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Devotional for Tuesday ~ 1 August 2017 / 9 AV 5777
This day, the 9th of AV, is known as the saddest day on the Jewish calendar. It is significant for me that my devotional would fall on this very important day in the history of the nation of Israel. I would like to share a section of my testimony that reveals why this day became extremely memorable for me too!
May God be with you and your loved ones!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
Excerpt from “Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony,”
by C. Read (Victory Edition)
“PREFACES TO THE PREVIOUS EDITIONS (1995–2002)
I believe we are embarking on a time in history that will be like no other. The world is changing so fast that at times it is hard to keep up. But praise God, the eternal truth of God’s holy word is timeless.
The devil is out to lead astray whosoever he can deceive into believing his lies, and he has been quite effective. His objective is to steal from you, kill you, and destroy you in any way possible. But if God’s favor is upon you, He can intervene on your behalf, which is why God’s grace is so important.
I am certain that everything in connection with this book is under the faithful care and guidance of Almighty God. And it was only through providence that I received my first perfect-bound book from the publisher exactly two years to the day that the True Light pierced the darkness!
One day, all God’s people will know exactly what has taken place in obscurity, and then they will realize how God has been working among so many others, even the enemy, to have His perfect will accomplished.
I have endured much opposition, from within and without, but I am determined to share what I have witnessed. Moreover, it is only by the grace of God that I will fulfill the call that He has placed upon my life.
This book is a collection of transcripts and letters written before, during, and after God delivered me from my enemy; and as you continue reading, you will see how I came to be in such a dangerous and vulnerable situation. I have slightly edited some of the letters for clarity, but I did not alter the content.
Most of the original letters that I had sent out were signed, sealed, and notarized at the chancery clerk’s office, by direction of the Lord. I know this practice is somewhat unorthodox, and I have not done it in the past, but there again, I am not the same as I was before. Praise God!
Since the night of 28 February 1993, my relationship with God has taken on new purpose and meaning. The overwhelming desire of my heart is to please my heavenly Father in everything I say and do, and to be obedient to Him regardless of whether I fully understand or know all the reasons why.
My purpose in sharing my story is so that others may gain a better understanding of this war that we are in. You might be completely unaware of the danger, or you may not even acknowledge God, or Satan; but it is so important that you find out whose side you are on, before it is too late.
Please keep in mind that the enemy does not want you to become aware of any of this, since my testimony exposes him for who he really is. Satan will try any means possible to divert your attention away from this book, but I hope you will persevere if you want to know the truth of what I have learned about his
tactics.
The memory of what Christ has done for mankind has become so tainted with evil. Apostasy, hypocrisy, and compromise are bringing churches down, and the name of Jesus continues to be misused and abused for personal, political, and financial gain. And it has even gotten to the point where you must have a very guarded approach toward those who claim to be Christian.
God said that many would come in His name, yet they are ravenous wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing, seeking to lead God’s people astray. This is why we must pay close attention to what people do, not just what they say.
It is imperative to come to terms with the fact that as long as you are living in this world, you too are at great risk of walking with the enemy. And only by walking in the True Light can you understand the adversary.
You also need to realize that the true condition of your heart will greatly affect how you will respond to the words that Almighty God has given. Only the sincerely humble will fully appreciate the message.
May you truly grasp what you are about to read, and may God grant you the grace, knowledge, and wisdom you will need in order to comprehend and apply these wonderful truths to your life.
It is not my desire to bring attention to myself or other innocent people, and for that reason, I have changed or deleted names and places so as not to identify specific individuals and their whereabouts.
The deception that I was in could happen to anyone, anywhere in the world. In fact, it is going on at an alarming rate! The only consolation is that God has warned us about it in the holy scriptures.
Since my “translation” from darkness into His glorious light, I see that dates and events are important to God, despite the fact that my enemy tried to get me to believe otherwise. Looking back, I see how significant they really are.
The Ninth of Av (5759), aka Tisha B’Av, became very meaningful for me in the course of writing this book. According to tradition, the enemies of Israel destroyed both of the Jewish temples in Jerusalem on the ninth day of Av.
Reportedly, the first temple was burned down by the Babylonians in the year 586 BC, and the second temple was completely destroyed by the Roman Army, under the command of Titus, during the Jewish revolt in AD 70.
These temples represented God’s presence in the midst of His chosen people, but praise God, we don’t need a man-made building for our heavenly Father to reveal Himself to us today. And if you will allow the Lord God to purify your heart, He may choose to make His habitation with you! But it can
only happen through Emmanuel, the Messiah of Israel.
We are at a turning point in this battle for the souls of men, and it won’t be long before Jesus “will swallow up death in victory!” Praise the precious name of Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus Christ—the Anointed One!
If you happen to find out that you are on the wrong side, my sincere hope and prayer for you is that this testimony will encourage you to get on the side of the Lord, while there is still time.
And if you are one who is truly seeking God with all your heart, my most earnest prayer for you is that you will come away from here with more of a love and a deeper appreciation for God the Father, Jesus Christ His Son, and the Holy Spirit of the most high God!”

Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony

My friend is excited to go.
He is ready to be free of pain.
He is ready to see glory face to face.
I told him I was jealous of him because he was going to see Jesus before me. But that's not necessarily true. Who knows? I might have died on my car ride home. I might die this afternoon. Whenever God wants to, He will take me home. I am excited, as my friend is; I am not afraid. It will be a time of celebration.
There is a quote that goes, "If you are not ready to die, neither are you ready to live."
Now, I am not prepared to pull this quote apart. I admit I do not understand it from all sides. I feel like I understand it in my heart, but I cannot seem to get the words out right. What does it say to you?
Are you too comfortable on this earth to desire heaven? I hope not, my friend.
There is nothing wrong with experiencing a little suffering.
That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
-Philippians 3:10
If you are going through a difficult time, dealing with death, I hope these verses comfort you.
And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
-Revelation 14:13
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
-John 11:25-26
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
-2 Corinthians 4:17-18
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
-Revelation 21:4
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
-Romans 14:8
I think this is what the quote means.
Romans 6:8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
Romans 6:8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.
Monday, August 7
This morning I awoke to the sound of a good soaking rain falling on the roof. The scent of wet grass and earth came to me through the open window. Today was the kind of morning that was made to sleep in. I enjoyed laying in bed listening to the rain and the sounds of early morning in the country. I had to eventually get up and close the window because the wind started to blow rain into the house. As I went from room to room closing windows, I noticed how clean the rain made everything. I started thinking about how God uses rain in the Bible. While searching for verses, I came across this one:
Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness, let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit; let the earth cause them both to sprout; I the Lord have created it. Isaiah 45:8
It is awesome to think that the rain not only causes the seeds we planted in the ground to grow, but that it helps the seeds of salvation that we have sown in others to sprout. It also helps the seed of righteousness to take root in ourselves.
God created all things and the circle of life is more connected than we have comprehended. The next time it rains, rejoice! Rejoice for the fresh drinking water that sustains our bodies. Also say a pray that the seeds of salvation and righteousness sprout and take root in the hearts and souls of every person that the rain touches. Do your part spread the Word (Seed) of Salvation through Jesus Christ.
This morning I awoke to the sound of a good soaking rain falling on the roof. The scent of wet grass and earth came to me through the open window. Today was the kind of morning that was made to sleep in. I enjoyed laying in bed listening to the rain and the sounds of early morning in the country. I had to eventually get up and close the window because the wind started to blow rain into the house. As I went from room to room closing windows, I noticed how clean the rain made everything. I started thinking about how God uses rain in the Bible. While searching for verses, I came across this one:
Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness, let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit; let the earth cause them both to sprout; I the Lord have created it. Isaiah 45:8
It is awesome to think that the rain not only causes the seeds we planted in the ground to grow, but that it helps the seeds of salvation that we have sown in others to sprout. It also helps the seed of righteousness to take root in ourselves.
God created all things and the circle of life is more connected than we have comprehended. The next time it rains, rejoice! Rejoice for the fresh drinking water that sustains our bodies. Also say a pray that the seeds of salvation and righteousness sprout and take root in the hearts and souls of every person that the rain touches. Do your part spread the Word (Seed) of Salvation through Jesus Christ.

Do your part spread the Word (Seed) of Salvation through Jesus Christ..."
Amen!

Devotional for Tuesday ~ 8 August 2017 / 16 Av 5777
I have shared the following passage with my dear children many times before, as it is such an important and vital message. I hope you will prayerfully consider these wonderful teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Mark 4:1 “And He [Jesus] began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto Him a great multitude, so that He entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.
Mark 4:2 And He taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in His doctrine,
Mark 4:3 Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:
Mark 4:4 And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.
Mark 4:5 And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:
Mark 4:6 But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.
Mark 4:7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.
Mark 4:8 And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.
Mark 4:9 And He said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Mark 4:10 And when He was alone, they that were about Him with the twelve asked of Him the parable.
Mark 4:11 And He said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:
Mark 4:12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
Mark 4:13 And He said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?
Mark 4:14 The sower soweth the word.
Mark 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
Mark 4:16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
Mark 4:17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.
Mark 4:18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,
Mark 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
Mark 4:20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
Mark 4:21 And He said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?
Mark 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
Mark 4:23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
Mark 4:24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.
Mark 4:25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.”
Only through Jesus Christ working in our lives can we even have a “good heart” to receive the Word of God, and ultimately produce fruit for the glory of God— “some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.”
Sometimes we do things just right, other times we are a little better than average; and then on those bad days, we don't do so good; but I thank God for His patience and long-suffering toward us as we strive to be pleasing to Him!
After all, that is what's most important--to have a sincere and repentant heart before God that earnestly desires to follow the Lord Jesus Christ, and His truth, no matter where that might lead...
May God abundantly bless and keep you, my dear family in Christ, as you walk with the LORD in the True Light of His holy word!
With love,
C. Read

I've just been thinking, how ridiculous it is that we allow the people around us to control our emotions. Not that people shouldn't impact one another-- we should enjoy each other's company and empathize with others' sorrows and have good fellowship, but we cannot expect too much of people. After all, people are just people... we do not have magical powers just because we are Christians. We are not perfect, we are not pure. We are not able to fix each other.
"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help."
Psalm 146:3
"Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?"
-Isaiah 2:22
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man."
Psalm 118:8
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
-Jeremiah 29:11
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
-Psalm 46:1
God is 100% perfect. God is 100% all-knowing. God is 100% all-loving. God is 100% avaliable. God is 100% truthful. God will never let you down, my friend. He has never let me down. The best way to be joyful and able to bring joy and light to others is to be joyful ourselves. The only way to be truly joyful and at peace, is to trust God with our hearts and minds and bodies and lives. If we feel something is lacking in our daily routine, perhaps it is the Holy Spirit whispering to you, "Read the Word". If we are lonely in a crowd of people, perhaps it is God saying, "Draw near to me and be filled". He is a wellspring of strength and perseverance but He won't give it unless we ask. He wants us to ask, He really does. He wants to spend time with us. When we do He readily equips us to be a blessing to other people. And that is what the Christian family is about-- encouraging one another to grow in His grace and light and maturity.
Yes, It is hard to be patient and kind to those people who seem ornery or bitter, but if we ask God for help in dealing with them, He will definitely help, don't you doubt it. Maybe you can pray about it and pick one day next week to "Bless someone's socks off". You might be doing more good than you realize. People who need love the most, ask for it in the most unloving ways.
I pray for joy, patience, perseverance, and hope for you, my friend.
HailSaira wrote: "Devo for Friday
I've just been thinking, how ridiculous it is that we allow the people around us to control our emotions. Not that people shouldn't impact one another-- we should enjoy each other'..."
Great message. God Bless You
I've just been thinking, how ridiculous it is that we allow the people around us to control our emotions. Not that people shouldn't impact one another-- we should enjoy each other'..."
Great message. God Bless You


Hi Pamela, I'm so glad that the Lord allowed me to bless you. Yes, the Lord uses whatever means He needs.
Although, other people benefited from the message (you are proof), I needed to meditate on it myself too. I think the message is always more powerful when the author actually is living through it.
Monday, August 14
Ecclesiastes 3:
1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
Time has been moving quickly for me the last couple of months and will continue to do so through September. A few months ago, I went wedding dress shopping with my daughter and this weekend we moved our son's possessions to his college apartment. My son came back home with us for one more week before leaving to stay. I consider myself fortunate that he will only be two hours away. This weekend, time seemed to be moving in fast motion and I have a feeling that it will continue to do so through the end of September when my daughter gets married. I am reminded often that there are different seasons in life and that my season as a stay-at-home mom has come to an end. Now I must find my place in this world once again. It is as it should be. I believe that God designed these moments in life for us to take stock of where we are so that we will discover if we are where we need to be in our journey toward our home in Heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:
1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
Time has been moving quickly for me the last couple of months and will continue to do so through September. A few months ago, I went wedding dress shopping with my daughter and this weekend we moved our son's possessions to his college apartment. My son came back home with us for one more week before leaving to stay. I consider myself fortunate that he will only be two hours away. This weekend, time seemed to be moving in fast motion and I have a feeling that it will continue to do so through the end of September when my daughter gets married. I am reminded often that there are different seasons in life and that my season as a stay-at-home mom has come to an end. Now I must find my place in this world once again. It is as it should be. I believe that God designed these moments in life for us to take stock of where we are so that we will discover if we are where we need to be in our journey toward our home in Heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:..."
Hi Rita Faye,
I understand exactly what you are going through... Such bitter sweet moments in our lives. Change can be so wonderful, yet at the same distressing... But praise God, He is the same, today, yesterday and forever! And His holy word is timeless!
Keep looking to the LORD God Almighty for everything! We surely need Him. The days are VERY evil! And only God can show us the way we need to go as we walk with Him in the "True Light" of His holy word....
I am reminded of the words of the Lord when He said:
John 9:4-5 "I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I AM in the world, I AM the Light of the world."
God bless you honey as you walk with Him in truth!
With the love of Christ,
C.

Devotional for Tuesday ~ 15 August 2017 / 24 AV 5777
Please consider this important passage as written by the Apostle Paul to "the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:"
Ephesians 5:1 “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
Ephesians 5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Ephesians 5:4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
Ephesians 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Ephesians 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Ephesians 5:7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
Ephesians 5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Ephesians 5:9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
Ephesians 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
Ephesians 5:12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
Ephesians 5:13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.
Ephesians 5:14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.
Ephesians 5:15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.”
I have much I could write about the abject evil that I see taking place in the “name of the Lord,” in these final days, and I hope to share some of my great concerns about the absolutely apostate condition of many of the churches, but for now I would like to leave you with this question that I hope you will prayerfully consider in your heart: Do YOU fear GOD?
The days are EVIL, and there will come a time when we will not be able to work. May we, as Real Christians, be busy about the work of the LORD—which is to be a faithful follower of the LORD Jesus, in word and in deed, who directs others to the true gospel of Christ, as we are led by His Holy Spirit!
Ephesians 6:24 “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.”
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
C. wrote: "Rita Faye wrote: "Monday, August 14
Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:..."
Hi Rita Faye,
I understand exactly what you are going through..."
Thank you C
Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:..."
Hi Rita Faye,
I understand exactly what you are going through..."
Thank you C

Before anything...I would like to praise and thank God for letting me back with my REAL CHRISTIAN family here!
I missed everybody, most especially the Devotionals! It's always great to hear from you faithful in Christ!
This Devo is intended for Thursday (my sked) but my connection failed...
"On SERVICE"
Our "time" now is very precious, and very fast! How we wish we can have time for everything as Rita Faye shared...
Our "Days" is truly evil as my Dear Friend C shared... that's why we need to be busy working for the Lord as we still have time, because there will come a time that we can no more work for Him...
This principle about service I read from a book given to me by one of my teachers in the Bible school last 1991...
As a young medical student, David Livingstone gave his life to God's service, determined to work in whatever part of the world he was needed the most. He first planned to become a missionary to China. However, when he heard the words of Robert Moffat of Africa, "From the hill where I live I can see the smoke of a thousand villages where no Christian has ever gone," he was challenged to go to that great continent and dedicate his medical talent and his life to alleviating the sufferings of so many, and to bring them hope of the Gospel of Christ.
When people asked him why he was going to Africa as a medical missionary, David Livingstone answered: "God has an only Son, and He was a missionary and a physician."
Toward the end of his years, Livingstone beautifully describe his life of service: "People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa. Can that be called a sacrifice which is simply paid back as a small part of a great debt owing to our God, which we can never repay? Is that a sacrifice which brings its own best reward in healthful activity, the consciousness of doing good, peace of mind, and a bright hope of a glorious destiny hereafter? Away with the word in such a view, and with such a thought! It was emphatically no sacrifice. Say rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, or danger,now and then, with a foregoing of the common conveniences and charities of this life, may make us pause, and cause the spirit to waver and the soul to sink, but let this only be for a moment. All these are nothing when compared with the glory which shall hereafter be revealed in and for us. I never made a sacrifice. Of this we ought not to talk when we remember the great sacrifice which He made Who left His Father's throne on high to give Himself for us."
What a service, what a thought!
May we, as my Dear Friend C just wrote, "be busy about the work of the Lord."
Blessings!
Thank you for reading.
May we will always be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might!
Arnie, Happy you are back. Great devo.

(sorry, one day late.)
I am going though a dry season. Not much excites or encourages me; it is so easy to get caught up in the negative side of life. My spirit is weary within me. Reading the Bible helps but I am still feeling empty. I am praying, but God is saying "Wait" "wait". I don't know what I am waiting for. I wish I didn't have to go through this, but there is a time and reason for everything and I believe God is shaping me and molding me for His purposes. Are any of you going through a time like this?
Keep seeking God--that's what He wants us to do.
I cling to these verses in my time of emptiness:
Matthew 11:28-30
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Romans 8:25-31
But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Jeremiah 29:13
And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Matthew 7:7
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Romans 5:5
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Take heart, my dear friend, and be encouraged in the Lord!
Roman 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Don't stop praying and don't stop believing. It will not always feel like this. Know that I love you and I prayed for you.
HailSaira,
I went through a time like that a few years ago, I don't remember exactly what brought me out of it. I do remember studying the Bible and praying. I also forced myself to do the things that I had always enjoyed doing, then one day I felt better. Hymns, sermons, study time and prayer time seemed to be more meaningful. My time with my family seemed more precious and I realized one day that I had been laughing and smiling all day. I still don't know exactly why I went through my dry spell but I still feel that God is preparing me for something.
I read a series Seasons by Terri Blackstock and Beverly LaHaye, the women in the books go through tough times. They decided to find the blessings in each day no matter how difficult the day. I have tried it and it does help.
p.s. Have you had a checkup lately? Thyroid problems can make you feel listless and negative.
Praying for you
I went through a time like that a few years ago, I don't remember exactly what brought me out of it. I do remember studying the Bible and praying. I also forced myself to do the things that I had always enjoyed doing, then one day I felt better. Hymns, sermons, study time and prayer time seemed to be more meaningful. My time with my family seemed more precious and I realized one day that I had been laughing and smiling all day. I still don't know exactly why I went through my dry spell but I still feel that God is preparing me for something.
I read a series Seasons by Terri Blackstock and Beverly LaHaye, the women in the books go through tough times. They decided to find the blessings in each day no matter how difficult the day. I have tried it and it does help.
p.s. Have you had a checkup lately? Thyroid problems can make you feel listless and negative.
Praying for you

Thank you so very much for your encouraging message. At this point words are very important to me and it seems I am overly sensitive. I really appreciate the positive note. I will continue to pray and worship and read. Thank you for the book reccomendations.
I suppose every Christian goes through one or more of these "seasons".
I'll see about a checkup. Thanks for the prayers.
In Christ,
Saira

Thank you so very much for your encouraging message. At this point words are very important to me and it seems I am overly sensitive. I really appreciate the positive note. I will continue to..."
HailSaira
Hello! I am about to go to sleep and I decided to read some Devo here...
Thank you for your sharing. I also have just gone through this dryness a while ago, but the Lord keeps reminding me through my family, my circle of Christian friends, my inner circle of pastor friends (including my Dear Friend C), and most especially the verses (promises) you have just shared! To God be the glory!
Thank you, and may our Dear Lord Jesus send you help hastily so that you can feel His love and the warmth and joy and encouragement you rightly need this moment...
Praying for you...
arnie
Devotion for Monday, August 21
I apologize for forgetting to do my devotion. I felt physically and mentally tired yesterday, I think from all the packing and mental lists I had to make sure that my son didn't forget anything for his move.
I know the following verses are for prayer but I believe that the Holy Spirit has given me my devotions many times when I didn't have one and he is giving me one once again.
Romans 8:26-28 “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
I often can't find the words to express in prayer what is in my heart. It gives me hope and comfort to know that the Holy Spirit is interceding for me during those times just as He has aided me now.
I don't have words today to uplift and encourage you, all I can do is pray that the Holy Spirit will strengthen you, as always. I pray that God provides you with what is needed this week and that He uplifts you and helps you to find happiness in this life and joy in serving Him.
May God Bless You All
I apologize for forgetting to do my devotion. I felt physically and mentally tired yesterday, I think from all the packing and mental lists I had to make sure that my son didn't forget anything for his move.
I know the following verses are for prayer but I believe that the Holy Spirit has given me my devotions many times when I didn't have one and he is giving me one once again.
Romans 8:26-28 “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
I often can't find the words to express in prayer what is in my heart. It gives me hope and comfort to know that the Holy Spirit is interceding for me during those times just as He has aided me now.
I don't have words today to uplift and encourage you, all I can do is pray that the Holy Spirit will strengthen you, as always. I pray that God provides you with what is needed this week and that He uplifts you and helps you to find happiness in this life and joy in serving Him.
May God Bless You All

Devotional for Tuesday ~ 22 August 2017 / 1 Elul 5777
Sadly, death is a part of this life, and it all began after Adam and Eve sinned against God in the Garden of Eden. The first war/conflict resulted in the death of their son Abel, when his brother Cain, brutally murdered him.
As I consider the vast number of wars taking place all around the world today, and the various wars that have taken place in the course of history—too many to even count, it is obvious that men have lost their love for God and His word, or they never loved God to begin with and actually hate Him.
I want to focus for a moment on World War II (1939-1945), which was by far the most costly war in terms of human life. The total number of fatalities, including battle deaths and civilians of all countries, is estimated to have been 56.4 million in six years! That does not included the massive amount of people who were injured!
People and nations go to war for many different reasons, but it is just as God has said, the root cause of war is the “love of money,” and what money can bring; whether it be lands, material possessions, including people, coupled with the lust for power and control over those people and nations.
1 Timothy 6:10 “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”
Wars are necessary, and at times, sanctioned by God, especially “spiritual” wars. Whether people understand it or not we are in some major battles for the souls of men! And it may seem that the Devil is winning, and in some respects he is, but he will be completely defeated in the end! Praise God!
2 Corinthians 10:3 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:
2 Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
2 Corinthians 10:6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.”
One of the most important “spiritual” battles that ever took place was the war in heaven between Michael the archangel and his angels, and the dragon. It was at that time that the Devil was kicked out of heaven and cast to the earth, along with a third of the angels in heaven. And Satan and his ministers have been corrupting God’s holy word ever since, in order to lead unsuspecting souls away from God.
“Real Christians” you got to know that Satan hates God and His people; and he really hates for us to worship God. But through Jesus Christ, God has provided the way for us to win the victory over sin, death, and Satan!
Revelation 12:7 “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,
Revelation 12:8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.”
I AM one who hates death, but I love life, especially eternal life! And I thank God that He has given me a testimony! Ever since I committed my life to the Lord back in November 1979, in the deserts of Yuma, Arizona I have had such a burning desire within my soul to persuade others to follow Him too. And I sincerely pray that you do!
The opposite of war is peace, and the only way to true and lasting peace is through the Prince of Peace, who is the Lord Jesus Christ, the son of the living God—the giver of life—and death...
Revelation 1:17 "And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. And He laid His right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I Am the first and the last:
Revelation 1:18 I Am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I Am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
One last verse I would like to share. Please read it prayerfully!
Proverbs 8:32 “Now therefore hearken unto Me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep My ways.
Proverbs 8:33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
Proverbs 8:34 Blessed is the man that heareth Me, watching daily at My gates, waiting at the posts of My doors.
Proverbs 8:35 For whoso findeth Me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.
Proverbs 8:36 But he that sinneth against Me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate Me love death.”
I know this world can be very discouraging, but I hope to encourage you to look to the Lord Jesus. He IS true and faithful, and completely trustworthy! Sometimes men will let us down, but Jesus never will if you trust in Him!
It is my sincere prayer that God will abundantly bless those who truly love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity, and for those who are deceivers and seeking to lead God's people astray, may God bring His judgment upon them! Amen!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
P.S. I am so thankful to see that my dear friend Pastor Arnie has visited with us again! I really miss your devotionals my dear brother, but I understand... You are a very special servant of the Most High God! God bless you and your loved ones—always!

Devotional for Tuesday ~ 22 August 2017 / 1 Elul 5777
Sadly, death is a part of this life, and it all began after Adam and Eve sinned against God in the Garden of Eden. The fir..."
That was a powerful devo, C. Read. It felt good to my spriti to read that. It's so true that sometimes we forget we are soldiers in not a physical battle, but a spiritual battle.

Hi HailSaira,
I am so thankful to hear that! It is so good to have brothers and sisters to help remind us about things, and encourage us to look to the LORD, especially when we are in the midst of hardships and/or trials.. Something of which all of us will continue to experience in this life. But praise God, Jesus said He would be with us all the way to the end!
I am reminded of a relevant passage from a faithful servant of Jesus Christ, which I hope will be an encouragement to all of my "Real Christian" friends!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
Jude 1:17 "But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Jude 1:18 How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.
Jude 1:19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,
Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Jude 1:22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:
Jude 1:23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Jude 1:24 Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,
Jude 1:25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."

Great Devotionals indeed my Friend! The battle sometimes gets so tough! But thanks be to our Savior, The Only wise God Who keep us from falling, to present us faultless before His glorious presence with exceeding joy! To God be the glory and majesty indeed!
Praise the Lord!
Thank you my Friend for this great reminder from Jude!
May the Lord keep you strong in Him and in the power of His might!

JESUS CHRIST
"If Shakespeare should come amongst us we should all rise, but if He should appear we should all kneel: Jesus Christ!", said Charles Lamb in a book I just read.
Isaac Watts, the "father of hymnology" wrote one of the finest hymn ever written: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
I don't need to add anything to it to convey a message that has so blessed my heart lately:
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And poor contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ, my God;
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See, from His head, His hands, His feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown.
Were the whole of nature mine,
That were present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
Oh! How i love Jesus!
Oh! How I love Jesus!
Oh! How I love Jesus!
Because He first love me!
Blessings to all Real Christians!
Thank you for reading.
Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might!
Amen.

If you don't have a good Christian friend, pray for one. Pray for someone you can confide in and trust-- for someone you feel safe with. Pray for connection with a mentor. Maybe if the Lord has equipped you, perhaps you may consider mentoring someone else, or encouraging someone else. You don't have to be older than someone to be a blessing to them. You don't have to be smarter than someone to be a blessing to them either.
If you want an example of a mentor and a mentoree, take a look at Paul's relationship with Timothy in 1 and 2 Timothy.
Surround yourself with people who care about their faith. Be encouraged and encourage others to build up their relationships with God and with other believers.
"Whoever keeps company with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm."
Proverbs 13:20
Mentoring isn't necessarily just giving advice and telling folks waht to do-- it's also about listening and understanding and teaching by being a good example.
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful."
-2 Timothy 2:24
If accepting help is difficult for you, pray about it. Ask someone to pray with/for you about it too. God gave us other Christians are helpers to each other. He wants us to connect. He wants us to enjoy one another's company.
Yet, do not rely too heavily on people in themselves. Humans are unable to accomplish anything worthy without God. Always go to God first.
God bless you.
Monday, August 28
My devotion today is for the people affected by Hurricane/Tropical Storm Harvey, those dealing with extreme flooding along the Gulf of Mexico and especially Texas.
I cannot say it as well as the book of Psalm so I am posting verses from there.
Psalm 69:
1 Save me, O God!
For the waters have come up to my neck.
2 I sink in deep mire,
where there is no foothold;
I have come into deep waters,
and the flood sweeps over me.
3 I am weary with my crying out;
my throat is parched.
My eyes grow dim
with waiting for my God.
13 But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord.
At an acceptable time, O God,
in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.
14 Deliver me
from sinking in the mire;
let me be delivered from my enemies
and from the deep waters.
15 Let not the flood sweep over me,
or the deep swallow me up,
or the pit close its mouth over me.
16 Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good;
according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.
17 Hide not your face from your servant,
for I am in distress; make haste to answer me.
Psalm 11
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them ever sing for joy,
and spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may exult in you.
Psalm 46
1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Please pray for all those affected by Harvey.
Our Heavenly Father we come to You to ask that You draw closer to You ever person affected by the storm Harvey. May You strengthen those that already belong to You and may they be guiding lights to the lost and hurting around them. Strengthen the first responders, and all involved in assuring the safety and well being of everyone displaced from their homes because of the storm. May the sick and injured receive the medical care they need. May the children be comforted. May this disaster bring out the best in people and may they be protected from the few that would take advantage of the situation and do them harm. Lord please protect all of the birds and animals in the path of the storm. May the rain move out to sea and the waters recede quickly. May the recovery efforts go quickly, safely, and smoothly. May everyone displaced find a home until theirs is restored. May You bless them, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen
May God strengthen and draw you closer to Him this week.
My devotion today is for the people affected by Hurricane/Tropical Storm Harvey, those dealing with extreme flooding along the Gulf of Mexico and especially Texas.
I cannot say it as well as the book of Psalm so I am posting verses from there.
Psalm 69:
1 Save me, O God!
For the waters have come up to my neck.
2 I sink in deep mire,
where there is no foothold;
I have come into deep waters,
and the flood sweeps over me.
3 I am weary with my crying out;
my throat is parched.
My eyes grow dim
with waiting for my God.
13 But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord.
At an acceptable time, O God,
in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.
14 Deliver me
from sinking in the mire;
let me be delivered from my enemies
and from the deep waters.
15 Let not the flood sweep over me,
or the deep swallow me up,
or the pit close its mouth over me.
16 Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good;
according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.
17 Hide not your face from your servant,
for I am in distress; make haste to answer me.
Psalm 11
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them ever sing for joy,
and spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may exult in you.
Psalm 46
1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Please pray for all those affected by Harvey.
Our Heavenly Father we come to You to ask that You draw closer to You ever person affected by the storm Harvey. May You strengthen those that already belong to You and may they be guiding lights to the lost and hurting around them. Strengthen the first responders, and all involved in assuring the safety and well being of everyone displaced from their homes because of the storm. May the sick and injured receive the medical care they need. May the children be comforted. May this disaster bring out the best in people and may they be protected from the few that would take advantage of the situation and do them harm. Lord please protect all of the birds and animals in the path of the storm. May the rain move out to sea and the waters recede quickly. May the recovery efforts go quickly, safely, and smoothly. May everyone displaced find a home until theirs is restored. May You bless them, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen
May God strengthen and draw you closer to Him this week.

My devotion today is for the people affected by Hurricane/Tropical Storm Harvey, those dealing with extreme flooding along the Gulf of Mexico and especially Texas...
May God strengthen and draw you closer to Him this week."
Amen!

Devotional for Tuesday ~ 29 August 2017 / 8 Elul 5777
My heart goes out to all who have been, and are currently being affected by the devastating storm, called Harvey. It has been twelve years ago today, that I too experienced one of the most horrific storms of my life. But through it all, God proved His great love for me, and I Am so thankful for His grace!
I have shared the following poem, (and variations of it), with others along the way, and I hope it will be a blessing to those who prayerfully read it today!
I pray for our friends, family, and neighbors who are in the path of the current storms, physically and spiritually speaking. And may God be with you and your loved ones in these very difficult and trying times in which we live!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
The Storms of this Life
In Remembrance of Hurricane Katrina ~ 29 August 2005
by C. Read
My youngest son had just turned three
a month before the storm hit.
My little Justus was trying to be so brave
when his sister took a picture of him
while he stood beside me
in the doorway of our home on that day.
His eyes and face were red from crying,
and he was holding his lips real tight
to keep from getting upset in front of the camera.
He, along with his six-year-old brother,
was absolutely terrified when the trees started falling
all around us during the worst part of the storm.
My little boys became visibly upset
when an over one hundred foot pine tree
fell across our driveway and blocked us in.
They were begging me to call someone for help, and I did,
but the lady at city hall said there was nothing they could do,
and that we just needed to ride out the storm.
When another pine tree went through the roof
and water started pouring into the kitchen and a bedroom,
all seven of my children became quite distressed.
It was then that I realized we could actually die in this storm,
but I also had full confidence that only if it was God's will.
I can honestly say that absolute fear was not with me
on that horribly devastating day,
but a great love and concern for my dear children.
My response to the terror of the storm
was to humbly call upon the Lord,
and His peace was noticeably with us.
I thank God He heard my most earnest plea!
My husband was not able to be with us due to the war,
but soon before he was to arrive home,
my oldest daughter asked my little Justus,
"Are you going to tell daddy
that you were a big boy during the storm?"
He hung his little head and looked to the ground,
and a few moments later,
with an ashamed look on his face,
he looked up and said,
"No, I was little."
That profound statement, from the mouth of my baby,
reminded me just how small we really are
in the sight of God!
We all need the Lord God in our lives,
and He is the only One who can truly help us
in the midst of the Storms of this Life!
God will use trials and tribulations
to show us how we desperately need Him,
and I hope you won't reject Him when He calls!
For those who have turned to God,
and away from sin,
His love will forever live in those
who worship only Him!
The devil wants to lead you into sin,
and fill your heart with hate,
so he can separate you from God,
and those who love Him too.
Satan is the one who wants you dead,
so he can destroy your soul in Hell!
I Am pleading, don't give into his lies and deceit!
Jesus Christ is truly the only way to Heaven,
and He gave His life so we could live
with Him, world without end!
Amen!
The LORD God Almighty is so worthy to be praised and honored, and He deserves our complete allegiance. I encourage you to go back and read the entire Psalm 107 (preferably from the KJV), but these verses are a reflection of the great love, mercy, and compassion God has for His people.
Psalms 107:28 “Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and He bringeth them out of their distresses.
Psalms 107:29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
Psalms 107:30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so He bringeth them unto their desired haven.
Psalms 107:31 Oh that men would praise the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!”
Hey there! I just wanted to let y'all know that the devotionals thread for September is now up!
Here's the link-- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
(I'll try to get in contact with each of you within the next few days.)
Here's the link-- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
(I'll try to get in contact with each of you within the next few days.)
This topic has been frozen by the moderator. No new comments can be posted.
This is the list I have right now:
(changes may be made)
Sunday: Lee ?
Monday: Rita Faye ✔
Tuesday: C. Read ✔
Wednesday: Marie ?
Thursday: Arnie ✔
Friday: Saira ✔
Saturday: ___
I haven't heard back from all the devotions folks so if you're on the list and want/need to be removed, please just send me a message letting me know and I'll take your name off. If I haven't heard from you after a week or so, I may just go ahead and take your name off the list so please let me know.
And if you would like to be ADDED to the schedule... again, just send me a message letting me know and we'll see about adding you on! :)
Thank you all so much for the time & effort you put into sharing devotions with the group each week! :)
God Bless!