Following Their Faith

 Do the leaders in your church put themselves up on a pedestal?  Indeed, do you help put them up there?  The apostle Paul could not stand this sort of stance.  He wrote to the Corinthians, 

"...and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.  So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God" (1 Corinthians 3:23; 4:1).

We are all "of Christ".  Leaders are servants of Christ.  These servants are entrusted with God's secret things.

Our being "in Christ," sounds like equal footing to me.  "The ground is level at the cross," I remember hearing someone say.  Therefore, none of us belong on a pedestal in the temple of God.

Paul referred to himself as a "servant of Christ".  Servants do hold a position regarded as 'lowly' and Paul purposely chooses to place himself in that humble role.

Even though 'lowly,' the servant of Christ has a very important task.  That is, he (or she) is "entrusted with the secret things of God".

Preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ is actually each believer's commission.  So is teaching those who come by faith to Jesus Christ for salvation.  These are the secret things of God and we are actually not to keep them secret.

But I digress.  If and when we put any one believer up on a pedestal we begin to create, among other things, divisions among the people of God.  This seems to be what happened in Corinth.

Granted, those who teach and preach, such as the elders, who live among us and govern faithfully as godly servants, and who are in authority within the local church are to be considered, 

 "worthy of double honor" (see 1 Timothy 5:17-18).

Additionally, those who have spoken the word of God to us, we are to follow their faith (see Hebrews 13:7).  The emphasis is on the faith.

The double honor part appears to be in connection with remuneration; that is, financial support.  Following another's faith on the second account is not putting another on a pedestal nor creating divisions.  It is following the faith.  We have to recall that leaders do fail and fall.  Follow their faith, not their personage.

Therefore, both leaders as well as congregants need to be freely aware of both sides of this coin.  Leaders, don't accept adoration and congregants don't give it.  In so doing, make your purpose be to preach and teach the gospel and way of Christian living, building faith in and relationship with Jesus Christ.  Remember, we are each a servant of God; that we are "of Christ, and Christ is of God."  Give glory to God.

Father in Heaven, we love You.  You are the only one we should revere because You are the one and only to be placed on a pedestal in our hearts and minds.  We give You our praise and thanksgiving.

We are thankful for those of Your servants who preach and teach us from Your Word and help build us up in our most holy faith in You through Jesus.

We are sorry and repent of the times we allowed others to be on a pedestal among us but thankful for those who have strong faith in You so we can learn from them and follow their faith.  Help us to be faithful in carrying the trust You have entrusted us all with.  

This I ask in Jesus' name.

                                             ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 3:23 and 4:1 NIV.

Sing, The Servant Song, by Richard Gillard.

Book Review - The Greatest Thing (Book 1) - By Patti Flinn - Publication Date 30 November 2023

 Words almost cannot express how GOOD this book is!  The reader will see everything through the eyes of Louis-Benoit Zamor.  This makes the narrative so poignant, so real, since most of the action is happening to and from him.  This, at least, is what I felt.

The story is set in France pre-revolution years and the scenario that led up to it with the Jacobins and National Assembly.  Zamor, a real-to-life person, pushes anti-slavery and equal rights.  Even though there are other true-to-life characters, I believe this is a work of well-garnered historical fiction.

Readers who care about the slave trade, human trafficking and all contingent with the abolition of such wickedness will, in my opinion, want to read this book.

There is one caution to potential readers.  There is much debauchery, orgies and the like described, so I just want to mention this on the aside, incase anyone may be adverse to reading about it.

This is Book 1 and when I came to the end I wanted to immediately delve into Book 2.  I eagerly await it.

I've given this author a 5 Star rating.

                                        ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

God's Sacred Temple

 

"Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst?  If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person; for God's temple is sacred, and you together are that temple" (1 Corinthians 3:16-17 NIV).

These are very serious words.  The temple of God is sacred because the Spirit of God dwells in the midst.  Each individual believer is the temple, as well as collectively.  Thus it is as a felony to destroy God's temple.  There are repercussions.

What struck me about these verses the most was that 'together' all believers are the temple of God.  Up to now, I vaguely knew this but my mind was mostly fixated on the individual follower of Jesus Christ being a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Yes, true, but the Holy Spirit is the one who binds us all together, as one song-cum-prayer asks the Lord, 

"Bind us together, Lord..."

Actually, Holy Spirit has bound us together in unity of Spirit.  It's the individuals who keep trying to break those bonds.  For example, the Corinthian believers way back when, were doing a good job of that.

When you read these two focus verses in context of 1 Corinthians chapter 1 through 3, you'll see.  There were divisions among them because some believers followed, Apollos, some Cephas and some Paul.  Paul asked them,

"Is Christ divided" (1 Corinthians 1:13)?

Have you gone through a church split?  It is heartrending.  Everyone wants to know, "Whose side are you on?"

To answser Paul's rhetorical question, "Christ is not divided?"

It is those who want to break the unity the Spirit affords us who demand the "which side?" question.  And the dividers destroy God's temple.  They have forgotten God's temple is sacred.

These persons God will destroy.

They will need to answer to God big time.  Therefore, let us make every effort...get that..."every effort"...to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (see Ephesians 4:3).  Being able to remember that God's Spirit dwells in our midst both through us as individual believers AND together, collectively.  This is sacred to God.

Will we honor God and His temple or are we intent on destroying it?

Let us have the mind of Christ.  Let us be on HIS side and so maintain God's sacred temple.  His Holy Spirit is in our midst.

He is HERE!

Father God, hallowed be Your name.  Sacred is Your temple because Your Holy Spirit dwells in our midst binding Your children together.

It is a travesty when we break and destroy Your temple because of our own self interests, especially in the name of some supposed doctrinal or immoral misdemeanor.  It would have been so much better for us to seek Your face, mind and will, and to truly LISTEN to a person's explanation of an individual situation or circumstance.   Sorry Father for all the messes we make.  May we each have repentant hearts that want only Your best interests.

Help us!  May we maintian the sacredness of Your temple.  I ask in Jesus name.  Amen.

                                              ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 NIV.

Sing, Bind us Together Lord, along with Chet Valley Church.

Book Review - Our Kept Hearts - By Tennille Marie - Publication Date: 30 November 2023

 What a story!  I think high schoolers may well like this one.  I found it remarkable in that some who suffered severe childhood abuse and another whose trauma came from a mother, were able to overcome despite the odds, scars, and mental anguish.  I feel that this story sends a very positive message of hope and courage and of one that could help heal, although its not meant to be a counseling or therapy guide, I don't think.  A very sweet romance infuses this work of fiction and has good, clean fun coupled with a faith-in-God based element.  Also of note, this is a first in a series called the Waldron Hearts Series.

                                                ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                               September 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - Leizar: A Struggle Across Generations - By David Gelertner - Publication Date: 23 November 2023

Walking a mile in someone else's shoes can give perspective of their life.  Author David Gelertner certainly helps the compassionate reader gain that perspective of the Jewish plight through the eyes and life of Leizar and the Domansky family who suffered so much at the hands of the Cossacks and others through the ages.

Although this is historical fiction it all seems very plausible and reads like a biography.  Because of this I found some of the story hard to read but realized it must have been so much more heartbreaking and devastating for those in real life who had to live through and suffer it all.  I think it crucial for serious empathetic people to read this work.  I admit there were points in which some detail was too draggy for me so I did skip over some portions but otherwise pressed on to the end of the story.

                                              ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           October 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Lord's Day Devotion - Jesus, Master

 Besides brides, slaves are bought at a price.  They then are not free to do their own thing but only the new master's will.  Have a look at this...

"Nevertheless, each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him...Keeping God's commands is what counts...For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord's freedman; similarly, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ's slave.  You were bought at a price, do not become slaves of men" (1 Corinthians 7:17, 19, 22-23).

Praise the Lord, in Christ we are free to do Jesus, our Master's will, as He has so assigned for us each to do.  We also don't have to jump on another train, so to speak, when we accept Christ.  We can stay in which ever situation we had been in at the time of conversion.  This is because we have been bought at a price, 'where is' and 'as is'.

Being Christ's slave is freeing.  We do not have to suddenly change our life's circumstances although some may wish to, especially if they are in something like a mafia gang.  We do change our spiritual alliances.  We now keep God's commands - doing His will.

Our behaviour changes but not our circumstances, per se.  For instance, as in the previous verses (12-14 of this chapter 67) Paul instructs a believing spouse to stay with the unbelieving one.  One never knows if the unbelieving spouse will come to Christ too.  If the unbeliever decides to leave, then the believer would be free from their wedding vows to that particular spouse (see 1 Corinthians 7:15-16).

Paul did say that if a new believer had been a slave, then he or she shouldn't let it bother them; however, if they could gain their freedom, then go for it.  Most of us will recall Paul's plea to Philemon regarding Onesimus (see Philemon 1:10-21).  He was basically asking Philemon to free his slave Onesimus in order for Onesimeus to help further the gospel.

Nevertheless, all believers should keep in mind that we each have been bought with a price, not to become slaves of  men, but of Christ's.  Such 'slaves' should "retain their place in life" and "keep God's commands" as these are what count to our Lord and Master Jesus Christ.

It is through that price of Jesus' death and resurrection that we now belong to Him.  Let us live according to how He has assigned us and obey His commands.  Don't get ourselves enslaved to others.  Christ is our loving, caring and good Master.  Look to Him for your every move.

On any given Lord's Day, as we reach for and partake of the broken bread, and drink from the cup of wine, let us each remember afresh that costly price paid for which we were bought.  Remember afresh to Whom we belong.  Remember afresh, to keep His commands because we are Christ's slaves.

Lord Jesus Christ, Master, thank You for the price You paid for each and every one of us who believe through faith and have accepted Your free gift of salvation.

Thanks You for this weekly reminder of the breaking of bread and drinking of the cup of wine which reminds us to Whom we belong - You, our Master.

In Your name Lord Jesus, we remember You and give You our thanks.

                                               ~ERC November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 7:17-24, especially 17, 19, 22-23 NIV.

Sing, Redeemed How I Love to Proclaim It, along with Squirrel 24.

Church Building

 The most important part of building a building is the foundation.  The materials used to build up also need to be durable and precisely placed.  These verses tell us about it...

"By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it.  But each one should be careful how he builds.  For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.  If any man builds on this foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.  If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light.  It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work.  If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward.  If it is burned up he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through flames" (1 Corinthians 3:10-15 NIV).

Jesus Christ has laid the foundation for His church, His bride.  It's good and solid.  It is only on Him, our foundation, we can build but we need to be careful builders and use quality materials and do quality work.  The work will be tested on the Day.  Even if our work we thought was good goes up in flames, we, God's children, will still be preserved, which is a mercy.

These few verses Paul wrote remind me of the Three Little Pigs story.  Each pig wanted to build a house, so they did.  One built a house of straw, another of sticks, and the third of bricks.  When the Big Bad Wolf huffed and puffed at the houses of straw and sticks; they fell flat and then the pigs had to run for their lives.  They ended up at the hardworking, brick-building brother pig's home and found safety therein.  The Big Bad Wolf huffed and puffed until he was exhausted but the brick house stood firm.

Similarly, when building the church we must use durable quality materials; spiritually wholesome and correct.  Thankfully, we can build on Christ the solid rock (as one hymn puts it) and His Word.  Christ is the foundation and upon whom Paul built for the Corinthians.

Nowadays, we must follow suit.  How do we live our lives - are they pleasing to the Lord?  What are our attitudes and motivations for engaging in church building work?  For attention?  Or for God's glory?

Brothers and sisters, we may not know our own hearts, nor the intentions of each others', but it will be revealed in time to come.  So saying, let us be encouraged to search our hearts and to allow the Holy Spirit to teach us what's there now, so we can be blameless and pure and so build skillfully with gold, silver and precious stones.

As we build 'local' churches, the whole church will be built up and made ready for Christ at His coming call.  Build wisely, with quality materials and work.  In this 'house' there is safety, by God's mercy and grace.

Almighty Father, we look up to you for your mercy and grace.  We do so want to build Your church and to build well for the sake of Your Son Jesus Christ.  He laid the solid foundation.  In fact, He is the solid foundation!  With one mind and purpose may we, your children, learn to build Your church with all due diligence.

In Jesus' name upon whom we stand secure and build, we praise You.

                                                 ~ERC November 2023

Based on 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 NIV.

Sing, On Christ the Solid Rock.

One Mind For God's Purpose

 Having the mind of Christ helps us to remember what Paul wrote to the Corinthians.  He said,

"What, after all is Apollos?  And what is Paul?  Only servants, through whom you came to believe - as the Lord has assigned to each his task.  I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.  The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.  For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building" (1 Corinthians 3:5-9 NIV).

We believers are servants, working together to achieve God's purpose.  No one person can claim credit because they were just doing their job.  Therefore, there is no need for jealousies, quarrels or divisions.

Servants look to their masters for instructions.  Each servant has their particular duty.  Together, the result will accomplish the master's purpose.  This sounds ideal and it is what can transpire when we each have the mind of Christ, working willingly for Him.

This produces the desired result that our own will and way is actually to do what Christ's will and way is.  Our purpose is to fulfil God's purpose.  He is the one to make things grow.

The analogy Paul gives makes it clearer to us.  One plants, another waters but without either one, how will there be growth that God can make happen?  We are His servants - co-workers - in His service.

God has plenty of servants if one of them is unwilling to do the planting or watering, He has some who will.  No matter, there will be growth but someone else will be rewarded for the labor you were supposed to have done. 

 "Each one will be rewarded according to their own labor" (vs 8).

Let us each do the tasks assigned to us and by God's grace be able to see the fruit of our labors as He makes it grow.  This is His purpose.  This is what having the mind of Christ activates.

Father God, Master, we Your servants look up to You.  We want to fulfill the tasks You have assigned to us so that Your field, Your building will grow according to Your purposes.

We confess we often forget to have the mind of Christ in our mind.  Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who can remind us and convict us when we go off track to go our own way.  Shepherd us back so we continue to plant, water and see  how You make things grow.  We want to have the one mind of Christ for Your purpose.  In Jesus' name we praise and pray.

                                           ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 NIV.

Sing, May the Mind of Christ My Savior, along with Kate B. Wilkerson.

Book Review - Trouble at Fishers Wharf - By Tracy Bains - Publication Date: 9 November 2023

 

Heartwarming tale set during WWI, in Britain.  Hardy fishermen with their trawlers turn mindsweeper detectives with their requistioned fishing trawlers give us an idea of what these stalwart folks went through during that time.  This historal fiction narrative could be regarded as a brilliant tribute to them all:  that is, to the fishermen, their wives and children, and to all those they lost.  Romance, mission work, and good hard elbow grease grit helped them live day to day, in my opinion.

I like this down-to-earth book.  It is the second book by Tracy Baines about the Fishers Wharf women I've read and equally enjoyed.  I believe many will enjoy it too, especially those from fishing villages the world over.

                                             ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           November 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - An Innocent Child - By Roberta Kagan - Publication Date: 15 November 2023

 This is my third Roberta Kagan book to read but the second in the Margot's Secret series (Book 2).  It is equally fantastic and un-putdownable! The Nazi cruelty surfaces in all its ugliness.  Max, Margot and Erik are not unscathed.  Rudy and Trudy leave their marks too.  All-in-all another heart-twister.  The ending made me want to burp bile, so definitely I want to read what comes next!  In my opinion, any potential reader will not be disappointed with this work of historical fiction.

5 Star rating from me.

                                           ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         November 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Mature in Christ

 It's a sad tale when long-time believers-in-Christ are immature Christians.  Perhaps this state was no fault of their own but mostly I think not.  This is what Paul admonished the believers in Corinth about.  He wrote,

"Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly - mere infants in Christ.  I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it.  Indeed, you are still not ready.  You are still worldly.  For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly?  Are you not acting like mere men?  For one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men" (1 Corinthians 3:1-4)?

It appears that because there were jealousies and quarrels among the men, that Paul told them they are immature - still acting like babies.

Indeed, a sorry state.  This is good for all believers to take note of, not just the brothers, although they are the ones addressed.  Remember the Sunday School song, 

"Read your Bible, pray every day and you'll grow, grow, grow?"

When we read and pray daily, and are doers of the word of God, we will eventually grow into mature believers who 'eat meat'.  Our spiritual life in Christ focuses on Christ and following Him, not others.  In so doing we will not choose an earthly leader to follow and the jealousies and quarreling will dissipate.  

This is having the mind of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 2:16 NIV).

Lord Jesus, we want to follow you, to look to you , our Leader.  Help us to keep our eyes, mind, and hearts focused on you, developing relationship with you, being doers, as well as hearers of Your word.  Help us grow into mature followers who do not become jealous of others nor create quarrels among your people.  May we each have the mind of Christ and keep the unity of Your Holy Spirit.

I ask this in Your name Lord Jesus.

                                                ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 NIV.

Sing, Growing in Jesus, stc channel and Make Us One (Unity Hymn) along with Erik Dewar.

Book Review - The Practice of the Presence of Jesus - By Joni Eareckson Tada - Publication Date: 14 November 2023

 The more I read through this book, the more my focus came to rest on Jesus.  I find this to be very much a "be still and know that I am God" devotional, and to know His presence with me.  It is not 'magic' but a gentle drawing of the heart to Jesus and finding His still calmness.  The combined words of Brother Lawrence's quotes which acted as a launching pad of sorts for Joni's short sharings helped to tune my mind towards Jesus.  These two sections were followed by a statement or a question of meditation to further the message's impact upon a believer's heartstrings.

The idea of fully engaging in practicing Jesus' presence in the way Joni explains will indeed be life changing despite any constant conflicts or pain a person may be enduring.  The words really effectively give awareness that there can be such a practice and that it can be daily, or rather a minutely minute-by-minute exercise.  

I'm really glad I got to read this book.  I believe it will be very helpful for anyone who wishes to know Jesus' presence more in their life.

A 5-Star rating from me.

                                       ~Eunice C.,  Blogger/Reviewer 2023~

                                                               May 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Through the Spirit

 

We often wonder why our loved ones, or our friends and neighbors just can't understand the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.  Here is an answer to this quandary.

"The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit" (1 Corinthians 2:14 NIV).

Observe the difference between having the Spirit of God, and not having Him.  Only with the Spirit can anyone understand and discern the things and wisdom of God.  Without Him, they cannot 'get it' and find the idea of it foolish.

Because of this, we who believe in Jesus and have His Holy Spirit indwelling us, must be patient.  We can pray that the Holy Spirit will work mightily in the minds and hearts of our loved ones.  Ask for a 'brainwave', so-to-speak, for them, that the Holy Spirit's convicting work will penetrate through the clouds, mist and blinds Satan has bound them up in and so come to have clarity and understanding of their need for Jesus Christ in their lives, that they will see what previously they believed to be foolishness, will be the wisdom that it is.

Almighty Infinite Father, we beseech You on behalf of our unsaved family members, friends and neighbors.  Open up their hearts and minds to Your Holy Spirit's work in their lives.  Open, that they may see, know, understand and accept Jesus Christ in their life.  Change their perception of seeing Your things as foolishness, turn it into the wisdom that comes only from You.  Enliven their spirit with Yours.  I ask in Jesus' name.

                                                  ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 2:14 NIV.

Sing, Too Good to Not Believe, along with Brandon Lake; Bethel Music and Holy Spirit, along with Jesus Culture - Kim Walker-Smith.

Lord's Day Devotion - Bread of Sincerity and Truth

What's your favorite type of bread?  This morning I discovered a new kind, which I like very well.  Read this and see what you think.

"Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast - as you really are.  For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.   Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth" (1 Corinthians 5:7 & 8 NIV).

"The bread of sincerity and truth" sounds like a wonderful type of unleavened bread. No malice or wickedness to spoil the Passover Festival's festive event.

On any given Lord's Day, when brothers and sisters-in-Christ come together to remember Jesus in His death and resurrection, let us come together in sincerity and truth.

There are times when we gather together with 'old yeast' in our hearts.  We may have had an unresolved altercation with another brother or sister, or feel Pastor or Brother So-and-So is preaching today, he's so long-winded and I can't understand much of what he has to say, I don't really want to be here but others will expect my presence so I have to go.  Or, even worse as was the case in Corinth, immorality (see 1 Corinthians 5:1-5).

You all likely personally know this drill.  Let's examine ourselves, maybe even starting on Saturday evening.  Admit, repent and confess to the Lord.  Let us have 'right' hearts and attitudes so we can indeed partake of the broken bread and drink from the cup of wine, together, in sincerity and truth.

Think of why we are together.  It is because of Christ our Passover Lamb who has been sacrificed for us, for recompense for our sins!  His mercy and forgiveness is ever readily available to those who truly wish to eat the new batch of the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth (see 1 John 1:9)

Father God, we humbly bow before you, our hallowed Father.  With You all sincerity and truth abide.  We repent and confess that we often hold 'old yeast' in our hearts and minds but because of Your great love, mercy and grace, we have Christ our Passover Lamb who sacrificed Himself on our behalf providing forgiveness and salvation from all our sins and are therefore able to eat the 'new batch' type of 'bread'.  This has been my new bread discovery for which I thank You, Father.

On this Lord's Day, we give You our thanks and praise for bringing us such a gift and the potential to indeed eat of the bread of sincerity and truth in remembrance of this pivotal moment in time.

Thank You for all You have done for us.

In Jesus' name we praise and give our thanks as we eat the bread of sincerity and truth together.

                                         ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 NIV.

Sing, Break Thou the Bread of Life, along with Keswick.

Book Review - Jurgen Klopp - By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara - Publication Date: 7 November 2023

 

Dreams do come true as they did for Jurgen Klopp.   This biographical account of Klopp becoming a footballer and coach could likely inspire other young lads to follow their dream but also realize the dream's limitations.  I like this balance.  Nice illustrations strengthen the script.

                                           ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                       September 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Through Our Tears

 King David was very familiar with these emotions that brought tears.  His life before and during his kingship had been no walk in the park, and that for years on end.  He wrote,

"...weeping may stay for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning" (Psalm 30:5 NIV).

There are limits to our weeping.  There will be joy.

The 'night' of weeping may seem like one long, long night but we have the hope of joy coming in the morning.

Life's trials often seem unending even as David the psalmist experienced.  He did find his way to the Lord though in whom was his security.  He did not go 'over the edge'.  No matter how down he got, he firmly and confidently declared,

"I will never be shaken" (Psalm 30:6).

David realized God's mercy and help through it all.  Nowadays, we still have this hope in our Lord.  I love the ending verses of this Psalm 30.

"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.  LORD my God, I will praise your forever" (vs 11 and 12 NIV).

Despite our mourning clothes, joyful garments will clothe those whose trust is in the Lord.  We will be able to then praise our Lord and Savior and sing to Him our songs and hymns of praise, even through our tears.

Oh Lord, how long the night!  Our tears wash our faces, our spirits are so low.  Turn our sorrow into joy that we may sing Your praise through it all.  I plead in Jesus' name.

                                               ~ERC  October 2023~

Based on Psalm 30:5, 6, 11, 12 NIV.

Sing, Beauty for Ashes, along with Maranatha Singers.

Book Review - Humility Illuminated - By Dennis R. Edwards - Publication Date: 7 November 2023

 I found this to be a gentle yet forthright look at humility in regards to a number of aspects of Christian living.  For instance, regarding:  prejudice, Bible reading, worship, singing, tithing, and even as simple or as complicated as church 'potluck' meals.  In some parts of the book, I found myself losing interest but then it picked up and I realized I'd never quite read such an expose on humility before so focused my attention better on this opportunity to read a unique book for learning about it.  The author guides the sincere believer reader to have the mind of Christ; to be humble as He was in coming to earth.  May one and all who read this book be blessed.

                                                 ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                                September 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Going Bananas

 

In a particular African country where poverty and hunger are not strangers, was a hawker-stall lady selling bananas.  Compassionate people bought some of those bananas and began to climb into their vehicle to go on their way.  The banana seller had other ideas.  She felt they hadn't bought enough and so pressed more upon them.  The banana buyers received them to the satisfaction of the seller.  They then made their way to the next village.

In this village they gave out bananas.  You guessed it, because of the "extra" bananas, there was just enough for each child to get one banana.  It was the perfect number orchestrated by the Lord.  If they had been content with only buying the lesser number of bananas, there wouldn't have been enough to go around.

Human wisdom fell short.  God's wisdom compelled the banana seller to insist on more bananas.  Thankfully, the banana buyers wisely accepted the "extras".  It would have been foolish otherwise.

"What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we many understand what God has freely given us" (1 Corinthians 2:12 NIV).

Even as believers we quite possibly will not understand God's wisdom, which may well seem foolish to us human beings.  Thankfully, we have the Holy Spirit to help teach us.  His Spirit helps ours to understand, as with the extra bananas.

It is a miracle that we have God's Holy Spirit indwelling those of us who have put our trust in Jesus.  Holy Spirit leads and guides us as we read God's word in which we find wisdom from God.  The Holy Spirit helps us understand.

It is best to listen to Holy Spirit's guidance over and above our own spirit and even the 'spirit of the world'.  The so-called worldly wisdom will always fall short no matter how foolish it may seem to not follow human wisdom standards.

Even in simple things like the number of bananas one buys, we should listen to Holy Spirit's voice.  When we listen and are governed even in "small" things, such as this, we can be taught to then accept the spiritual realities, as Paul had taught the Corinthians through 

"spirit-taught words"  (1 Corinthians 2:13 NIV).

Omniscient Father God, thank You for Your wisdom which despite our thinking it's 'foolish' at times, that we graciously accept and humbly be willing to be taught thereby and to understand through Holy Spirit teachings.  Help us to become ever more sensitive to hearing His voice and following Your wisdom.  May we walk by faith, accept the "extra bananas" and be wise.  In Jesus name I ask.

                                                ~ERC  October 2023~

Based on 1 Corinthians 1 and 2 especially 2:12 NIV.

Sing, By Faith, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty and Too Good to Not Believe, along with Brandon Lake.

Book Review - The Woman With a Purple Heart - By Diane Hanks - Publication Date: 7 November 2023

 

What a startling book!  I really liked it on several accounts.  Number 1, the fact that the heroine came from Nova Scotia, Canada was a plus for me because I too once lived there.  Number 2,  I have a vested interest in the fact that Annie ended up in Hawaii and was there during the bombing of Pearl Harbor and Hickman Field because my Dad was a boy, living there at the time.

What shocked and stunned me were the details of the aftermath, especially what school children had to do.  My Dad and his Dad were rather mum about it all.  The details as revealed in this story, brought tears to my eyes and my heart to race, while thinking about what they, and of course all the citizens and residents of the time, went through.

Number 4,  Despite this actually being a work of historical fiction, to learn that some of the nurses mentioned, along with Annie, were true to life heroines as well, and each giving their best, thrilled me.    Sadly, of greater import and impact was what happened to the Japanese-Americans and other such citizens on the wrong side of the Americans' powers-that-be of the time, in being coerced to incarceration in concentration camps in the USA!   The author, Diane Hanks, draws out the feelings of all this very poignantly.  I'd say she has done her research well and sticks closely to the true events in order for her readers to be in the moment right along with the characters, causing one to feel the horrors and injustices; at least it did for me.

The book's addenda has some bio on the nurses; and some very good group chat questions that will get at the nerve and essence of the moral issues touched on and that are designed to get a serious reader thinking of them, and what occured during the WWII years in the USA.

A 5-Star rating from me.

                                          ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           May 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - Saving Grayson - By: Christ Fabry - Publication Date: 7 Novemember 2023

 

The bittersweet nightmare of caring for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's is succinctly and precisely unfolded in this tender, heartwarming, yet heartbreaking story of Grayson Hayes (aka Gray), his caregiver wife, Lottie, of Josh, Pooch, Sarah, Sam and others who went through the dementia journey with Gray.  

Any caregiver will KNOW Chris Fabry, the author of this narrative, is spot on with all the 'raw footage' of life living with a loved one striken with Alzheimers.  I believe he truly brings out the moments where the carers, family, and friends will not know whether to laugh or to cry.  I see this book as a precious offering and dedication to all families who have gone through just such a journey.  Thank you Chris Fabry, you bring grateful tears to my eyes for having told it like it is.

5 Stars from me.

                                              ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           March 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Righteous Inheritance

 "...but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land" Psalm 37:9 NIV.

Those who hope in the Lord may need to wait for His timing but they will inherit the land, as you can see from the verse above.

The Israelites hadn't yet inherited the land while they were still stumbling about in the wilderness.  It was their hope to enter the Promised Land.  It did eventually happen.  Each place they set their foot, they inherited (see Deuteronomy 11:24).  They hoped, they waited, and they inherited.

The psalmist David reflected on this.  If you read more of Psalm 37 you'll see his longing, his hope of living in a place minus the evil doers and wicked.  He wanted to inherit a place for the righteous.

In time to come, we will inherit such a place.  It's called 'with Christ', in Heaven. 

It is a sure hope even if we can't as yet see it with our natural eyes.

Our faith needs to kick in.  Faith being the evidence of things not yet seen (see Hebrews 11:1, 2).  It has been promised by God so we wait.  We hope and one day we will inherit.  We will live in our 'Promised Land' along with Jesus our Redeemer and Savior.  This is the place we long for - a place of all righeousness where no wicked or wickedness exists.

Praise the Lord!

Lord Jesus, I put my hope in You.  I will patiently wait for Your return to bring us up to be with You in Heaven, our 'Promised Land".  It will be so good to be in that place of righteousness.  Thank You for this inheritance.

In Your name I praise You.

                                                           ~ERC  November 2023~

Based on Psalm 37:9 NIV.

Sing, Beulah Land, along with the Gatihers.

Photo credits go to Cornelia Ionescu.

Book Review - A Murderous Twist - By Lynn Messina - Publication Date: 3 November 2023

 Sad to say, this story did not grip me and I found myself skipping many portions of the story.  To me, it felt like too much description, coercing one to read in the slow lane.  There also seemed to be tangents off topic, that is, not pursuing the murderer trail, at least that did not appear to have connection with Bea's sleuthing the 'whodunnit' culprit.  This is my opinion but other readers may appreciate the detail.

                                              ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                              October 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.