Prayer - Mt. Hurt (Mark 11)

 Lord, this marital strife is a mountain that needs to

 "be taken up and thrown into the sea."  

This false accusation and framing needs to

 "be taken up and thrown into the sea" 

as does this fear of a whole pletheora of such mountains.  We are desparate for it.  We believe and have faith in God Your Father that He can do it for us.  We have no doubt.  But will it please Him to so do?!

You say in Your Word that if we don't ...

 " ... doubt in [our] heart, but [believe] that what [we] say will come to pass, it will be done for [us]." (Mark 11:23).

Lord Jesus, make it come to pass, we plead and implore it to be so.

We stand praying therefore, and forgive all those things against all those people who perpetrate and perpetuate all that on-going strife and trouble.  All those things we have against them, we forgive because You command it.  But help our hearts to catch up so that we truly, fully forgive.

May that mountain of anger and bitterness accumulated over years, be moved and cast into the sea.  May all the negative thoughts be cleared out and the words we would so love to say to hurt those people back, may this Mt. Hurt be moved and cast into the sea.

Forgive us Lord for such tresspasses.  We know You will when we are truly repentant and You will level the ground for us and help us find a way through it all (see 1 John 1:9; Philippians 4:6-7; Romans 8:28; and 1 Corinthians 10:13).

May Your Holy Spirit come and comfort us now as He has in the past.  If all this pleases You, Lord, move these moutains we cannot scale alone.  We need You every hour of every day.  Bless us, our Savior.

We, Your people, Your Church, Your Bride and Your children beseech You in Your most precious name Lord Jesus, amen.

                                                        ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 11:22-25 ESV.

Sing, I Need Thee Every Hour, along with Peacemaker Hymns.

Being and Keeping Salty (Mark 9)

Salt was a pretty hot commodity back in Jesus' day on earth.  Even before that time the more ancient ancients liberally used it.  Today, salt is still valued goods used in some similar ways as in eons past, but perhaps more as a seasoning in our times.

To get some greater understanding, surf through the internet about salt, specifically to help make greater sense of Mark 9:42 to 50, focusing mostly on the last two verses.  Research the context of Jesus' words to make them more comprehensive to yourself.

When we go way back to Lot's wife and her having been turned into a pillar of salt, we see this as a judgement and punishment upon her.  She hadn't symbolically used salt to purify herself from the impurtities in the society in which she lived.  In fact, she yearned for that life and was loathe to leave it.  She "looked back" when the angels had commanded Lot's family to NOT look back when tthey were fleeing Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction (see Genesis 19:1-29 especially vs 17 & 26).

Abimelech, the violent son of Judge Gideon became king of Shechem by murdering his 70 half brothers and then  eventually became king of Israel, as well.  He ruled for about 3 years, dying when a woman dropped a millstone on his head.  He was severely injured and asked his armor-bearer to finish him off, saying he didn't want it said a woman had killed him.  

Before that incident though, Abimelech 

"razed the city of Shechem and sowed it with salt" (Judges 9:45 ESV).

If you read that chapter 9 of Judges, you will see just how wicked and treacherous Abimelech had been.  However, I want to point to what he did with the salt after razing the city.  He scattered salt over it.  This was a way of showing victory.  So salt was used symbolically, showing who had "overcome" Shechem.

Does this ring any bells with you?  Let's couple this unusual verse in Judges with John 16:32.  Jesus said,

"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation.  But take heart; I have overcome the world."

Note that last sentence, "I have overcome the world;" said Jesus.  And then He spread salt, as it were.  Connect this with Mark 9:49-50.

"Everyone will be salted with fire.  Salt is good but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again?  Have salt in yourselves ..."

More directly we can see this salt from the passage in Matthew 5:13 where he writes,

"You are the salt of the earth ..."

As believers in, and followers of Jesus Christ, we are the 'salt' He has sown over the whole earth.  By His death and resurrection, He conquered sin, suffering and death.  He won the victory for our souls.  And when we acccept Jesus as Savior, His gift of salvation - we become the "salt of the earth."

There is further explanation on the internet that explains that at the Dead Sea there were salt pools.  When the sun scorched them dry, mineral residue was left behind so the salt had lost its saltiness (sorry this is my layman's understanding and terms).

When we relate this to our being salt of the earth and losing our saltiness, we will see that when we do not live in progressive sanctification, we too will not be very salty.

We need the refreshing and reviving washing of the Word of God on a daily basis.  What's more,  we need to live it out, and stand for truth such as going against those who advocate abortion, speaking out against racism and the like.  I'm not necessarily meaning picketing and campaigning but when we are accosted by such issues in the run of a day, what will we say?

Of course, speak in gracious manner.  We may still be persecuted, harassed and slandered as backlash, but we will know and understand that we have been salty enough.  This is why we can "take heart".

This is also part of the fire that refines us and explains being "salted by fire".  Thank God, that if and when we Christians have repented of loss of salitness, and have gone through 'fire' to remove impurities in our lives, that help us to be more like Jesus, and by Jesus' forgiveness, mercy and greace, we can continue to live for Him, in 'salty' manner, that is ever more, Christlike (see 1 John 1:9).

In this way, we can 'season' the environment we live in as individuals, to bring out the 'flavor of Christ,' and collectively, as the church and kingdom of God, we 'season' the whole earth, the world over.

There is one more analogy I'd like to share.  I found this idea from my mini-research about being salt of the earth.  This is in regards to firemen.

Apparently, in some places fireman are said to become salty.  You can ask them, "How salty are you?"  This would refer to the number of fires they've fought and overcome.

Conjointly, 'salty' refers to the fire-fighter's gear.  Stained with soot and other residuals from their work, they get 'salty'.

Naturally, over time this soot stain can compromise the integrity of their equipment to nto being as heat or flame resistant and so on.  They are literally salted by fire.  I think you can see the implications and parallels to our Christian walk and living.

Let us always be on guard, fighting the good fight but remembering to continue to be progressively and pro-actively sanctified.  Let's keep our saltiness at good salty levels (see 2 Timothy 4:7).

Lord Jesus, now I get it, as to what you mean about being the salt of the earth.  You fought the good fight upon the cross earning our salvaation for us.  You won the victory over Satan, sin, death and hell!  You offered mankind this wonderful gift.  I thank You and praise You along with all my brothers and sisters-in-Christ.  Now you call us your "salt of the earth" which You have scattered and sown worldwide.  You are so, so amazing!  Help us though, through Your Holy Spirit's intervention, convictions, and guidance, along with the reading of Your word and our obeying You so that we will not lose our salitness but will always be evermore Christlike, to flavor and season this world with Yourself.  Then we can be at peace with each other. 

I give thanks, praise and ask in Your name, Lord Jesus.  Amen.

                                              ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 9:42-50 ESV.

Sing, You Are Salt For the Earth Song, along with Chrisitan Hymnal Songs/Divine Hymns.

  

What Do You Think of Jesus?

 After having listened to four talks in two days about Jesus and Christain living, a sister who had been conversing with a lady and her brother, who was yet to accept Christ, asked the man, "So, what do you think of Jesus after all that listening about Him?"

The man was not quite sure yet but the lady prays God's word won't return to Him void (see Isaiah 55:11).

When I read Mark 8:27-30, it reminded me of that question posed to that man. Jesus had asked the disciples what the gossip was about Him.  They said, 

"Some say John the Baptizer and others say Elijah or one of the prophets" (v 28).

Jesus then asked a further question,

"Who do you say I am?"

This is the crux of the matter isn't it!  Peter, bless his dear soul, answered,

"You are the Christ."

This is totally amazing if you think about it.  Peter was acknowledging that Jesus was the Messiah, the one the Jews had been waiting for, for centuries!

So the question I pose to myself and everyone else who reads this,

"What do you think about Jesus?"

Is He Your Savior and Lord?  Is He your best, best friend?  Let's acknowledge Him for who He is.  Then we can live our lives accordingly to please, honor, and worship Him, the one true God.

May we each then read God's Word and obey it so we can accomplish God's purposes in our own lives and reach out to others so that they may know and acknowledge who Jesus is.

So be it, heavenly Father.

                                                 ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 8:27-30 (NIV) and Isaiah 55:11 (ESV).

Sing, I Know a Name, along with Elevation, and What A Beautiful Name (Hadliegh Baptist Church).

Good Book - 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue - By Deborah Smith Pegues - Reviewed by E. R. Chin

 The sentiments in 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues will surely get your neurons sizzling, popping and dancing jigs!

This book was handed to me by a very good friend but I was very much offended by it.  My quick spark thinking was that she thinks I need this!  It made me angry.

So I said, "Oh I have a stack of books to read before I can ever get to this one."  Well it was almost a year later before I began to tentatively open the cover and read the table of contents and then the first day.

My anger was still kindled but as I read, I found that the Holy Spirit knew exactly what I needed.  Eventually, I became grateful to my friend who always gives good "grow books," as she calls them.

Really, in almost each of the 30 days of various types of tongues, ranging from "The Lying Tongue," "The Self-Deprecating Tongue," "The Slandering and Gossiping Tongues," and so many more, I found Holy Spirit conviction.  Obviously, the book was needed.

I found it so very surprizing.  So humbly now, I'll indeed need to thank my far-seeing friend.

As noted, the book is divided into 30 days, each day addresses one particular type of tongue; an area that needs taming.

Pegues uses a relevant verse per day as her main text, gives examples, the way in which the Lord led her, her own spiritual growth and tongue taming.  At the day's devotional end, she has a "Today's Affirmation" box that one could turn into a prayer or vow choice of action towards tongue taming.

Overall this has been a most helpful book that effects an ongoing process towards a more desirable maturity in Christ in guarding our mind, heart and tongues and keeping them from evil.  May all who decide to read this book learn to speak blessings and be a blessing to others as your days pass into years until Jesus comes.

                                                        ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

See the associated links to this book above and one last one here.

Silver and Gold Are Golden.

Prayer - Ephphatha! (Mark 7)

 Heavenly Father, Jesus made

 "the deaf to hear and the mute to speak," and the people said in astonishment, "He has done all things well" (Mark 7:37 ESV).

This was literal.  I ask now for it in spiritual terms, and for the blind to see as well.  This is because of relatives and friends who need their minds, ears, and eyes and hearts opened spiritually, to the salvation they need through faith in Your Son Jesus Christ.

Once again, Father, I ask before it is forever too late for them. May they be able to declare that Jesus has done all things well for them too.

"Ephphatha!" ... "Be opened."

Illumine them all, Father, with the Light of Jesus.

I ask in Jesus' most precious name, Amen.

                                                             ~ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 7:34-37 ESV.

Sing, Open My Eyes That I May See, along with Joslin Grove Choral Society.

Freedom In Christ (Mark 7)

 

She gave her Christian landlady a gift of fruit in all good faith.  The landlady hit back, "was this offered to idols first?"  The tenant is also a devout Christian.  She was offended by the landlady's caustic behavior. Why would she have given her such fruit!

In 1 Timothy 4:1-5 we see Paul mentions 

"abtinence from foods that God created to be recieved with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth"

comes from so called believers who 

"depart from the faith" (vs 1-3).

But in verses 4-5 we learn that

"everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer."

We can rest assured that, no matter who gives us food or drink that God created, that we can pray with thanksgiving and eat and drink in all good conscience.  

What's more, when we read Mark 7:14-23 we see another aspect of this topic.  Jesus 

"declared all foods clean" (vs 19). 

 The things that actually defile the follower of Jesus Christ are what comes out of the heart, not the stomach. 

 "Evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness,"

 to name a few (vs 21-22).  

Mark goes on to write, 

"All these evil things come from within and they defile a person" (vs 23).

Sometimes, we believers in Jesus Christ can be so picky and petty about "is this ok, or that ok" in legalistic confines.  We need to read the whole scope and see from God's point of view.

Of course, someone will direct our attention to "not being a stumbling block" to others, especially to a new believer in Jesus Christ (see Romans 14:13-23).

We have freeedom in Christ to eat or not to eat.  But I feel that the newbie-in-Christ, as well as us old timers need to review and, again seek the Lord's view.

I've told this story before of the Hindu guru who came to Christ.  As most of us know, Hindu's don't eat beef as they believe cows to be sacred.  When this guru came to Christ he knew he had freedom to eat whatever, including beef.

However, he continued to abstain from eating beef in order to gain his family and friends to Christ.  He believed that if he went and ate beef - even if they didn't know - that they would not have even bothered to listen to the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ from him.

In another instance, an older lady who was not very educated academically, would not eat food she knew or suspected had been offered to idols.  When another of her relatives came to Christ but would eat anything his mother put on the table, it kind of confused the family.  But both had the freedom in Christ to eat or not to eat.  

If you look the Romans 14:22-23 verses, you'll see one would condemn themself, the other would not if they ate.  But this faith was between God and the individual.

Later the younger relative explained to the older relative so some understanding had been gained. Interestingly enough, the rest of the family who prepared the meals, would segregate the food accordingly.

As we seek the Lord about this situation, let's use grace when we see a brother or sister eat, or not eat, according to their conscience between them and God.

But let's also remember we do have freedom in Christ, to eat with thanksgiving.

Father God, thank You so much for the freedom we have in Christ.  You have set us free to live in liberty as it pleases You.  May your children always reject that which defiles from the heart and so abstain.  Help us see the whole picture and to be balanced in tour thinking and according to situations that require us to abstain or not too.  May Your will be done in our hearts and lives.  I ask in Jesus' name amen.

                                               ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 7:14-23; 1 Timothy 4:1-5.

Sing, Trust in You, along with Lauren Daigle.

Silver and Gold are Golden (TT)

 

If you are naturally a non-talker, introvert, you may not have much problem having to tame your tongue, keeping it from all sorts of ways it needs to be tamed.  However, Deborah Smith Pegues instructs her readers in 30 Days to Taming YOUR  Tongue, that a 'silent' tongue is not always the wisest tongue.

She uses Solomon's wisdom which states,

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven ... a time to be silent and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes 3:1 & & NIV).

So yes, while we are pro-actively learning to rein in our tongues, we also need to learn when to speak: to warn, confront, stick up for justice and so on.

Pegues shares the adage,

"Speech is silver, silence is golden".

I'd never heard the silver part before so it's good to be reminded of this balance.  It couples well with another eye-opener I picked up at a women's conference.

The speaker was talking about submission and what it was and then what it was not.  Among the 'was not's' was slience!  That really surprized me.  Whether in a marital relationship or with a boss at work or a leader at church or some other situation, if someone is going off the rails, one needs to use one's voice in respectful, calm confrontation.

The Bible does relate a process for this and the attitude in which it should be done.  This is a topic for another time though ... (see Matthew 18:15-20).

Suffice it to say, silver and gold are both of great value.  Your speech or your silence, when discreetly used with wisdom and direction from the Holy Spirit will be of great value.  I should think too that when encapsulated in love, compassion and care, your tamed tongue will be a blessing to all and even to yourself.  You won't get yourself into so much trouble. 

Father God, thank You for all the gracious words of wisdom explained by Deborah Smith Pegues about taming ones tongue.  May I have an ongoing process with the bit and bridle of Your Word and Holy Spirit's intervention and conviction in all areas that need the taming.  Not just my tongue though, but the thought processes and my heart do need the taming too.  On the other hand, teach me to speak 'silver' words for Your glory and honor and for the benefit of those who need the 'blessing'.  Make me a blessing to others.  I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                              ~ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Eccelesiastes 3:1-7 NIV.  Also, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 30 - The Silent Tongeu, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, The Jesus Way, along with Phil Wickham.

Discreet & Wise (TT)

 'Discretion,' according to the online dictionary from Oxford Languages, means, 

"the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offence or revealing confidential information."

  Secondly, it is 

"the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation."

If a person has discretion, the Proverbs writer says it, 

"will watch over you, understanding will guard you" (Proverbs 2:11 ESV).

So how can one develop discretion?  The verses that come before this verse 11 explain it that in a section of my Bible is called, "The Value of Wisdom'.  This wisdom leading to learning discretion comes from receiving and treasuring others' words of wisdom especially from God, although in this proverb's case it could have been King Solomon speaking to his own son.

"Making your ear attentive to wisdom," trains ones heart towards understanding.  Yes, willingness comes from the heart.  Next, since you want to travel this path, you

"call out for insight and...understanding". 

 You seek high and low for this wisdom.  This progresses to understanding, 

"the fear of the Lord and finding knowledge of God."

When we seek for this our mouths will then be able to keep closed or only open with discretion.  There will be greater integrity in the way one conducts ones life and it will guard us like a shield.

This wisdom will not just be head knowledge but will,

"come into your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul" 

(Proverbs 2:10 ESV).

The conclusion is that discretion will watch over you, undersatnding will guard you. (see v 11).

As believers in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit will also lead and guide us using this wisdom, knowledge and understanding.  It will then,

"[deliver] you from the way of evil, from men of perverted speech" (v 12)

and more as you will see if you continue to read to the end of Proverbs 2.

Kind David's discretion went right out the window when he looked too long at Bathsheba.  He didn't turn aside and allow the wisdom he usually had, deliver him from the forbidden woman (v 16).

Bathesheba wasn't an adulteress in the sense this verse says, "smooth words" as she had been minding her own business.  Although she may have dared to refuse the summons to the palace but she could have feared for her life if she did.  We are not told in Scripture why she didn't or if she did but to no avail.

The onus was on David.  That's why it is so surprizing to me that this leader of a whole nation fell.  Yes, he's human but from his psalms and his rough life story and having been christened by God as, "a man after my own heart," we question, how could this have happened (see 1 Samuel 13:14 and Acts 13:22)!?

He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.  We don't know why he hadn't led his troops to war, where he should have been, so maybe this was the initial show of indiscretion that led to the downfall.

Anyway, leaders are not exempt from temptation and being led astray but the way Nathan the prophet handled the situation was discreet.  He didn't lambast David with self-righteous confrontation but rather told an analogical story.  David got angry and gave judgement on that lamb thief and only then did Nathan say, 

"You are the man" (see 2 Samuel 11 and 12)!

A favorite Bible story of mine is Joseph from the book of Genesis, especially when he gets to Egypt as a slave.  Life really threw him for a loop!  Not that I'm glad he was a slave or in  that loop but the manner in which he conducted himself showed great discretion and wisdom.  He ran away from Potiphar's wife but was still sent to prison.  He was given responsibilities in prison and when called before Pharoah to interpret his dreams, Joseph was then deemed "discreet and wise" and given a most pretigious position, becoming only second to Pharoah (see Genesis 37, 39-41, especially 41:39).

Joseph had matured.  According to Deborah Smith Pegues, in her book 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, she writes, referring to Noah's two sons Shem and Japheth, that their discretion in covering up their father's drunken nakedness,

 "was a sign of their maturity."

Ham had seen that sight and had laughed and talked about it and may even had taken some sort of advantage of his father's state.  Pegues further states,

"Some subject matters should simply be off limits for discussion". 

 I agree.  In fact, recently I have encountered such at a youth camp.  The speaker had used an image in his power point slides that was supposedly subtle but it got the message across but I felt it in poor taste and too graphic for a Christian event.

It felt dirty.  Likely the speaker's intentions were to create a certain message impact but there may have been a better way to have done so - a more discreet and wise way.

Pegues cautions that especially when leaders go astray, to not to "cover up," but to "cover with," such as the case of David and Nathan, as seen above.

Discretion is called for.  She says, 

"Confront with love and compassion" 

and to remember that someday you may be in that same boat of 'nakedness' and wish that discreet leaders would indeed handle the situation with discretion rather than indiscretion.

Lord, help us to tame our tongues in this area of discretion, to know when and how to speak and what to say at the right time.  May we too become discreet and wise through the wisdom, knowledge and understanding that comes only from You and as led by Your Holy Spirit.  I ask in Your name, amen.

                                                     ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 2:1-12, esp vs 11 (ESV).  Also, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 29 - The Indiscreet Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Spirit Leads Me, along with Hillsong, and Lead Me to the Cross, also with Hillsong UNITED.

Jesus Cares

 

Their daughter had just died and they were not laughing.  Their neighbors were though, at Jesus, who had told them the girl was asleep, not dead.

Was this supposed to give comfort?!  Hope?  Jairus and his wife had implored Jesus to come when she was only ...

 "... at the point of death ..." 

when there was still hope.  Now what could be done except to bury her!

But then, maybe, just maybe there was that glimmer of hope.  They'd summoned Jesus earlier so they'd expressed a glimmer or more of faith as well.

It seems when we are at our most desperate state, when all else fails, then we implore Jesus' help. Jesus is willing to come.  In this case, it looked like Jesus was too late or maybe didn't care about the young girl.  But when he finally arrived at the house He did raise Jairus' daughter from the dead.  Her parents were ...

 "... overcome with amazement". 

When the disciples had been in the boat and a great storm, the like of which they'd never seen before, battered and assaulted them, they woke Jesus in their desparate, terrified state.  But what had they hoped for?

Jesus calmed the wind and waves with a command,

 "Peace!  Be still!" (Mark 4:39).   

The disciples were ...

"... filled with great fear" (4:41).

The woman who'd touched Jesus' garments for healing had been at her last nth of strength and hope and this was her last-ditch effort, and in her desparation, she touched and was healed.  She tried to slip away unnoticed, but Jesus recalled her.  She came ...

 "... in fear and trembling ... and told Him the whole truth".  

Jesus told her her faith had healed her of her disease (v. 34).

"Don't fear, only believe,"

 Jesus assured the messenger from ruler Jairus' upon hearing ...

 "... don't trouble the Master, your daughter is dead".

In this gale force storm of weeping and mourning, again, Jesus calmly commands,

 "Talitha cumi ... Little girl, I say to you, arise ..."

Desparate times call for desparate measures and Jesus gets called.  Let us not despair or forget, Jesus is on our side.  He sees glimmers of faith and hope and He responds to the like of which we have never seen nor expected and we'll  be totally overcome with amazement.  

Maybe there will also be the inspiration of great fear and we come before Jesus with trembling.  We are at His feet now, knowing and experiencing His goodness, yes, but also His almighty power even from some small seed of faith.

In our desparation, brothers and sisters-in-Christ, even if you haven't been calling on Him much lately, implore Jesus' help now.  Seek Him.  Expect the unexpected.  Some of the results may be seen in a crowd, like the woman who touched Jesus's garment; like Jairus' neighbors - the neighbors are watching.  In Jairus' daughter's case, the neighbors didn't get the full details but they did see the daughter was back to life again.  No more derisive laughing then.   And it was also like what the disciples experienced that stormy day on the sea.  Calm came with Jesus.

But I want to add here, call Jesus even before the desparation comes.  Seek for and yearn for Him.  Depend upon Him even in every day living.  Even if you haven't, I pray that when desparation strikes, you'll still know to turn to Him, imploring His help.

Jesus cares.

                                        ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on mark 5:22-43 ESV.

Sing, Does Jesus Care, along with the Gaither Music folks.

Lord's Day Devotion - "Only a Touch Away" - (Mark 6)

 When you are jostled in a crowd, you usually don't ask, "Who touched me?"  But Jesus did so in the case of the woman with the twelve year issue of blood.  She touched the hem of Jesus' garment and was healed.  Jesus immediately knew the touch of faith that had healed the woman.

It is notable then, that by the time we read to the end of Mark 6, the throngs of people jostled Jesus again.  This time was somewhat different as this time the people begged permission to touch His garments.

"And wherever He went - into villages, towns or countryside - they placed the sick in marketplaces.  They begged Him to let them touch even the edge of His cloak, and all who touched Him were healed" (Mark 6:56 NIV).

The sick meant business.  Faith didn't necessarily feature in here, at least Jesus didn't mention it like He did the woman who had suffered for all those years.  Some of these sick in the marketplace may have had faith, or may have been curious but skeptical but still desparate and miserable enough to have a speck of hope enough to seek that healing touch.

I used to think, if the power went out from Jesus, then He must have been diminished and that's why He knew the power had gone out.  BUT because He is God, this cannot be true.  Jesus is the same yesterday and today and tomorrow.  Jesus is constantly a full power bank, if you will, of God's almighty power that never ever runs out (see Hebrews 13:8).

He proved it by allowing Himself to go to the cross.  Again, His compassion, mercy, grace and above all, His love, motivated Him to go through with all that pain and suffering so that we, in our sinful, helpless state, can reach out and touch Him in faith for that salvation He so freely offers.  The healing of our souls is only 'a touch away'.

Many of us who are followers of Jesus Christ have touched Him and have been made whole.  This Lord's Day we remember Him in His death and resurrection.  This colossal, pivotal, momentous moment in time.  His death has brought us life (see Romans 6:23).

This Lord's Day, reach for and partake of that broken bread, then for that cup of wine in remembrance of this man from Galilee who was fully man and fully God.  Thank and praise Him for your salvation, then go on your way rejoicing and serving Him until He comes or death swallows you and you go to be with Him forever before the rest of us get there.

Lord Jesus, You forgave my sin when I reached out and touched You in faith.  Your death brought me life.  I give You my thanks and praise.  We rejoice in our healing and salvation and in your resurrection power.  Thank You for Your compassion, mercy, grace and love, which you bestowed upon all mankind in general, and for me, in particular.  Together with my brothers and sisters-in-Christ we sing Your praises and give You are grateful thanks.  In Your name Lord Jesus, we rejoice and are glad.  Amen.

                                                   ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 6:53-56 comparing with Mark 5:24-34 especially verse 30 (NIV).

Sing, Oh I Love That Man of Galilee, along with Debbyshine.

Loquacious to Gracious (TT)

'Loquacious' is a delicious-sounding word.  Maybe it could be turned into a girl's name, like, 'Loquacia'.  But then it describes an unpleasant sort of character trait.  Not many people appreciate a verbally verbose person.  You just can't get your own words in edgewise, unless you're the one rambling on and on ad infinitum.

I admit I have caught myself doing this more and more often.  I never used to be; I was as shy and quiet as a church mouse, hardly ever making a squeak.

Now I'm glad for this reminder in Deborah Smith Pegues' book, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue.  I really need this admonishment.  And have truly found the Scripture verse she brings to her readers' minds, to be, well, true ...

"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise"     Provbers 10:19.

There's a twin verse to that my Dad liked to remind his offspring of,

"Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent" (Proverbs 17:28 ESV).

I think my Dad was amused by the irony of the thoughts in the verse but it is indeed wisdom.

I believe, after reading of so many ways a tongue needs taming that the more one speaks, (or even writes), the more one is likely to not have reined in ones tongue to keep it from gossip, complaining, lying, meddling, being divisive, sounding cynical, tactless, and so on.  Pegues writes of 30 different ways to tame the tongue so being loquacious may well involve any one or two or more of them and they are sins.

Maybe I could just go back to sucking my thumb or duct tape my mouth but then my mind could  still swirl with all those things I'd like to say.  So this would not be a long-term solution to break the loquacious habit.  

To look out for the interests of others one could ask any one of the 5W and H questions (What?, Where?, When?, Why?, Who? and How?) so that the other person gets a chance to answer more than just a yes or no, and then let you run your mouth again.

This is also what Pegues suggests.  She says,

 "Make talking count." 

 I like this idea.  She recommends that one could share a Bible verse and what one has learned from it or some other interesing story that won't hurt anyone nor take up too much of the conversation time.

Being ever mindful as one interacts with others is indeed an art to cultivate as one navigates ones tongue taming.  Thank God, brothers and sisters-in-Christ, that we have the Holy Spirit who can convict us of what we will say before we say it; when the brain thoughts buzz, we don't always have to 'answer the door'.  Let's find gracious, not loquacious, words to speak.  They will be more 'delicious'. 

Lord, help us all to tame our tongues and today, especially make a commitment to curing ourselves of loquaciousness of character and words as we do not want to sin because our words were many. May Your Holy Spirit teach us to exercise greater self-control.  Fill our minds, hearts and mouths with gracious words and character that allows others to speak too.  We know their ideas, opinions and thoughts have value, as ever as much as our own.  I ask this in Your name Lord Jesus.  Amen.

                                                  ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 10:19 NIV.  Also 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 28 - The Loquacious Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, along with Isliington Baptist Church.

Absence of Doubt (Mark 4)

 If you say, "I don't know if I can trust Jesus very much.  My faith is so small and weak," don't worry, Jesus has a reassuring answer for you.

He says that even if your faith is as small as a mustard seed, you can move mountains and mulberry tress (see Matthew 17:20 and Luke 17:6).  That is something else, isn't it!

Why not find some mustard seeds.  Take one and measure it on a ruler.  You'll likely find that one small mustard seed is barely 2 mms big.

Pretty small, right?

How big is your faith in comparison?  No matter, so long as there is even a glimmer of faith, remember it only takes a spark to get a fire going, it's enough to get a response from Jesus.

A mustard seed, when planted in good soil will grow a big enough tree for birds to rest and nest in.  When we have complete trust in Jesus there is hope and faith.

Scientists say that darkness is the absence of light.  That's why when the sun sets, we get darkness and night.  Similarly, cold is the absence of heat.  In winter weather one doesn't feel much warmth, therefore we feel what we call 'cold'.

Bring this analogy to 'faith'.  When you have faith, no matter how small, there should be less and less doubt.  The absence of doubt sprouts.

I always like the story of the woman who had that glimmer of faith to touch only the hem of Jesus' garment.  She believed she'd be healed if she did so, even against all odds.  She wrestled her way through the crowds and did just that!  She touched Jesus' garment hem, and she was healed!   Her faith had made her whole Jesus told her (see Mark 5:21-34).

So the question is, what do you need faith for today?  Even if your faith is small, much can still be accomplished.

The disciples saw Jesus' mighty power when He said calmly, yet commandingly, "Peace!  Be still!" to the great windstorm and waves that were breaking into their boat and where Jesus had been peacefully sleeping.

Jesus asked them, 

"Why are you so afraid?  Have you still no faith" (Mark 4:39-40)?

Some of these disciples were seasoned fishermen.  Even they had been terrified and felt all would be lost.  In their desparation, and panic, their last hope must have been, maybe, just maybe, Jesus could do something?  But they were doubtful.  This gale force storm was so overwhelming, to say the least.  Could Jesus really do anything about it?  

They were "filled with great fear" (vs 41) by what Jeus did do and the results.  This, of course, is the right kind of fear to have!  May the results of our doubtful faith, bring results of great magnitude in our lives, specifically in our spiritual life and trust in Jesus and all He has done and can do for us, His 'sheep'.

May our small, mustard seed-sized faith grow so that others can shelter in our 'tree branches' until their faith grows stronger and their reliance on Jesus becomes the fuller absence of doubt.

Jesus, help Thou our unbelief.  Scare away our doubts.  Help our glimmers of mustard seed-sized faith become that which grows astronomically and we become examples of faith in You to be followed (see Hebrews 13:7).  I ask in Your name Jesus, amen.

                                            ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 4:30-41 ESV.

Sing, By Faith, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

See also:  He Holds Me Fast (TT).

Book Review - Stormy Times for the Dockyard Girls - By Tracy Baines - Publication Date: 16 July 2025

Once again, I enjoyed the fishing village setting of this third book in the Fisher's Wharf series.  It has been as heartwarming as the second in the series I read some time ago.  Here we meet Letty and Alec, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Parker, Ruth, Evelyn, Philip, Arthur, Dorcas and that Gilbert Crowe, among others, again. 

The time frame is at the end of WWI, where many of the villagers have lost a loved one or two; the survivors with their guilt and tormented memories and the stalwart folks learning how to move on often putting one determined foot in front of the other towards a challenged but continued daily living.

There were smiles but also tears.  There were consequences of deeds done earlier in life and of 'current' times.  Good times and bad times and living under the threat and suspense that likely all fishing villagers live under, will the fishermen in the family who go out to sea, return alive?

I liked this book as Tracy Baines, the author, also touches on alcohol abuse, physical abuse, infidelity and the like in all their ugliness.  There is also a smidgen of Christian-like faith-based input and talk of forgiveness.  In my opinion, those folks who live or who have lived in fishing villages, will really be able to relate to this tale, finding great affinity to it.  This doesn't rule out all other potential readers however,  as it's a good story and I feel Baines ties in all the threads of the story from each of the Dockyard girls well, as they live their separate, yet integrated village lives.

                                          ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                           July 2025

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

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - Jokes For Independence Day - By Jane R. Davis - Publication Date: 15 July 2025

 

Well this is certainly a kid's book!  Kids' jokes can be corny but that makes them more amusing, in my opinion, especially when the kids themselves are telling them.  It's fun to see how they can get a kick out of them.  This could well be the ticket for the kids in your life.

I found this to be a lighthearted, fun book that combines educational value with humor, offering tidbits of history regarding Independence Day.  It finishes off with a glossary of Independence Day terms.  

I believe any elementary school child will enjoy this book, more so if they are Americans.

                                          ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                            June 2025

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

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Reivew - Our Friendly Farmhouse - By Melissa Ferguson - Publication Date: 15 July 2025

 From the busy city to the slower-paced country-type busyness, a family decides to move lock, stock and barrel.  They build together and find sweet contentment.

I really like the story line and the accompanying illustrations which give this read an endearing down-home vibe.  What's more it has been based on a true family's true experience, making it all the more authentic.  Well done, Melissa Ferguson!

                                          ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                         July 2025

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

Read Review on Goodreads.

He Holds Me Fast (TT)

 

Fear of flying, fear of drowning, and fear of what's going to happen in the future can often paralyze a person.  Other kinds of fears can also make a believer in Jesus Christ doubt God's care.

The fears swirl around in our minds and we discuss about them with our friends and whomever else will listen.  The more one speaks about them the more we show our doubt in the Lord's preservation and care, Deborah Smith Pegues tells us.

By contrast,  we see the writer of Psalm 91 was very confident of God's protection and deliverance.  If you read verses 2, 5, 7, 11 and 14 you will see how the Lord held him fast, and how the psalmist trusted in God.  I especially like verse 14, which seems like God's answer.

"Because he holds fast to Me in love, I will deliver him, I will protect him, because he knows My name" (ESV).

This can put our minds to rest and then we can speak these Scriptures to continue the trust, and creating a reliance-on-the-Lord cycle, breaking the cycle of doubt, discouragement, and ungodly and unhealthy fear.

It doesn't necessarily mean all our troubles will evaporate, but we can trust and build faith.  When we speak with God's confidence it can encourage ourselves and of those with whom we speak.

Daniel's three friends, Shadraek, Meshach and Abednego, trusted God that no matter if He rescued them from the fiery furnace or not, they would still not doubt God's goodness but trust Him for the outcome.  They would NOT bow to the 'god' of Babylon nor to the 'god' of fear.  They would only fear and trust the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, who was also their God.

What Deborah Smith Pegues says in her book 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, is good.  She writes,

"Of course, merely knowing the promises of God is not enough; we must become proficient at declaring them.  Faith comes by hearing" (Romans 10:17).

Pegues also recommends memorizing verses related, such as the Psalm 91 ones.  When we have God's word firmly placed in our minds and hearts, the Holy Spirit can then use them in times of stress, trials and tribulation, whether you are flying, drowning or have an uncertain future.  These can be 'faith'-building moments.

I do realize this is often easier said than done.  My own heart sped up when I wrote that last paragraph and mentioned drowning.  So it is a challenge and if I must go out and about in a boat, I will be uneasy.  I hope I can remember these verses and put my trust in the Lord, declaring my faith in Him.

Here's one of Pegues' affirmations:

"I will declare my faith rather than discuss my doubts."

So which  Bible verse (s) will you choose to hold on to and declare with faith in the Lord?  Write them out and memorize them, Pegues suggests it.  Put your confidence in the Lord because He'll hold You fast.

Lord Jesus, thank You for holding me fast, teach me to hold You fast too.  I call on You now for this.  Help, Thou my unbelief.  In Your name I ask, amen.

                                              ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 11:23, Psalm 91:2, 5, 7, 11, and 14 ESV.  Also 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 27 - The Doubting Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, He Will Hold Me Fast, and By Faith, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Job's Precious Smile (TT)

 There's a bit of a joke about the longest word in the English language.  Do you know it?  It's 'smiles' because there's a mile between the two 's's'.

Funny, right?

Another expression is when a person grins 'from ear to ear'.  That would be a pretty big smile.

But smiles, generally thought of as positive, do have the power to discourage as well as encourage.  I therefore like Job's smile.  Deborah Smith Pegues brings our attention to the NLT version of Job 29:24 in her book 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue.  It reads,

"When they were discouraged, I smiled at them.  My look of approval was precious to them."

How do you like that!  Job's smile was precious to the people of his acquaintance.  If they could get his smile, they felt his approval of them.  The discouarged would feel encouraged.

Do you see discouraged people around you?  Why not give them a soothing smile.  A smile that encourages, and gives hope that maybe things will get better; or their ideas and thoughts are legitimate and/or have potential.

When we see a brother or sister cast down with a heavy burden, let's try a little kindness, as an old song suggests.  Your smile could be that 'golden buzzer' that tips a person towards enheartening life rather than deathly discouragement.

As followers of Jesus Christ, let's examine ourselves to see our own personal tendency.  Is it to give smiles and looks of well-placed approval or do we tend to put a damper on others' endeavors and feelings?  Remedy accordingly.

Give a precious 'Job's smile' today!

Lord Jesus, I look up to You for Your smile of approval, for Your "well done".  As I live according to Your word with Your Holy Spirit's help, may I please You and then be able to show another brother or sister a little kindness by my words but also by the smile I can pass on.  May those folks who feel cast down be uplifted by the fragrance of Christ in me, embodied even in a precious smile of encouragement.  I ask in Your name Lord Jesus, amen.

                                                   ~  ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Job 29:24 NLT.  Also, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 26 - The Discouraging Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, Try a Little Kindness, along with Glenn Campbell.

Ask and Listen (TT)

 One of the big things I pray about for my children, grown though they may be, is that they won't ever be falsely accused and/or framed, especially in matters of money.  Being accused when they are actually persons of integrity would be a devastating pill to swallow.

Accusations will have far-reaching effects on the accused and their loved ones.  It could take years and years to prove their innocence if, they ever get cleared.  Gossipers and judgemental people, as well as the accusers determined to keep the accused nose rubbed in the dust, will not let it go. So it is a serious matter to accuse someone of something without establishing the evidence and truth of a matter.

Deborah Smith Pegues in her book 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue cites what God asked Adam after Adam had sinned and hid.  God already knew the answers (see Genesis 3:9-11) but He was establishing and clarifying the situation so He

 "[asked and listened]" 

for Adam's answers.

"Asked and listened."  It is a good practice.  Ask and listen to the one accused, not just to the accusers' answers.

Pegues also mentions Job's three friend-accusers. Job knew he was innocent of the charges laid against him.  But his 'so-called' friends didn't listen to his answers.

I like Pegues' point and I'll try to keep it in mind for when I'm tempted to accuse someone of somehting.  Check the so-called 'information'.  We can be so quick to judge and accuse.  As brothers and sisters-in-Christ, let's show greater kindness and the love of Jesus to others. Ask the Lord for wisdom, insight and understanding of any given situation of accusation.  There may be no easy out but don't be the one to perpetrate nor perpetuate an accusation against another person!  I pray to God I'm never such an accuser nor the accused, nor any of my family members!

Father God, stop me when my intent is to accuse another person unjustly.  Remind me to 'ask' and 'listen' to anyone accused and not to perpetuate a situation without establishing the truth of the matter and even then to go about speaking with and/or about that person with caution and according to the biblical principle of two or three witnesses who are truth-witnesses.  If I have hurt anyone with false accusations, I'm sorry, Father.  I repent of it.  Help Thou my weak flesh to be repentant, forgiven and renewed.  Bring to mind so I can make amends to that person or persons.  

Give me wisdom, understanding and insight and good listening ears.  May I follow Jesus' way.  I ask in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                    ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Revelation 12:!) ES>  Also, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 25 - The Accusing Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, The Jesus Way, along with Phil Wickham.

Book Review - Second Chance at Sunshine Inn - By Amy Clipson - Publication Date: 8 July 2025

 Despite some sadness in the narrative, I found Second Chance at Sunshine Inn a pleasant read.  The tension between Everleigh and Cade kept the curiosity spark alive and alert among the more tender moments.  I liked the idea of a very cozy sounding Inn as well as the one of a non-profit benefit to address the neo-natal niche's related need.  Discussion Questions at book's end lends to a flourished finishing touch.  All-in-all, it has been a satisfactory read for me.  Kudos, once again, to author Amy Clipson.

                                           ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                       January 2025

Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Read review on Goodreads.

Lord's Day Devotion - Insults and Blasphemies Forgiven (Mark 3)

 

How would you feel if your family members declared you were out of your mind because of some of the unusual things you'd done and continued to do?  On top of that, the religious leaders, whom people looked up to, said you were possessed by Beelzebub, the Lord of the Flies, a.k.a. Satan!

This is what happened to Jesus. You can read about it in Mark 3, verses 20-30.  Of all the insulting things to say about Jesus, what the religious leaders said, would have hit Jesus to the core.  Remember Jesus is God - the holy and pure and blameless One.  The insult would have gone deep!

It was Satan, as Lucifer, who had tried to become God.  He was cast out of heaven and is now known as Satan or Beelzebub.  Therefore, you can see it was the worst insult they could have come up with. It was Satan manipulating the religious leaders to cast his own sin upon the precious Son of God!

Yet, Jesus firmly refuted this, and what's more, in His grace and mercy said,

"I tell you the truth, all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them" 

(Mark 3:28).

I believe Jesus kept the cross in mind.  It was the reason He came to earth and nothing would deter him from that mission.  That mission would bring salvation, redemption and forgiveness to those who through faith, would accept Jesus as Lord and Savior; even for those religious leaders!

And then because Jesus' mother and brothers were outside the house, Jesus happened to be visiting, looking to take Him away, He said,

"Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother" (vs 35).

Having accepted Jesus as Savior, we are part of Him family.  We too may endure painful insults and betrayals from our own family members and even church members.  

Let's remember though, that Jesus forgives these because of the cross. He forgives them (when they repent of them) and He forgives us, His brothers and sisters, when we repent of perhaps insulting others ourselves.

Praise the Lord for His powerful statement that

"[He] will forgive [our] iniquity, and ... remember [our] sin no more."

Furthermore, He,

"blots them out,"

 and is merciful to us (see Jeremiah 31:34; Isaiah 43:25; and Hebrews 8:12 & 10:17), because of His great love for us.

This Lord's Day, let's remember the all encompassing love, grace, mercy and forgiveness that our Savior Jesus bought and brought for us on the cross despite any betrayals and insults we may have hurled at Him.  In His mercy He forgave.  In His mercy He still forgives.  What a blessed Savior and Redeemer, Friend and Brother!  He is like no other!

With great gratitude in our hearts, Lord Jesus, we give You our thanks, for You alone are worthy of all our praise and worship.  You took all our sins and iniquities upon Yourself and with this act of love, grace and mercy, we are healed.

With the broken bread we partake and the cup of wine from which we sip, we show our remembrance of what You have done for us.  Thank You, Jesus!

                                           ~  ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Mark 3:21, 22, 28 and 35 NIV.

Sing, It's About the Cross, along with the Ball Brothers.