The Lord has been walking me through Isaiah 9:6-7

Examining each word with a “magnifying” glass. Examining myself. Deeply considering WONDERFUL COUNSELOR and finding comfort and joy in places in my longing heart that deeply desires guidance in the challenging unknowns. In the deep waters so far beyond my ability to navigate. That mountain climbing calling that’s not a day or months journey, but a lifetime. Unique and truly has drawn my heart over the years into a deeper communing with the One and Only Savior, in Faith in Him.

“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” Matthew 19:26

Needs for guidance and counsel. Circumstances too deep for us to see how or know what to do. As we realize our inability, and believe in our WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, we rest in His ability to lead and believe He has, is, and will.

God is Full of WONDERS. He draws His people close to guide and advise them according to His will and purposes. Psalms 77 brings consoling comfort. Remembering God’s Wonders changes our perspective.

Ps. 77:11 “I will remember the works of the Lord; surely I will remember Your Wonders of old”

Ps. 77:14 “You are the God who does Wonders;
You have declared Your strength among the people”

Ps. 77:19 And in deep unknown waters – He leads
“Your way was in the sea, Your path in the great waters, And Your footsteps were not known.
You led Your people like a flock. By the hand of Moses and Aaron”

When we feel the waves of fear and worry rise again, as we turn our minds and thoughts, to meditating on the Lord our Redeemer – He Who spared not His own Son but delivered Him up for us all, that WITH HIM He might freely give us all things.

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:7

He is Immanuel – God with us.

God’s ways are like the deep waters that cannot be fathomed by human minds. Faith anchors in the deeply abiding place of trusting in Christ Alone.

“When you walk through the waters I will be with you” Is. 43:2

The waters He may call us to walk through may be very deep and we may feel the coldness of the unkindness in the world around. And the mountain may feel overwhelming, or scary when it seems we are stuck. We are never stuck – God’s sovereign plan calls us to wait in peace with Hope in Him. We will be touched by the warmth of our Redeemer’s Words as we trust Him right there on the side of that mountain, with us. We are safe. His love far exceeds the highest mountain, the lowest valleys, the deepest waters.

The Hebrew name “Wonderful Counselor” is one part of a fourfold prophetic name of Jesus, the Messiah. The Hebrew word pele’ (wonderful) is used in the Bible of things that are unusual and beyond the capability of man, often mysterious or difficult things.

My son Isaac calls the faith walk, in all the unknowns and challenges, “A mystery”. Faith is believing in our Heavenly Father, the gift of the Son – finding and experiencing a consoling comfort, joy, true peace, in spite of not knowing how. When the journey is long, and the challenging terrain of this rugged world where unkindness and cruelty is apart of it all, we look to God incarnate, God Himself, Jesus Christ Who experienced this and far beyond to bring us to Himself today, tomorrow, into eternity.

The counsel of God is wonderful (Isa. 28:29). In fact, the Bible only uses pele’ for God’s deeds and words, never for human accomplishments.

One descriptive name for the Holy Spirit includes a derivative of the second word, ya‘ats (counselor):
He IS the Spirit of counsel and strength (Isa. 11:2)
Hallelujah! The Holy Spirit lives in every Believer

Maybe you too have days when it’s difficult to climb out of the mountains of emotions. Yesterday was one of those for me. Desperate to climb out, I began to fight hard and harder in prayer, determined, persistent, and I cried out to God, as I spoke out “I can do all things through Christ Who gives me strength”. Phil. 4:13 And soon after I was free. What a Savior, what a gift.

I praise the Lord that He is comfort and joy to His children. Immanuel God with us. Abide in Him. Ask for the desires of your heart and He will give. My desire is for His daily leading. He led me again to peace and that is what I needed most.

He WILL LEAD US and we will walk it in Faith.
He IS WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, ALMIGHTY GOD EVERLASTING FATHER, PRINCE OF PEACE.

“From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I” Ps. 61:2

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The post His Name Shall Be Called: Wonderful Counselor first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“Christmas is not just a day, an event to be observed and speedily forgotten. It is a Spirit which should permeate every part of our lives” – W.P.

“If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him” 1 John 4:13-16

It’s a beautiful night. Our home is quite messy. However, it felt right to lay aside the concern of all things cluttered and undone, and light up and decorate this small corner of our home with our humble little Christmas tree.  My sons and I decorated away to wonderful worship songs.  Joe watched and rested after a hard day’s work.  Maximus had a darting out the door moment and Isaac and I were puzzled where he went and what he was up to. It happens We went looking for him and found him gazing upon the light show God placed in the sky. Everyone back inside, Isaac added his brilliant idea of a creative touch-the snowy white glittery tinsel as the Perfect way to wrap it all up in LOVE.

Just thinking about God’s incredible LOVE. To step away from the mess and all that is not perfect, and into the PERFECT LOVE OF CHRIST – brings a wonderful sense of peace and calm.

What a wonderful soothing balm to a soul in the midst of a broken world, to abide in a place of wholeness, comfort, peace, and rest found in Jesus Christ. Wrapped up tight in the arms of the Everlasting God Who gives the gift of Everlasting Life. Wrapped up in His LOVE now and forever.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. John 3:16

“And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6

“Abide in My Love” John 15:9

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The post WRAPPED UP IN LOVE first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

THE TRUTH SETS US FREE-WAR TORN FROM LIFE’S BATTLES – PROMISED VICTORY
FREE through the Rescuer Who came to set us free!

As Christians, we know life on planet earth is a battlefield. We know through every trial, sorrow, pain, we persevere through, every war torn piece of our hearts, God has accomplished and conquered, He is the victory over the enemy. His own are free from the power of sin. In this freedom, through Christ the Lord’s own blood, Faith is the victory, our victory, over every sting on this earth!

In the midst of sorrows there is rich comfort from God Himself. There is promise. There is strength. There is JOY and peace to be had that guards a Child of God’s heart and mind. There is sorrow. Yet we are always anchored in a rejoicing in the all encompassing knowledge of the love and Faithfulness of our Great Rescuer. It’s not a fake joy or putting on a front. It’s real. Jesus Christ Himself. The joy of the Lord is our strength. We will cry. We will mourn. We will carry it all to Jesus Christ. In prayer we will leave it there in His powerful care as many times needed in a day. We will rise up in HOPE and rejoice in Jesus Christ Who has secured our victory!

Our Final Victory
“…then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“Oh Death, where is your sting?
O Hades, where is your victory?”
The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord”.
1 Cor. 15

– The sting of death is sin; but Christ, by dying, has taken out this sting; he has made atonement for sin, he has obtained remission of it. Death cannot hold a believer in its power. How many springs of joy to the saints, and of thanksgiving to God, are opened by the death and resurrection, the sufferings and conquests of the Redeemer! In verse 58, we have an exhortation, that believers should be steadfast, firm in the faith of that gospel which the apostle preached, and they received. Also, to be unmovable in their hope and expectation of this great privilege, of being raised incorruptible and immortal. And to abound in the work of the Lord, always doing the Lord’s service, and obeying the Lord’s commands. May Christ give us faith, and increase our faith, that we may not only be safe, but joyful and triumphant-B.A.C.

Odd place, a parking lot photo. Long story. But just welling up with gratitude and sharing the Lord’s mercies each new day in spite of the pains and stings in this life and though many, we can have hope through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Anchored securely in everlasting life. We are free from the power of sin and death, and free to live by Him, for Him – looking to Him and persevering in confident victory, through and with the strength of Jesus Christ our Lord.

The post The Truth Sets Us Free first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

I sat here in this chair
I knew her time of passing
Ever near
Through many years
This day I said
My final fervent prayers

This season would soon end
Kind of strange
Yet a great joy filled my heart
This day
Jesus Christ counts me worthy
Through the cleansing of His blood
His Perfect righteousness
His Perfect Love

This gift, to pray
To lift her up in love
To the Throne Room
In Heaven Above

I didn’t understand
So much I didn’t know
Yet the River of Life
In my soul
He flows

Jesus Christ my Lord
Peace, Peace, Be still
The presence of One
Who holds the whole world
In His hands
He will have His way
He is faithful to His plans
He is The Great I Am

I am thankful to God for her
He is the Giver of Life
Through pain, sorrow
Unexpected twists and turns
I learned of Christ

A gift I received- Salvation
Faith in Him
His Holy Word
This Bible I hold
From my childhood days
Would touch my soul
A huge Praise!

My Heavenly Father’s sweet Words
Tuck me in each night
Surrounding on every side
Carry me through each new day
In Him I abide

Pages of unending promises
God’s voice I hear
“Keep going My Daughter
On the narrow way
Come what may”

If you are reading this today
May I say…
God’s Sovereign authority
His ways
To trust
A beautiful resting place

He works all things together
For the Good
For those called by Him
For His purposes
For His glory
God is writing His Story
He is the author and finisher
Run the Race
Looking to Jesus Christ
Our Faith

Prayer is a gift from God
Bestowed upon His own
What a love
To give and receive
Pressing on
Until we reach Home

Seasons come and go
There is One Who remains
Jesus Christ –
Through it all
He will never change
Yesterday, Today, Forever
He is the same
Let Him be our steadfast passion
Countless prayers our mission
Trusting our powerful, loving, Lord
To Him we give
Our endless praise!

-L.M.S. –

The post TO PRAY – TO TRUST IN CHRIST ALONE – A Poem first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

My Ways Higher…these three Words

All a gift to this girl, a meeting of her desperate need in circumstances beyond her ability to know or comprehend. These Words fully satisfy to the depths of her soul. Her Heavenly Father has spoken. This matter is His alone to know. She is free to simply trust in her Lord and His Sovereignty. Child-like Faith.

She has accepted her “lot”. Only a Perfect loving Abba Father is capable of pouring abundance of love, grace, truth, peace, faith, hope, into her soul. He has filled up her cup to overflowing. His beloved Daughter’s cup runneth over. In the face of mystery, she is profoundly touched by His grace. She is able to say, “Truly, this is the love and peace that my God gives. Blessed is the one who trusts in Him. Truly it is well with my soul. Truly He is all I need to know”

She is empowered. She walks on and lives each day looking to her Lord. This sweetness within. Through Father, Son, Holy Spirit, three in One. Her Abba Father, her Prince of Peace, her King forever-the Perfect One.

How about you? Is Jesus Christ Your Savior? The One Who fills Your soul?

“Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me…Surely I have behaved and quieted myself…” Psalms 131

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts…

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands”

From Isaiah 55

The post “My Ways Higher” – Three Powerful Words first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

Bind up my wounds Almighty God
I rest and receive from You
Speak to this soldier
Words of life and peace
Speak to this soldier what is true

Your Word is strength and life
In Your soothing truth I will abide
Comfort the broken heart
Strengthen the feeble knees
By Your Mighty outstretched hand
Again, Your Word has rescued me
You are Faithful forever, Faithfully my King!

Your Words from Your Holy Book
Are whispers to my soul
Your Words of fresh comfort and peace
Your Words bring the pain to a healing lull

This war-torn heart has been revived
I will rise to the battle cry
I will fight the good fight
Glory to the King!

Fresh courage, thank You, my Commander, my Lord
Fresh mercies and compassions
straight from heaven this new morn

This soldier treads onward, upward
upon the battlefield of life
towards the City of Promise
This soldier walks over the enemy of strife

Overcome by the power of the cross
Overcome with love
the empty tomb, the power of God above

Christ Jesus You are awesome
The Holy Blood of the Savior
You poured out and gave
In You, I am saved! In You I am brave!

Through the power of the empty tomb
resurrection life!
In Your power alone
In Your power and might
I fight.
Courage is mine through God’s gift Divine!
Jesus Christ!
I am Yours and You are mine

So this soldier, Your soldier Lord, I march on
Your soldiers tread over the venomous attacks in this life
Immune to the stings
God’s love conquers all
We rise, we fight through Jesus Christ
Perfect Victory!

“It is finished” – Our Great Savior proclaimed
Through His great love
His great name
He overcame
Sin has no hold on me-
not from within nor without
We are God’s children forever
We are forever the Lord’s Army

Armor secure from head to toe
We will overcome every foe
March on soldiers
In the truth of the Lord
Wave that mighty Sword!

Proclaim Him as King
Proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord!
Proclaim Victory!

-Leah M. Sellars –

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?  He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?  Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.  Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:

 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.  For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,   nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 8:31-37

May God bless you! I spotted this flower on a walk the other day.  Honesty is the name. Days later I would walk through some extra challenges.  The war cries I cried over and over again.  In my difficulties, in the pain and turbulences that tossed my heart to and fro, I cast them upon the Lord over and over again.  In the midst of my brain fog, and physical pain, emotions tried, the Lord reminded me, “I will never leave or forsake you”.  Special moments of a whispering reminder from His Word.  As the fog began to lift, more of His Word continued to flow into my heart, mind, soul.  This poem, I would pen, and this picture I would display.  From pen and paper, to sharing it here, I pray the Lord blessings over you this day.  I pray you know, the love of Christ, and the power in Him, to rise up and march on, through the everlasting truth and promises of our faithful Lord.

The post SWEET HONESTY SWEET VICTORY -POEM – AN HONEST SOLDIER OF CHRIST first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

The hearts and character of the eternal souls, saved by the blood of Jesus Christ is a gift of highest value. We live by and for the Savior. The world has a value system that is not the value system of God. Children of God are blessed citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. Christian parents will train our children up academically, physically, emotionally, Spiritually, through the Perfect Lens of scripture. The mindset of men hooked or wavering on the world does not comprehend what we are doing, and our ways seem so “strange” to them. We may hear disapprovals. We live to please God. Keep the hand to the plow. In order for success, the one plowing must not be distracted or look back or the way will be crooked, messy, and unfit for proper planting, growth, and harvest. We will reap what we sow. Staying the course, full speed ahead, eyes on JESUS CHRIST, in the continued process of training up young people from birth to as long as God shows for our individual children’s design and His plan, under our God given honor and command will reap for the glory of God.

-The Bible teaches that honor is found in God and His Son and in our being like Him (John 15:8). We are to give obeisance to Him through the fruits of our labors (Proverbs 3:9; 1 Corinthians 10:31), as well as through the care and nurture of our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19). To esteem God as first in our lives (Matthew 22:37-38) is thereby expressed in both the total commitment of our lives and devotion of our possessions to His service and glory (Colossians 3:17). Though we are in this world, we are not of this world (John 15:18-21)- G.T.

This means, as we honor God through our godly character, we will reap dishonor from those of the world. We will reap a harvest for the honor and praise and glory of God. The Bible teaches us that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). The Bible also says, “Do not grow weary in doing GOOD. God says what is good. And that we will reap a harvest if we do not lose heart. Gal. 6:9

We are to honor God in our recognition that the gift of life eternal and the very salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and Him alone (John 11:25; Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5). Knowing this, we give honor and obeisance to our Savior through our humble adoration and obedience to His will (John 14:23-24; 1 John 2:6).

Jesus said,
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” Matthew 5

“But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:63

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ” Colossians 3:23-24

“Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” 2 Timothy 2:21

The post Hand to the Plow – Eyes on Jesus – Devoted to the Calling first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“Oh come, let us worship and BOW down;
Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker” Psalms 95:6

God took my eyes and then heart to see this bowing flower. It was not in a particularly pretty surrounding. A stick with thorns nearly crossed over it. Surrounded by weeds, on the side of a slope, not easy to be seen by others passing by. I saw it plain as day. The glowing beauty captured me. Right there. Right in this humbling place, this one life is planted, thriving, and living with great beautiful purpose bringing God glory.

Bowing before the Lord…

Do we bow our hearts in our most destitute circumstances and believe we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works? God works through plain means, in meager circumstances. Whatever our lot in life we can believe God has planted us right here and growing beauty in the softened soil of our hearts, working far above and beyond what we can imagine, for His glory. We can pray,

“Use me Lord. I am just one life. Not in the most pleasant of places, conditions, circumstances. All I am is Yours. Anything good comes from Your grace and goodness alone. I am frail in and of myself, but Your strength, as Your creation, as Your very own through the power of Christ in me, Who rests on me. You alone have chosen me and decree all my days. Sustain me, use me, as I rest, trusting Your Sovereign purposes, delighting to JUST BE YOURS, that You may have Your way, accomplish Your purposes, that You may have all the glory”

This bowing flower, glory to God. I praise God for the way He accomplishes His purposes through harsh circumstances, in weakness, His power at work.

These scriptures bless my heart. God’s beautiful Words that crush the blows of doubt and mindset of this world – placing our faith in a wise God.

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— that, as it is written,

“He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.” 1 Cor. 27-30

One life. Bowed before the King. Depending on Christ alone. How will God use me? Bow before Him and see. Give Him glory!

The post ONE LITTLE LIFE BOWING BEFORE THE LORD first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor…Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken” Eccl. 4:9&12

God moved us to Cascade Locks. I did not understand all the reasons. He is revealing again, yet another.

Isaac is thoroughly enjoying teaching private Karate lessons to two amazing students. He makes his way there each week looking forward to this time. God’s power and love is at work in every session. Yes! Through Karate the Lord’s loving way is being spoken, prayed over, and lived out! The verse above testifies to the power of relationship and working together, benefits EVERYONE and above and beyond what we could ever imagine for His glory! Two are better than one, and with the power and love of Jesus Christ – that third cord – there is strength and reward! Praise be to God!

Isaac is a stroke survivor warrior, Child of God. Who enjoys sharing Karate and the truth and love of Jesus.

To see the mutual care, respect, kindness, passed back and forth from Teacher – Student…From student to teacher is absolutely amazing.

Giving glory to our King!

Never give up praying, praying, praying, and trusting in the Lord. God is faithful.

The post A Threefold Cord – God’s Love first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“Doth not all nature around me praise God? If I were silent, I should be an exception to the universe. Doth not the thunder praise Him as it rolls like drums in the march of the God of armies? Do not the mountains praise Him when the woods upon their summits wave in adoration? Doth not the lightning write His name in letters of fire? Hath not the whole earth a voice? And shall I, can I, silent be?” ~ Charles H. Spurgeon

“I rejoice at Your Word as one who finds great treasure”
Psalm 119:162

The Word of the Lord is powerful. He spoke, He created the world. He has given us the Beauty of His everlasting Word.

Other day I was reading one verse in this Holy Bible. One verse I studied for a long while. I prayed, asking the Lord to speak from His Word to my heart for my need that day, He did so beautifully. Next morning, I was awakened to a very unexpected and unsettling circumstance. Wisdom from God was desperately needed. As I spoke to my sons, sharing the very potentially emotional circumstance, immediately, I was stopped, as the Spirit of God brought to my mind yesterday’s scripture! This was my direction. This was my answer! This was my peace!

I am awestruck. This one verse, a charge and command so specific over my life from God many YEARS ago, recurring verse over the years to conquer confusion from enemy, and one amongst so many, to cling to and not depart from… He brought me back to this one verse again, and it was on perfect target, hitting the bulls eye for EXACTLY my circumstance again. It truly is a marvel! In my heart and my life, Jesus Christ, His resurrection power, the Living Word – this Holy Book – power and love – a beautiful treasure.

The Lord knows exactly what each of His children need. He knows every moment, today, tomorrow. He knows what lies ahead. He was preparing me, By His Word the other day for the next day -the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, a verse, A Word from Him, cut through the potential confusion and doubt, and brought victory.

“give attention to my words;
Incline your ear to my sayings.
Do not let them depart from your eyes;
Keep them in the midst of your heart;
For they are life to those who find them…” Proverbs 4

“that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life.” Deuteronomy 30:20

“Be strong and of good courage, for you must go with this people to the land which the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall cause them to inherit it. And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deut. 31:7-8

Whatever we face today, tomorrow, as a redeemed Child of God, He knows all and every moment and detail from today and into eternity, for each of us. He has given us the treasures of everlasting life, and the TREASURES of this Holy Book to empower us through His very Word, by His Spirit moment by moment, abiding in Him in prayer and His Word. He is LIFE!

Elisabeth Elliot ~
“Stay in the presence of God. Hold to His written Word, and hold yourself before it. You have God’s unwavering attention.”

I praise the Lord!

The post The Beauty of The Living Word first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish”. Matthew 18:12-14

“…and when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!” Jn. 10

Jesus sought me when a stranger
Wandering from the fold of God
He to rescue me from danger
Interposed His precious blood

“For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls”.
1 Peter 2:25

The Lord Jesus is a Shepherd and cares for each of His children, individually, bringing us near to His heart, safe in His care, protected, saved, secure unto everlasting life.

“The eternal God is your refuge,
And underneath are the everlasting arms” Deut. 33:27

The post The Lord Is My Shepherd first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

Reflecting on the faithfulness of God, in the heart of the Believer and the roles He calls us to, in obeying the call to follow Jesus, I opened this old cookbook from 1940’s.  “Food for the Body and Soul”. As I flipped through pages of recipes to consider, I paused to see this quote from the 1800’s by  H.W. Beecher, “The Mother’s heart is the child’s classroom”.  In a world that is so far away from God’s principles, even within the “Christianity” of today, the Bible is the foundation to build our lives on, and I want to share this wonderful article that expands on Beecher’s quote from old, that we may endeavor to keep a mindset that is far from the philosophy of the world.  God enabled me to teach our sons daily in a manner that modeled the days of old, where the basic academics were taught, yet there was ample opportunity to use our time for so much beyond. It was an all-encompassing shaping of the child. All I want to do is give God glory and share His amazing ways, to encourage women, mother’s that God delights using weak vessels, willing to be used, for His purposes and glory.

God gave my husband and I two unique, wonderful and fearfully made sons.  At first start of this parenting journey we faced unexpected adversity and a joy of life that was given against all odds.  Two gifts, our sons.  This extra adversity at first start forever turned us to learning to view each day through the lens of God for how we raised our sons.  I learned from God in a unique, challenging, and beautiful way, to trust and obey, and when all external efforts were not, I relied  on the heart of God, to walk by faith, not by sight as the heart of the matter. God has protected me, as a mother from falling into the mindset of the world, by His grace, in keeping me in step with the uniqueness of the family unit, clinging to His every Word, and staying in His will for training them up.   I am forever grateful. We press on. I just want to encourage everyone and every mother of the power of every Word of God – looking beyond this world, through the lens of our living Lord.

We are not to be conformed to the patterns of this world in education or any area of life.  We will need to assess and reassess and examine the ways we are patterning our thinking and choices in life whether it is the world’s way or the Kingdom minded life in Christ.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” Romans 12:1-2

I was called by God, by a Divine appointment to home educate our sons.  When we obey the call to follow Jesus and not the patterns of this world, we are in God’s will and pleasing aroma as we offer up our lives as living sacrifices to God for his service.  We are ambassadors for Christ in the heart of our home and in the training of our children. He calls us to train up our children, teach them morning, noon, and night as we walk with them and with God.  I have seen the glory of God in the hardest most stretching days, and His beautiful shining provision.  He has shown Himself, “Immanuel God with us”. It has been an incredible gift and absolute treasure to me, both our sons, my husband, for our family to live out this call.  His grace is sufficient!

This explanation from Beecher’s quote, is profound!(I added a few extra biblical notations as well) The heart of my heart. I pray you enjoy.

-The role that a mother plays in shaping her child’s character and education is significant. A mother’s love, guidance, and nurturing nature are crucial in providing children with the necessary education and life lessons. A mother’s heart becomes a metaphorical schoolroom, where children learn valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, resilience, and morality.

A profound influence on her child’s development, not only in an academic setting but in the realm of emotional intelligence as well. The education a child receives from their mother is arguably more important and fundamental than formal academics.

While schooling and academics provide knowledge in various subjects, a mother’s heart acts as a profound source of wisdom and understanding that can shape a child’s character for a lifetime!!

In our society, the priority given to academic education often overshadows the ESSENTIAL role of emotional and moral education. Society places immense importance on grades, degrees, and professional success, teaching how to solve mathematical equations, analyze scientific concepts and literature, neglecting the POWER of EMOTIONAL intelligence, empathy, and ethical values.

A mother’s love, guidance, and values will instill compassion, empathy, resilience, and integrity. All discovered in the living power of the GREATEST BOOK there will ever be, the BIBLE. The living Word of God.

In her “schoolroom,” a mother teaches lessons such as how to care for others, handle adversity, be honest, and show love and empathy. These lessons learned from the mother’s heart greatly contribute to a child’s character, influencing their ability to build meaningful relationships, navigate challenges, and make ethical decisions throughout their lives.

In a world that often prioritizes academic achievement and external success, and while the value of academic education is undeniable, it is crucial to acknowledge that the lessons learned from a mother’s heart reach far beyond what any classroom can offer.

A mother’s heart serves as a constant support system, always ready to provide guidance, warmth, and encouragement. It is a place where children feel secure in their emotional and moral growth, fostering a sense of value and belonging.

The mother’s heart truly becomes a powerful and transformative schoolroom, shaping the very essence of a child’s being.

These values acquired from the Christan mother’s heart are the foundation upon which children learn to build their lives throughout their lifetime, as she prays for them, points them to their greatest need, the Savior, that they may receive Christ and learn by His way. Her children will endeavor to serve Him in their daily lives in home, church and into the world around, for eternally rich and High purposes for the glory of God. The only sure foundation to support them and build upon all the days of their lives, is the love and truth and wisdom found in Jesus Christ-

“Build your life upon the Rock”

The post “THE MOTHER’S HEART IS THE CHILD’S CLASSROOM” – (H.W. Beecher- 1813-1887) first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

The looks on my son’s faces-priceless! Amusement and grinning, when I bring out object lessons for the study God places on my heart. TIME is a gift. Open this box, the dress still pure white. Preserved. Kept white, as it remains the same as it was when I wore it down the aisle.

Do you know how many verses in the scriptures refer to white? Whiter than snow. Or even whiter than anything we could ever imagine on earth? An abundance.

WHITE REPRESENTS PURITY
Purity, Holiness, something so heavenly, that can only come from God Himself in the Holy of Holies. Jesus Christ, He came from heaven, to save people from their sins and out of this sin stained world, offering the gift of being united to Him, belonging to Him, with the promise of entering into His everlasting Kingdom. Through His blood sacrifice, receiving His work on the cross, the work of His Holy Spirit Who convicts us of sin, His Kindness leading us to repentance, Salvation, He washes our sins whiter than snow. His Word applied by the Spirit cleanses us onward day by day preparing us for glory. (Isaiah 1:18)

JESUS’ TRANSFIGURATION
“His clothes became shining, EXCEEDINGLY white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them” Mark 9:3
Jesus the Perfect unblemished Lamb of God, perfectly pure and Holy, there is no One like Him, the Only One Who is Perfect in love and Holiness to take away our sins.  Sinners who come to Christ for the Only way to forgiveness of sins, Salvation, are clothed in His robe of righteousness. His righteousness alone.

WE ARE PRESERVED-KEPT
We are KEPT by the power of Christ Jesus the Lord. It’s His work, His power, His ongoing power at work in our lives until we meet Him. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an INHERITANCE INCORRUPTIBLE and UNDEFILED and that DOES NOT FADE AWAY, reserved in heaven for you, who are KEPT by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:3-9

THE TRUE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST
The Genuine Church of saints in Christ all over the world- We belong to Him. Jesus Christ is coming again, to bring us to Him in fullness forever.
“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready;it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure”—
for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.  And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.” Rev. 19:7-9

THE PARABLE OF THE WEDDING FEAST (Matthew 22:1-14),
One of many take aways:
Jesus’ way of teaching the inadequacy of self-righteousness. From the very beginning, God has provided a “covering” for our sin. To insist on covering ourselves is to be clad in “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Adam and Eve tried to cover their shame, but they found their fig leaves to be woefully scant. God took away their handmade clothes and replaced them with skins of (sacrificed) animals (Genesis 3:7, 21). In the book of Revelation, we see those in heaven wearing “white robes” (Revelation 7:9), and we learn that the whiteness of the robes is due to their being washed in the blood of the Lamb (verse 14). We trust in God’s righteousness, not our own (Philippians 3:9)-There is ONLY ONE WAY TO HEAVEN-JESUS CHRIST

THE EARTHLY MARRIAGE-SACRED COVENANT OF GOD-Between man and woman
“Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” Eph. 5:24-25

GOD’S COVENANT TO HIS OWN (how beautiful a rainbow appeared later after doing this study-God’s Rainbow, a reminder of His covenant in Genesis) “They shall be My people, and I will be their God; then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me” Jeremiah 32:38-40

PASSING ONWARD TO THE GENERATIONS TO COME
Share the gospel. The message of the Perfect Unblemished Lamb of God, Jesus Christ Who saves. Share the testimonies, His mighty acts. Share it with all. Pass it on.
“Which we have heard and known, And our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children,
Telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.” Ps. 78:3-4
“Now also when I am old and gray headed, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come” Ps. 71:18

THE REDEEMED- WILL SEE GOD
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” Matthew 5:8
The only way we can be truly pure in heart is to give our lives to Jesus and ask Him to do the cleansing work. Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” God is the one who makes our hearts pure – by the sacrifice of His Son and through His sanctifying work in our lives (see also 1 John 3:1-3).

THINGS TO COME-THE WHITE HORSE-WE ARE IN THE LORD’S ARMY
“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war…He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, WHITE and CLEAN, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:

KING OF KINGS AND
LORD OF LORDS.” Revelations 19

Isn’t He magnificent? The AWE AND WONDER OF THE LOVE AND POWER OF JESUS CHRIST THE LORD

The post MY 30 YEAR OLD WEDDING GOWN-INSPIRATION TO TEACH THE SCRIPTURES first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

I find it no small happening to see what God has been doing this week. The ability to see with eyes of faith, is a gift from God alone. The prayers and encouragement of His saints for one another is mighty. I testify! The fellowship with God is mighty and beautiful and glorious. Abiding in Him, and seeing His glories – His provision.

Experiencing peace and strength through the pain and trials is a testimony to God Himself in His power perfect in weakness in a believer who LOOKS to Him with hope.

Sunday was a very rich and blessed day in the fellowship with the saints and under the preaching of God’s Word. Traveling home with my family, we soon stopped and found ourselves in difficult situation. But God! Right there in the midst of this, God was in our midst. We joined with a dear elderly widow, saint in Christ and prayed. Sweet conversations and preparations made for more of what God has in mind. As we parted, this lovely woman, stopped my son. She had seen him perusing a set of Spurgeon Sermons high upon a shelf in an old dusty room. She said, “please take these. I want you to have them”. His eyes lit up. Talk about a beautiful gift. The timing so pertinent after leaving church listening to wonderful sermons by several men and my son carrying his Armor of God bible from childhood in tow with his giant sized King James Version study bible. He thanked her graciously, and we went on our way.

The Lord, Oh the Lord! Magnificent He is! Monday morning as I awoke before my sons, and stumbled through the quiet darkness of our home, I was drawn to look inside our storage closet to find some writing paper. God took my eyes to LOOK and see these raggedy notebooks. Like parchments of gold, from old. Our paper, pencil, bible based simplistic education from years ago. There is another large box in the garage attic stuffed full of these precious gems.

I began to view these powerful compilations of teaching after teaching God put on my heart day after day after day for years of teaching my sons. I desperately wanted to bring as many truths to them in simplistic ways they could understand. I decided this day, we would review these teachings. I also began typing these teachings, so that I may complile them into one large (cover included) bound book that I will give as a keepsake to each of them. Perhaps they will use, review, and also share with others now or into the future.

What a wonderful start to our week! Combination of Spurgeon Sermons to dive into to add to their current large notebooks of teachings we continue to do, along with reviewing their old teachings over the years.

I would like to share our Spurgeon teaching this week along with this gem from their notebook teaching from 2020. God took my eyes DIRECTLY to this very old “parchment” teaching this very day, in my very hour of need and prayer time, to encourage me immensely! The Lord will calm our storms within, filling us with peace and order as we find joy and fellowship with Him. There is no one like our God. I praise Him!

CHARLES SPURGEON – Sermon I – Sovereignty & Salvation – January 1856

“Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else” – Isaiah 45:22

On January 6, 1850, a fifteen year old young man, desperately seeking deliverance from his sin stricken wicked, confused, flailing heart. He walked himself out of a snowstorm and into a church for relief and warmth. It was this day, an unlikely man filling in for the regular minister, who could not make it through the storm, preached Isaiah 45:22. It was this day, Charles Spurgeon “Looked” to God and was saved! At the beginning of a New Year in January 1856 he shared this testimony and preached on this very Word:

-This year look to Christ, dear Christian!
In all thy troubles, through all this year-look to God and be saved!
In all trials and afflictions, look to Christ and find deliverance!
This year, remember to put thine eyes heavenward along with thine heart!
He that looks to Christ walks safely.
Keep thine eyes up all year long!
He is God and beside Him there is no other. He is a Christian’s daily need and daily deliverance-

SELLARS SCHOOLING on The Rock Teaching – 2020

Meditate on God – Joy in the Fellowship of God – Psalms 63

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me. But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. They shall fall by the sword”

David rose early in the morning and immediately thought about God. He was eager to be with God all day long. He was in a situation that was extremely difficult.

David knew seeking God was the best action he could perform. He was active in his faith.

Notice the verbs that showed David’s actions.

1) In verse 2 David “LOOKS”. He took his eyes off his problems and LOOKED to SEE God’s power and glory!

2) In verse 3 David PRAISES God. Not while he was in a place of feeling wonderful.

Not while he was in a lovely place, but while he was in a desert place, alone,

and with enemies against him. He praises God because he knows God is loving, kind, and powerful.

3) In verse 4 David “LIFTS” up his hands toward the sanctuary where God sits on His throne in total control.

God is Sovereign (Supreme control), God is our Salvation – deliverance.

David is still in the wilderness and in verse 5 he says his soul is satisfied.

The situation hasn’t changed, but because he SOUGHT, LOOKED to the Lord, his heart was filled with the goodness of GOD! This was all David needed.

4) David continues to “CLING” to God, believing God was holding on to him-helping, protecting,

and in verse 9, proclaiming God’s deliverance! Victory over the enemy.

Praise be to God!

I pray this might be a blessing to you today as you “LOOK” with me,

to God as our Salvation and deliverance now and forever.

May God bless you abundantly in the grace of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In His love,
Leah (sinner saved by the blood of the cross – Looking to God and clinging to Him)

The post Look to God This New Year -2024 first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

The fierce winds of winter blew…

My son made a quick little walk to run an errand down the hill. Next to a muddy swamp, he spotted these poinsettias laying near but not quite emerged in the muck. The wind had taken these on a short journey. The Lord had taken my son’s eyes and heart to see the beauty and blessing and opportunity of some wind blown artificial flowers. Humble means. A hand and heart reaching down, scooping up, on behalf of another.

“Look mom”! He said as he entered back into our home. “I found these laying by a swamp, and I wanted to give them to you”.

Gifts in unexpected ways, and unexpected means –

Oh the treasure of the greatest gift of all. A story of love, the birth of Jesus Christ. In a dirty world affected by sin, God sent His Only begotten Son, in LOVE, swooping down from Perfect glory, on behalf of sinners, to save us from the pit.

Open the eyes, see the gift! Grab hold. Receive what God has sent. The humble means, of a glorious King, stepping down into the swampy, muck of this earth, pulling us out of the pit, to give us the beauty of forgiveness, a Holy cleansing, and the gift of love and everlasting life.

Humble things, Humble means. The way of Jesus Christ-LOVE. Love without end.

“He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock…” Ps. 40:1

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Share the gift. Pass on the gift. True love is God Himself. Jesus Christ. The beautiful gospel that saves.

“We love because he first loved us” 1 John 4:19

The post The Winds of Winter – The Gift for All Seasons first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

Walked the cool of a wintry morning
Thanking God for another day
A hand to hold of my beloved
Hearts to join together to pray

Approaching home little creatures to greet
This little Robin contently rests
In the barren winter tree

Her presence invites one to ponder
Oh how just one creature of God
Teaches so much if we are willing to see
That we should draw near and not wander
To rest in God’s provision
The outstretched arms of Jesus Christ
Far from a barren place
Resting here we find stability and peace
We have life

The winds may blow
The branches may bend
But God’s arms of love we can truly depend
A faithful love without end

Contented we are and in faith we believe
He cares for the birds of the air
We know, far beyond this
He cares faithfully for you and me

-L.M.S.

“Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
Matthew 6:26

“Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Is. 41:10

The post The Winter Robin first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

From the Falling Leaves, to the emergence of Winter

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under the heavens. Don’t allow the heaviness of trials, overwhelming circumstances or burdens of this world weigh you down, hold you captive with fear, doubt, and make you dormant, complacent, or stagnant. Lay aside weights, lay aside sin. Freedom, strength, victory, comes through Jesus Christ alone.

In every season, Look up, press on, Get up and walk. Walk on Christian.

Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” Acts 3:6

-God delights in the healing of men’s souls. We must go forth in the name and power of Jesus Christ, as He calls us, to arise and walk in the way of holiness, by faith in Him. How sweet the thought to our souls, that in respect to all the crippled faculties of our fallen nature, the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth can make us whole! With what holy joy and rapture shall we tread this world looking to the holy Kingdom of heaven we belong, when God the Spirit causes us to enter each new day, by his strength, walking with us in every season and ultimately into glory!-
B.C. Commentary

Our family was out a few weeks ago when I snapped these pictures of  our son Maximus. As I scrolled through my pictures today, and saw these, the Lord really used each one to compilate a simple and profound story telling using scriptures and beautiful bible commentary. Oh how this tells what God has been exactly calling me to do this week.  I hope you might enjoy these simplistic and powerful pictures and thoughts.  The power to Spiritually rise up and walk in Jesus name, is a gift bestowed on every Child of God.

The post Rise Up and Walk first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

IN THE MIDST OF WINTER-LIGHT IS HERE-A TRUE STORY

I love lights. I often keep this tree up well into the new year. Something about lights in the darkness of winter that add extra spark to these months. I mean, Jesus Himself is the Light that came to offer Himself to us.

Our souls are dark and in a winter of gloom and doomed for nothing good, with nothing real or of value without Christ. Sin is dark. As redeemed Children through the blood of the cross, we eagerly anticipate in a hope that does not disappoint. The fire of the Holy Spirit dwells within us. Sin is darkness and is vanquished by the Light. We are transformed into the Kingdom of Light. Receiving the Light of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we carry a gift without end, we are saved.

Every part of our Christmas tree points to Jesus Christ.

Our Hope is in Him alone. Through the years of raising our sons I have had the honor to pull this out and speak of each piece in relation to God. Yes, every piece. I am so blessed that these growing young men still enjoy helping me do a little simplistic decorating of our home and tree.

This year I was a bit later on putting up the tree. Taking care of my husband and a severe back issue. Not to mention living in a tiny town, where most access to purchasing new lights for a decent price (because I discovered ours had lost their spark) would require quite a bit of travel time. Before moving here, we could have made a jaunt to the nearest store in five minutes for a good set of lights.

There is a beauty in the less convenient and quiet life. Trusting. Waiting. Patience. God’s timing. Seeing God provide. I did finally place a post on our home town community page asking if perhaps anyone might have an extra string of lights they no longer needed that I might purchase. It was up for hours with zero response, which seemed odd and not typical. I pulled the request off. Choosing to wait. The next evening, I received a private message. One resident who somehow knew, and remembered my name. She made an effort to seek me out, to help me with my little need. After a bit of conversing just like that, she arrived on our front porch with 300 beautiful lights. To go further with the blessing, was this adorable tree skirt. I was going to make one to cover our basic and blah table, but so grateful it was done for me! Also included a sweet little table cloth for our dining room. Add to all this, another 150 extra white lights, just in case. I was covered and then some!

This is just like our God!

As she headed out, she made sure to let me know if I needed more to just ask. She had a treasure trove stashed and ready to give. This is just like our God!

He is simply a prayer away. His Word is our provision. All loving, powerful attentive God. Jesus Christ is the provision, manna from heaven- for everlasting life and our daily supply that never runs out. He is the Light, the Holy Spirit our help Who fires us up with a flame of zeal by His every Word, enabling us to press on in life. The Light and Lamp that warms us daily, and enables us to go through the cold dark days of wintry trials and afflictions, sorrows, pains, with HOPE that does not disappoint. Heaven holds a store house of riches-promises. Treasures in heaven-He graciously gives to His children daily, with the eternal HOPE and promises of the Kingdom of Light, we belong to now and forever. Thanks be to God for this indescribable gift! Oh to fall on our knees and worship the King!

Spreading the message of Faith, Hope, Love.  Merry Christmas!

“Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” Romans 5:5

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“He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name…And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine”

(Ps. 147, Is. 43)

God Who created the stars, knows each one, calls each by name, created you and me. More precious are we than all other creation in all the earth. God knows and calls each of His children by name, by the blood bought purchase redemption for our sins, through the gift of His Son Jesus Christ, we are His forever.

I began this study, and snapped this picture, to instill in my sons the beautiful truths of the immense love and sacrifice that was poured out for them, that they may forever be encouraged through the fiery trials of life, and enabled by the knowledge of this great love to persevere as living sacrifices in obedience, faith, trust, hope in Him Who will never leave or forsake us.

The Father in heaven opened my eyes to the wonders that this is to be taken in more deeply personally that I may be enabled by His LOVE, to fulfill all my callings allotted to me, until I meet my Savior in eternity. Placing my name, my husband’s name, each family members name under the star, under the red heart marked Jesus My Savior. Thanks be to God for His amazing grace.

As women of God, as wives, mothers, pouring into our homes and lives of others. The Lord is pouring into us. We are His Children and knows all, sees all, and provides us the clothing of strength and dignity for our daily serving (see Proverbs 31) This is our very robe of righteousness, Christ Himself, which covers us. In our failings, and confessions, and flailing, Christ’s righteousness alone is an incredible power to cover and enable us to go forth in His love. It’s absolutely astounding to think on.

Jesus gave Himself up for His children, humbled Himself, taking on the form of a servant, obedient to death, making a way for us to have relationship now and forever with God.

Each of God’s Children is called to IMITATE Christ. Walk in love as living sacrifices to please God. Denying ourselves, picking up our cross and following Him. In so much we may not know, as we cling to the cross that redeemed us, we know God knows all, and we know His great act of love is our enabling power and victory.

-Man’s knowledge is soon ended; but God’s knowledge is a depth that can never be fathomed. And while he telleth the number of the stars, he condescends to hear the broken-hearted. While he feeds the young ravens, he will not leave his praying people destitute. Clouds look dull and melancholy, yet without them we could have no rain, therefore no fruit. Thus afflictions look black and unpleasant; but from clouds of affliction come showers that make the soul to yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness. The psalmist delights not in things wherein sinners trust and glory; but a serious and suitable regard to God is, in his sight, of very great price. We are not to be in doubt between hope and fear, but to act under the gracious influences of hope and fear united.

God’s favour and good-will to his people speak abundant comfort to all believers. The new creature, wherever it is, is of God’s forming. All who are redeemed with the blood of his Son, he has set apart for himself. Those that have God for them need not fear who or what can be against them. True believers are precious in God’s sight, his delight is in them, above any people. Though they went as through fire and water, yet, while they had God with them, they need fear no evil; they should be born up, and brought out. The faithful are encouraged.-
(B.C. Bible Commentary)

“He heals the brokenhearted
And binds up their wounds.
He counts the number of the stars;
He calls them all by name.
Great is our Lord, and mighty in power;
His understanding is infinite.
The Lord lifts up the humble;
He casts the wicked down to the ground.

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
Sing praises on the harp to our God,
Who covers the heavens with clouds,
Who prepares rain for the earth,
Who makes grass to grow on the mountains.
He gives to the beast its food,
And to the young ravens that cry” (Psalms 147:3-9)

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God” (Isaiah 43:2-6)

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Crazy story with a Brewers Blackbird Couple! Just had tears rolling down my cheeks. Shortly after, I found myself in total shock, and not sure what just happened. What a wild ride. I know a few things, the one most prominent, is I HAVE so much compassion for the injured and suffering, and sometimes even a little bird relationship, will mirror the relationships God puts in my life, my own relationship with God, and stirs me up with so much love, care, and heart’s desire for others to know that GOD IS NEAR TO THE BROKENHEARTED AND BINDS UP OUR WOUNDS. He has been so present in my suffering times, and has been a great comfort in binding up my wounds, giving me strength to fly! Isaiah 40:31

The story today goes, I was walking solo. I saw a male Brewers Blackbird sitting behind this restaurant sign, appearing unable to move. His female mate was standing nearby. I watched. She just stood. She looked concerned, looking right at him. She went behind him and started giving him nudges to try and get him to get up and move. When he did not budge, she hopped up into this bush. She sat resting here, looking right over him. She was near and present hovering there. I proceeded to call Maximus to come see if he could figure out what was going on or what to do.

I began crying because I felt so bad for the helpless creature. Maximus said, “I know it’s hard mom. But remember the One Who created him, is still with him. Maximus took off his helmet as he always removes his hats to pray, “Heavenly Father, maybe this bird has served it’s purpose on earth, and it’s old age, or maybe it’s sick and diseased. We don’t know. But You do. We trust You to take care of him. We ask You to heal him, but nevertheless, we believe he is in Your care, thank You, in Jesus name, Amen”.

So he rode off. I had a million thoughts. Thinking of the loyal love of a spouse, to be there. Thinking of that female motivating her mate to get up and keep going. Thinking about friendships. Special ones God gives, and the devotion to stay by that friends side. Thinking about Jesus, He will never leave us or forsake us, even in moments we are sitting alone. That beautiful female near, not leaving.

Then… I walked on, circled back around and something happened. The male was now about three feet from original spot looking like it was on its way out and one wing stretched out to the side. I went inside the restaurant and the friendly lady told me she has seen these birds act strange before. She proceeded to walk out towards it, and ALL OF A SUDDEN IT FLEW behind the bush the female was in!! It GOT UP AND FLEW! She said she thinks these birds, fake it. So my emotions and reflections so deep and prior tears, left me realizing I may have been duped!

However, as I read up on birds I have discovered that it is more common than people realize, they do fake injury. The motivation is to protect their family! They do it to as a distraction if they feel there is a threat of a predator to their young in the next. They draw their attention, elsewhere.

So why did the female not realize this? Was she in on it?

So many questions and the whole event has left me surprised by a lot of emotions and learning so much to share with my sons.

I do know, that God is our protector. He puts that protection in mothers and fathers over our children. He put that ability to protect in such a way in that male bird. I do know that these blackbirds are a couple for life, and it was a beautiful picture of relationships where we are loyal, devoted, there for each other in our struggles. I love the picture of the one pushing in love to encourage to the other to get up and live. I love that Maximus prayed in faith with me for God’s creation. I love that the restaurant worker as she approached boldly, the bird got up and flew!

Sometimes we ALL NEED A LOVING COMPASSIONATE PUSH to get up and go, and after prayers have been prayed, we get up, press on and out of the struggle and walk on.

Anyway, this was all so crazy. Funny. Special. Mind blowing. And beautiful.

Then I looked at these pictures and noticed the bird of prey up in the sky. I wonder  was that the threat the blackbird was attempting to distract from it’s young? God knows, and I just know I walked by a little later and the couple was together and near the nest, and Maximus came home later to tell me, the male was spotted once again, flailing around, before it got up and flew again.

A father’s love never ends. And our Heavenly Father’s Love and protection never ends. He went to great lengths through Jesus the Son, the suffering and bleeding on the cross to save us from our sins. He is with His children forever, and will continue to fight for us, empowering us with His strength daily, loving us into eternity.

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