2 Thessalonians 3: 10 "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule; 'If a man will not work, he shall not eat.'

Apostle Paul stated more than this time the necessity of working. He also wanted to make sure the people understood that he was independent and lived by the work of his own hands. Acts 20: 34 "You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions." Paul learned the skill of tent making and spent time in Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila who were also tent makers.

Dear Readers, It is not a disgrace or a sin to lose ones job. It does happen. However, one must immediately assume the work of searching for another job and go after it with as much energy, determination and prayer as he did at the former daily employment.

When our children were young my husbands employer sold the business and the buyer brought in his own employees. My husband was let go. Since he had a family to support he was zealous in searching for employment. In the meantime though, the men in our church as well as friends in other churches brought to him their needed repair work that required his skills. My husband was able to make enough to meet our necessities until he found full time employment.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the way you take care of your people during hard times. Help us submit ourselves to you as usable vessels to share our bounty with others when they experience life's difficulties. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 4: 18 "Therefore encourage each other with these words."

Apostle Paul was speaking to the church in Thessalonica regarding the second coming of our Lord. He encouraged them to work taking care of their ordinary business until Jesus made His appearance at a date and time known only by God the Father according to Jesus in Mark 13: 32. "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

Many opportunities came my way the twenty-eight years I worked as a cosmetologist in my beauty salon. The daily connection with my patrons was what I missed most when I retired. I saw women at their best and during their darkest hours. It was my prayer that I could encourage them to go on as the result of my giving to them my personal and caring service.

One patron and my friend had a son who was run over by garbage truck when he was a small child. The child had surgery after surgery and due to many infections had to have both legs amputated. My friend  was rearing two younger children during the time she was dealing with her firstborn son's injury. I always prayed over her as I dressed her hair and spoke to her of our Savior's love for her. She appeared uplifted as she left the salon.

One day I saw her coming across the parking lot for her appointment and I knew by the look on her face she was in another crisis. She confirmed what I feared when she told me her husband was one of three men killed in a recent accident. I could not imagine how she could get through such a devastating blow to her and her children's lives. Again I prayed over her and let her talk as needed. We talked about our Lord and she told me she could not make it without our Savior.

Dear Readers, Many times it's in the work place that God opens doors of opportunities for us to encourage and point souls to Jesus Christ. Telling

those suffering about God's love and that He cares about them and their heartache is a blessing for everyone involved.

Lord, help me in your strength to share the burden that troubled souls carry. Help me point them to you, the great Physician and Healer of all

kinds of wounds. Amen

NEHEMIAH 4: 6 "So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart."

Records were kept and credit given to those people doing the work as recorded in the book of Nehemiah. Through the ages the names of those people who gave of themselves to build under Nehemiah's leadership will be noted and honored. All of chapter 3 is given to naming those who worked and the section of the wall they rebuilt. Verse 3 says, "The fish gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid its beams and put its doors and bolts and bars in place. Verse 4 "Meremoth son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, repaired the next section."

Even though they had serious opposition from those who did not want the wall rebuilt, with God's help the work was successful. One of my favorite statements made by Nehemiah to the workmen regarding the dangers that confronted them daily is chapter 4:20 "Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us."

Dear Readers, I hope you will read  the book of Nehemiah. God honors his people when they are not lazy or slothful. He is with us in our struggles

and also our victory celebrations. So much is gained from work. Peaceful sleep, therapy for worriers, relieves stress and many advances in technology happen because of the failures and successes of work. Every material possession we have or will have someone worked for.

Thank you Lord for places of employment and for giving us the skills and insight to make a better world for ourselves and for generations after us.

Psalm 30: 11 "You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.

David wrote this Psalm for the dedication of the temple he did not build. Before he died he prepared everything for building and the dedication even to the songs to be used. Solomon, David's son built the building using the material and plans his father had prepared. Though he knew he was forgiven for the sins he had committed, David grieved much because of them. He wanted to build a house for the God he loved but God chose otherwise.

Dear Readers, I suffered a physical and emotional breakdown when I carried and gave birth to my third child. It was several years before I knew the cause was that my physical body housed an endocrine system that did not provide enough nutrients for one body much less one body plus a fetus. All I knew was that I had suffered a horrible illness. I learned from the experience that mental pain was actually worse and than any pain I had previously suffered. It was strange at the time because I was full of doubts and fears, yet deep inside me was peace and my joy. Such turmoil was going on inside me that I could hardly recognize the tiny spark of inner quiet. Someway the Holy Spirit penetrated my suffering and let me know that He was still with me.

It seemed forever but only five months before my doctor gave me some kind of medication that helped. He had delayed medicating me because I was nursing my baby son. I felt like David. I cried out to God to help me get through just one minute at a time. As His healing came He clothed me with a covering of His Joy.

Lord, I'm so thankful for your presence. Whether my body is experiencing strong emotional feelings or numbness your word promises very clearly that you will never leave or forsake me. Amen

Nehemiah 8: 10 "Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Nehemiah knew that a celebration at the successful completion of the work on the wall would honor God. He also observed that a spirit of joy and purpose made his people strong. Joyful, loving people are strong physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Dear Readers, when America entered World War 11 to keep Hitler from conquering and completely destroying the European nations, our people were glad and wanted to stop that enemy. Then America was hit at Pearl Harbor. We were angry and scared' scared they would bomb mainland California next. When war was declared our people went to work. Military men and women were trained and sent to the war zones. Wives, homemakers, young people-students found jobs after school to help and some took their dad's place and assumed his responsibility in the home. In Michigan I worked at the soda fountain in a pharmacy after high school classes finished daily then also on weekends. Some women who had never worked outside the home became like ROSIE THE RIVETER working in factories that had changed from producing peacetime products to producing what the military needed to win the war. Americans worked together and prayed together.

No one complained about shortages or the rationing of necessary items. We wanted our men and women overseas to have what they needed. We loved and cared for one another at home so our loved ones fighting for America abroad needn't worry about the well-being of the family they left behind. We were joyful and strong because we knew we were doing what was right and what had to be done: helping keep the freedom we enjoyed and keeping the enemy away from our shores. When the victories were won and wars ended the joyful celebrations reverberated around the world and the rebuilding of both family life and nations began.

Thank You Almighty God our Father for your love that keeps us joyful midst times of peace or distress. May we never forget those days when our nation's people were strong because we had one purpose, one goal and one love for each other and for the nation you entrusted to us. Amen

Ezra 3: 13 "No one could distinguish between the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. And the sound was heard for away.

When the temple in Jerusalem was rebuilt the people had to respond in whatever way they felt. The temple was a symbol that Jehovah God was still Israel's God. The noise represented the people's uncontrollable expression of Joy. The gold and silver were free will offerings: an expression of gratitude to the Lord by His people. Ezra 8: 33 "On the fourth day, in the house of our God we weighed out the silver and gold and the sacred articles into the hands of Meremoth son of Uriah, the priest."

Today I have joy and gratitude to share. I have what I need in material possessions, the love of my children and extended family members. I know that God loves me because He has walked with me throughout my life, guiding and guarding me, protecting me from Satan, the  evil one, providing for all my needs, social, physical, and salvation that was provided for me a long time ago with my Saviors blood. I Peter 1:8 "Though you have not seen him, you love him, and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your soul."

Dear Readers, What about you? If you have repented of your sins to God including the sin of unbelief and have given Jesus Christ control of your

life, you have joy to share. Happiness is not joy. Some folks pursue happiness. They go from one activity to another as they try to keep a perpetual elation. Joy Abides and because your sins are forgiven you are free to share that joy with the people God puts in your charge each day.

Lord God, Thank you for your joy, a gift that assures us we will always be with you! Amen

LUKE 24: 2-6 "They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the dead body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you, while He was still with you in Galilee."

Since the Sabbath was upon them there was not time for the women to prepare Jesus' body for burial the day He died. So Mary came with the other women to the tomb early morning of the third day to anoint His body. Last at the cross, first at the tomb! Do you wonder why the women loved our Lord Jesus so completely? In this study I found the culture in Jesus' day to be a, man's world, and that Jesus liberated women. He healed some from demon possession, some from diseases and forgave and helped others to have new lives. One of the ancient prayers prayed included a phrase that revealed the status of women graphically. "I thank Thee, God that I am not a Gentile, a slave, or a woman"

Another proof of the resurrection of Jesus is the empty tomb and also the angel's testimony to Mary that her Lord was alive. I love that the angels always say, "be not afraid," especially this time since it was still dark when the women came to the cemetery. God never wants us to be afraid. When she turned around and saw Jesus Mary acknowledged Him by calling Him teacher. Because He wasn't yet ready to be touched He gave Mary a job. "Go tell my brothers." he said in John 20: 16-17

Dear Readers, Sometimes when conditions around us and our own life's circumstances are bad and yet we sense God's presence near. His Spirit will show us something practical to do for Him and in that obedience He reveals to us clearly how to mend the flaws that overwhelm us.

Heavenly Father, help us keep our eyes on your word and hide it in our heart as your Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are your children. Romans 8:16 Amen

John 20:26-28 " A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace Be with you!" Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to Him, "My Lord and my God!"

Jesus was not sensitive regarding those who doubted the reality of His resurrection. He knew there would be doubting after He went back to His

Heavenly Father and through centuries to come. Because of His disciples future role in spreading the gospel it was extremely urgent they believe the miracle of His resurrection. He was ready and willing to show proof in answer to any doubts. When Peter and John ran to the tomb after Mary told them Jesus was not in the tomb Peter entered the tomb then John entered and looking around didn't see His Lord's body and according to John 20:8 "he saw and believed."

In his writing John's desire was to expound on the signs that would help his reader's believe in the miraculous resurrection of Jesus Christ and make a decision to surrender their life to Him. He was writing not only to inform but also to evoke a decision by the Jewish people to accept Jesus as their long-awaited Messiah.

Dear Readers, I cannot over emphasize the importance of Christ's resurrection from the dead. The four Gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John written independently in separate parts of the Roman Empire attest to the truth of the resurrections as they witnessed it. All of life's relevance and hope is wrapped up in the death, burial and resurrection of the Son of God.

Those disciples who saw Him and were with Him knew beyond a doubt that He was real. They began immediately to preach of the One who can save because they knew Jesus is Alive!

Lord God, Hallelujah what a Savior! Amen

1 Corinthians 15: 20 "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept."

The final proof of the resurrection of Jesus Christ two thousand plus years ago is that the church He constituted has through the centuries survived every persecution that Satan has devised to overcome it. Matthew 16:18 "And I tell you that you are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."

Dear readers, Because of that promise and the great commission where our Lord promised he will be with us as we make disciples of the nations,

(Matthew 28: 18-20) the church will withstand even the transitions being experienced now in our twenty first century post modern culture. We must have faith in God's power to carry out His promises. Jesus told His disciples before He left them for Heaven that all power was given to Him in heaven and on earth and they were to go and make disciples of all nations and that He would be with them to the end of the world. We must love and trust Jesus enough to ask Him to help us love one another and in that love prove He is alive and His Spirit is at work in His church.

Lord God of Heaven and Earth, Thank you for your power that brought about my salvation. Help me be untiring in my effort to proclaim the truth about the victory over evil you won in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Amen.

I Peter 5: 7 "Cast every worry you have on Him, because He cares for you."

Another worry is for our children to feel safe and be safe where ever they are: at home, school, on the sidewalk, on the streets, when they are shopping and when going to play in the public parks.

Dear Readers, I was the youngest child of a single parent. I remember my dad saying to us, "I worry about you girls from the time you are out of my sight until you return home." I also remember my childish, overconfident answer I gave to him, "you don't need to worry because we will be alright." I know Dad prayed for us. My sisters and I often talk about how we sense God's hand on our lives even through adulthood. But for Dad not having my mother to share his fears was difficult. My prayer for single parents today is that they hold their children up before God every day then trust Him to protect them when they are away from home.

Our Father in Heaven, There are so many dangers for our children to face today that we didn't face when we were growing up. So many temptations that Satan places in their face to lure them away from you. Please care for our children because we want your creation to be blessed through them and thus to glorify your name. Amen

Matthew 10:19 "But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you  will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."

Jesus had chosen His disciples and was sending them out on their first assignment. He was sending them out as sheep among wolves. He was sending them out to give a message to the people; a message they had never heard before: not a message about the law but a message of love from God.

Dear Readers, Our Lord was sure His followers would eventually be arrested and would stand before the authorities. What a wonderful promise from our Lord! God's Spirit would speak through them in their defense, or He'd announce the Messiah's presence, or that the kingdom of God is at hand.

Today we are still privileged to be our Lord's hands, feet and voice. As God's spokesperson what are we to say and how shall we respond when confronted with the trials of church fellowship members, neighbors, or extended family members who lost a spouse in death, a son or daughter drops out of the family, someone we love is diagnosed with cancer, or a spouse deserts the family?

We must rely on God's promise to tell us what to say and speak to all the the Spirit's message of comfort. We should always offer to meet to pray and talk thus we become God's instrument of peace to those who are hurting. Someday we too may stand before the authorities to defend our faith in Jesus Christ. Are we ready to listen to the Father's Spirit as He gives to us the appropriate words to say?

Father, here we are at your service! Teach us what message you want us to give the world and just how to give it that will glorify your name and bring a joyful gathering of born again souls into your kingdom. Amen

Matthew 6: 27 "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

At this time Jesus is sitting on the mountainside teaching the multitudes before Him. He started with the Beatitudes and finishes this time of

teaching with chapter 7: 24 "The wise and foolish builders." Please read all of the sermon on the mount: you will be blessed.

Dear Readers, My husband had a long life. He was ninety-one when he went home to our Lord. I don't believe he ever worried which helps me understand the scripture. Perhaps it means that not being a worrier is what will add length to our lives.

However, I worried about him. In his later years he drove motor vehicles for a living. His business covered an approximately one hundred-mile area

sometimes further. I did not always know where he was. So I worried. I'd see him in a hospital or off the side of a mountain where no one would

have seen the accident, I thought he'd had a heart attack and no one knew because he was in a remote area, all these thoughts invaded my mind from time to time until one day God's Spirit said to me, "can you change these circumstances by worrying?" My reaction was positive. From then on instead of worrying I placed my husband in God's hands. I would say, "Lord, he repented and accepted you as his Lord and Savior at age seventeen; he's your child and you have the power so you take care of him for me." When he came home each time safely I would look heavenward and whisper, "Thank you Father."

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your fatherly love. Please help me change what I can change and help me accept accept what I can't change and give me wisdom to know the difference. Amen

Genesis 37:19-20 "Here comes that dreamer!" They said to each other. Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams." Genesis 45: 8 "So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt." Genesis 50:20 "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."

The story of Jacob and Joseph is the true example of a mixed up family. Jacob, the father, was partial to Joseph and his own brother Benjamin. The ten half brothers were so angry and bitter they plotted to kill young Joseph.

Dear Readers, You will be so blessed if you will take time to read again Joseph's entire story. You will conclude that God couldn't possibly use you in His work like He used Jacob's family. The answer is that God will and does use who ever He pleases to accomplish His work of protecting His people and preserving a remnant for the future. He will bless those He calls to do His work just as He did Joseph and his father, Jacob.

If there is a tendency to be partial to any one of your children, ask God to intervene and help you see each of your children's worth. One may have a talent that none of the other siblings have but the other siblings will have a talent or gift that God intends to use for His glory. What a funny world it would be if everyone in each family had the same abilities!

Father, Thank you for including Joseph's story in your Word. I'm encouraged when I read it because it tells me that no real need escapes your watchful eyes and you are always looking into the future and working to bring about the best for your creation. Amen

Proverbs 4:1 "Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding."

I have observed the families where the father taught his children his trade, whatever it was, that his children were close to him with love and respect. My husband's interest was in automobiles and he taught our son how to work on his car. They bonded while working together. They went fishing together and our son learned how to boat and catch fish even though he didn't like to eat the fish like his dad did, they bonded and enjoyed the adventure together.

Dear Reader's, Now my son is teaching his two sons what he knows and the part that is great is they are spending time together and he listens with his heart when his sons talk.

Keeping conversations open gives opportunity for fathers to talk to their children about their relationship with Jesus in a relaxed atmosphere.

Even for our teenage children it is good to give them a hug, a pat on the back or an "I love you." When my daughter and her husband are caring for small foster children they will sit on the floor to be on the same level as the child in order to comfort them when they are hurt or crying.

I have noted with pleasure the families in our church whose father's were strong and actively participating in the church activities. Now, their

children have grown­up children who are active and are responsibly leading out as their Dad did.

Heavenly Father, open our minds to your instruction that we may produce fruit so generations of the future will know your love and salvation. Amen

Romans 16: 3-5 "Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of

the Gentiles are grateful to them. Greet also the church that meets at their house."

During the time Christianity was in its infancy the church met in homes. It was important for the church to gather together for worship since they were under serious persecution. Whether Christians meet in homes are in a beautiful cathedral they are the family of God.

In a normal congregation there are those members who are single, young, middle age, and senior adults who have no family or whose family is far

away. God intends for local church congregations to meet the needs of these members as a family would. Sometime ago a member of my Sunday school class had a liver transplant. She was in the hospital in California for several weeks. She told us she always felt God's presence but on Sunday His power was very strong. She concluded it was God's power in the assembled church that made Sunday different.

Dear Readers, because we are free to assemble for worship or not worship at all, we may not feel the need to assemble together as strongly as those in other lands who are persecuted and killed when they assemble. This is all the more reason for the church to meet on the Sabbath and praise God for His blessing of freedom.

During the cold war when Brother Andrew was smuggling Bibles into Russia, the Christians were meeting secretly wherever they could. They worshiped God and prayed for their freedom. Christians here in America were praying also for the cold war to be over and that freedom would ring around the world. I believe it was God in answer to the sincere prayers of His people that brought Russia down and ended the cold war. Sometimes we are careless about the importance of sincere prayer. Let's sharpen our connection to God and realize while we are praying on Sunday morning especially that our prayers are being felt around the world and answered by our God who loves all of His creation.

Lord God, Thank you for sustaining your church. Help us show our appreciation by faithfully attending, praying and appreciating our brothers

and sisters who worship publicly in other lands at tremendous risk to their lives. Amen

1 Chronicles 16:31 "Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, the Lord reigns!"

This lesson from David is an example of how, even during hard times, we must turn aside from all our work and praise God in song and verse for His

blessings.

Dear Readers, The Pilgrims did praise God for their freedom to worship and though they experienced serious growing pains God was guiding and guarding His people as they worked to build a nation; and build they did. Everyone worked. Men, women, boys and girls shared the responsibility of making their home life good.

During the following years thirteen new colonies were chartered: Virginia 1664, New Hampshire1679, Massachusetts 1629, Maryland 1632, Connecticut 1662, Rhode Island 1663, North and South Carolina both became as one 1729, New York 1664, New Jersey 1702, Pennsylvania 1682, the last of the colonies chartered was Georgia 1732.

Their growing pains included Parliament trying to govern the colonies from England, taxation without representation, disagreements over land, problems with the Indians, crop failures, and trouble with the French settlers.

To settle their differences regarding how to govern themselves representatives from each colony met together in Philadelphia in September 1774 with George Washington, Patrick Henry, and Samuel and John Adams present. They were called the Continental Congress and their conclusion was, to stop trading with England. However, history tells us that this meeting did not solve the problem and the Revolutionary war had to happen to gain America's independence from the nations abroad for all times.

Lord God of all nations, thank you for your love and watch care through these more than two hundred years and may we as Americans fulfill your

intentions that we go into all the world with the Gospel message that faith in Jesus Christ brings salvation and teaches us that we must make disciples all nations for Him. Amen

Psalm 33:12 "Blessed is the nation Whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his own inheritance."

Dear Readers, America is a Gift from God to those who longed to be free and in whom God instilled the courage and determination to risk all for a better life. The Gift of freedom comes with a price: responsibility. At this point the young nation is growing into late adolescence and young Adulthood. From June 1, 1792 through February 14, 1912, thirty-five more states were admitted to the Union making forty-eight. Missouri, my home state, was admitted to the union August 10, 1821. Oklahoma, my husband's native State, had been set aside and called "Indian Territory" a home for Indian tribes. Some ranchers bought grazing rights from the Indians when driving their cattle from Texas to Kansas. Most just took the land. Other people wanted to farm Oklahoma lands. Finally, the government purchased the unused land and set April 22 when white people would be allowed to enter the region. The exciting day came and people on fast horses, in wagons, on foot, and bicycles were lined on all sides of Oklahoma's borders. At exactly 12 noon, soldiers signaled by firing guns around all borders and the race began. By sunset 50,000 settlers, including my husband's father and grandfather were in Oklahoma: People who sneaked across the border to stake their claim before the land race were called SOONERS. Oklahoma was admitted to the Union 1907.

The Continental Congress rules were not enough for the new nation so they were thrown out. After the war for independence and behaving like children, the new states began to quarrel among themselves. They could not agree on the boundaries between the states. "What is mine is mine" was their attitude!

In 1787, fifty representatives from twelve states met in Philadelphia. This famous meeting is called the Constitutional Convention. Rules by which the states could work together as a strong united nation were discussed. For four months the men discussed and planned and by the time it was finished they had written the "Constitution of the United States." However, the people were not happy and said. "The rules do not give enough protection for individual rights." The representatives went back to work and added the amendments they called the "Bill of Rights" these amendments, based on the ten commandments, state that the government can never take away the rights and freedoms of the people. The first amendment guarantees freedom to worship, freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

God of Heaven, what an awesome God you are! Looking backwards we behold what you've done and how you have protected America from Satan, I bow my heart and fall on my knees in your presence singing  what a mighty God we have! Amen

Isaiah 2: 4 "He will judge among the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore." Isaiah is speaking of peace. A peace longed for by all people who know Jesus Christ. A kind of peace we'll live in when Jesus Christ comes again to reign.

Dear Readers, in my lifetime two more States have been admitted to the Union: Alaska, January 3, 1959 and Hawaii August 21, 1959 making a GRAND total of 50! I'm grateful I had the joy of touring both. My husband and I made a point of being in all the States we possibly could and we made it to 48. Yet to visit is North Dakota and New Jersey. The work accomplished by the representatives of the states as they worked on the Constitution was not complete until they drew up rules for the branches of government. They planned for three branches. Our government still has these three branches. The Legislative branch of the government makes the laws for the country. "The House of Representatives and the Senate."

The Executive branch: The President. A group of advisers called cabinet members help the President in running the government and making important decisions. The President is commander-in-chief of all the nation's armed forces. George Washington helped the colonies in many ways in their every day life even to planting and growing their food. He was a strong leader in America's beginning years so the people elected him to be America's first President.

The Judicial branch: The Supreme Court has the important job of deciding whether laws passed by Congress or by state legislatures agree with the

Constitution. If a law takes away a person's rights, the Supreme Court may declare the law unconstitutional. Then it is no longer a law. The Supreme Court may also hear arguments between states. America is a democracy, which means government by the people. Since we elect leaders and representatives to make laws for us we are both a democracy and a republic.

Thank you Heavenly Father for America and for keeping us free. Since some nations have fallen before reaching age two hundred help us stay alert to the challenges and dangers that a two hundred thirty three year old matured nation is confronted with and not shrink from them but meet them with confidence and faith.  Help America to avoid complacency and be discerning regarding what is truth. Amen

1 Corinthians 9: 27 "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be cast aside."

Paul uses the discipline of an athlete to support his thoughts regarding being good stewards of the body that God placed him in. I'm remembering from the Bible the awful beatings he received and even dragged out of town and left for dead. He withstood shipwreck, cruel treatment at the hand of his captors while in prison, no food, sleeplessness, harassments, plus conflicts on the outside and fears within. 2 Corinthians 7: 5. Yet, his body was strong because he worked at keeping fit. It was God's grace that enabled him to endure and live to bless his churches and us by his example and the wonderful letters that are guiding our church life today.

Since we are told in 1 Corinthians 3:16 that our bodies are God's temple and His Spirit lives in us, we are responsible to Him for the care we give our bodies. We must do an honest day's work, be responsible to God for the food we eat and drink: wholesome beverages not those that change who we are, (just because food and beverages are available doesn't mean we must eat or drink them) and we must be disciplined in our behavior.

Dear Readers, By God's grace I walk one mile and a half each day. The walk benefits my knees, digestive system, circulation, and my mind. I can leave the house feeling tired, upset, depressed, or overwhelmed with my many responsibilities but when I finish my walk I'm a different person. I feel up and inspired to finish my chores. While walking I talk with my Father in heaven. I tell Him my heart and name the people I know who are hurting and need His attention that day. Sometimes I just praise God and thank Him for my life and His watch care over me. If I'm feeling empty and can't seem to connect with Him, I start at age eleven, the beginning of my journey with Him, and walk through each phase of my life allowing Him to show me the ways He has been present: guarding, guiding, protecting, admonishing and loving me through all the years. That technique never fails to fill me to overflowing with His Spirit and makes Satan skedaddle.

God our Father, what an awesome God you are. Help us always give to you the honor, glory, and praise due your wonderful Name! Amen

Romans 13:11 "And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed."

Time is the common denominator of God's Creation: we all have the same amount of it. How we use our time is what separates us and makes each one unique. Most of the professional cosmetologists working in my salon scheduled every minute. We allowed ourselves thirty minutes to shampoo and style or blow-dry a patron's hair, forty- five minutes for a haircut and style and two hours for a permanent wave and the same for a color. I became a clock-watcher! Every minute was special and an extra five minutes was a blessing. (We could go to the restroom or snack.)

Dear Readers, When I think of our missionaries on fields of service for years without seeing one soul accept Christ. Yet they keep on day after day praying, loving, hoping and in many places where they serve not daring to mention our precious Saviors name except in their own home. They do their best to show by loving interest and concern that God is real and His power is their enabling force as they carry on His work.

According to Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 there is a time for all of life. We must put a high value on the time God gives us. Jesus said in John 9: 4 "As long as it is day we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming when no one can work." Our night means darkness, illness, aging, loss of opportunity or a closed door.

Lord, help me utilize the minutes you give me and hold them sacred in my heart. Amen

1 John 3: 17-18 "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear

children, let us not love with word or tongue but with actions and in truth.

Wanting to be like Jesus means being good stewards of the possessions God has entrusted to us by helping those who are in need. Journeying with Jesus the three years He was here on earth we note that going from place to place He encountered hurting people. Through His love and compassion He met their needs regardless of what those needs were. We are not able to meet all needs in our world but God¹s Spirit will put in

our hearts where He wants us as individuals to serve and how.

Matthew 25:15 in the "Parable of the talents" Jesus said we must invest our money or we will loose it. Ephesians 4: 28 tells us the Apostle Paul

admonished the Ephesians to stop being dishonest and find something useful to do with their hands in order to have something to share with the needy.

Dear Readers, In Malachi 3: 8-10 God accuses His people of robbing Him. "But," you ask, "how do we rob you?" "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse (the whole nation of you) because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it."

I once heard a Bible scholar say, "if you don't want to give God's tithe (one tenth) of your income to the church, give it to someone deserving,

throw it away or burn it but do not keep God's tithe for yourself because of this scripture where God says you will be under a curse for robbing Him."

When I started working I tithed. It didn't amount to much but as my clientele increased I increased my tithe. God has poured out a blessing on our family, even financial blessings but more importantly He has poured out the blessing of His presence guiding, guarding and protecting my family.

Heavenly Father, I praise you for the Holy Spirit, your wonderful gift and guiding light, that you gave me when I trusted you as my Savior. Amen

2 Timothy 2: "You then my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."

The apostle Paul looked on Timothy as his son and in turn Timothy cherished the son/ father relationship he had with Paul. These are parting words from Paul that Timothy would remember when the persecution of the churches began after Paul's execution.

Dear Readers, Do you remember your teen years? You're probably answering with me, "How could I forget them?" For me it was God's grace that supplied the protection I didn't deserve when I had made a bad choice of a boyfriend. God used my girlfriends to help me see the danger. Even before a relationship was cultivated my friends warned me to stop seeing the individual because I would not come from a relationship with him unscathed.

Even at such a young age I was grateful to God that I listened to the warning from the friendly messengers He supplied. His grace helped me pass through Satan's temptation darts and remain pristine. If you had similar tempting encounters during your teen years write about how God's grace moved you beyond your hurt.

The spiritual strength I gained from overcoming the first temptation was beneficial as I encountered other even stronger temptations. The Holy Spirit always brought to my memory the amazing grace I had experienced earlier in my life. I called on the Lord and He delivered me safely each time.

Heavenly Father, I'm calling out to you today to praise you for your presence in my life. Thank you for guiding and guarding me during this pilgrimage. Amen

Hebrews 4: 16 "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Dear Readers, Two of the most difficult times I faced as a mother were during the serious illnesses of my three children and when they arrived in

their teenage rebellion years. I recall when my second daughter was three. Her tonsils had to be removed because they were so enlarged she barely had a passageway in her throat. She was an asthmatic. We were getting her ready to go home after the tonsillectomy when she began coughing and the doctor told us she could hemorrhage so she should not go home. Hearing that she began to cry. Doctor said, "That won't do either."

We took her home with orders to follow Doctor's instructions. About midnight she began to cough and I saw blood on her pillow. I leaned on God's grace as I prayed for Him to help her stop coughing and to heal her throat. She slept through the night and in the morning began eating her meals like her throat had never been sore. I thanked God for answering my prayer.

My first-born was fifteen when she became angry with her dad and left home. I knew her girlfriend's family so I let her stay a few days while I prayed for her to cool down. I leaned again on His grace as I prayed that she would not make a scene when I went for her. I rang her friend's doorbell and found my daughter packed and ready to come home with me. I praised God for His grace.

For my son I was constantly before God's throne of grace asking that He keep my son alive while he was growing through his teen years. I praise God he survived and grew up to be a good Christian man and father of two sons.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your amazing grace, the great gift, that is sufficient for us today, in all seasons of life, as it was for the apostle

Paul when you promised him your sufficiency for his fleshly thorn. Amen

2 Corinthians 9: 8 "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in

every good work."

God made His amazing Grace: underserved favor, a cover of protection in my childhood. In the teen years when I needed more attention than I was getting, I was tempted by Satan to sell myself short of the parental and godly teaching I had received but God's grace intervened and drew me closer to Him and supplied my needed attention.

As a mother His grace supplied me with courage and strength: physical, emotional, mental, and also wisdom to bring my children up in the love and admonition of Jesus Christ, my Savior.

I now know the fullness of God's grace in my autumn years. I have health issues, lack physical strength, separated from life's partner by death and

yet in all these things God's amazing grace is still amazing. I have a stronger love relationship with my Lord Christ, talking with Him unceasingly and have become an active intercessory prayer warrior. I have a renewed ability to recall Bible verses and Bible stories as needs arise, more compassion and encouragement for people struggling with disappointments in their marriage and children's behavior or failure in their spiritual life. His grace has given me boldness when inquiring as to others relationship with Jesus Christ and sharing His love with them in tangible ways.

God of grace, thank you for your greatness. I give you my thanksgiving and praise for your love and guidance in each phase of my life's journey. Help me Lord to be faithful in sharing your love with the people you send across my path each day. Amen

John 10:17 "The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life ---only to take it up again."

Dear Readers, The Bible is full of messages telling us what it means that Jesus' love for us caused him to come and live then die to pay the price for our sins so that we will live with him in eternity. I had difficulty accepting that he loved ME. I knew he loved the world and I surrendered my life to him. Perhaps I didn't love myself so I could not believe that I was special to him. Perhaps I had not fallen in love with God as the first and greatest commandment told me I must in Matthew 22: 28. "You must love the lord your God with all your heart, mind, body and soul."

I don't know at what point it happened but rather suddenly once when I was praying I felt like God's arms were around me and that I was his. It was a special time and I received assurance that he loves me as an individual the same as he loves each and all individuals he created.

John 21:15-17 tells that after his resurrection Jesus got a confession from Peter because Peter had denied Jesus before the cross, "When they had finished eating Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"

"Yes, Lord," he said, "You know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered," Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love  me?"  He said "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."

Jesus said, "Feed my sheep."

Lord, Thank you that you do know all things and you know when we love you with all our heart and when we don't. Lift us up to where you are, Lord, and help us show the world that you are real, your love is everlasting and your word is true! Amen

Hebrews 4: 12 "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight.  Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account."

WOW! We can't hide ourselves from God, can we? Truthfully, we can't even hide ourselves from our self. But keeping our mind in God's word will

encourage our hearts and lives to continue reaching for the potential He had in mind for us when He created us.

Romans 15:4 is one of the scriptures that helped my daughter keep on keeping on when her sixteen year old daughter (my Granddaughter) died as a result of a car accident, "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

Thank you Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for holding us close to your heart as we walk this earthly journey with its medley of love, joy, sorrow, success, failures, sickness and health, a journey that you walked many years ago, without sin or failure of any kind, while you were en route back to where you came from: Your Father God. Amen

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 "For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance; that Jesus Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."

Dear Readers, Some years ago during a revival meeting at Trinity Baptist church in Norman, Oklahoma a certain gentleman was in attendance. Our church family had been praying for his salvation for several years. On the last night of the revival God's power broke through the strong hold that Satan had on the gentleman and he walked to the alter, took the pastor's hand and the two of them went to their knees. While the church family prayed the gentleman surrendered his life to the Lord Jesus Christ in repentance and faith.

Everyone present, who knew the gentleman, rejoiced, praised God and wept for joy. According to Luke 15:10 our church family was in the company of angels as heaven also celebrated the salvation of a soul. "In the same way, I tell you there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

At age eleven along with my two sisters I accepted the Lord as my personal Savior. Following the service those in attendance came to us and rejoiced with the three of us over our salvation experience. I could tell that my dad was happy and relieved that we were now safe in the arms of our Savior.

God's promises are reliable. He will come into your heart, you only need to repent of your sin of unbelief and give up your control on your life to God The result is that you lose nothing but gain everything. God will help you be what you could never have been had you kept control of your own life. The plus gift is eternal life with Jesus Christ.

Father God, Thank you for loving us so much that you want us to be with you forever! Amen

Lamentations 3: 23 "They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

When Jeremiah was called to prophecy to Israel, he gave a lot of excuses but God had the answer for each one. One of God's answers is found in Jeremiah 1: 5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. Did God actually create prophets to give His people His message?

We can be sure when God calls his people to do a task for him he is faithful to provide the wherewithal to get the job done. Jeremiah was almost killed numerous times because he said to the Israelites the words God told him to say. "Jeremiah 38: 1-13" tells about Jeremiah being thrown into the cistern and sinking into mud when he told the people they were to leave the area or be killed. When the King heard, he ordered the people to rescue Jeremiah before he died in the mud.

Dear Readers, God does not always give us easy tasks but when we are faithful to obey we have peace and God gets the glory. My Dad had a hard task rearing his three girls alone especially hard when we were sick. At age thirteen I became very ill with temperature upwards from one hundred Four. Dad treated me with the medicines he knew but my condition worsened. He walked several miles to get doctor Rutledge. Doctor scolded Dad for treating me with the usual home remedy and drew blood to test for a diagnosis. The blood test showed I had typhoid fever plus an attack of appendicitis. I was at bed rest for three weeks and a liquid only diet. It could have been six weeks and hair loss except for the inoculation against typhoid I had received three years before. I know God gave Dad peace during his tireless efforts to rear us. Now in our eighties we three sister's praise and glorify God for life.

Father God, Thank you for your faithfulness to your people during hard times. Thank you for my earthly father who stayed faithful to the task of

rearing his children depending on you only to guide him especially when serious illnesses struck. Amen

Isaiah 25: "Oh Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago."

One of the greatest and most moving stories in the Bible is that of Joseph. God promised Abraham he would be the father of a great Nation. Problem number one: Abraham had no children, problem number two: Abraham was old and number three: his wife was also beyond childbearing age. Conditions looked impossible for God's promises. However, Luke 18: 27 says. "Jesus replied, 'What is impossible with men is possible with God.' So it was that God gave Abraham a son, Isaac. To Isaac God gave twin sons, Jacob and Esau. To Jacob God gave twelve sons that included Joseph.

I see much about God's faithfulness in Joseph's life. He knew God had a plan for his life when he kept having those dreams that got him in trouble with his brothers. That knowledge strengthened Joseph during the testing and proving God used in Egypt to prepare him to handle the responsibility of feeding the world during the famine. Also God used Joseph to be the instrument in preserving a remnant for a future nation according to the promise God made to Abraham then Jacob.

Dear Readers, Jacob was fearful about going to Egypt because of God's promise made to his father Isaac. But God spoke to Jacob, Genesis 46: 2-3 "Jacob I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I will go down to

Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes."

Though approximately four hundred years would lapse before God delivered his people from Egypt's bondage, they had become a great nation of more than six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty men plus women and children.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your faithfulness to your promises no matter how many years before they come to pass. Amen

Psalm 89: 5 "The heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones."

Before Christ returned to the Father He constituted His church. He promised His disciples He would preserve His church against the gates of hell. That promise is being faithfully kept. Persecution of the church was intense when apostle John wrote to the seven churches in the book of Revelation from the isle of Patmos. He was exiled there for preaching Jesus as the awaited Messiah.

During the years labeled "dark ages" the history of the activities, or lack of, in the church are veiled. Coming out of those dark ages were two

denominations: Catholic and Anti Baptist. The Anti Baptist people were so called in protest against a man who baptized himself. Later in history many pilgrims sought freedom to worship God as they pleased. They left England and Holland for America. The freedom to worship they sought is now in jeopardy.

Dear Readers, Christ's church is persecuted in the world today. Entire families are persecuted and some have sacrificed their lives because they

worship Jehovah God and His Son, Jesus Christ. In the persecution against the church God is faithful to protect his church from Satan, God's enemy who continues working to bring Christ's church to extinction or at least render it ineffective. For me life would be an empty and senseless existence without the church where I gather with other people to worship God and His Spirit is present in power.

Jesus knew we needed one another. When we gather to worship God as one body, we fulfill the purpose Christ intended for His church. We receive spiritual food for our souls, enough to sustain us until we meet together again. In the assembled church God's power is awesome. Power enough to defeat Satan, yet in many cases God's power is diluted because of squabbling among the members over petty disagreements that amount to nothing in comparison to the reason we assemble together. Lets ask God to overpower Satan so we can worship God and glorify Christ who died to give us eternal life with Him. Also, utilize that power as we pray for unbelievers and one another then go out from each other to be the church in the community loving and serving our neighbors, in obedience to the second commandment.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your faithfulness to your church. I beseech you to help us utilize the power you have given us to love and forgive each other and take seriously the threat to our freedom that is emerging on the horizon in our nation. Amen