Tag: children

Franticness

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Frantic could be my middle name at times. Because of the trauma of my earlier years of life, I allow these feelings to take over from time to time.  My understanding of PTSD is an inside-out situation. From inside me to the outside world, my actions and emotions express who I am.  I do have anxiety medications if required, but I like to self-soothe, which helps me to realize I can’t do it all.

Recently, I decided to be a creator and marketer and use all of the online platforms available. Yes, Christmas can make me very frantic.  And that was the trigger this time, the upcoming season. And even though I remind myself of what I have to manage daily, health-wise, I still remember that women are supposed to be superwomen! Even at 63. Trying to write marketing content, make the videos, and place them in strategic positions online is utterly nuts.  Yep, meet me, the new Mrs. Squirrel.

Comparatively, the online platforms are like surfing the Banzi pipeline in Hawaii for the first time, ever surfing. You can hop from Whatsnot, to TikTok, to Facebook, to Instagram, to your webpage, Etsy, WordPress, and Youtube. The big all-swallowing wave is bound to hit sooner rather than later. For me, thank God, it was sooner! I have overcome the franticness and moved to a more straightforward approach. Giving me time each day to work on my novel, Austin.

So if you read my past post about my merch going on here, please ignore it. I am very much human.

Some ways I self-soothe are listening to music, reading my Bible, and doing stretching exercises. I love this bible verse,  “Peace I leave with you; my Peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  Love Jesus. I added the love Jesus part because I do feel like it is a love note from my Savior!

If you are struggling with franticness or the stress of the season, take a break from your own mind.  Put some music on and breathe deeply. Tell yourself that you are God’s child and loved far more than this world can show you.  Imagine Him wrapping you in His arms, holding you, and gently rocking back and forth.  Because you are His child, you are worthy!

God Bless You!

When the Battle Knocks You Down—Create Anyway

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

People often call me a static writer—and it’s true. I don’t just write to fill the airwaves. I write when I have something to say. Because these days, you have to be careful with what you allow into the atmosphere. The enemy loves to clutter the air with noise—confusion, frustration, competition, and strife. Why open the door for him?

Lately, my own battle has been with my health. My diseases have done their best to keep me down and out, but I am a child of God, and He is still writing my story. I’ve started treatment with doctors at Duke University, and I’m feeling hopeful. I even love the area—it may end up being my retirement home! God has a way of guiding us where we need to be, even when we don’t understand the journey. I’ve learned to loosen my grip a little and let Him steer the wheel… though my “control” side still wants to argue sometimes.

But here’s the thing—I refuse to stop creating. Even when my body slows down, my spirit doesn’t. While I’ve been resting and recovering, I designed a few new pieces for my Etsy shop—T-shirts, hats, and hoodies that declare faith and joy boldly!

When I wore one of my new “YAY GOD” shirts to Wednesday night Bible study, sweet Mary, one of our older members, came right up to me and read it out loud with a big smile:
“YAY GOD!”

She got it immediately. It’s not just a shirt—it’s a declaration of praise. A reminder that God is still good, no matter what battles we face.

I also created another shirt that speaks to something close to my heart—aging gracefully. With wrinkles forming and society shouting about fillers, tucks, and lasers, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind. But I see it differently now. Every line is proof of a life lived, of laughter shared, of faith tested and strengthened. And maybe, just maybe, the enemy uses vanity to distract us from seeing the beauty God already placed in us.

Both shirts—and more—are up on my Etsy shop now. Each design is created during quiet moments with God, inspired by faith, joy, and real life.

If you’d like to wear your faith proudly or gift a reminder of God’s goodness to someone you love, visit my shop and check them out. Because every “YAY GOD” moment deserves to be shared.

👉 [Shop Faith-Inspired Designs on Etsy] (originallyameliastore.com)

A Prayer for Healing — when the body grows weary

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Today has been one of those heavy, aching days. Arthritis sits like a weight in my neck, shoulders, and spine — every movement feels slow and costly. My body is tired in a way that goes deeper than sleep. I want healing. I need God’s touch.

Psalm 103:3 — Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.

Isaiah 53:5 — But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by his wounds we are healed.

These verses rise up in my heart like a promise I must cling to. Jesus bore a pain I cannot imagine, and He did it for my sake — to forgive, to restore, to make whole. My own pain feels small beside His sacrifice, and yet it is real to me. It pains me to remember the cost of my salvation: the cruelty He endured so I might be healed. I am unworthy of that grace, and that truth makes me fall deeper into gratitude and into prayer.

Heavenly Father, forgive me — for the sins I know and the ones I do not. I lay this tired, aching body before You and ask for Your healing hand. You forgive all our sins and heal all our diseases; I claim that promise now. Touch my neck, my shoulders, my spine. Breathe strength into my bones. Restore movement where there is stiffness and bring peace where there is weariness.

Lord Jesus, by Your wounds I am healed. Help my faith to rest not in the absence of pain but in the presence of Your power. Teach me to praise You in the valley, to trust You in weakness, and to receive Your comfort when I am most fragile.

Amen.

If you’re reading this and your body is weary too, join me now — take a breath, speak these words, and believe that the God who healed then still heals today.

God Bless You!

God's Word

The Word Cannot Be Chained

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Devotional: The Word Cannot Be Chained

Scripture:
“And because I preach this Good News, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained.” — 2 Timothy 2:9

The world has always tried to silence truth. Paul knew this firsthand when he wrote these words from a prison cell. His body was chained, but the Word he carried could not be bound. The message of Christ kept spreading—unstoppable, unbreakable, eternal.

Evil thought it could silence Charlie by ending his earthly life. But just as with Paul, the Word that he lived and spoke cannot be chained. It is still moving, still stirring, still changing hearts. What the enemy meant for silence has only amplified the sound of truth.

God’s Word always breaks through. Even when people oppose it, even when culture resists it, even when darkness tries to bury it—the light of Christ cannot be contained. When we carry that Word in our hearts and speak it with our lives, it will go places we may never see and reach people we may never meet.

Reflection:

  • Do I believe that God’s Word is powerful, even when I feel weak?
  • Am I living in a way that lets His Word speak through me?
  • Where might I need to trust God’s Word to do the work I cannot do?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You that Your Word cannot be chained. When I feel weak, remind me that Your truth is strong. Use my life, my words, and my actions to carry Your message forward. Let Your Word move freely through me, reaching places only You can take it. Amen.

Resolutions Fail

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

As we step into the second week of January, I want to pause and reflect with you. Statisticians often point out that by this time, many of us have already abandoned our New Year’s resolutions. If that resonates with you, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Personally, I don’t set resolutions. Instead, I create a list of goals I’d like to accomplish throughout the year. It’s a flexible, evolving list that grows as I do. Today, I’d like to share a glimpse of my goals with you, not to boast but to inspire and encourage you to think about what matters most to you in this season of life.

Here’s a portion of my list:

  • Finish writing the children’s book manuscripts I’ve been storing for years.
  • Complete the fiction and non-fiction projects I’ve started.
  • Find ways to share my work and contribute to our household income.
  • Read through the Bible in a year.
  • Make more cross bracelets and keychains to give as gifts.
  • Honor God in my home.
  • Tithe faithfully.
  • Listen to and cooperate more with the Holy Spirit.
  • Say “yes” to godliness and “no” to ungodliness.
  • Join a church and actively participate.

Some of these are continuations of what I’ve already started, while others are entirely new adventures for me and my family.

One of my more practical goals is to exercise regularly. I’ve started riding a stationary bike—thank you, Goodwill! As my legs grow stronger, I plan to try a ballet DVD because dancing brings me so much joy. On the nutrition side, we’ve committed to eating at home to prioritize health and save money. Meal planning has been a game-changer for us: we create a weekly menu, shop on Saturdays, and post the plan on the fridge for accountability.

You might be thinking, That’s great for you, but my schedule is packed with appointments, kids, and endless obligations. Trust me, I understand. I’ve been there too. But here’s a gentle challenge: carve out two days and two hours that are just for you. Communicate this clearly to your family—ask your spouse and kids to step up and help. It’s okay to stop doing everything for everyone.

Of course, life doesn’t always cooperate. There will be moments when you or a loved one gets sick, or you’re too exhausted to exercise or stick to your Bible reading plan. It’s easy to feel defeated in those moments, but don’t let temporary setbacks derail you. When you’re ready, pick up where you left off. If you were reading the Book of Matthew and stopped at chapter 8, but your plan says you should be at chapter 14, start at 14. If you have time, go back to what you missed. Life moves forward, and so can you.

Remember, this journey is not about perfection—it’s about persistence.

Time passes quickly. Kids grow up, parents age, and we find ourselves at the end of our earthly journey sooner than we expect. Let’s make the most of the time we have. Be kind—it costs nothing but can mean everything to someone else. Love as many people as you can. And above all, praise God through it all.

You’ve got this, my friend. Let’s walk this road together.

God Bless You!
Joni

James 4

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers,

What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. (James 4:14)

The world feels like it’s unraveling, doesn’t it? Who has the duct tape and time to fix it? Duct tape can patch up almost anything—or so we say. Imagine if we duct-taped world leaders together, locked them in a room, and returned a week later. Would they finally learn to work together? Perhaps. But this cycle of power and conquest has been with us since Adam and Eve. Power feeds power, and power breeds greed.

Greed seems more rampant than ever. Just look around this holiday season. The Grinch is a fitting mascot, isn’t he? “Gotta have it all, right, Grinchie?” And it’s not just the holidays. Open any social media app, and you’re bombarded with ads and influencers competing for your attention and your wallet. Greed isn’t just a problem; it’s a pandemic.

But it’s not just greed. Our children are lost. We’ve allowed confusion and chaos to infiltrate their lives. We’ve blurred their sense of identity and drowned out their ability to think critically or make responsible decisions. Instead of guiding them, we shove screens in their faces and yell, “Dance, kid, dance!” We’ve turned our children into commodities for likes, views, and virtual applause. This is not okay—not with God, not with anyone. And yet, we’ve prioritized the “good life,” the glamorous life, over what truly matters.

Stepping off my soapbox for a moment…

This weekend, I heard a pastor speak on James 4, and his words struck me like a lightning bolt. It felt as if James himself was standing before us, calling out, “Listen up, you heathen generations!” The message was clear: time is short. We must get right with God. I want to be in His Kingdom with my family and friends. Have you thought about what that means for your loved ones? So many professing Christians think they can coast by, having said “the prayer” and leaving the rest until the last minute. That’s a dangerous lie. The world’s deception can lead us straight to hell.

I know—I was on that path myself. God had to knock me upside the head to wake me up.

James 4 offers a sobering reality check:

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

James doesn’t pull any punches. He calls us out for our selfishness, our pride, and our friendship with the world. Friendship with the world, he says, is enmity against God. That’s a hard truth, but one we need to hear. God’s grace is abundant, but it requires humility. “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)

The call is clear: submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. These are not just words; they are a lifeline.

James also warns against arrogance and complacency:

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

At 62, the fleeting nature of life feels more real than ever. We are here for a moment, a breath, a mist. What will we do with the time we have left? Will we chase the world’s empty promises, or will we humble ourselves and seek God’s Kingdom?

The choice is ours, but the time is short. Let’s not waste it.

God Bless You! Joni and Merry Christmas

praise god

Hallelueigh

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers,

I’m so excited to step into this Hallelujah season together! God has graciously answered our prayers, giving us the reprieve we’ve longed for and filling our nation with His light once more. Can you feel the change in the air? The joy and hope are palpable!

This season is a precious gift, and it’s one we must cherish and nurture. As believers, we’re called to stand together in unity, celebrating a return to our roots in faith. Protecting these values is like guarding a fine diamond or a priceless pearl, handed to us by our Creator. We’re all members of the body of Christ, and this is the time to put aside differences and come together as one. Let’s show the world the love Jesus commanded us to share.

“A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)

Now, more than ever, we must be steadfast in prayer. Together, our united prayers have made a difference, pushing back darkness and bringing God’s light into our homes, communities, and nation. But the work isn’t done. Our prayers need to continue, covering our families, cities, states, and leaders. We are the watchmen and women of this time!

As we pray and stand guard, let’s also reach out. Let’s move beyond the walls of our churches and small groups to touch those who haven’t experienced God’s love yet. Consider small acts of warmth and welcome—like setting up a little firepit at the end of your driveway on a Friday or Saturday night. Invite neighbors over to roast marshmallows, share hot chocolate, and enjoy the warmth of friendship. Whether they’re from your church, another church, or have yet to find their faith, let’s meet them with open hearts and listening ears. Small moments of kindness can make a big impact.

For now, let’s lift our voices in praise, singing hallelujah to the Lord Jesus Christ, who invites us to be part of His family.

God bless you abundantly in this season of Hallelujah!

Rebuilding Our Foundation: How We Can Help America Heal

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Welcome, Fellow Travelers,

Have you noticed how deeply we Americans rely on our infrastructure? From the winding back roads to the highways and bridges, we depend on these structures to keep our country connected. However, as recent hurricanes have shown us here in Western North Carolina, a single storm can wash them away instantly, leaving devastation in its wake. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile these man-made systems truly are.

Yet, while reflecting on this, I am deeply grateful that nothing—no storm or sin—can destroy our unshakable foundation in Jesus Christ. There were times in my past when I tried to tear down my relationship with Him, believing I was too far gone to deserve even a mustard seed of forgiveness, mercy, or grace. But in His boundless love, He reached down, pulled me from the muck and mire I had gotten myself into, and embraced my messy, broken self—inside and out.

When I look at the state of our country today, I sometimes wonder why God would want to do the same for us. Why would He want to pull us out of the murky, broken state we find ourselves in? It’s hard to imagine, especially when many Christians have gone silent or turned away from Him. And while there are many reasons for our spiritual disconnect, the most heartbreaking is the tragic loss of innocent lives through abortion. In 2023 alone, over a million children were lost, and who knows how many since 1973.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:6 resonate so powerfully here: “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Can you imagine the weight of the consequences that our nation carries for allowing such loss?

So what can we, as individuals, do to reverse the course of this devastation and seek healing for our nation? There are tangible steps we can take to make a difference:

  1. Pray – Ask God for guidance on how you can be part of the solution. Whether it’s through personal action, supporting others, or simply standing firm in your faith, prayer is where transformation begins.
  2. Support organizations that help pregnant mothers—Many nonprofits and ministries are dedicated to providing resources and support for expectant mothers, helping them choose life for their babies. Volunteering or donating even small items like a baby blanket or clothes can significantly impact.
  3. Give what you can – Whether it’s your time, talents, or financial resources, giving, even in small ways, can make a difference for someone in need.
  4. Join a community of believers – When we come together as a faith community, we tap into an abundance of ideas, resources, and strength. God has equipped us with unique gifts, and by joining forces, we can achieve more than we ever could.

In times of crisis, whether from natural disasters or spiritual battles, we are reminded of how fleeting the things of this world can be. But our hope in Christ is eternal; through Him, we can rebuild what has been lost and restore what has been broken.

Let’s commit to being part of that rebuilding process—not just for our country, but for each individual life we encounter. With compassion, prayer, and action, we can be healing instruments in a world that so desperately needs it.

God Bless You!

Apalachee High School Shooting

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Fellow Traveler,

Yesterday, my heart shattered into pieces, and my eyes overflowed with tears of sorrow.  I could only cry, “God, forgive us for how careless we have raised our children. We purposely removed You from our schools, workplaces, homes, social gatherings, and government—even our places of worship. We have allowed the demons of this world to grab our children and infiltrate their lives. 

The movies they watch, the music they hear, the heroes they worship, the closed-door churches they attend, and their communities are full of hatred and prejudice! Yes, Father, we have brought this upon ourselves and can’t understand why. Please forgive us for our love of self and culture. We are more of this world than Yours. Open our eyes to the truth and help us to find a way back!” In Jesus Name, Amen.

So, if you are wondering what my prayer is about, it concerns the shooting at the Georgia Apalachee High School yesterday—the shooter, a 14-year-old kid, and four dead – 2 students and two teachers. And the words of the politicians and our government officials went round and round,  all over town. “Gun control legislation is what we need, and a child should never have to go to school and be made to do shooter drills.” Oh yes, my ears rang with the same old, same old—no solution in sight. Until we admit we are the problem and find a way to heal our hearts and our land with God, it will only get worse.

The solution is complex and multifaceted; the church and Christians must stand up with God in the middle! You can not be seat warmers in your place of worship; you must go out and change the world. And you can’t sit at home and vocalize what needs to be done. Poof, it is gone within the air; the results are nothing. Think about how you can stand up to make a difference in our country, and then do it!

Next week, I will tell you how I found a way to get out into our community and bring joy and light. My prayers are with the two student’s families, the two teacher’s families, and the shooter’s family.  I will lift the community of Apalachee High School and our country to God in my daily prayers. You should, too.

A Bible verse came to me while writing the post. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 The Message/Remix

“Be cheerful no matter what; pray all of the time; thank God No Matter What Happens. This is the way God wants you, who belong to Christ Jesus to live.”

Heavenly Father,

I come before you with thankfulness in this time of sorrow. I am grateful for all you do for us, even when we turn our backs on you. 

Please heal my broken heart for your blessed children. I love them so much, Father, and see hopeful promises within each of them. And then their light of promise is taken away. Please help the families who lost their loved ones yesterday feel Your presence and understand the “why.” Bless them with your mercy, grace, love, and joy. Walk with them through this devastating road they must travel. Thank you, Jesus, for everything! In Jesus Name Amen.

God Bless You!

Navigating the Unseen Spaces of the Heart

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, dear readers! It’s been quite a rollercoaster for me these past two weeks, as my heart seems to be on a quest of its own. There’s this peculiar sensation of missing someone, but the catch is, I can’t quite put my finger on who that someone is. Strange, isn’t it? I’ve tried to unravel this mysterious feeling through prayer, and while God has brought a particular person to mind, the emptiness persists. It’s a curious dilemma, as there are numerous individuals who could potentially fill this void in my heart.

Leaving Texas marked a significant chapter in my life, bidding farewell to friends who were more like family. The pastor and church that guided us through thick and thin, becoming an integral part of our journey. Then, there’s the memory of my best friend, Suzanne, who departed from this world some years ago. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void, and I find myself yearning for her companionship more than ever. It’s a feeling that cuts deep, leaving me pondering the intricacies of the heart.

Now, you might be wondering, what on earth is going on? And no, it’s not indigestion – let’s keep it light-hearted! But seriously, have you ever experienced a sensation like this? The feeling of a missing piece in your heart, despite your best efforts to identify and remedy it? It’s a perplexing journey, one that many of us traverse at some point in our lives.

Leaving behind the familiar faces and comforting embrace of our Texas community has opened up a space that no new friendship or experience seems capable of filling entirely. It’s not about forgetting the past or discounting the value of new connections; rather, it’s a testament to the profound impact certain individuals have on our lives.

In the midst of this emotional labyrinth, I’ve come to realize that our hearts have a language of their own. They carry the imprints of people who have touched our lives in ways we may not fully comprehend. It’s a mosaic of emotions, a collage of memories, and sometimes, a longing for a connection that transcends the boundaries of time and space.

As I navigate these unseen spaces of the heart, I invite you to reflect on your own journey. Have you ever felt a similar tug, a yearning for someone or something that defies explanation? Perhaps it’s a sign that our hearts are more intricate than we give them credit for, weaving a tapestry of emotions that shape our identities.

In the grand tapestry of life, each person leaves a unique thread, contributing to the beautiful and sometimes complex patterns of our hearts. So, here’s to embracing the mysteries, acknowledging the voids, and finding solace in the shared human experience of navigating the uncharted territories of our hearts. After all, it’s in these moments of vulnerability that we often discover the profound beauty of connection and the resilience of the human spirit.