Tag: Jesus

New Orleans Tragedy

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Fellow Travelers,

This morning, my heart was heavy as I lifted up a prayer for New Orleans, for the victims, their families, and everyone touched by the devastating terrorist attack. It’s hard to fathom the pain and loss they are enduring and will continue to face in the days ahead. In moments like these, we must come together as one nation, offering a collective embrace of love and support. Writing letters to the city, to let them know they are not alone, is a small but meaningful way to stand with them. I plan to send one to the mayor’s office—will you join me?

Today, my sadness is mingled with righteous anger. The kind of ideology that justifies violence against those who believe differently is not faith; it’s a betrayal of humanity. It is a manifesto of destruction that has no place in a world striving for peace. Our freedoms in the United States are precious, and we will not let fear or hatred strip them away. The voice of the American people has spoken loudly and clearly, and we stand united in our resolve to protect what we hold dear. God has shaken us awake over these past years, reminding us of His presence and His call to stand firm under His guidance.

Some may ask, “Where was God in New Orleans?” I believe He was there, grieving with those who grieve and standing against the evil that arose. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the battles we face, both seen and unseen. As we move forward, we must align our hearts, our families, and our communities with God’s will. Only through this realignment can we hope for lasting peace and restoration. God has given us a chance to rebuild—not just policies or systems but our very souls. Let us rise to this challenge with faith, love, and unwavering determination.

Here is my blessing for New Orleans, with a little help from the Apostle Paul.

May God Bless You and Keep You.

May His Face shine upon you.

May God position His angel armies around New Orleans, blocking all flaming arrows from evil.

May God wrap His loving and healing arms around the victim’s families, friends, and anyone who has been traumatized. And anyone who can use a Holy hug from Jesus.

May God give New Orleans its bright lights, glitter, and music back so that it can share its own hope with the world.

And may God bless all who read this blessing.

In Jesus Name, Amen!

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

Santas Magic hat

I DID IT!

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

Last week, I was silent online because I was busy. I finished the layout part on Amazon/ KDG publishing, which means my Christian Children’s book Santa’s Magic Hat will be live on Amazon in three days. It is time for the happy dance and then to move on to the novel.

I put this on Amazon to encourage parents to buy the book for their children.

Discover the Heartwarming Story Behind Santa’s Magic Hat!

In Santa’s Magic Hat, children will embark on a delightful adventure to the North Pole, where joy, kindness, and faith shine brightly! Watch as Santa and his cheerful elves prepare for Christmas with their fun-filled Countdown Dance, spreading the holiday spirit in every step. But the real magic begins with Santa’s extraordinary red hat—a gift with a heavenly purpose.

This enchanting story reveals how Santa’s hat helps him share love, kindness, and the true meaning of Christmas with children all over the world. Perfect for kids ages 4 to 8, this book combines festive fun, colorful traditions, and a heartwarming message about Jesus’s love.

Give your child the gift of a story that celebrates the magic of Christmas while pointing to the greatest gift of all!

What do you think?

Please in three days check out Santa’s Magic Hat.

God Bless You!

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.

Hatred Brings Tumultuous Times

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

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!