jonithetentmaker

Starting The Economy, Calling the Sacrificial Lambs to Slaughter

Posted on March 26, 2020 by jonithetentmaker

I cannot believe we have leaders in this country who are calling for the older generations to sacrifice themselves so that the economy can be started back up. It makes me sad for them because their statements show exactly where their hearts lie…money. These individuals think they can cover up their ultimate desires by saying it is for their children and grandchildren to have an economically strong country to grow up in and live. Give me a break Pinocchio!

America has survived and died and regrown itself over and over again. America will still be here when their great-grandchildren are grown! I am willing to bet these men have their sticky fingers in some business which will boom exponentially once the economy is restarted. Willing to sacrifice themselves? Don’t make me laugh. If they really want to sacrifice themselves, go to New York City and help the hospital’s sanitation workers clean those hospital rooms. I am sure Governor Cuomo would welcome the extra hands on deck or extra hands cleaning toilets.

We see the truth in Matthew 6:24 concerning these individuals because they serve money. If they did not serve money, they would only be concerned with the health of the people of their states and would be actively working toward the resolution of Covid-19. Instead, they want the people of their states to sacrifice their lives so they can make a buck. Shame on every one of you!

Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

Our President stated he would like to see the churches filled on Easter Sunday and the symbolism of resurrection is not lost on me. But he also will not do anything which would further endanger the country and all of our citizens by foolishly jumpstarting the economy too early. Who wants to go forward and then have to take three giant steps back because of greed and asinine decisions right now? Yes, I use the word “asinine” in reference to the leaders espousing elderly genocide!

People are coming together and I believe God is moving to the center of our country again. We are finding ways to serve and sustain each other and it is a matter of time before this pandemic is a part of our history. So for those leaders who are the drooling dogs eagerly sniffing and nipping at the backsides of our elderly Americans and our economy, you need to be muzzled!

And take a suggestion from the Apostle Paul

Philippians 4:12 – 13

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”

So if our economy were to tank could we not revive it through Him who gives us strength? I believe the hand of God has always been on America and will continue to be as long as we continue to be in a relationship with Him. How better to honor God than to honor His commandments of taking care of the widow and orphans, the sick and the needy, the young and the old!

Before you start lining up the sacrificial lambs, remember the one and only Lamb that was sacrificed so that we can have life!

God Bless!

Covid-19, My Proactive Approach

Posted on March 25, 2020 by jonithetentmaker

Watching the coronavirus coverage and the postings of people struggling to breathe reminds me of the times I have been in respiratory distress. The feelings of strangulation, suffocation, and drowning in the gurgling of my own fluids, which will consume me if I don’t react quickly, are all too real for me. I live with a rare disease called GPA and it affects my whole respiratory system including my nose structure which is now a rib bone. So any infection or disease that accelerates the power of my GPA leaves me running in the opposite direction and searching for ways to protect myself.

I have always taken the stand that “defeat is not an option,” with this disease even when I can barely draw breath into my body or climb an ordinary set of stairs. Push and push or find another way is my method of daily functioning and my body just has to follow along. But with Covid-19 there and the quickness, it can consume the respiratory systems sends me back to my early days of researching other methods in being proactive with my health.

From the very beginning of my disease, when the doctors did not know what was going on and could only treat the symptoms I have always searched and researched ways to live a better life. Over these decades, GPA has facilitated my body in acquiring Ulcerative Colitis, Asthma, Allergies, Upper Respiratory Diseases, Uveitis, Diabetes 2, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and High Blood Pressure. So I am a triple bull’s eye for the coronavirus! Along with the medicines I take, I have discovered supplements which help to boost my immune system and give me a better quality of life. And then my go-to exercise is yoga or ballet, very gentle, flowing, stretching movements improving my lung function and my mobility.

DISCLAIMER ALERT: I want to state that I am not a doctor and I am not giving advice to anyone concerning their medical care.

Right now, I must ask my self, “What else can I do during this time to help my body survive the Covid-19?”

So, once again I must go back to some of my better research days and add two helpful items to my daily regime. One is called The Breather, which is a way to exercise the throat and lungs and the other is a supplement for my lungs. I want to say that I do not make a dime on either of these products. And before you take any supplement, be sure to ask your doctor about the supplement. At this point I am doing all I can to stay safe by following the quarantine, taking my meds and supplements and adding some additional exercises for my lungs.

Where to next?

As always my handy dandy study bible is at my side! It was there at the beginning of my walk with God and will be with me until the end of my life. I am not sure “next” is the correct word because God is with me daily. Our relationship is one that I survive on, without Him I would have nothing nor be nothing. He is the love of my life, my all in all! He is my Father, my Saviour, my God!

And, asking God how I can help is a no brainer for me. I can write and encourage others. I can pray! I pray my blog will be a way I can bring some joy, and peace to those who are anxious and quarantined. I also pray that God will bring those to me who are searching for Him and that they will encounter God in their lives. Even though GPA has sidelined me in my camper, it has not stopped me from speaking out and offering hope!

Today, I begin with Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

When I read this I think of a large rock cave that I can go into where nothing in this world can penetrate my covering. As for strength, what strength is the strongest in the universe but God’s strength? His strength exceeds more than our minds can comprehend! And He is present, which means He is right here and not in some far off imaginary place. Basically, we don’t have to be strong during this time nor do we have to look for a place to hide. We can take all of our weaknesses and fears and give them to God. Hand it over and let Him handle what should be done! To me that is a relief, a deep sigh, a restful moment knowing God is my refuge and my strength! What about you? Can you give it all to God?

After you think you have done everything you can do to be proactive during this virus, then go to God and give it all to Him! For you will find your peace and knowing in Him.

Heavenly Father;

I come before you today with praise and thanksgiving for you being my rock and my strength! And for you always being with me! Thank you!

Please heal those who are suffering from the coronavirus, and help our health care workers with your strength and your presence in their great time of need. Please open the eyes of our government officials to do what is right and stop those officials who would seek to profit by abusing the system.

Please send peace to the anxious, and joy to those who are depressed and worried. Send them someone to let them they are loved and they have a God who wants to care for them always.

Give us all strength in the coming days and fill our hearts with your everlasting love.

In Jesus Name,

AMEN!

Corona-virus Quarantine In Camper

Posted on March 21, 2020 by jonithetentmaker

Our journey began on February 27 while the coronavirus chatter was just beginning to ramp up in the United State. My husband, myself, and our grown son, along with our three dogs piled into our camper for our trip from Texas to North Carolina. Having spent the last eight years in Texas because of work, we were ready to get back to the Carolinas, family, and home. Except the timing appears to be a little off, at the moment. But this is when everything began falling into place like our house selling in Texas. So, we grab onto God’s timing and here we go again!

Now, traveling in our camper is not unusual for us. It has been our usual mode of transportation for years. When you have a rare auto-immune disease like me, public restrooms, hotel rooms, and other possible germ-infested areas are places to avoid. And we also found it easier to bring our pets with us rather than to board them or have sitters at our home. They have adapted quite well to the traveling lifestyle.

After being on the road for three days and with a few obstacles thrown our way, i.e. flat tire, we made it to the campground in the Carolinas. It is cold, rainy and we have not found a house to buy. The dismal weather and my spirit seem to be like-minded and building. I see the going in and out of everyone, increasing the dirt and congestion in our camper. {So, let me explain I like things clean and tidy. My family says I am a little OCD.} The dark clouds circling our camper and my own head are thickening into a rumbling, lightening filled masses. This is quickly becoming a very unpleasant experience and we need to find a home!

With my own stress level rising, admittedly of my own making, we ventured out to find a home. All the while in the background is the advancing wave of Covid-19. Knowing of our impending move, we had been searching the Charlotte market since November. But Charlotte is in a real estate bubble with not a lot of inventory and prices through the roof. Being older and wiser, my husband and I know not to get caught up and yet, we need a home! I want to throw myself on the ground and kick and scream like the tantrum of a two-year-old. And then, we find a house! The sky opens full of sunshine, the birds sing, and a rainbow appears in the background. Not really, but it sounds good and my own relief felt that way.

God is so very good! While we have been focused on getting a home, the impending tidal wave of Covid-19 was about to come crashing down on America. And it did! Now with my autoimmune disease and type 2 diabetes, I am one of the ones who should stay inside and have everything brought to them. As you can imagine, at 57 I am not exactly used to being told what to do or have my wings clipped. I have endured the decades of my diseases on my own terms and lived life to the very best I could, God willing. Until now and the Covid-19.

My good sense makes me realize the time for personal responsibility is now. Our situation is not exactly perfect for quarantine and maybe my camper can feel more like a box at times, but there are those who are homeless with nowhere to go to shelter away from others. I have a bathroom, a small kitchen, and a family doing everything they can to keep me safe. No pity for this girl! Once you have been in a confined space for a period of time, the space itself does not appear so small. We have even discussed what we will have to do if someone tests positive to try to keep the others well.

So, life will never be the same during and when the pandemic is over, and I should hope not! It is through this time that as individuals, communities, and countries we should grow in understanding, knowledge, and compassion. I cannot stress enough that the very glue that binds us is LOVE! And we must use love in an overabundant amount concerning people, and situations! Think about the changes it will bring into your life and grab on to the very best parts! Thank God for this day and all you have been given. Ask for grace in everything and pray for others!

God Bless You!

Joni The Tent Maker Quarantined in My Camper!

My Coronavirus Suggestions

Posted on March 18, 2020 by jonithetentmaker

During a time, such as this, what should a person do? Here is some valuable advice from a 1939 poster Great Britain published to guide their citizens as they waited for the impending airstrikes during WWII. Can you imagine how frightening their circumstances were without knowing when they would be hit during the dark of the night? And a poster telling them to “Keep Calm and Carry On!” But that is what we all should do.

The coronavirus is similar to a bomb dropping from the sky, direction, and detonation unknown. Honestly, we knew the virus was out there, but “there” not here. And now the whistling sound of the catastrophe from out there starts approaching America, getting louder and shriller as the virus zeroes in on its’ target. We must be prepared to face the hit, stay calm, and move forward in a protective and productive manner.

Ok, so now you are looking at me with a half-cocked head and wondering why I have the right to tell people to “Keep Calm and Carry On?” Because I have even more to lose than just getting the virus, it is almost certain that if I do acquire the virus I will die. I have an autoimmune disease called Wegeners and its’ main target is the respiratory system.

My lungs already struggle with the disease’s inflammation and now it is asthma and allergy season for me. And because of the disease along with years of steroid use to keep the inflammation down, I have type 2 Diabetes. Yes, I have to say that I am the big, bright red bullseye target the virus is looking to implode upon!

Keep calm?

Carry on?

Absolutely!

Carry on by doing what I should do like self-quarantine, work from home, and utilize proper hygiene. What else will bring about the promising results I desire? And you should be doing them too!

There is one more thing I want to assure you of and that is God. He is always with us, wants the best for us, and is in total control of this world. Open your bible and lean into His everlasting word for counsel. Start in the New Testament with the book of John and see how far you can read during these weeks of confinement. Here is a bible verse to live by during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Joshua 1:9

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Be sure to write the verse down and re-read it as many times as possible. Write it on your bathroom mirror, on your hand, and anywhere else to remind you that you are not alone during this difficult time.

Lastly, begin following the proper precautions of handwashing, self-quarantine, and do not let anyone else’s ignorant words or actions block you from doing what is best for you! As humans, we should control what we can during this time, rely on God’s words for our strength and comfort, and extend grace to one another no matter the situation.

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

Get your Coronavirus information from the reliable source.

https://www.cdc.gov/

A prayer for all…

Heavenly Father:

I come before you with praise and thanksgiving for another day to try to walk in Your ways. Please forgive me of my sins, the ones I do knowingly and the ones I do unknowingly. Please take me by your righteous right hand and guide me through this difficult time of sickness and uncertainty plaguing the world. Use me for others to see You.

Father, I know all things work for your good and I know the coronavirus can be utilized for good works between people, communities, and countries. Please soothe the fears, anxiety, unkindness, and ignorance people will exhibit and leave your everlasting love in its’ place.

In Jesus, Holy Name I Pray!

Amen!

I SURRENDER ALL!

Posted on February 21, 2018 by jonithetentmaker

I SURRENDER ALL is a beautiful hymn. Sometimes when I am so frustrated with myself, this world, or others, I put my head phones on and blast this song down to the bottom of my soul. The peace I breathe in after hearing the song is amazing! Because I know every frustration, every sorrow, and joy in my life belongs to Jesus Christ.

Today we lost a great Evangelical Pastor, Billy Graham. In order for him to become a man of God, he had to surrender all. At times he may have appeared unsympathetic to the world’s ways, single-minded, a little “too preachy” to the new generations which developed during his lifetime. But Billy’s boss, the Big J Man, required total surrender, total obedience, and total love. All Billy wanted to do was to save our lives, knowing we could spend eternity in God’s arms.

Billy Graham is home now, in the loving arms of his Lord and being told, “Well done my son!”

So for Billy, I reach out to you today. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Do you know the One, who died a horrendous death on the cross for your sins, for your bad decisions, for your mistakes? And He loves you more than a death on a cross, He loves you enough to forgive you and give you a new life within Him! All you have to do is to ask Jesus.

Example

Jesus, I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. Please Father make me born again in You and show me the way to a life serving You! In Jesus Name I pray. Amen!

Now tell someone about it! Email me if you want to…joniberrydotcom@gmail.com. I will pray for you! Find a bible and turn to the book of John and start reading God’s holy and unchanging words!

All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

Refrain:
I surrender all,
I surrender all;

All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow;
Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
Take me, Jesus, take me now. All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame;
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to His Name!

OH THE GLORY OF FULL SALVATION IS WAITING FOR YOU!

HUMANITY IS THE PROBLEM WITH SCHOOL SHOOTINGS!

Posted on February 16, 2018February 17, 2018 by jonithetentmaker

When I first sat down to write about Wednesday’s shooting in Parkland, Florida, my article was passionate with fire and tears. And then I waited. Each morning I have prayed to God and asked, “What do you want me to say?” Finally a peace has entered my heart and I am ready to address this tragedy.

This is not a gun thing, it is a people thing. We are the problem and the reason children are killing children. We have not provided the proper environments for them to grow up. We have made it hard on families to survive and have allowed others to draw the lines of hate and difference down each one of us. American humanity is why school shootings are occurring.

In America, information is instant, violence is revered, and success is measured in millions of dollars and how many shiny things you own. We, humans, possess no real worth, except what the world whispers in our ears. Even in our church pews, we see the disintegration of love, faith, and hope. For when the church doors open and everyone drives away, it is just another event checked off our weekly to do list.

In James 1:23 -24 we are told…

“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.”

Americans and American Christians have forgotten what we look like and have allowed others to wipe away our faces! Therefore, we are to blame for the 17 lives lost on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, in Parkland, Florida!

The reasons are numerous, as to why we have lost our reflection. And change is going to be a huge task with a lot of people coming together. But it can be done!

One of the reasons, I think mental illness is so rampant is because of our healthcare system and the conglomerate of Pharmaceutical companies. We can not afford to take care of ourselves and our children. I know if I were a Physician or an owner of a Pharmaceutical company, I would not be wealthy. Because how much money do you really need to live on. You can’t take it with you, when you die. And you can’t buy more time to live, because God does not take bribes.

So why the enormous amount of wealth accumulation? Power? You are nothing before the omniscient God and look pretty pathetic in mine. And, if you want to be revered for your work, make it available to everyone, not because you own a Ferrari. You are not the things you own, in the end, but what you have contributed to humanity.

Our communities are another problem and how we outcast those who are not what we consider to be normal. For what? Do we see ourselves as a better part of a species, because we don’t have issues? Please, we are stinking, rotten manure when we don’t acknowledge respect and love to all humans! Especially those who are different.

Please, for the sake of the children, open your heart to real change. Take action, don’t talk about it. And if you are a community leader or elected official, you need to forget yourself and your agenda. You need to do what is right for American children! Strip away the labels (Democrat/Republican) and come forward to the altar of God. Repent of your selfishness and vow to do what is right! Listen to what Jesus says to you and then do it!

Today the American mirror shows a face resembling Dorian Gray, but tomorrow it could resemble Jesus Christ, if we try!

May God bless those in Parkland, Florida with His love and comfort!!