Hatred Brings Tumultuous Times

Those who fan the flames of hatred remain untouched by the venom they spew, sheltered by their wealth and power. They pass down their rancid legacy to the rest of us, burdening us with their corrosive influence. But here’s the truth: we don’t have to accept their toxic gift! We have the power to live with true integrity, guided by the profound plan Jesus laid out for us. Each of us is endowed with the gift of Christian discernment—a divine ability to view our lives and the world through the lens of God’s Word and apply that sacred wisdom to our everyday choices.

But then again, it is easier to hate than to love, blame others, or take responsibility for our actions. Getting instant news and information from influencers, actors/actresses, famous sports figures, or media icons is more accessible. What is happening in America is a culmination of our own irresponsibility, religious seatwarmers, and lukewarm Christians. We don’t want to step on the toes of organizations and people whose philosophy differs from ours. Can you hear the tree fall in the forest? Silence is not golden or good at this time in Christianity!

We have removed God from our Judeo-Christian country. Yes, that was one of America’s founding principles, and our younger generations have no clue. Why? Because they were not taught history, real history. Our founding principles are lost and will become myths and folklore if we do not correct them. What is happening in the Middle East is not “now” news; it goes back to the Ottoman Empire. You will be shocked if you begin to read up on history and how in tune it is with our Bible.

 And in our Bible, God tells Abraham in Genesis 12:3

I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and pin you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

I am deeply convinced that God is withdrawing His hand of favor from America, and in the coming months, we will be engulfed by rising tides of hatred, agitators, and troublemakers. The truth is that those who stir the pot are exploiting us for their gain—fueling their power and amassing wealth at our expense. Reflect on this: Are you relying on God’s divine discernment to guide your decisions, or are you being swayed by manipulative voices seeking to serve their interests? The choice is clear, and the stakes are high.

During our time back home, finding a nearby church has been challenging, which is crucial for me and my ever-present health issues. While watching local churches on YouTube on Sundays, we stumbled upon a church that immediately resonated with us. My husband and I were impressed by the church and its pastors, so we started tuning in on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. After four months, we’ve grown very fond of it. However, it turns out the church is located seven hours away in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Now we’re considering whether a move might be necessary. I’m sharing this because I believe being physically present in a church community is especially adamant during these tumultuous times.

My family and I will continue to look for a local church while watching World Outreach Church on YouTube. We will pray, treat others with respect, and openly demonstrate our values and love for Jesus for all to see.

We can turn America around back to the Judeo-Christian values the Pilgrims, and our founding fathers came to imbed into this land.

God Bless You!

Navigating the Unseen Spaces of the Heart

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.

Nurturing Self and Others

Hello there! As we find ourselves in the swift currents of February, it’s a good moment to pause, take a breath, and genuinely ask ourselves, “How are you doing?” This month is often associated with expressions of love, and in the spirit of “Give Love to Get Love,” it serves as a timely reminder to not only extend kindness to others but also to conduct a thoughtful mental health check-up for ourselves.

February, with its Valentine’s Day celebrations, is traditionally dedicated to love, affection, and connection. While expressing love to our friends, family, and partners is undoubtedly important, let’s not forget the significance of self-love and self-care. In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook our own well-being. This month encourages us to prioritize our mental health and emotional balance.

Taking a moment to reflect on your mental well-being doesn’t necessarily mean dwelling on challenges or stressors; it can also involve acknowledging your achievements, expressing gratitude, and embracing moments of joy. Cultivating self-awareness allows us to better understand our emotions and respond to them in healthy ways.

Consider incorporating simple yet effective practices into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. These activities can contribute significantly to your mental health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and fostering a positive mindset.

In addition to focusing on self-care, February offers an opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, can have a profound impact on our relationships and our own sense of well-being. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, not just to express love but also to genuinely inquire about their

well-being. Sometimes, a thoughtful conversation can be a powerful form of support.

Remember that mental health is a continuous journey, and checking in on yourself doesn’t have to be reserved for a specific month. However, the symbolism of February can serve as a gentle nudge to prioritize your emotional well-being and strengthen the connections that contribute to a fulfilling life.

As we navigate the rapid pace of the year, let’s make an intentional effort to give love, receive love, and nurture our mental health. May this month be a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle, taking care of ourselves and each other is a meaningful and valuable pursuit.

God Bless You!

Joni