I thank my God for His Holy Righteous Word that declares how to build. The realms of darkness and forces of evil will hate this Holy work. We are called to build our life, our marriage, our families on the Rock. As Believers we are the church. As Jesus Christ said, “Upon this Rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:13. All the powers of hell will wage war against the church, against the family. We face a very real Spiritual battle. We rise each day as wives and mothers. Various far and wide roles within our calling in the home and family. Teachers, prayer warriors, ministers, ambassadors for Christ, encouragers, supporters, nurses, skill builders, help meets, home makers, nurturing, and so much beyond.

The enemy of souls lurks outside the door waiting to pounce and attack. We LOOK to His Word. Submit ourselves wholly to our King. We dress in the Armor of God- fight against the enemy of souls, and BELIEVE “God is for me and my family” and we pray and press on in Faith- Praising God for victory

The post BUILDING THE HOUSE -(Matt. 7:24-29) first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“Thank you” to my son Isaac for taking the baton (so dad and I could rest) and bringing the family to the finish line of Home after a wonderful morning at church. Thinking about the power of God’s love and loving one another. Serving one another in love.

Each of us has value. The God of heaven Who created us, He chose to come to save us from our sins and give us life. Each day on earth and life everlasting. We love, because He first loved us.

Thank You Lord for building up Your people. You look at us and declare our value and work through our “limitations” as willing vessels, gladly offering up ourselves to You. Your power alone. Through Christ’s Love-serving one another. Jesus-our Salvation, our Foundation, our example, our Faith, our Hope, our Love.

We have limitations, we have strengths. We have gifts. We can nurture our children in the gospel of Christ, in the discipline of God’s Word, encourage them to excel in God’s plans, submitting all – limitations, abilities, gifts, to faith in God. We can show our children as they learn to function with purpose within family and home, in training up their characters, their whole being, we can build them up on the Solid Truth, Solid Rock and Foundation of Jesus Christ.

We can learn the way of love through diligently investing in the family and home, as they see and know we are valued. Christ died to save us, His way is sacrifice and love. We can then share and serve within the bigger body of Christ, the church, and beyond.

“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality” Romans 12:9-13

We can praise God for the conviction of His Holy Spirit on each of our lives, forgiveness, repentance, and His Beautiful Love that covers a multitude of sins. A God Who is growing us all by His incredible Grace. We can look back and see His mercies and grace and move forward encouraging one another in the Faith looking to Jesus Who leads us on and leads us HOME.

Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
Through many dangers, toils, and snares
We have already come
‘Twas grace that brought us safe thus far
And grace will lead us home

HOME – ETERNITY – THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

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“If there’s anything we should be passionate about, it’s the gospel. And I don’t mean passionate only about sharing it with others. I mean passionate about thinking about it, dwelling on it, rejoicing in it, allowing it to color the way we look at the world. Only one thing can be of first importance to each of us. And only the gospel ought to be.” C.J.M.

I was pretty alone without much support from the outside on my journey of home educating my sons.
Amongst a vast amount of needs, I asked God for wisdom multiple times a day.

I knew I was weak and lacking. But this life is not about “Me” , it’s about CHRIST IN ME Something to be said about weakness and lacking in God’s Word!

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Cor. 12:9

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously…” James 1:5

There were home school co-ops offered but we did not fit in for many reasons. The brief time we participated in classroom co-ops, honestly, I look back and I don’t see anything that was gained except the weeding out of what was not for us, and the more intense voice of the Lord making clearer the message and the seriousness to hone it in at HOME.

God is our constant companion on the road less traveled. He brought encouragement in spurts like a cup of fresh water that is delivered to the runner in a marathon to give motivation to continue running. I praise Him forever for these times of unexpected refreshing provisions.

One that sticks out today, is a friend who was on missions in Africa with her husband and young son. She was home schooling her 10 year old and my sons were 9 and 11.

One day through email she shared her heart of missions. I highly valued that she made it clear her Greatest Missionary Work was Motherhood. Her intentionality of discipling her son was her mission field. I was encouraged and through this conversation, God placed within me a great sense of ambitious drive to hone in fiercely on teaching discernment to my sons. Walking with them into a library or anywhere in the world with blasting messages and comparing it with the messages straight from God in our Holy Bibles, and discerning what is a lie, deception, and what is TRUE.

This friend also sent me a wonderful small sermon-like book, “A Gospel Primer for Christians-Learning to see the Glories of God’s Love”
that God used in a powerful way to teach and shape me from the inside out. It encouraged me in the no longer “I” but Christ mentality for Believers and gave me great charge in learning the Glories of God through His blessed perspective on life in Him in trials, hardships, and straining forward in love.

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me”
Galatians 2:20

As our 20 year old son stood after preaching a message at church, in his uniqueness, strength from our Lord, and his own continual process in Christ, with the satchell hung over his shoulder containing a dinosaur Fossil, I caught the banner behind him:

Making disciples. Yes. The Mission Field of Motherhood. We are not to fit in. We are to follow Christ. We are to be passionate about the Gospel of Jesus Christ as the ongoing blessing it cultivates in our own life as well as the joy of sharing it daily in life with our families and beyond.

When we receive Christ’s gift of Salvation,
“God offers the gospel to us every day as a gift that keeps on giving to us EVERYTHING we need for life and godliness. The wise believer learns this truth early and becomes proficient in EXTRACTING available BENEFITS from the gospel each day. We extract by being absorbed in the gospel , speaking it to ourselves and by daring to reckon it true in all we do” -The Gospel Primer

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“It is better to have eyes for beauty – than for blemish. It is better to be able to see the rose – than the thorns. It is better to have learned to look for things to commend in others – than for things to condemn. Of course other people have faults – and we are not blind. But then we have faults of our own – and this should make us charitable” – JR Miller

“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” 1 Cor. 13:13

“Married life is not all sugar, but grace in the heart will keep away most of the sours” -C.H Spurgeon

“Growing in grace in a Christian marriage is a lifelong process that involves extending forgiveness, patience, understanding, and service to one’s spouse. It also involves trusting in God and receiving His grace” – A.N.M.

“but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” 2 Peter 3:18

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” Eph. 4:32

A cold and beautiful sunny walk through town and into the frozen forests of the Pacific Crest Trail – Special dinner at the grand opening of IXTAPA Mexican Restaurant on the River at our Marine Park right here in Cascade Locks.

Song on my heart below

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt

Grace, grace, God’s grace
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within
Grace, grace, God’s grace
Grace that is greater than all our sin

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide
What can avail to wash it away?
Look, there is flowing a crimson tide
Whiter than snow you may be today

Grace, grace, God’s grace
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within
Grace, grace, God’s grace
Grace that is greater than all our sin

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace
Freely bestowed on all who believe
All who are longing to see His face
Will you this moment His grace receive?

The post All God’s Grace – Our 31st Wedding Anniversary first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“I was drawn to the Light many years ago. I despised the darkness that lied and manipulated me, I ran to the Light of Christ! My soul melted in reverent submission to my King of Truth and promise. I was infused by His forgiveness, love, amazing grace, and the Holy Spirit of fire – filled with the power of TRUTH that saved my life now and forever!”

Last night’s sunset. Picture taken by my son Maximus. That little light in the bottom right is East Wind Drive In. A well known visitors gathering for the giant flavor burst ice cream cone. Before we moved to Cascade Locks to the Little House on the Hill, there were summers where my boys and I gathered up a group of fellow homeschoolers to travel to Eagle Creek. We parked and walked the two plus mile path through the forest, creeks, mountains, with the goal to reach Cascade Locks and enjoy an ice cream cone together. Then we would walk the same path back to our cars.

When my sons were about 10 and 12, my husband screen printed t-shirts so that I could give them to a few special ladies, as I organized a gathering for this walk with our children in honor of Mother’s Day. The shirt included a stick figure mother, looking delighted, with this verse:

“I HAVE NO GREATER JOY THAN TO HEAR MY CHILDREN ARE WALKING IN THE TRUTH”
3 John 4

Of all the cares in this world, of all the grandest desires of my heart, a burning, yearning, fire within me, desired this for my sons. That they know the TRUTH. That they recognize lies. They learn to discern. That they not only know the truth, but allow the Spirit of Truth to rule their lives, and direct their steps. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, the life.

That they would know Him, His Word, and desire to place their lives in His hands in faith and follow Him all the days of their life and into eternity.

Our family took many trips throughout every year of raising our sons to this very town. We had our favorite restaurant. Sometimes we rose up early to have breakfast here. We often packed our lunches or dinner and stayed by the Columbia River until sunset and then drove back home.

Many of our trips here included the stop off for the giant flavor burst ice cream cone. How wonderful our Lord is in placing us on this little hill to look down into the one small strip of town and see that little glowing light that holds so many memories of a gathering place of joy and delight for our family, with friends, and even meeting new people, taking in the beauty, and tasting a sweet treat. We now live here and pray for this place, the people here, and thank God for the opportunities to gather with others in this community in a variety ways, in Jesus name.

This little light. This place draws in many. The Light and Truth – Christ Himself is beauty beyond anything else in all the world. I was drawn to the Light many years ago. I despised the darkness that lied and manipulated me, I ran to the Light of Christ! My soul melted in reverent submission to my King of Truth and promise. I was infused by His forgiveness, love, amazing grace, and the Holy Spirit of fire – filled with the power of TRUTH that saved my life now and forever!

My Bible became my constant book that would break the chains of lies and deception and set this captive free!

God’s Word lights the path of life for His children. We follow the Light.

That light down there. Where many gather for moments of beauty and delights, takes me to the thoughts of the gathering of the saints of Christ in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Every moment of beauty and delight on this earth, should take our thoughts to the EVERLASTING, NEVER ENDING beauty of belonging to Christ. As Christians may we delight in Him above all.

May the Light of Christ and zeal for the Truth – the Light that shines forever grow brighter in our souls until that glorious day.

“But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” Proverbs 4:18

The post Run to The Light first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

“It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights”
Ps. 18:32-33 (C.H. Spurgeon -Sure Footedness)

ANXIETIES, FEARS, EXHAUSTION, THESE THINGS have the potential to BREAK US DOWN. Yet, when we come before The Great Physician, Jesus Christ, with these very maladies we are healed. He builds us up in Holy Faith.

We move forward and are strengthened in Faith. The authoritative writings of His Holy Word, when taken in continually, when bowing heart in prayer, petitions, pleading, and praise, the Great Physician mends, heals, renews strength. He travels with His own on the journey, continually feeding and with fresh supply. We will be built up in our Faith, as we rely wholeheartedly on Christ Who is our strength- minute to minute, step by step, day by day, we find ourselves living strong by Faith.

“The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hind’s feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places” — Habakkuk 3:19

CHARLES SPURGEON- SURE FOOTEDNESS-1800’s

“This confidence of the man of God is tantamount to a promise; for that which faith is persuaded of is the purpose of God. The prophet had to traverse the deep places of poverty and famine, but he went down hill without slipping, for the Lord gave him standing. By-and-by he was called to the high places of the hills of conflict; and he was no more afraid to go up than to go down.

See! The Lord lent him strength. Nay, Jehovah Himself was his strength. Think of that: the Almighty God Himself becomes our strength!

Note, that the Lord also gave him sure-footedness. The hinds leap over rock and crag, never missing their foothold. Our Lord will give us grace to follow the most difficult paths of duty without a stumble. He can fit our foot for the crags, so that we shall be at home where apart from God we should perish.

One of these days we shall be called to higher places still. Up yonder we shall climb, even to the mount of God, the high places where the shining ones are gathered. Oh, what feet are the feet of faith, by which, following the Hind of the Morning, we shall ascend into the hill of the Lord!”

TRUE STORY: I set out to climb this hill. I found myself afraid for a moment, that I was going to slip. I strategized and laid out flat and talked to the Lord. I made my way up, in a crawl and there was a hand reaching to give me some help, I received the help. I had the strength. I did not slip. It was my son Maximus who reached out. He and I took on this little “mountain together”.

We are given God’s righteous right hand that holds us. Rely upon Him. He is there. Always and forever.

The post Sure Footed Faith first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

The Incredible Treasured Gift of God’s Powerful Loving Words to Us. If you have a BIBLE, you have a wonderful Book far exceeding anything else offered to us on this earth.

It is a life giving, life changing, book, of eternal value and reward. Through Faith, in the Living Word Christ Jesus the Lord, the Holy Spirit within, our abiding relationship, abiding in His every Word, is indeed something to experience daily, that takes us out of this world into the heavenly minded life of the Kingdom of God.

God did not have to give us anything. Yet, He gave riches. Not of this world, but something far greater. To receive Christ, to receive His Words, to obey, believe, be transformed, is the wonder working power of the King of Kings.

We are given Bibles for our own lives and to share with the world. As I sit here this morning, quite tired. I have not opened my Bible yet, and here I rest. Listening to my young adult sons reading scriptures they choose each new day, to read together around the table.

Holding in my hand the little piece I put together when they were about 3 and 5 years old. My heart, for my sons to know the Lord personally. These words commanded by God are serious words. They are pure, right, Holy. In the fear and honor of God we all as Christ followers are given the privilege to study the scriptures and pass them on through diligently teaching in a loving relationship with our children.

Diligently. A strong word. Strong command. The living of life, straining past self into serving Christ. In hope and believing the Lord will bless His Word and accomplish victory in hearts, minds, souls.

Praise be to God, He alone is power and Might

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up” Deut. 6:5-9

The post OUR TREASURED BIBLES first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

GOOD MORNING FROM MY CORNER OF THE WORLD TO YOU IN YOURS

The Lord’s voice fills the whole heavens and travels to the furthest ends of the earth.

“Keep listening to the thunder of His voice and the rumbling that comes from his mouth. Under the whole heaven He lets it go,and His lightning to the corners of the earth.” Job 37:2-3

What great encouragement. Wherever God has placed us this day, for the Child of God, we have Faith to believe that He is with us, and His Word as we take it in, as the powerful force it truly is, ministers strength to our innermost depths of our heart, mind, soul. We are not alone in our calling. He has called us to this place. His powerful voice reaches us, teaches us, consumes us, and blesses.

I was literally sitting in this corner of my couch resting in the Lord in my calling. Just prior I was on the floor of my prayer room pleading with God for the proper mindset and heart to go forth in His power for the day ahead.

So here I was simultaneously listening to one son in front of me, as he shared something he has been working hard on, while to my right another son was working away at another project. They both asking for my assistance. This moment, (all God preparing my heart prior in His Word and prayer)I was able to do both at the same time, and offer the encouragement and needed support. I was content and peaceful and restful in the Lord. I had planted myself in this particular sitting arrangement in an instant, to strategically be in a place to observe and help. Suddenly I smiled, I realized, I was sitting between two baskets of clothes and leaning on them.

And then I thought.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms of the Lord.

How many saints before us were placed in plain and challenging places. Prison. Desert. Trials. Persecutions. Waiting. Resting. Serving. Praising. Praying.

To look into the Bible we see the saints of Faith Old and New Testament in corners of the world persevering in their calling as Disciples, resting in Christ the Savior. The Lord using them as they faithfully surrendered all and worshiped Him. The very Scriptures written, God’s Very Word, in these very low, humble, places.

The scriptures to be carried to the ends of the earth! Even first in our little humble corners of the world in our heart, family, home.

May God and His Word reach deeply into your heart whatever corner of the world He has placed you and may you feel the warmth of the tender mercies of a Good and Heavenly Father as you lean in on His everlasting Love and Truth. His everlasting arms that hold and carry us every day.

The post From My Corner of the World to Yours first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

This purple morning glow is a welcomed sight. It’s been a continuous downpour of rain and grey for days. The mountains, once again, are in view. It’s a splendid break in our wintertime weather. A cozy home for shelter. A Loving God our Refuge and shelter from the storms of life. A sewing machine to mend clothes for my household today. For a God Who mends broken hearts, broken lives, and covers and clothes His Children in a Robe of Righteousness. A God Who works away weaving the tapestry of our life into His beautiful design. Who prepares us to walk into His Kingdom without end, through the work of Jesus Christ and His Righteousness. For the fine linen and purple – the representation of the blessings of God. For God Who blesses each new day through His rich mercies, compassions that fail not. For God Who is Faithful and True. Praise the Lord for this new day.

“She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.

Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.

Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised” Proverbs 31

The post PURPLE MORNING GLOW first appeared on Schooling On The Rock.

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.