And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.
1 Kings 10:2 KJV
Photographer
Susan Strawn
Photographer: Susan Strawn
Travel and photography seem to be my passion. Fortunately, they go together quite well, I have been traveling internationally (usually twice a year) for over 25 years. About 6 years ago I realized I needed to upgrade my “point and shoot” camera and that is when I met Karen Ruhl. She has encouraged my love of snapping that shot!!
About a year ago I decided to spread my wings and do an unusual trip...to Mongolia. There were many friends who asked why...my response was always... why not!! So last fall I boarded a 15 hour flight to a truly wonderful country with truly wonderful people. Mongolia has deserts (the Gobi), mountains, and lakes. It also has horses, two hump camels (these camels are Bactrian camels and the one hump camel is the Dromedary camel), sheep, cows, yaks, and goats (goats provide the wool for the soft cashmere that comes from Mongolia). The fences are few in number and the nomads follow the herds from season to season (yes, it does get very cold in some areas). The nomads live in completely movable homes (ger) which can be disassembled and then re-assembled by two or three people in about 30 minutes. And yes, the ger was our accommodation in the three different areas we visited.
It was a fascinating trip. A trip that any adventurous person should put on their bucket list.
Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor
February is here and it sure came in with a snow storm.
It has been quite a while since we have had snow like this, starting with a nice layer of ice! It was mixed decisions on Facebook posts, some wanted tons of snow, and some of us would have been happy if we didn’t get any! And, yes, I didn’t want any. However, once the snow came down and it was so beautiful, I was happy to see it again.
One thing that is so different for me is not seeing kids out playing or building snowmen. We just don’t have any young kids around us, a couple of kids are down the street, but I can’t see them from here. I remember playing outside until my parents had to threaten us to come inside, and a good thing too, we were so cold it took forever to get warmed up.
I would like to ask all of us to keep the people who got hit really hard. Trees fell all over the place and the ice and snow kept many without electricity. I pray that those without power have it restored soon.
I want to take the time to thank our writers, photographers, poets, and everyone who reads and supports Faith On Every Corner Magazine.
Please be sure to check on your elderly family members and neighbors. It is not easy and for those who live alone may need food. I can tell you first hand that it is not easy being alone during storms and not knowing when you will be able to get out and about. I am thankful for the internet, it is a key way to keep in touch with your family and friends.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please email me at the email below.
Much love and many blessings, Karen Team@faithoneverycorner.com
These are my two favorite trees in my yard, they are covered in snow. It didn’t last long when the wind came in and blew them clean.
Poems ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7
Nature Hearts Show Love ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9
Planting Seeds of Faith for 2026... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11
A False Sense Of Security ... by Donna J. Miller.. Page 12-13
Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15
Do Not Fear ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16
Trust In Him ... Karen Ruhl ... Page 17
Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish:
A Biblical Reminder to Put Your Mask on First ... By Brianna Barrett ... Pages 18-19
Photos by Susan Strawn ... Page 20-21
The Bicycle Seat ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Pages 22-23
Life in the Desert ... By Karen Bowling... Pages 24-25
Photos by Susan Strawn ... Pages 26-27
The Importance Of you ... By Linda Castro ... Pages 28-29
Scripture photo ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 30
On Top Of The Mountaint ... Page 31 ... Karen Ruhl
Topsail Island ... By Richard D. Waters.. Page 32-33
Heavenly Father, we come before you to give you thanks for all you do for us. Lord, please watch over those who are in need, especially those who are on the streets in the bad weather. Let them find safe shelter to stay warm and be fed.
Lord God, we also ask that you calm the situations all over the world.
Please let the leaders all take a step back and put their egos and their own decisions away without some serious thought and prayer.
Please watch over our families and friends and keep them safe and healthy. Give healing to those in the hospital and get them home to their families.
In Jesus Name, we pray, Amen Matthew 5:9 ~ Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
John Alexander
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations are behind us and we’re already a month into the new year. I don’t know what lies ahead for this year, but I’m sure it will have its share of good times as well as challenges, times on the mountain top as well as the valleys. Challenges, although not our choice, do provide opportunities for growth. It usually takes a long time to be able to look back and see it as a time of strengthening us. I pray your journey, wherever it leads, will bring you blessings, not only on the mountain, but also in the valleys. I pray the poems I’m sharing this month will encourage you to draw close to the Lord no matter your circumstance.
Blessings,
John Alexander
https://quiettimerhymes.com/
YouTube Channel
I Follow
When life’s a mess, things go awry, When I can’t find the reasons why, I realize God’s in control.
Whate’er He chooses will unfold. I yield to Him, His master plan.
My life He holds within His hand. He needs no one to ask, consult, He knows the final end result.
God’s in control, my future, past, What matters most, the things that last. I cannot fathom, understand His universe, so vast, so grand. God doesn’t answer to my whim. He’s in control, I follow Him.
Redeem and Refine
The darker the times Lord, the brighter You shine. You’re changing my life to redeem and refine. Your words bring me comfort from prophets of old, Your saints who surround me encourage my soul. As we study the prophets who spoke of Your birth, And read of the future, new Heaven and earth, We can trust with assurance, read what is to come, The things that will happen and what we’ll become. We know You are coming, one day You’ll appear, The future is bright but for now we are here.
Lord help us to listen, to hear, and to learn. Grant us Your wisdom we need to discern. By Your grace we are saved, it’s not earned nor deserved. Each day through Your Spirit we learn how to serve.
My Quiet Place
I need my early quiet place
To read, to pray, to seek God’s face, A time and place to rest my soul,
To let God’s will in me unfold.
Lord may Your word take root in me.
Lord help my heart Your will to see.
Lord help me trust this day to You
In all I say and all I do.
Lord take my hand and lead the way.
Lord grant me wisdom as I pray.
I don’t know what this day will bring But pray my soul today may sing.
Lord You are love and life and light, A light that’s true and pure and bright.
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
Nature Hearts Show Love
By Melissa Henderson
February is sometimes called the “month of love”. Before the calendar turns from one month to the next, store shelves are adorned with red hearts and messages of love. A recent trip to one of my favorite craft stores prompted me to reflect on the ways we express love through our words and actions. From saying “I love you” to sharing a smile and/or a hug, God gives us many wonderful opportunities to show His love. Nature hearts show love.
Sale signs on each store aisle were displayed to entice shoppers. Discounts of 40% to 60% off original prices had the store buzzing with excitement. Although I wasn’t ready to purchase things for Valentine’s Day, I scanned the offerings and decided to purchase a few sale items for the grandkids. Yes, I was one of those shoppers that the store was hoping to find. I wasn’t the only Mimi looking at cute activity sets for the grands.
As I shopped, I noticed the politeness of the folks around me. People saying “excuse me” when they needed to move their cart past someone, and folks sharing laughter and chatting about who would be surprised by the love gifts.
There was plenty of love shown at the store. After completing my purchases, Alan and I walked to the parking lot to find our car. More folks are showing kindness and love. People in cars waited as customers crossed the road. Others waited patiently to find the perfect parking spot. Friends and strangers commented with phrases such as “Have a great day,” and “Hope you enjoy the day.”
When we arrived home, I put away our Valentine gifts and began to dust the furniture. Walking to the hutch by the back door, I saw that all of the leaves on this plant were shaped like hearts. Hearts of love. Nature hearts. I gave the plant some water and tried to count the leaves. We’ve had this plant for many years. It originally belonged to my parents. We’ve tried to take good care of the green leaves over the years. Alan and I have moved it from one small pot to a bigger pot, so the plant wouldn’t be crowded with roots. We were showing love to the plant.
God shows us His love in many ways. When we pause, share time with God, read His Word, and pray, there is a peace that covers us. Today, I will take a deep breath, exhale slowly, and relax my shoulders. I will open my eyes and ears to absorb the blessings God gives. From nature hearts to love shown at the craft store, God shows His love. Have you seen love hearts today? Look outside and inside to learn what God is showing.
“Do
everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 (NIV)
Blessings and love, 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)
Planting Seeds of Faith for 2026
By Yvonne M. Morgan Prayer
“
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver.” Proverbs 16:16 (NIV).
As we journey deeper into the new year, I wanted to delve into some verses that will help direct our faith away from worldly ways and onto the path of Christ. I pray this helps each of us deepen our faith in 2026.
This verse reminds us of something the world often gets wrong. We chase after wealth, status, and possessions, believing they will bring security or happiness. But Proverbs tells us that wisdom and understanding are far more valuable than gold or silver. Why? Because money fades, possessions break, and success can go away. But wisdom — God’s wisdom — shapes who we are and guides how we live, no matter the season.
Wisdom teaches us how to handle challenges with grace. It helps us make choices that honor God and bless others. When we understand this, it allows us to see situations through God’s eyes instead of reacting in fear, pride, or anger. These treasures are everlasting. They deepen our faith, strengthen our relationships, and draw us closer to God.
Gold and silver can provide comfort for a time, but wisdom and understanding equip us for eternity. Each day, we have a choice about how we will use our time. We can spend our energy chasing things that perish, or we can seek the wisdom that comes from the Lord?
Allow this verse to plant a seed in your heart today: true wealth does not depend on what you have in your bank account but on the wisdom and understanding God pours into your life when you seek Him first.
That’s our Seed of Faith, and I pray it may grow in you and guide your steps.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word, especially Proverbs 16:16, which reminds me that gaining wisdom and understanding from You is far more valuable than any earthly treasure like gold or silver.
Lord, I often chase worldly success and temporary riches, but today I choose wisdom. Please grant me a heart that seeks Your divine insight above all else. Give me understanding to discern
Your will, to see things as You see them, and to walk in Your perfect paths.
Order my steps, not according to my limited plans, but according to Your infinite wisdom, even when my path looks different from what I imagined. Help me make decisions that honor You, using the wisdom You provide to be a blessing to others and to glorify Your name.
Teach me to value Your presence and guidance more than any material gain. May my life be rich in Your wisdom and understanding. In Jesus’ name, 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.
A False Sense Of Security
By Donna J. Miller
Have you ever ridden “Soarin’ Around the World” in Epcot at Walt Disney World? During the ride, you hang glide above many wonders of the world, strapped securely in a row of seats with other visitors. You soar over the Swiss Alps, the polar bears in Greenland, sailboats in Australia and many more marvelous places.
When I rode a few years ago, I realized that I was firmly gripping the arm rests on both sides of me. I glanced at my husband, and he was sitting there very relaxed with his hands in his lap. I glanced at the stranger on my left side. He was very relaxed and enjoying the ride, also. I knew I was strapped in and that the scenery was actually an IMAX movie. I knew I was safe. I forced myself to reluctantly peel one hand and then the other from the arm rests. I tried to relax and enjoy the gorgeous world views.
Then, we took a sharp turn, maybe following the Great Wall of China or soaring over the Eiffel Tower, and I tensed up again. When I caught my breath, I realized that I had crossed my arms over my chest and was firmly gripping my shirt and my bra straps with both hands. I had to laugh at myself. At least when I was gripping the arm rests, I was holding myself in the seat (which the seat belt was designed to do). However, if I flew out of that seat, holding onto my clothing was not going to help at all. My clothes would fly right out with me! Good grief! Gripping my shirt and bra straps was definitely giving me a false sense of security!
Often we cling to things that give us a false sense of security. A false sense of security occurs when we believe we are safe or secure and we are not. The Bible warns us not to place our trust in anything or anyone but God.
In Luke 12:16-20, Jesus tells the story o f a rich man. The rich man said to himself, “You have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself” (verse 19). God’s reply was, “You fool! This very night your life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared- whose will they be?” (verse 20). We all need some material wealth to provide for ourselves, but it can be taken away at any moment! Proverbs 11:28 says: “Anyone trusting in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like foliage.” Trusting in riches provides false security.
We should not trust in human strength and wisdom or military might. Isaiah 31:1 says: “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and who depend on horses! They trust in the abundance of chariots and in the large number of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel, and they do not seek the Lord.” The Egyptians who chased the people of Israel through the Red Sea learned that they could not trust in their horses and chariots. Modern armies, strength, and wisdom can also fail us.
We should not trust only in our church. Jeremiah 7:4 states: “Do not trust deceitful words, chanting, ‘This is the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord.’” The Israelites believed that the presence of the temple guaranteed their safety. We sometimes believe that we are safe and secure because we attend church regularly. However, we are not saved by church attendance, we are saved by placing our trust in God!
Spiritual complacency or a lukewarm faith can also give a false sense of security. The church in Laodicea is rebuked in Revelation 3:1 for lukewarm faith. “For you say, ‘I’m rich; I have become wealthy and need nothing’ and you don’t realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.” Material wealth andchurch attendance does not equate spiritual health.
Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the the Lord. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trusting in our own understanding is false security. Remember, God promises to never leave us (Hebrews 13:5) and to prepare a place for us in heaven (John 14:12). Trusting in God is eternal security!
Jesus instructed His followers, “Therefore be alert since you don’t know what day the Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42). We are secure when we have an active faith. We can confidently sing “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand, all other grand is sinking sand” because we faithfully trust God for eternity.
(All scriptures are from the Christian Standard Bible.)
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.
Morning Coffee
by Michael E. Wells
FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULDN’T THROW AWAY
#1 FRIENDS
“God has given gifts to women and men but none so precious as the ones you call friend.” Something I wrote years ago. Truth be told, life can be very lonely. It is only by the communion of the One we can’t see and the fellowship of those we can see that make life bearable and even enjoyable.
I’ve seen some dismiss a friend for pettiness, never to have them back again though they may try. Friendships take effort to maintain but they are invaluable when needed. May we show mercy to them in their failings as we do to strangers when we often meet and minister to them.
#2 MEMORIES
For many these are all they have left. Life flies by so fast we barely have time to juggle the events of the day much less catalog and archive them but one day we will need to remember. We collect mementos along the way in life, from travels and events. We display them, we appreciate them and then we pack them away. At some point we consider discarding them but that would be a mistake.
Life is filled with tragedy and strife. Objects are touchstones for memories, we keep the good and release the bad. This is not to deny the bad but to cherish the good. As we grow older we may need to relive some of those good times and events of our past. Open that box in the closet. Fill your rooms with good memories because they are one of the things you should not throw away.
#3 YOUR LIFE
When we were young we thought ourselves invincible. Looking back, many of us can say, “I could have died doing that.” Time, relationships and achievements have taught us to be more cautious. But still some in the midst of gathering all this world has to offer has by neglect thrown away what is of most importance.
It is your life in Christ. As Paul writes we only get one life and then we are to be judged. It would be foolish to gather all things here and give no thought for there. It is never too late to redeem the time and your life. You have but one life to live for God, live it well. To do otherwise would be to throw it away.
#4 THE MOMENT
It usually comes at the most inconvenient of times. A split second decision we will make. Many times we will say next time, wait a minute or not now but that moment will never come again though we may eventually return. Granted we cannot fulfill all requests on our time and that’s why we need discernment. Some moments are needful and can be life changing for someone else.
But there are other moments needful only to us. How often do we ignore the tug at our spirit to take a break with the Lord, to turn aside from the crowds, to walk up to the water’s edge. To steal away to the hillside or close the door in our upper room. Moments with God are often spontaneous and no two alike. They are a refreshing breeze to the spirit for those who will stop and turn, face the wind and hear what the Spirit is saying in the moment.
#5 YOUR FAITH
Faith is a journey of the soul that grants encounters of the God kind. We read many times in scripture where faith was needed to make that connection to the supernatural. We are told we need it for all aspects of our relationship with God. Much is written of faith in God. Though it is tangible, it ebbs and flows. Life’s events and circumstances play havoc with our faith.
Some have simply discarded theirs depending on self only. A lonely and tiresome effort to be sure. What was once child-like has now become skeptical. Faith as well as hope and love are the foundation of this life. Together they are the cord of three strands in Ecclesiastes. Faith holds you when family turns away and friends walk out, when uncertainty creeps in and whispers doubt. Faith, not something you throw away for it is more precious than gold.
Mike’s books are available to purchase on Amazon. I highly recommend his books! -Karen Ruhl
DO NOT FEAR
By Irene Surya
Lord, help me
Not to crawl into the shell, But to take each step forward In quiet confidence on you.
Lord, help me
Not to live a life of fear, But to seek you daily
As you will deliver me surely.
Lord, help me
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.
To believe in your promises, To trust them each day
As you are always with me.
Lord, help me
Not to be under bondage, The chains of fear of man As you are to be feared only.
Lord, help me
To fly high steadily With the wings of a dove With the assurance of your strength..
Click on book to purchase from Amazon.
Trust in Him
by Karen Ruhl
Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5
The past two years have been hard, and yet, when I pray to the Lord and ask Him for the Peace That Comes Beyond Understanding. I have had many obstacles to face, and when they first pop up, I admit, I would feel burdened and wondered how I would be able to handle them. But God - yes, But God, He shows me the way and helps bring the problem to pass. And, when I look back, I can smile knowing He is always with us.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I have had many obstacles over the past year, (my husband passed away almost 2 years ago), and when the first one hit, I just sat and stared and wondered how I was going to get it taken care of. It was not a small event, it involved family changes. I prayed and we made the changes, and today, I can say that it was a great situation because I trusted in God’s will, not mine.
Several small things happened, well some big ones too, throughout the first year. One was the problem with my husband’s computer that held many important documents and client projects. I prayed and was reminded that there was a computer shop within 4 minutes from my house. I took the computer and was told it was gone, but, and this is big, the shop owner told me he could back up everything on a hard drive and he sold me a new computer drive that was very reasonable. And, like that, I was back in business.
You might ask why I am telling you this. It is because I want you to know that all you have to do is pray to God. Not every prayer is answered in ways that I mentioned. Sometimes, you just know that God is with you and walking with your during your time of need.
I would encourage you to pray without ceasing for your needs. And, I encourge you to come beside your family and friends as they go through their trials and tribulations.
God loves you, and so do I. Blessings to 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.
Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: A
Biblical Reminder to Put Your Mask on First
By Brianna Barrett
Did you know an empty car doesn’t run?
We were taking a flight for our family weekend getaway. I’ve flown many times, but this trip was different. I began focusing on the flight attendant and her safety warnings. “Put your mask on first, then help those around you.” Put your mask on first, then help those around you. Those words stuck with me throughout the trip. Later, I mentioned to my husband, the seasoned business traveler, that those words really resonated with me.
These safety instructions are pertinent not only to airline safety but also to life. If we don’t care for ourselves first, we can’t care for others. I’m a recovering people pleaser, and it’s in my nature to give all that I have to others until I physically can’t give anymore. When you don’t take the time to care for yourself, you eventually get to a point where you can’t care for others.
At (a month shy of) forty, I had to learn what self-care was. My recent experience with shingles taught me I have to put my mask on first before I assist those around me. I was pouring out of an empty watering can, no longer able to be who I wanted. Life sidelined me, but in the middle of this episode with shingles, I found God was there, holding me while I rested. It wasn’t sleep that I needed; it was fewer commitments and less people-pleasing. Instead, I filled my time in the Word, filling myself with rest. There was no rushing around; there was no more piling on just one more thing. Instead, I found time to sit and be. I went back to the things I enjoyed, reading books and catching up with family and friends. There was no pressure for me to perform for others. All I needed to do was be still and recharge.
You may not have experienced the pain of shingles, and friend, I hope you’ve not had to endure them. Maybe it’s been overwhelming or overextending yourself to please others that has caused you to burn out. We can’t work ourselves to exhaustion and keep going without recharging. For years, people have told me to take care of myself, that self-care is important, while others have told me self-care is selfish. Both parties were right. Self-care is not only important but necessary, and it’s okay to take time to care for yourself. It took me (almost) forty years to realize that.
Is Self-Care Biblically Based?
We must all feed our bodies and souls with goodness to produce good fruit. If we overwork our bodies beyond their design, we cannot fulfill the commandment to love God, our neighbors, and ourselves. We aren’t showing ourselves love if we never take care of it.
Apostle Paul shares with the churches of Galatia, “For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:14 NIV). We are called to love God, our neighbor, and ourselves.
Paul also writes to the church of Corinth, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV). We should strive to glorify God in all that we do—even mundane things. It should always be for His glory, meaning it is important to take careof the bodies and minds that He created.
Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant. There are many simple things you can do, such as taking five minutes each day to be still, or taking a peaceful bath, stretching your body, and unwinding your mind. Cook a healthy meal and enjoy a walk in nature. We have to love ourselves to fulfill the calling of loving others.
Today, I encourage you to join me in putting your mask on first and doing one act of self-care before you help those around you.
Reflection Questions:
When was the last time you did something for yourself? How does self-care look for you?
CLICK ON BOOK PHOTO TO FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON.
Photographer: Susan Strawn (Photos from Mongolia)
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.
The Bicycle Seat
by Shara Bueler-Repka
“You shall surely give to him, and your heart should not be grieved when you give to him because for this thing the Lord your God will bless you in all your works and in all to which you put your hand. For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land’”
—Deuteronomy 15:10-11 (NKJV).
A hot, humid evening stifled Southeast Texas, causing my sister-in-law, Rhonda’s, air conditioner to struggle to keep her house cool. Not wanting to bear the heat for another day, it was decided the air filter must be changed that night.
She searched the garage and retrieved the new filter she had bought several months prior. Her 16-year-old son, Nick, was elected to install it. Unfortunately, on further inspection, it was the wrong filter. “Great,” she muttered. Driving into the city of Houston for an air filter is not what one looks forward to in the middle of the evening.
Rhonda and Nick drove to the store where they had purchased the filter ... out-of-stock. So, off they trekked to a bigger department store. Rhonda parked he car, and mother and son headed for the entrance with purpose in their step.
“Excuse me, ma’am,” came a voice near the door. Slowing her stride, Rhonda glanced toward the voice. It belonged to a young boy. Tentatively, he asked, “Would you be able to buy me a bicycle seat? Mine was stolen.”
“No, not today,” Rhonda said politely as she made her way through the entrance. Hmmm, scams are everywhere nowadays, she mused.
Back to the task-at-hand, they had one goal in mind: get what they needed, check out, and get back home. But as Rhonda searched for the filter, her thoughts kept trailing back to the young boy by the door.
Nick met up with her a little while later, and with one glance, each knew the others’ thoughts. “You’re thinking the same thing, aren’t you?” said Rhonda. ”Yeah, the kid and the bicycle seat,” replied Nick.
“Well, let’s go check out the seats,” said Rhonda as she led the way to the Sports Department. They found a seat for $20.00.
“If $20.00 was the only money I had in my wallet, I would spend it on this seat,” Nick said, a strong urgency compelling him to help the boy
Both mother and son became immersed in their own thoughts: What’s the worst that could happen? If we buy the seat and the kid is already gone, we would just return it and be done with it. The kid isn’t asking for money, just a seat. And if this is a scam, well, it is what it is. But ... what if the kid really is in need? They both decided it was worth the $20.00 to find out.
Leaving the cashier line, bicycle seat in hand, they headed for the entrance to look for the boy. He lingered in the same spot.
Nick walked over to him with their gift, as Rhonda went to get the car. The “God bless you!” and “thank you so much!” enthusiasms reached her ears across the parking lot as the boy gratefully accepted the seat.
When Nick got in the car with his mom, he asked if they could swing around and give the boy one last arewell. He was putting the new seat on his bike as they waved at him. “Good luck, man,” Nick called out to him. “God bless you! God bless you!” exclaimed the boy again.
As they drove away, Nick related the conversation he’d had with him. Apparently he was destitute and hungry with only $3.00 in his pocket. He rode his bike to that store to buy whatever food he could get for the scant amount he had. While he searched the aisles for food, someone stole his bicycle seat, leaving him to depend on the generosity of strangers.
Rhonda held back her tears as she told my husband and me this story. “God comes to us in many different ways and in times when we least expect it,” she said. “Little did we know, the wrong filter sat in our garage. But it needed to be replaced that night.”
She paused to steady her emotions before quietly concluding, “We were specifically sent that night to help someone in need.” (Hebrews 13:5-6)
Karen Bowling holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology for Christian Counseling from Liberty University as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology from Bible Faith Global University. She currently ministers to others through the Speak Words of Faith website (speakwordsoffaith.com) where she maintains a weekly blog. She has a strong passion for women’s ministry, and a strong desire to see women healed, delivered, and set free from their emotional wounds from the past.
Life in the Desert
by Karen Bowling
Last night, before bed, I found myself reading various news blurbs. I pretty much stopped watching the news when I was in my mid-twenties because I would find myself crying every day. Last night, as I read through various articles, my heart became heavy. All I could do was pray, Lord, intervene! There is a lot of pain in the world; many people are suffering, but remember that He is our Hope!
This morning I sat down to read the Bible and was leafing through Psalms to find something that would encourage me for today and maybe for the days to come. I was drawn to Psalms 62 and 63. The note in my Bible says that David wrote these while he was in the desert. This brought me back to our Sunday service. We had just finished an extended worship, and the room was silent. As I was resting in the Spirit, I could hear people in the congregation breathing. It seemed like the sound of their breathing was magnified. Some were breathing heavier than others while others were breathing faster or slower, but I could discern one person from another. It had a rhythmic, musical tone to it, but it sounded as if they were panting, almost breathless. Psalm 42:1 (NIV) says, “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.” As we sat there resting in the Lord’s Presence, we were thirsting for the Lord!
We all know what a desert looks like, but I looked up the definition of a desert. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines desert as “arid land with usually sparse vegetation; an area of water apparently devoid of life; a desolate and forbidding area; and a wild uninhabited and uncultivated tract.” As I read the definition, I thought, There are areas of many cities and towns throughout our country and the world that meet all of the criteria included in this definition. There are areas that were once fruitful that are now abandoned and devoid of life. Areas that were once safe have been taken over by poverty and crime. They have become streams and rivers that are devoid of spiritual life. Could the world’s spiritual environment be likened to a desert? I would be inclined to say, “Yes”. Is the world thirsty for something or someone? I hope so!
One aspect of the definition stood out to me and gave me a glimmer of hope—a desert is a place with sparse vegetation. So, how does something grow and survive in a hostile environment? There are people who are trapped and unable to leave these physical deserts, yet somehow, they survive. Psalm 63:1-6 says,
“You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for You, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night”.
I am sure that you have seen people like this interviewed on the news talking about how they have been in the neighborhood for over 50 years, and they have never had any incident touch them, their home or their loved ones. Could it be that like David, they thirst for the Lord and cling to Him knowing that He is their only hope; He is there everything? Maybe they are protected by the shadow of His wing as it says in Psalm 91? Who knows? I just want to encourage you in these times, reminding you as well as myself that we are not without hope! As a close friend of mine says, “God is still on His throne!” We may not understand, but He is in control, and He knows what He is doing! We just need to make a choice to believe or not to believe that His promises are true!
Lord, we thank You for making a way for us. We thank You for giving us an instruction book for life which contains a treasure map that leads directly to You! All praise and glory to You! We will praise You while we wait, wanting for nothing, trusting in You! Let all the world praise Your holy name now, for one day we know that every knee will bow, and every tongue will proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the Glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10-11). We pray this in Jesus’ mighty and holy name. Amen!
Photographer: Susan Strawn (Photos from Mongolia)
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.
THE IMPORTANCE OF YOU
By Linda Castro
“Before I formed YOU in the womb I knew YOU, before YOU were born, I set YOU apart; (Jeremiah 1:5ab NIV) (Emphasis mine)
These reminders are a combination of quotes by myself, the Holy Bible, and various authors about the importance of…YOU! ********************************************************************************
You are important because you have many traits that make you unique. From the way you look to the way you talk, people need you just the way you are.
You help people. When was the last time you've written down a list of people you helped? I imagine you’ve never thought of such an idea. As a result, you don’t even realize how many people appreciate you, love you, or value you as a person.that they were thinking about, even if just for that brief encounter, may have brightened their day.
You’re one of a kind, so only you can leave the impact you make. You’re destined to do amazing things in this life. Your positive contribution can be of great importance to other people. In this life journey, you need to make the most of the little things.
Self-worth “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” –(Matthew 10:31) Recognizing your worth is essential for personal growth and helps you live authentically.
You have a purpose. Your life purpose is personal and can help you make many choices.
You have impact. Your presence and actions can create a ripple effect influencing those around you positively.
You have value. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) God did that for you.
You have a light inside you. It only takes one light to illuminate the darkness.Never underestimate the light you shine into this world.
You are needed. You are not accidental. The world needs you. Without you, something will be missing in existence and nobody can replace it.
You are a divine being. You matter, you count. You come from realms of unimaginable power and light, and you will return to those realms.
Remember your Value. What you think about yourself can be much more important than what some others may think of you. As we learn to appreciate ourselves more it ultivates confidence and a sense of belonging within the body of Christ.
God had a plan for creating you. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – (Jeremiah 29:11)
You have special gifts and talents. God has endowed you with unique gifts and talents, and recognizing these is crucial to being who God created you to be. It’s not just about personal achievement but about how we can use our God-given gifts to serve others and glorify Him.
These are just a few reminders of how important YOU are to this world. Never forget them. It is not about being self-important or self-indulgent, or selfish. It is simply about how incredibly important YOU are as God’s creation to this world.
This special blessing is for YOU: (Numbers 6:24-26 New International Version)
24 “The Lord bless YOU and keep YOU; 25 the Lord make his face shine on YOU and be gracious to YOU; 26 the Lord turn his face toward YOU and give YOU peace.”’
On Top Of The Mountain
by Karen Ruhl
Have you ever been on the top of a mountain looking down at the vast earth below you? Did you stop and pray to God for the beauty that you are seeing? Many times, I would look up a verse while standing and looking at the beauty before me. One that I like is this one:
Isaiah 54:10 ESV / 55 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful
For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Isn’t that amazing? Look at the mountain in this photo, can you imagine it departing and the hills be removed? We look at that mountain and know it has been there so many, many years and we cannot imagine it not being there. But we are told in Isaiah 54:10, that the mountains may be removed, but God’s love for us will never be removed.
I live in North Carolina at the foothills of The Blue Ridge Mountains. When I look out over the mountains, I smile knowing that God’s love is bigger than anything we can imagine.
May God bless you and your family beyond anything we can even imagine.
Photo by Karen Ruhl
Richard D. Waters lives in Hudson, North Caroline. He is a Youth Director at Calvary Advent Christian Church. He loves working with children and youth. His heart is to teach them about Jesus, and how Jesus loves them.
Richard is a writer and will have his newest book published very soon!
Topsail Island
By Richard D. Waters
I woke up from my slumber, and I noticed my family was still asleep. So, I quietly put a pair of shorts on, a t-shirt, and my sandals and walked outside. I looked up and the sky was beautiful Carolina Blue with a few white clouds here and there. The sun is still rising. This is just the perfect morning to be at the beach. It is really quiet as everyone is still sleeping, it seems, and I’m all alone.
So, I decided to take this opportunity to take a stroll down to the beach. As I round the corner of the motel, I stand in awe of how beautiful the ocean is as its waves are crashing against the shore. I stand for a moment and listen to the tides roll in. I love this sound. I walk closer to the ocean and as I get closer, I can smell the ocean and feel the midst from it. I go ahead and stick my feet in the water. It is a little bit chilly, but not too bad. I love the feeling of the water running over my feet even though I kept my sandals on.
Then something caught the corner of my eye. About a hundred yards down the beach. It is a dad with his young son. They had their beach towels, beach chairs, shovels, and more. They looked like they were about to have the time of their lives. The little boy was all smiles. After they set everything up, the dad scooped the young boy up in his arms and they walked to the ocean. As they got in, he let down his son, and they began to laugh, play, and splash around. They looked like they were really enjoying their time together. I smiled and thought to myself, “I love seeing a dad with his son. I can’t wait till my family wakes up and we can have this moment together.”
(Note from Karen: Richard is one of the people I coach with his writing. I gave him a one sentence prompt and this is what he wrote. Living by the beach for many years, I witnessed happenings like this and wanted to share his talent. I hope you enjoy this article as I did. Richard has a young son, I can imagine him out on the beach with him. Blessings to Richard for a great article.)
I just wanted to say how blessed I feel to be coaching and publishing Richard’s books. We have been working together for several months and he has already finished 3 books with others on the way.
Richard also writes articles for the magazine. I highly recommend the books for your kids.
Thank you Richard!
Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.
Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.
Holding Both by Nicole Byrum
This world is certainly a mixed bag. Sometimes it’s hard to wrap our minds around the fact that beautiful sunsets and sandy beaches exist in the same world as hurricanes and earthquakes; that people call both stunning Victorian houses and slums, “home;” that we can simultaneously experience grief and gratitude. This is the reality of life on this planet. Yet, this bewilderment is nothing new- ever since the Fall of Man, man has been holding both the glory of God and the effects of sin.
Though banished from the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve continued to live in the same world as you and I- a world full of stunning sunrises, mountains, and community with others. They lived with laughter and joy. And yet, they lived as you and I in a world full of thorns and thistles and pain and sorrow. They knew the delight of being fruitful and multiplying and the anguish of a son perishing at the hands of another son.
As followers of Christ, we know this tension all too well. We know that we (and the rest of mankind) are created in the image of God and that because of this, human life is of the utmost value! But we also know that we are sinful beings, who, outside of Christ, are enemies of God and completely undeserving of His grace and mercy. This, of course, is why the gospel is so astounding! As Romans 5:8 tells us, “God shows His love for us in that while we were sinners Christ died for us.” And though we rejoice that we are now righteous in Christ and justified by faith, we still groan in this flesh. We still live with our sin and the effects of sin in a fallen world.
The truth is, we will continue to hold both until the return of Christ. On that glorious day, there will be no more dichotomy: love will no longer reside alongside hate; friendship will not be contrasted with loneliness, nor grief with gratitude. Peace and joy will be known in and of itself, no longer to be shared with chaos, conflict, and tears. Happiness will know nothing of tragedy and lives ended early. No longer will beauty exist in the same space with anything foul.
Oh, how we long for that Day! But what of our lives until then? How are we to live in the meantime? Here are 4 thoughts to help us hold both well:
We acknowledge what is true. This means that we acknowledge the brokenness- the sinfulness- of both the world and of ourselves. We don’t have to pretend that evil doesn’t exist, and we certainly must never deceive ourselves by believing we are without sin. We must confront reality. We must let ourselves grieve, lament, and repent.
We focus our minds on the truth of the Gospel. While we acknowledge sin and suffering, this is not where our minds should set up camp! Instead, we are to fix our thoughts on the truth of the Gospel. Ironically, the reality of the presence of sin and a sin- filled world should cause us to rejoice all the more in our salvation! When we turn our hearts and minds to the truth of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, we can’t help but praise God for making a way to redeem our sinful souls. Even more, our hearts fill with hope in the present because we know He’s working all for our good. And still, hope abounds for the future as we know he will return one day to make all things new.
We ask God to help us hold both. It would be foolish to think we could perfectly carry the realities of sin and a sinful world and the glory of the gospel. We simply can’t do this in our own strength! Instead, we must be honest with our Heavenly Father when we’re struggling. Tell Him when the earthly realities seem too much- because sometimes they are. Ask Him to give you the wisdom and courage to live in this world. Above all, ask Him to guide your mind to the love of Christ and the truth of His word.
We reach out our hands to a broken world. If we are in Christ, we have no other option than to open our hearts and hands to those who are hurting. This takes many forms! We are to uplift, encourage, provide for, pray for, and share the gospel with others. As long as we’re living before Christ’s Second Coming, we will have endless opportunities to hold out our hand to a broken world. As a song I love says, “And I’ll hold out my heart, broken before, open the scars, open the door, and I will hope with my mind dreams unsure, wait for the day, the day I am pure, and I will love with my soul a world that’s not right, I will lay down my life, I will lose the fight, and I will hold out my hand…in a broken world” (Keith Naylor, In A Broken World).
Praise God for the Gospel and praise God that He never leaves us! These are the truths we cling to as we live in a world that is simultaneously full of God’s glory and marred by sin. I pray we will hold both well until He returns at last.
Photo by Karen Ruhl - This was taken in Wilmington, NC
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