Tag: god

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!

Trump, Harris, or Jesus Christ?

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

Today marks a pivotal moment in American history—a true test of values, where good and evil, right and wrong stand in contrast, with no Sword of Solomon in sight to make the division clear. As we weigh our choices between candidates and their myriad issues, the real victor should be the one who embodies truth, integrity, and the love of Jesus in their heart. This leader must prioritize America and its people, upholding freedom and democracy rather than veering toward ideals that threaten these foundations.

I feel a calm reassurance, knowing God holds me and that His will prevails in every decision. I have prayed and cast my vote. Yet, I recognize that silence can be a missed opportunity. From today on, I intend to boldly proclaim the message of Jesus Christ, standing against what is wrong and inviting others to join the Kingdom of God. My faith will be evident—not just in words but in actions. Let this day resonate as a defining moment for all Americans. Let us vote, pray, and open our hearts to the path Jesus has set for each of us.

Acts 4:31

 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Let’s do it and shake it up today!

God Bless You!

From God

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

How are you doing today? I pray you are well. This morning, I was sure what to write about on the blog. I thought it would be about Mary being an unwed mother. Then, during my prayer and worship time, God gave me something else. The message is relevant to what is occurring in America and worldwide. I am so tired of the election and the news of dissension and hatred. But God reminded me that He is in control. It will not matter who is elected, who bombs who, and what horrific actions are taken against the people. God has raised empires, and He has smitten them down. Well, let’s get to it. Can you tell me if this isn’t relative to today?

Psalm 2

Why do the nations conspire[a]
    and the peoples plot in vain?
2 The kings of the earth rise up
    and the rulers band together
    against the Lord and against his anointed, saying,
3 “Let us break their chains
    and throw off their shackles.”

4 The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
    the Lord scoffs at them.
5 He rebukes them in his anger
    and terrifies them in his wrath, saying,
6 “I have installed my king
    on Zion, my holy mountain.”

7 I will proclaim the Lord’s decree:

He said to me, “You are my son;
    today I have become your father.
8 Ask me,
    and I will make the nations your inheritance,
    the ends of the earth your possession.
9 You will break them with a rod of iron[b];
    you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”

10 Therefore, you kings, be wise;
    be warned, you rulers of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear
    and celebrate his rule with trembling.
12 Kiss his son, or he will be angry
    and your way will lead to your destruction,
for his wrath can flare up in a moment.
    Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

When I copied and pasted it, I left the breaks for emphasis. The last sentence says it all for you and me, “Blessed are all who take refuge in Him.” Take refuge and rest in him, and God will care for the world!

God Bles You!

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!

love and fed the people

Choosing Love Over Hate: A Call to Unite Against Division

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Fellow Travelers,

It deeply saddens me to share that our nation—and my beloved home state of North Carolina—has become a breeding ground for anger, division, and hostility. Even those who serve the public, like FEMA employees, are facing threats to their lives. These are people who have dedicated themselves to helping others in crisis, yet they are now the target of misplaced rage. And what makes it worse is that our own government casts blame on these dedicated workers, who are simply following orders and trying to provide for their families.

If you’re angry, let it be at ourselves. We are the ones who have allowed this toxic environment to grow. We have let it fester through our votes, our silence, and our division. We need to survive not just the hurricanes; it’s the storm of hatred fueled by the leaders we have put in place.

Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Our duty is to help each other, to lift each other up in times of need—not tear each other down. The anger and division we see today are in direct opposition to this call.

In Leviticus 25:35, we are urged: “If any of your brothers become poor among you in any of your towns within your territory that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother.” Yet, here we are, turning our backs on those who need our compassion the most. We have become hardhearted, not just toward the poor, but toward one another. This is not who we are meant to be.

1 Timothy 5:8 warns us: “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” How can we claim to love our families and communities if we allow hate to poison our hearts? How can we stand by while our neighbors are torn down when it is our responsibility to build them up?

This is a call to action. We must reject the division and hatred allowed to take root. We must return to a place of love, compassion, and responsibility for one another. It’s not too late to change the path we’re on—but we must act now.

Let’s bear each other’s burdens, open our hearts and hands to our brothers and sisters in need, and remember that the storms we face, whether physical or emotional, can only be weathered together.

Let’s choose love over hate. Let’s choose unity over division for the sake of our families, communities, and country.

Together, we can be the change.

God Bless You!

God’s Hand

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

How’s everyone doing today? I know the East Coast, especially Florida, has been going through some rough times lately. Nature seems to have its own way of resetting things. My dad used to say, “Nature always does its own house cleaning.” I’ve heard people call it global warming, while others see it as the hand of God. Since God is all-knowing—He sees the past, present, and future—I believe He understands everything happening now. But here’s the thing: He gave us free will, and with that comes the responsibility of how we treat this beautiful world He gifted us. So maybe it’s not just one thing. Perhaps it’s a mix of human choices, environmental shifts, and divine design. It’s hard not to worry about the destruction already taking place and how it might impact our economy, especially here in the South.

Whew! That’s a bit heavy, huh? But fear not! Let me shift gears and share a story of hope—a reminder that God’s hand is always guiding, even when we can’t see it immediately.

When the pandemic started, my family and I had just returned from Texas and moved into our camper for what turned into a few years of makeshift living. It was an adjustment, but we had bigger dreams on the horizon. I’d always felt drawn to the Western mountains of North Carolina—the fresh mountain air made me feel like I could finally breathe again, and the community there was so warm and welcoming. So, we made the decision to plant roots there and began hunting for our new home.

Let me tell you, everything that could go wrong did go wrong. It was almost like we had stepped into a storm that wouldn’t let up. First, we found a house we loved, but the deal fell through. The realtor—who also owned the house—got greedy and tried to pit us against another buyer. I remember looking at my husband and saying, “Enough. We don’t play those games.” So, we withdrew our offer.

Then, while house-hunting, we almost went over the edge of a mountain. I stood at the corner of that house, my heart pounding, and prayed, “God, please, we need Your help.” Moments later, as if out of nowhere, an old truck appeared, chains in hand. It was a neighbor from down the hill, a Christian man who just happened to be driving by when we needed help. It was nothing short of divine intervention. I know God sent him to us.

But the hits kept coming. Our car began having random issues, refusing to start without any clear explanation. After countless trips to the mechanic, they couldn’t figure out the cause. And then, the final straw—I had a heart attack. That’s when we knew it was time to head home. Looking back now, I genuinely believe I wouldn’t be here today if we hadn’t returned when we did. The blockage in my heart was 80% in the widowmaker artery. I needed immediate, specialized care, and being back home gave me access to that.

We had faced many challenges in the mountains, but in hindsight, I don’t think we would have survived the brutal storm, Hurricane Helene, if we had stayed. It wasn’t where we were meant to be, not then.

I’ve always believed that God has a purpose for each of us, and when the time is right, He will show us the path. Maybe now, after everything we’ve been through, it’s our time. Perhaps this is what He has been preparing us for all along.

PSALM 139

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, fellow travelers. I pray this day finds you full of joy and hope. I would like to share with you the amazing, wonderful, heart-tickling bible verse that was shown to me. Let me give you a little background. When I get up each morning, I use the YouVersion Bible app, which is free! It has daily verses, study plans, and people sharing their stories. I love it!! The best part for me is listening to the bible being read by an amazing orator, not AI, but a person, probably an actress.  The emphasis on words and sections brings the Bible to life: swords clanging, Goliath hitting the ground in a plume of dust, and Jesus talking to me! No flat words on a page being mulled over in my mind. Yep! The best way to start my day!

Now, back to this morning. The verse was King David’s Psalm 139, titled God’s Perfect Knowledge of Man. As she read each word, it wrapped around my heart and settled deeply within my soul. As only David can explain, I was moved to listen repeatedly and savor the moment in the Lord’s presence. There are several verses we contemporary Christians take out and use for our benefit occasionally.  But this Psalm needs to be prayed in its entirety. Take it out every morning and either have the YouVersion app read it to you or read it aloud to yourself.  Ask God to give you David’s feelings when he wrote it as you read.

My takeaway from Psalm 139 is:

God knows me and is with me and loves me even when I am in the depths of hell. I pray you feel the same power and love when you read it!

God Bless You!

Psalm 139

You have searched me, Lord,
    and you know me.

You know when I sit and when I rise;
    you perceive my thoughts from afar.

You discern my going out and my lying down;
    you are familiar with all my ways.

Before a word is on my tongue
    you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before,
    and you lay your hand upon me.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
    too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from your Spirit?
    Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
    if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
    if I settle on the far side of the sea,

even there your hand will guide me,
    your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
    and the light become night around me,”
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
    the night will shine like the day,
    for darkness is as light to you.

For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you
    when I was made in the secret place,
    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book
    before one of them came to be

How precious to me are your thoughts,[a] God!
    How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,
    they would outnumber the grains of sand—
    when I awake, I am still with you.

If only you, God, would slay the wicked!
    Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!

They speak of you with evil intent;
    your adversaries misuse your name.

Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord,
    and abhor those who are in rebellion against you?

I have nothing but hatred for them;
    I count them my enemies.

Search me, God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts. 

See if there is any offensive way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting.

Summer Day’s Prayer Reflections

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Friends! I hope today finds you well and cool! It is pretty hot here, not even our cats want to stay outside. It is funny how every summer seems hotter than the last and our blue skies seem dimmer. As the days stretch longer and the sun’s rays grow more intense, it’s a poignant reminder of the shifting climate around us. It’s important to stay hydrated and take care of ourselves and our furry friends during these sweltering days. On days like these, I’m reminded of the beauty of early morning or late evening walks, when the world seems to take a breath and the temperatures are a bit more forgiving. Let’s cherish those moments of respite and take the time to appreciate the simple joys—like a cool breeze or the shade of a leafy tree—that make summer special. And remember the who created all of this for you and me.

These days I think more and more about Jesus and His time here on earth. Jesus made sure to go to peaceful, quiet places to pray, making time for communion with the Father a top priority. If Jesus had a “to-do” list, I imagine the number one item would be to pray. In those moments of prayer, everything else falls into place; our souls find rest and connection with God. It’s similar to linking our phones to other devices—just as those devices can see everything we’ve been doing, talking, texting, and emailing, so does God see into our hearts and lives when we come before Him in prayer. It’s a reminder of the importance of being open and transparent, allowing our innermost thoughts and concerns to be laid bare before the One who understands us completely. Through this connection, we find peace and a renewed sense of purpose in the midst of life’s busyness.

I love being outside when I pray. I sit on our deck, which my husband kindly covered with a canopy and equipped with a fan so I can stay cool even on the warmest days. In the corner, there’s an old camping chair that our runt cat, Grayson, has claimed as her own. Despite being a year and a half old, she’s still the size of a kitten, making her presence all the more endearing. Our outdoor space is furnished with a cozy couch and tables we found at Goodwill, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. I bring my Bible, phone, and ear pods because having praise music is essential for my time of reflection and connection. Sometimes, words flow effortlessly from my soul, pouring out in heartfelt prayer. Other times, it’s all about the silence and stillness, waiting on the Lord to speak into my soul. This sacred time outside, surrounded by nature and the gentle presence of Grayson, becomes a beautiful sanctuary where I can draw closer to God.

Have you prayed lately? I know God wants to commune with you and hold His special child within His arms. And if you are on vacation, remember to take some time for God and sanctuary. Bring your family into this moment so they can learn about the stillness and love of God.

God Bless You!

I am trying to get into the rhythm of writing again. If I can stay healthy and stay on the path God has placed me, maybe I can do it; with Him! Prayers and Love.

Memories

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Everyone!

I hope you’re all soaking up the warmth and joy of summer, filled with treasured memories of family vacations and special moments. As we reminisce about these times, let’s not forget those unforgettable 4th of July barbecues, even thinking of loved ones who are no longer with us. One memory that stands out is from 1974, when America celebrated its bicentennial. My parents hosted a big family gathering at our house, bringing relatives from both sides. I still vividly remember my dad dropping a hotdog on the ground while grilling. He handed it to me without missing a beat, saying, “Just rinse it off with the hose!” I was twelve then and obediently washed it off, thinking it looked fine after a good rinse. When the memory crosses my min it brings a smile to my face.

Summer memories have a special kind of magic, second only to the enchantment of Christmas. This season’s warmth, joy, and laughter feel like a loving embrace, a gentle reminder from the Holy Spirit of how cherished we are. What about you? What memories bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart? Do you ever pause from your busy life, inviting God to join you, listen, and share in these precious moments?

Remember, you are deeply cherished. God desires the very best for you, His precious child. If you ever feel lost or your life seems hopeless, know there is always a path back. You are never too damaged, far gone, or have done unspeakable things for God’s grace and mercy. God forgives it all! You are worthy of forgiveness. Fourth of July can be your Independence Day from shame, hopelessness, and regret. Find a church or a person who can help you find your way to Jesus and support you along the way. Freedom is a wonderful thing!

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.