that relationship remains healthy and endures. But not every type of love is the same; the following is a very “special” love story between a little girl and her bunnies.
When our granddaughter, Crystal, was a baby, she received a gift in the form of a Vera Bradley baby Lovey bunny. Soon after, her mama ordered another duplicate, “just in case” bunny, which she quickly adopted as her very own as well. These two plush bunnies were/are Crystal’s constant companions, her confidantes. When Crystal was able to begin communicating, she named the duo “Bun Bun”, for bunny times two. Later on, Crystal determined that her two best buds were a little different so each received their new identities as “soft body” and “soft ear”.
These two forever friends have been on more adventures and in more states than some adult humans. They’ve traveled thousands of miles, literally in car rides to daycare, and later to school, have been car seat buddies on vacation destinations and family visits; they have even been to Disney World…twice! They’ve played “hide and seek” a lot, since little Crystal feared that someone would snatch them from her tiny hands, so a couch pillow or blanket served as a good temporary hideout until such time she was back in her own home and felt safe.
Fast forward several years, and at eleven, Crystal still has her long-eared compadres often at her side, even though both are showing many signs of being fully loved; “soft ear” ears are now tattered, and the soft satin inside of the ears is now threadbare and worn. “Soft body” is in a similar state of deterioration, and both have had their heads and limbs surgically repaired more than a couple of times. When asked if it might be time to retire the fraternal twins to a more protected environment, we are greeted with a very firm “NO”; she loves her gray hares and can’t fathom parting with them.
I’m sure in the very near future, Crystal will, in fact, relinquish her buddies and place them unceremoniously with the other items she will consider as childish, and it will then be time for her supportive adults in her life to take a moment and grieve, as childhood gives way to her tumultuous teenage years.
But unlike Crystal’s well-loved bunnies and her relationship with them, love between humans are much more difficult and complicated. That being said, those relationships might be somewhat less complex if we first made sure that our relationship is right with our father first, our Heavenly Father! Did you know that God loves us with a love that we just can’t comprehend on this side of heaven? Despite our imperfections, our sinful nature, and our tendency toward rebellion, God is passionate about and desires a deep relationship with each one of us. The bible has many verses pertaining to God’s love for us as well as how we should love our Father in heaven.
1 John 3:1 reflects, “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” John goes on to say in 1 John 4:19 that “We love because He first loved us.” God IS love, and this love of God is very personal between our Heavenly Father and each one of us. And we can be assured of this very love! 1 John 4:16 says that, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” Also, Romans 8:37-39 reminds us that, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Have you ever wondered to what extent God has shown His love for us? With a love that is so sacrificial, He was willing to allow his one and only son to die in our place! Romans 5:8 reads, “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” and John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
I don’t know about you, but I can’t begin to comprehend that kind of love, for I am so undeserving, a speck of sand in the sea called humanity. Yet, if I was the only human on this earth, God would have displayed this amazing act of love just for me; all that God wants in return is our hearts and obedience. In Matthew 22:36-40, Jesus delivered the two greatest commandments to the people; to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul and mind as well as to love our neighbor as ourselves. That may sound simple, but those commands are so powerful that it may take a lifetime of attempts to even come close on this side of Heaven!
Some days I really can relate to those bunnies of Crystal’s, with their graying fur, pulled threads and limbs made limp by life’s experiences. But I know that I have a Heavenly Father that has loved me fully even before I made an appearance on this earth and I have the rest of eternity to love him right back with my worship and adoration.
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