Christmas already? I remember my Mom saying, “The older I get, the faster time flies!” Now I can relate.😊

Where do I begin? As I read this to David the first time, he suggested, “How about January?” LOL! So much happens in one year. Can you relate? As with every year, there’s rarely a dull moment. There are lots of activities but different events as we move through the seasons of life.

David has found a new “career” as chairman of the building committee for our new church sanctuary. He is certainly the guy for that job—dedicated to the fullest! I have continued to lead our Ladies’ Bible Studies and write. We completed a life-changing study by Andrew Wommack, “Spirit, Soul, and Body. Life changing, that’s what the study of God’s Word is about, right? My writing has shifted from poetry to blogs on my website (rebabailes.com). I hope you have read some and have benefited. If so, they are accomplishing my mission.

As for the rest of the bunch, I can hardly keep up with activities but I will try to name a few.

Andrea and Jared went on a mission trip to Brazil. A mission trip was a long-term goal of theirs. So, they jumped right into one of the most dangerous places they could go, the Amazon! Yes, they returned unscathed with testimonies of an incredible experience. Most importantly, winning souls for Christ! A successful and fulfilling mission indeed! We even got a taxidermied piranha. I named him Marco. 😊

With work, school, and play for the rest of the Bailes Clan the activities, and unexpected events continue. For those who don’t know, NWAR was struck by a tornado in May. Several of our family members were significantly impacted but thank God, all were safe. Through all of the damage to our families’ homes, only one broken finger resulted. Although our oldest granddaughter, Haley, and her husband Ry’s home (of less than one year) sustained substantial damage, Haley saw her husband rise to the occasion. He was a servant to their neighbors. They have camping gear that includes a coffee pot and alternatives to electricity. He was up bright and early each morning serving coffee from the tailgate of their truck. Something that most of us think we can’t live without and can’t make without electricity! They had coworkers, friends, and neighbors with whom he worked hand in hand to work through the destruction. Haley dealt with the insurance company and all of the business side of the disaster. What a team! The rest of our family and community experienced help from numerous sources, strengthening relationships with neighbors and strangers like no other event I know of. Rogers and Bentonville will never look the same but thank God, the storm was used to serve His good purpose. Realizing lives are most important, loving neighbors, acts of kindness, and building relationships. He takes what was meant for bad and turns it into good.                                           

In August Adrianna (our youngest grandchild) and I flew to Albuquerque, NM. She enjoyed many new experiences (like her first flight) to a place she had hoped to go. We lived there when her dad, Steven, was 8 and 9  years old. It was David’s last duty station before retiring. Adrianna and I stayed with our dear friends Bob and Joanna and were treated like family members. Joanna chauffeured and helped us visit all of the places on our list. And Bob treated us out to some fine meals. We even had Dairy Queen desserts for dinner a couple of times!

With our other children, their spouses, and GRANDS, we have an occasional get-together for games, dinner, and holidays. Cherished moments for us. They all have school, jobs, friends, and life in the fast lane. And yes, some are walking through some of the toughest times life can offer. We know that they are carried through by our Savior. We pray and we trust. We believe and we hope. The very reason we celebrate this season and the reason we have hope for us all.

We also had loved ones pass over, as many of you have, David’s dear Uncle Ralph and my Aunt Roberta. More reason for this hope I speak of so we don’t say goodbye. We say see you later on the other side. But until then they will certainly be missed.

And I quote last year’s letter, “They say we live in “uncertain times”. David and I say we stand on the “certainty” of the almighty God being all that we could ever need and more than we could ever ask for. This makes our hearts full of gratitude for this incredible gift of His birth, the Christ Child that we honor by making it all about Him!” We pray this is how you will spend your Christmas Season, making it all about Him! For God so loved the world that He gave His only son… John 3:16. We love you too! Merry Christmas to all!

And I will end with this…we had our presidential elections! Again, God’s Love, Mercy, and Grace for America. David says, “Can I get an Amen?”

From our home to yours,

Reba and David

Today I would like to share some of the many things I gained in my quiet time with the Lord this morning.

I could have hit the floor running from store to store trying to finish my gift shopping. I thank God that instead, I stayed focused on the Gift of His Son who has already been given. Jesus is the One whom Christmas is about. He also gave me the gift of this day. I have a choice of how I will use this gift. Suddenly shopping didn’t seem so appealing or a priority. If you have read my poems and narratives in Inspire Me and Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, I point out that He even gives us ideas, talents, and resources for the gifts we want to give to others. My writing poetry began as a gift. So I will write and count on Him to help with my Christmas list. You know, first things first, right?

 Therefore, I began with some praise and worship songs. This is the place to start. As it says in Psalm 100:4 KJV “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him and bless His name.” I have much to thank Him for far beyond any material things I may or may not have.

Being still before God, entering His gates and courts with thanksgiving and praise, He is present. This brings me to the purpose of sharing this blog.

My first song of choice was “Be Still and Know” by CeCe Winans. The lyrics bring to our attention that we all “ Face many mountains, have been through trials, and shed many tears.” Sometimes I need to hear these words from someone as gifted, beautiful, and famous as CeCe. Do you ever think “those” people don’t have the same struggles we do?

I also viewed her short video about the Lord’s inspiration for her to write this song. I felt inspired to share her video and write this on Facebook “He gave her this song in the middle of the night, as so with many of the things I write. She also says she has to walk out the things she tells others…hmm, my experience as well. And I know that she and I are not alone in this! Can somebody say amen?” In the comments, I got some Amens!

The Lord says we are all more alike than we realize. He shows no favoritism toward His children. For God so loved the world that He gave to us…that’s to all of us. He continues to give to us. And we are to share what He has given. That’s why I am eager to share this with you today.

As I sat still and came into His presence with the song “Be Still and Know”, He revealed more of who He is and who we are in Him. When we look at how big our God is, the creator of the mountains, the mountains grow small.

In my lap, I had my  Evidence Bible and a notebook for my Bible study notes that were gifts from our daughter, Andrea, and her husband, Jared.

 Interesting title for my notebook, right? I opened both and continued my study “A Better Way to Pray” by Andrew Wommack. Today was lesson number 12. Andrew starts with Matthew 6:28 “So why do you worry?” He cares for us more than these things mentioned in V28-30 (lilies and clothing of the grass of the field).  V33 has the solution to worry. “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”. Like the words to CeCe’s song, “When I look around and it all seems hopeless, I won’t fear, I won’t fear. I’ll be still and know, know You are God. You’re right here with me through all my troubles. Be still and know.” The lyrics in the song get better as she goes on. God speaks to my heart through songs. How about you? Did you know that most songs are poetry set to music, and the Bible is one-third poetry?

Andrew continues in the study… Seek first and foremost our relationship with God. He supplies all of our needs. Make God the center and focus of my life. My primary reason for prayer should be to praise, worship, and fellowship with Him! Psalm 16:11 NKJV “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Did you notice the “is” and the “are” are in italics? This emphasizes two words that indicate a “state of being”.

The true Gospel of Jesus is to bring us into a close relationship with God. A state of being in the fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore. Our Lord desires this more than we do! Andrew stated there is a Hebrew word for prayer/praise that means “Kiss the face.” Just imagine kissing the face of God! Incredible wouldn’t you agree? As in a few verses of “Intimacy (Into Me See)” in my first book Inspire Me…He beckons us draw nearer Helps us see our Father clearer. As into Him we see THE INTIMACY He has for you and me!

As I continued reading my Bible, I came across a profound comment that I will take the liberty to share. This comment is about using the Law in evangelism specifically in America. By Paris Reidhead “If I had my way, I would declare a moratorium on public preaching of “the plan of salvation” in America for one to two years. Then I would call on everyone who has use of the airwaves and the pulpits to preach the holiness of God, the righteousness of God, and the Law of God until sinners would cry out, “What must we do to be saved?” Then I would take them off in a corner and whisper the gospel to them. Don’t use Joh 3:16. Such drastic action is needed because we have gospel-hardened a generation by telling them how to be saved before they have any understanding of why they need to be saved.” Emphasis mine.

We Americans lose sight of why we need a Savior. Pretty prideful I would say! And the Lord says, Proverbs 16:18 NKJV “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” This is a warning about arrogance that can be interpreted in both physical and spiritual ways. I will point out the spiritual warning. Pride can lead to spiritual ruin: For example, assuming one does not need God’s forgiveness is an attitude of spiritual pride that can lead to ruin. Does anyone else notice the increase in Americans who believe they do not need God’s forgiveness? There again, they have been told how to be saved before they have any understanding of why they need to be saved!

 Living like this has caused many to turn from the history of our nation being founded on Godly principles. I believe the disasters we are facing are being used by God to turn us back to Him. 2nd Chronicles 7:14 NKJV “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” I pray that it is so. Then there will always be those who decide not only do they not need forgiveness, but they don’t need God’s Word either. They say pridefully “I can do this by myself in my way, and my time. I live by my own moral compass. Who is God to tell me how to live?” Or I just don’t have time. And on and on…

Suddenly I remembered several poems that I wrote on this topic.  Beginning with “Peace Be Still” on page 18 of my first book. Then picking back up on page 20 there is a series of six poems that carry the same theme. My second book has more, but I would like to point out the bullet points on the back cover of it.

• Understand why God created you and that He has a purpose for your life.
• Know that He desires an intimate relationship with you.
• Come to know His never-ending love for you.
• Gain confidence in His provision for everything you need in life.
• Build your faith in Him through His Word.
• Discover He does have good plans for your life!

As my thoughts process through the day, while multitasking including meals and laundry, 😊 I know there is much more to gain from my experience. Yes, these times in His presence are causing an eagerness in me to get out of bed early each day, spend intimate time with Him through praise, worship, prayer, and His Word, and share my experience with you.  The excitement of celebrating His birth is ever-increasing, also.

I hope as you read through my books and blogs that it will increase your desire to be still and know that He is God. Enjoy the intimacy with our God like you’ve never known before. As Andrew says, “Get addicted to it by making it your primary reason for praying.”

And if you need a gift to share, please consider giving one of my books. Or maybe even both. They make great gifts any time of the year, but especially this season.

I appreciate as always that you have spent some time to still yourself in the hustle of the season to read what I desire to share. I love your comments also.

God bless you and keep you,

Reba

Hello again,

On this cold December night, I am returning to the testimonies of lost things being found. After all, three events came to mind, but I told of only two (other than the “Sound of Found” in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds).

My first story was one titled “Appointments & Disappointments” where I told of finding a treasured Mother’s ring at an appointment during some very disappointing events.

The next story was when I lost the diamond from my engagement ring. I titled it “Unexpected Outcomes”. This event tells of how I believed in an outcome that I expected. God showed me how He sometimes blesses us in unexpected ways.

 I hope you have read or will read them. Each was written out of my desire to tell how God cares about everything we face. He shows us we can trust Him as Chuck Swindoll has stated, “Not only in the pit of dire circumstances but also in the pinnacle of abundance and success.”

After I gave testimony of these two events and before I could write about the third, I found myself in one of those pits of dire circumstances. Thus the blog “Heavy Hearts”. It was a timely reminder of how imperative it is to yoke up with Him and cast our cares on Him to free us from heavy hearts. After all, He lives in our hearts giving us peace and joy in the midst of it all. I am still in the circumstances that began the heavy heart, but I know what God says about not only yoking up with Him but not walking by sight or circumstances.

Then we moved into celebrating Thanksgiving with Christmas soon to come. It is pretty interesting how all of this comes together by telling of another experience with a lost item. This item was mine. Another treasured piece of jewelry. But this time it was recovered. The recovery story will always leave me with a sense of wonderment and a heart full of gratitude again.

During our first Christmas, as husband and wife, David bought me a diamond and ruby necklace. The diamond was in the center and encircled with deep rich rubies. It was dainty, perfect for my taste, and another big surprise for me. Can you tell that my husband enjoys surprising me with jewelry? As it turned out, diamonds are the birthstone for our oldest daughter and rubies are our second daughter’s. He could have never planned that out!

I valued it and wore it only on special occasions. Through the years I knew that one of our daughters, or granddaughters, would treasure it also. (Much like the Mother’s ring that was passed to the granddaughter.) My necklace was carefully kept in a cherry wood jewelry box David got me several years later. Throughout our numerous moves in the military and afterward, it was watchfully transported along with several other jewelry items.

In September of last year, we received word that a very dear friend’s mother had passed. The funeral was in Louisiana and we decided to attend. We planned to take advantage of the proximity to our families in east TX and visit with them after the funeral.

As I was selecting my clothing to wear for the funeral, I decided that I would also wear one of my special necklaces. The choice was between my diamond and ruby necklace or an emerald and diamond necklace that David had surprised me with on our 50^th wedding anniversary. I couldn’t decide at the time so my thought was to take them both and decide there.

I chose the emerald necklace to wear at the funeral and did not get my jewelry out for the rest of our trip. After returning home, while unpacking, my diamond and ruby necklace was missing! It was not with the other jewelry I had taken on the trip. I looked over and over again!  I turned the little travel bag inside out and to my dismay, it was not there! I  searched absolutely everywhere that I could think of. Even places that seemed somewhat absurd and unreasonable, like the top and bottom of my closet, drawers, pockets, trunk of the car, under furniture, etc. Then my thoughts went to the possibility of the cleaning lady at the motel taking it.  What was the likelihood of her confessing? I thought it may have fallen out of the little bag at my sister’s where we stayed in Texas. I even called her to see if she had found it knowing all along that I had not gotten it out at her house.

I was so desperate to find that necklace that I admittedly obsessed with my search. And the real anguish came with the thought of telling David that I had lost it! I just couldn’t! At one point I hoped he had forgotten he had given me the necklace! I’m telling on myself, I know, but that’s where I was at the time.

I finally settled in my mind that the ring was gone. Those things happen and we just need to get over it. Then I started examining myself and decided that I was placing too much value on material things and letting it rob me of my joy. Or worse yet my sanity! I told myself if God wanted me to have it, I would have found it after all of these months of searching. The conclusion was that He would teach me in this and I needed to let go and learn whatever it was He had as a lesson. Hmm…

An understanding of the lesson was not had, because I was confused about the lesson. Or even if there was a lesson! I hope some of you can relate! In my moment of desperation, I lost my ability to reason. Or worse yet, my ability to let go and let God carry me through. Talk about losing focus! They say hindsight is 20/20. Lol!

So I decided I must let go and chose to relinquish my pursuit. And there was no need to disappoint David by telling him unless the topic came up.

Eleven months passed and one day I decided it was time to clean out and organize my cherry wood jewelry box. I took everything out and selected numerous costume jewelry items to donate. I also have a jewelry armoire that I bought years ago that had collected a lot of clutter. My cleaning and organizing lead to include the armoire.

For most of the years that I had the armoire, my jewelry box sat on top of it. But I had recently moved the jewelry box to the vanity top. I pushed up on the top of the armoire as I was moving it to clean, revealing a forgotten hidden compartment! I hesitantly said “forgotten” because in my mind I never knew it was there. (And I have the reputation of having an elephant’s memory). LOL! Much to my shock and astonishment there inside this compartment was my cherished diamond and ruby necklace! I picked it up in momentary disbelief! If I was not holding it in my hands and seeing it with my own eyes, I would have never believed it was real. I had to sit down and catch my breath so that I would have more breath to say, “Thank You God” over and over again. Tears and laughter ensued!

I realize some might think I am being unnecessarily dramatic as I describe this event. I say the very definition of drama is what I experienced and am trying to convey. Drama is defined as an exciting, emotional, or unexpected series of events or sets of circumstances. For me, this event was filled with drama and dramatic expression was necessary.

After a few moments of sheer delight and wiping away some tears of joy, like the little boy with his ring in the “Sound of Found”, I eagerly told my husband from start to finish about the lost necklace he knew nothing about. He hugged me and we both soaked in the moment.

I must add that as I retell these events, I get to soak in these moments again. As I previously shared, “He shows us we can trust Him as Chuck Swindoll has stated, “Not only in the pit of dire circumstances but also in the pinnacle of abundance and success.”

Thank God for reminders because, I for one, need them regularly. How about you?

And as an additional reminder, listen to Do It Again by Elevation Worship. He never fails!  Your promise still stands, great is your faithfulness…Praise God! I hope this reminds you of His faithfulness.

May I remind you that I am blessed by your comments?

I will end with the title of this blog, He Did it Again!

Thank you for taking the time to read my stories and may God richly bless you,

Reba

Hello, and happy belated Thanksgiving!

Although it is never too late to give thanks, my delayed blog is about last Thursday, the special day we set aside for giving thanks to God for the Christian principles the United States was founded on.

Sadly, we’ve gone through a prolonged period of those who have been ruthlessly attacking, revising, deleting, and in some cases downright lying about our country’s history! Thank God, He is intervening for us again and we see many who are opening their eyes and discovering the truth. And, most importantly, the truth of the Gospel!

Instead of giving a traditional lesson here on our nation’s history, I would like to share something valuable I learned from Greg, a Messianic Jewish friend. I met Greg while visiting my sister in Texas and he recently posted this on Facebook. Since it was posted on social media, I took the liberty of helping him spread it further.

So here’s the interesting information straight from Greg and the reason for my blog title:

Thanksgiving is a Jewish Holiday by Greg Savitt, Rock of Israel.

Did you know that the first Thanksgiving in 1621 was patterned after the Jewish holiday the Feast of Tabernacles found in Leviticus 23:39-44?

First, both Thanksgiving and The Feast of Tabernacles are celebrated in the fall. The Pilgrims went to the New World to celebrate their religious freedom. Both holidays dealt with a harvest of food.

There is an old saying for all Jewish holidays. First, our enemies persecuted us; second, God gave us the victory, and finally, let’s eat. From historical writings and diaries from the Pilgrims, 1) the Pilgrims saw themselves as the children of Israel, 2) the New World was their promised land, 3) the Atlantic Ocean was there the Red Sea, 4) the Kings of England were the Pharaohs of Egypt, 5) the American Indians were the Lost Tribes of Israel, 6) the pact of the Plymouth Rock was God’s Holy Covenant, and 7) the Puritan ordinances were the Laws from Mount Sinai.

The Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot, which is Hebrew for booths, was the last great harvest of the year. (Leviticus 23:39-44) On the First Thanksgiving, noted historian Diana Karter “The community joined together to bring the last loads of grain from the field and share a merry feast when the work was done.” Furthermore, on The Feast of Tabernacles, Jewish people had a feast from their harvest. They ate these delicious meals in booths to remind themselves that the sojourned in the desert for 40 years.”

The Feast of Tabernacles is also called in Hebrew Z’man Simchateinu, which means a season of our rejoicing, and of course, Thanksgiving is a time of our giving thanks for our blessings. The first Thanksgiving in 1621 was the Pilgrims giving thanks to a huge harvest and giving thanks to the Native Americans who had helped them.

So this year, as you pass around the turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, give thanks to Aaron and Moses and the two million Jewish people who wandered around for 40 years. I always believed if Moses’s wife Zipporah had only asked for directions, they would have arrived at the Promised Land much earlier. Joshua and Caleb trusted in God’s Word. May we trust Him as well so that we won’t wander in circles.

I hope you find this as enlightening as I have. And I agree with Greg’s comment about Zipporah asking for directions. But we women know that Moses probably would not let her ask! Ha! Ha!

It would be fun to hear how you celebrate Thanksgiving (if you do). Yes, as Greg mentioned, we have turkey, cornbread dressing (a Southern tradition instead of stuffing), mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, etc.

As always, I love to hear your comments. Maybe you already knew what I have passed on. Tell me about it, I am interested. Thank you for spending time reading what I have to share.

God bless all of you everywhere,

Reba

Here I am again to write with so much on my mind to write about. But I know I don’t write from my many thoughts. I write from my heart.

So here we go…

My heart has been heavy. Yes, the attacks of the enemy are heavy. Darkness all around me, but only when I’m looking at the works of the enemy are they heavy. Again, while looking around me, I need reminders of who lives within. The power of the Holy Spirit lives in me and each who believes in Christ for salvation. We must understand that the Holy Spirit never leaves us or forsakes us. This is the “rebirth”. The “born again” spirit. The “new man” inside of us! Romans 8:11 “But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.”

We just completed our Ladies Bibles Study by Andrew Wommack titled “Spirit, Soul, and Body”. It is a life-changing study like no other I have experienced. That is when I renew my mind and remember these truths. And I thank God for His many ways to remind me. (You can find this complete study at AWMI.net.)

Today instead of continuing with my testimonies of things found (we will save that for later), I am going to share how the Lord is lifting my heaviness. The Lord said in Matthew 11:29-30  NLT “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. V29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.V30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

As I walk in the “battlegrounds” and the Lord pours priceless reminders into my thoughts, He often takes me to what He has already given me, namely His Word, poems, narratives, and life experiences.

This time, and over again, He reminded me of several verses I wrote in my poem Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds (no wonder it is the title of my second book!).

At the beginning of the poem, I was thanking God for all of His wonderful works all around me. Then I quickly progressed to, “But my thanks are most of all when storms prevail”. As I wrote those words I immediately paused and said, “God, I don’t thank You most when storms prevail! Why would I write that?” I knew inside of me that He said, “Continue writing and you will see why.” It still takes my breath when I see where He took this. “For when I’m weak and battle-worn is, where I draw from You, Love strength, and faithfulness when friends are seemingly few. You grip my hand, guide me through, the very one I’m desperate for. While drenching me in Your cleansing power, You’re transforming me even more!” It goes on to say, “Now pure as blue skies, I glide with butterflies amid the beauty of You.” This is where I started in this poem. Praising Him for His beauty all around me! As we go full circle, we begin to see why…” Thankful through life’s battlegrounds, I’m homeward bound, beyond the sky so blue!”

Talk about lifting our burdens! This is how we glide with butterflies and see His beauty all around us again. And this is how we soar on eagles’ wings as it says in Isaiah 40:31 AMP “But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] Will gain new strength and renew their power. They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God} like eagles {rising toward the sun}; They will run and not become weary, They will walk and not become tired”.

And I am also reminded of these verses in my poem Gain ( also in my second book), ”Only these will last forever…faith, hope, love (charity). Love is my hope and only way to true prosperity…By laying it all before Him, abiding Helper working in me, I gain everlasting bounty by giving all to Thee!”

Why would I even attempt to carry these burdens as I walk in the battlegrounds of life? He has told me, “Reba we will walk this out together.” I wasn’t designed to carry these burdens. He has given me everything I need and even more to glide, soar, and walk in victory over the darkness. Yoke up with Him! So I can honestly thank Him through life’s battlegrounds, I’m homeward bound! After all, this is not my home.

Hebrews 13:14-16 NKJV “ For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. V15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. V16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”

I ended my narrative for Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds with this, and it stands true today… “The song, “To God be all blessings and honor, and glory and power. Forever! Amen!” came to my mind, so I was going to play it when I found it on YouTube. I found this scripture and decided it was perfect to end with. Please praise Him with the song also! “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Revelation 5:13 NIV. Amen!”

I hope what I am sharing has helped lift any burdens you might be carrying unnecessarily. It helps me by sharing, reminding me, and confirming God’s promises to us. John 16:33 NKJV “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

I hope again, that my mission statement will be used by God to accomplish my purpose in sharing this: To glorify God through writing, sharing His Word, and my life experiences, communicating the love of Jesus Christ to add to His Kingdom.

The words escape me to express the impact of your reports on how God uses what I write. Last week a precious lady told me with tears in her eyes that she reads a poem or two with narratives each night. She has gained encouragement to face her own battlegrounds. Her home was majorly damaged in the May 2024 tornado and they are still dealing with repairmen. Meanwhile, her husband is having significant health problems that require surgery. She explained by my sharing, that she sees my heart for God and how He gets me through.

Then, today, as I was wrapping up this blog, a mutual friend called to update me on a situation with her unsuccessful surgery. She has had to limit her activities while seeking different opinions regarding her options. Through her disappointment in her failed surgery, and while waiting to discover her options, she has been reading the poems and looking up the scriptures in my first book “Inspire Me”. Her words of confirmation that God is touching lives with His Word and my poetry inspire me to keep writing. I thanked her and told her that our mutual friend had said the same last week. Then to my surprise, she said the two of them had lunch together and did not tell each other what they were experiencing from my two books. For them to individually thank me made it even more moving and heartwarming.

God is working in ways we don’t even know! Sometimes, He allows us to get a glimpse. And each of your comments adds to the glimpse and is just as much appreciated. As always, to God be the glory!

May God bless and keep you through your battlegrounds too.

Until our next time together,

Reba

Hello again, and happy Veterans’ Day to all who have served. You are appreciated more than you know. For the most part, I believe our nation has done a poor job expressing that in the past. But going forward, some of us are doing our best to change that.

So today, I want to post a poem I wrote on November 6, 2017. It is in my first book, “Inspire Me.” I hope it is a blessing to you and your families.

Veteran Tribute                                                                                               

 by Reba Bailes, a Navy Wife

To ALL military members, no matter branch you served

Few of you’ve been given, thanks that you deserve.

Some of you signed up because you lacked direction

Others were from a home, where you needed protection.

Then there were those, who were simply all alone

The ones supposed to love you, where had they all gone?

Even ones required, in country’s greatest need

Signing on the line, your will you did concede.

No difference who you were, no matter where you’d been

There you were in uniform, new IDENTITY did begin.

Some caught on and quickly climbed the ladder

Others were led astray, felt none of this did matter.

And you might not be decorated, with medals of glory

Pain, scars, and nightmares are more of your service story,

But on this special day, set aside for you

You gave the best you had, our support and thanks are due.

Sacrifices, struggles, even successes, may seem to go unnoticed

Woundedness and hurt you feel, in places not remotest.

Forgive us as a nation; our neglect has let you down

May through that forgiveness, appreciation of you be found.

And as we all move forward, honoring all of those who gave

We pray you receive your healing, and your soul our Lord will save.

Our people and our Nation, in the palm of His mighty hand

Until that fateful day, we reach the Promised Land!

May God bless ALL of You!

Are you ready to hear about my lost valuable item’s unexpected outcome and yet another lesson? I hope so because it is interesting how this one comes together.

 I am writing this experience to show how God can turn our disappointments into His appointments to bless us in unexpected ways, in His ways, in His timing.

This is the story of an experience in which God did just that!

My husband, David, and I got engaged to be married when I was very young. He asked his mom for advice about all aspects of the ring that he would present to me for that special event. He didn’t ask my ring size, style, or color of gold preference. He wanted it to be a total surprise. He was successful at that!

The day he planned for his surprise proposal, I was a little upset with him about his long delay in coming to see me. The day was dragging on and I hadn’t heard anything from him. He finally showed up on my doorstep that evening. Without attempting to explain his late arrival, he presented the beautiful ring and made his proposal. That was probably the fastest I have ever gotten over being a bit miffed at him! Lol! I readily accepted the ring and his proposal. I might add that we will celebrate 53 years of marriage this Wednesday, October 16^th. I thank the Lord for having His hand on us through all those years.

The ring couldn’t have pleased me more but the size was far too big. I have a much smaller finger than most women. The jeweler had already told him it could be resized if that was the case. He was correct but what we found out later was that cutting it down that much weakened the band. I checked it frequently and had it repaired several times. Also unknown to us was that although diamond solitaires were very popular, the prongs holding the diamond had to be re-tipped occasionally. After many years, mine got so worn that we decided to have the diamond remounted.

In my second book Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds my narrative for “Stumbling” begins with “Stumbling.”  “Wow, what a chapter in my life story!” After I explained the injuries that I sustained and the outcome of stumbling over an uneven place on a sidewalk, I made this statement. “There are many other dark paths in this story, but I believe those details are not necessary.” I could have never imagined my diamond engagement ring being one of the dark paths in this story that I chose not to tell of at that time.

Today I reread my narrative for “Stumbling” to refresh my memory of the process.  I spoke of the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit after my bleak walk through “untraveled territory” with the damage to my teeth. “I knew I had Him for direction, peace, and wisdom for everything I was going through. I needed every ounce of it because we were not finished with this story yet!” Page #52.

I continued by telling of the visual problems and my referral to a retinal specialist. The outcome of my appointment with the retinal specialist revealed an even more serious condition of my eyes.

Although peace that surpasses all understanding stepped into my life, I still needed time to process all that I was going through and to be able to tell my husband.

On my way home from the retinal specialist. I distracted myself for a moment by picking up a couple of grocery items. At that time I believe I was feeling shocked and numb. Arriving home David could tell I did not have good news. As I told him the condition of my eyes, he was silent as if he couldn’t take it in either. He probably shared in my shocked and numb state of mind. And even though I had peace within, this was a process. “The enemy never missed an opportunity to attempt bombarding my mind with fear of what could happen!”

Immediately after telling David the bad news, I glanced at my engagement ring only to find the diamond missing! The numbness intensified! I could not believe my eyes! I can’t possibly remember how much time passed before calling the doctor’s office hoping by some miracle someone had found it and turned it in. How likely was that? No one had found it but the kind lady said she would tell the cleaning lady to watch for it.

I then decided to retrace my steps. First, I looked in the car, and everywhere between the house and the car. Then I decided to search the parking lot at the shopping center. I searched the store where I had bought the grocery items. Meanwhile, I remembered that I had pumped gas before returning home. So I went to the gas station to continue my search. You can tell I was determined to find that diamond!

All the while, I was praying and believing the Lord would direct me to find my diamond. After all, I had returned several rings to others so it was my turn to receive that blessing. My thought process in my moment of distress is almost embarrassing to acknowledge. I kept praying for a blessing, but the blessing didn’t come in my time or my way as my search drew to a conclusion. God had other plans and that is where the unexpected outcome enters the story.

This reminds me of my poem “The Answer is Coming” in my first book Inspire Me. I hope you will read it and see if you agree … “But if in His wisdom, the Lord says “No” He has something better; through it, you will grow. So always remember our Father hears our requests And however He answers is always the best!”

Time passed and my prayers and thoughts were focused on my healing. Thinking back on my lost diamond, somehow it didn’t compare to the possibility of losing my sight! This helped get things in proper perspective. I have been truly blessed to have come through those dark places with amazing results.

The injuries I sustained in my stumbling accident and the loss of my diamond were in 2020. If you remember, that year was a tough one world wide.

David and I were already excited about and looking forward to our upcoming 50^th wedding anniversary in the Fall of 2021. We were saving money and deciding how to celebrate our “Golden” event. I had no idea that David was planning another grand surprise. Instead of waiting for our anniversary, He would present his anniversary gift to me at Christmas in 2020. All our children and grandchildren knew of this gift and kept it secret. After everyone had opened their gifts, they gathered around to see my response when presented with such a beautiful surprise. It was the last gift to be opened when David took it out of its hiding place.

The gift was the most beautiful ring I could imagine. This one had a large diamond in the center, and smaller diamonds around it, with various shapes and sizes of diamonds halfway around the band. It was stunning and I could never have chosen a ring I would enjoy more. Actually, I tried. Let me explain because I know that sounded very odd.

This ring was also far too large for me. When I returned it to have it resized, we found they could not adjust it that small. The ring would have to be remade, which would take about 6 months! So David suggested that I shop around to see if I could find one that I  liked equally that could be made to fit much sooner. After an extensive local search and online shopping, it became apparent the ring David had chosen for me was ideal. I would wait however long it took for it to be remade. “A “yes” that says, “just wait a little while,” Waiting with Him you can walk the extra mile.”

There is another factor in the equation that made this ring exceptional. David and I set aside a monthly amount of money for each of us to spend however we choose. Unknown to me, David had been saving for months to be able to buy that ring for me! That is sacrificial giving and a notable expression of love. This token of his love for me is more precious than gold or diamonds. I am reminded of this every time I look at it.

Yes, this unexpected outcome was an opportunity for God to take my deep disappointment and use it as an appointment to bless me. Only this time, he used my husband to express his abiding love for me. The Lord said “no” to me finding my diamond because He had something better for me through David.

Additionally, although I was told I would have to wait six months for the remaking, I got a call less than two weeks later that my ring was back! How could that be? It had been sent overseas! It fits perfectly!  Even the manager could not explain how that happened. I have a friend that calls that,  “a God Wink”. I like that. God’s way and His timing are always the best!

The lessons packed in this event were very similar to my previous blog:

#1. The ring symbolizes eternity, endless, never-ending love. When we wed, we exchanged rings pledging this love for each other.

#2. Gold is thought to be the most valuable thing on earth. In this case, putting God first, a husband and wife are to hold each other as the most valuable thing on earth.

#3. Although my diamond was not recovered, my husband replaced it in a way that expressed the same love and commitment to me as the first ring. And as a bonus, I still have the gold band that held that diamond.

#4. The sound of rejoicing with tears of happiness that I did when he presented this ring. All with my loved ones around to witness this occasion.

Many of you have not experienced this kind of marriage. This topic is one I would like to write about. But now is not the time.

The purpose of this story is…

God is always looking to bless us. Just remember that life has its disappointments, but also remember that God wants to use them as His appointments to bless us with unexpected outcomes in His time and His way. He always wants to grow our faith and trust in Him and show us His love, sometimes to show us the love of others. “So always remember, Our Father hears our requests And however He answers is always the best!”

I Chronicles 16:12 NKJV “Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgements of His mouth,”

I truly hope He has used me to bless you by sharing this story. I enjoy hearing from you and appreciate what you share with me.

God bless and keep you,

Reba

Hello, my friends, I am eager to write to you again. The many other distractions are set aside. My husband is going to a meeting, our dog is napping and I am focused on writing what I have on my heart. 

If you read my last blog, you probably remember that I started with a testimony, which is defined as “a public recounting of a religious conversation or experience.” I started with my most valuable testimony, my salvation experience. I truly hope and pray that God used it to make a positive difference in your life and add to His Kingdom.

For several days I asked the Lord how to move on to my next testimony to share. I remembered so many things I knew I could never write about them all. I certainly needed His help to choose the next one. As different memories of past experiences came to mind, the three that came more frequently pertained to jewelry. It seemed, at first, that focusing on material things would not be the direction the Lord would want me to go. After all, we are the most valuable of His creations that have ever existed on earth, right?

I can hardly wait to tell you how and why I believe He does want me to share these particular experiences next.

This morning as I was still pondering “what next” I heard a song referring to how valuable we are to the Lord. The song is “Gold” by Britt Nicole. I understood that the Lord would use these experiences with material things that I am writing about as another lesson through parables.

 I said, “Another” lesson because in my second book Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, my poem and narrative “The Sound of Found,” told of an incredible experience I had finding a child’s lost ring. It was nothing short of a miracle! As I remembered that experience, other poems that I have written about jewels came to mind. The best part of these poems is the scripture references that tell what God says about us and jewels. He used precious metals and gemstones as a parable to teach me how valuable “priceless” we are to Him.

So by prayer, frequent reminders, and a song, here I am to tell another story of finding something precious and having the experience of returning it to its rightful owner.

In 2008 I was in a serious car accident. After the Lord brought me through the concussion and more serious injuries, I received treatment from a chiropractor for neck and back pain. Little did I know, at this particular appointment, that the Lord had something extra special for me. Not only for me but a fellow massage therapist.

As usual, I pulled into the parking lot at the Chiropractic clinic. The lot was gravel and the rest of the surrounding area was grass. I opened my car door and of course, as I stepped out, I was looking down. The tiny edge of something shiny caught my eye. It was buried in the hard-packed gravel. My curiosity caused me to use my fingers to dig the rest of this shiny object up. With determination and bare hands, I uncovered a very worn old-looking ring with three different colored stones. I am no expert in deciphering valuable jewelry but I did not think it had much worth. Even after brushing most of the dirt off, it didn’t improve its possibilities of worth. For a fleeting moment, I thought it could be a child’s toy ring. But, according to its size, that couldn’t be the case. Additionally, this ring had to be pretty durable to withstand being crushed underneath car tires and end up buried in gravel. Still, it had been lost and the least I could do was turn it into the receptionist. It was not my place to determine its value.

So I gave the ring to the receptionist and told her where I had found it. Her face lit with excitement and she said, “Wait here.” “ I think I know who this belongs to.” They had a massage therapist working in the clinic and the receptionist left to show her what I had found. The massage therapist was busy with a client so she would have to see it later.

Meanwhile, I was called to the treatment room for my visit with the chiropractor. While I was updating him on my progress, a young woman appeared in the doorway and eagerly asked if I was the person who found the ring. She had something clutched in her hand held tightly to her chest. It was easy to conclude it was the ring that I had found. She proceeded to exclaim, “It is mine! It’s mine!” “You found my ring!”  She was jumping up and down with such joy that I wanted to jump with her! She even did a little happy dance while laughing with joy. After she displayed sheer delight, she collected herself enough to quickly explain that it was her grandmother’s and this ring was the only thing she had that belonged to her! The young woman was honored to be chosen for the ring to be passed to her at her grandmother’s passing.

She had lost it several months prior and had been very distraught and disappointed over the loss of something so precious.  She could never replace it and she was convinced she would never see it again! I could imagine the distress it caused to have lost it.

After hearing the history of this ring, its value grew to insurmountable proportions! I had more insight into her heartache in losing it and my gladness and gratefulness for her increased significantly.  The many agonizing months that had passed and the countless disappointing searches made its recovery even more significant. To see the joy in this woman’s response by having this precious ring returned to her filled the rest of us with joy also. Oh yes, she said it was a Mother’s ring. The different stones represented the birth months of each of her grandmother’s children. She pointed out the stone that represented her parent’s birth month. I was so caught up in the excitement of the moment, I’m not certain which parent she referred to. Father or Mother did not matter. The significance was apparent.

Her focus shifted to how and where I had found this cherished ring. When I told her, it made the recovery even more incredible and her heart filled with increased awe and gratitude. Mine too!

She left us to continue with my appointment but I can honestly say I don’t remember anything about my visit with the doctor other than him expressing his amazement at the ring being found. The Lord had an appointment for me with far greater significance than chiropractic care. I’m sure the doctor would agree.

So I mentioned a lesson in parables. If you look at the lessons I listed in my narrative for “The Sound of Found”, you will see some similarities. 

 #1. The ring symbolizes eternity, endless, never-ending; God’s love for us.

#2. Gold is thought to be the most valuable thing on earth. However, in this case, the gold was so worn and old-looking that it was hard for me to identify it as real gold. To the Lord, we are the most valuable thing that He created. Worth more than gold or any other created thing.

#3. The unlikelihood of the ring ever being found. God does these things to show us the possibilities in Him. All things are possible through Christ if it is His will.

#4. And the sound of rejoicing when something priceless is restored to its rightful owner! Once again, the sound of this woman’s expression of sheer joy reminded me of the angels in Heaven rejoicing when one priceless soul is restored to its rightful owner; our Father in Heaven.

We can take this to another level of our value to the Lord when we look at what He says about precious stones or jewels.

In “Dust to Diamonds”, also in my new book Blue Skies, Butterflies and Battlegrounds, I referenced Malichi 3:17 NKJV “They shall be Mine; says the Lord of hosts,` On the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.” And Zechariah 9:16-17 says, “The Lord their God will save them in that day, as the flock of His people. For they shall be like the jewels of a crown, Lifted like a banner over His land—For how great is its goodness and how great is its beauty!” And in my poem “The Ballerina’s Dream” I began with “Go ahead, open the box where precious jewels are stored,” (referring to a jewelry box). It tells of my sister’s vision of her being a ballerina in the Lord’s hands. Continuing it tells of the next generation…”My precious jewels.” As I typed these words, I was reminded of the cherished ring being passed to the third generation in the grandmother’s family. How good is that?

I am left in awe of how God uses our appointments, and disappointments, in everyday life with its highs and lows to express His never-ending deep abiding love for us. No matter how old, worn, tattered, dirty, buried, or worthless we might feel or appear, we are priceless to our Creator. And through our Savior, we have been restored to our rightful owner, our Father in Heaven. We are His, like the jewels of a crown, His Crown, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He refines us to reflect the image of His Son as the gold and silversmiths do to precious metals.

I had to pause for a moment to soak in those words. I pray that you received these words in a very personal way also. Soak it in! When (notice I said “When”, not if) we have doubts about His love and our worth to Him, we must renew our minds to what He says. One of my favorite verses of scripture is Romans 12:2 NKJV “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.” Saturate your mind with His Word. This will change your perspective on every event in your life! All glory to Him for the “lessons” He teaches us through our appointments and disappointments.

I will end with Revelation 4:9-11 Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.” And I say AMEN!

In my next blog, I will tell of another lost item that had an unexpected outcome but yet, another valuable lesson. I hope you will join me again. Thank you for every moment you spend reading my blogs.

My prayers are with you all,

Reba

“Testimony” defined…for this application I will use the definition that pertains to this blog.

“A public recounting of a religious conversation or experience.”

Frequently I have thought of writing about my experiences with the Lord, but there are so many I hardly know where to start. I decided to get still, start writing, and see where the Lord takes this.

In the introduction of my first book Inspire Me, I told how I started writing. In my second book, Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, I was led to write narratives about events in my life connected to the poems. They were what I considered testimonies of God working in my life. I plan to write the narratives for my first 40 poems in Inspire Me, but for now, I want to tell of other events that have had a life-changing impact on me.

Let’s start when my new life began. The day I became a believer in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I believe that is a great place to start! After all, this is the most important testimony of my life.

My story is not earth-shattering or grandeur, by the world’s standards. Still, it is as significant and powerful as anyone’s in God’s eyes.

I hope this writing session will help you know Him better and that this testimony can be used for His greater purpose, add to His Kingdom, and glorify Him. Actually, that is my Mission Statement. “To glorify God through writing, sharing His Word, and my life experiences, communicating the love of Jesus Christ to add to His Kingdom.”

So here is my next attempt at my mission…

I’m from a large family. I am number five of six children. My parents were Christians and when I was very young, our family attended church regularly. We moved from Georgia to Arkansas when I turned six years old. My dad had to work weekends and most of my time growing up he worked two jobs. Without Dad, Mom didn’t want to attend church, so subsequently, our family stopped going to church together.

My parents were great at teaching us to be honest, hardworking, and responsible, but fell short in teaching us about Jesus and the Bible. This did not quelch my desire to attend church, for reasons I cannot explain. I knew that I would learn about Jesus and the Bible there. I could not grasp the thought of anyone not wanting to attend church! I begged and nagged anyone and everyone to take me to church. I’m sure some are still around that remember. I chose friends whose parents took them to church and were willing to include me.

 So the summer I turned nine, I was invited to a Baptist church that was having a weeklong revival. I had heard about revivals but was unclear about what they did or their purpose. My next-door neighbor friend told me all about how she “got saved “ at this revival.  She said that I could come and “get saved” too. She didn’t have to convince me to go! I was ready! So that night I did hear all about God’s plan of salvation. When the Pastor finished his sermon, he had an altar call. My friend nudged me and said I had to go to the altar if I wanted Jesus to save me too. So equipped with all of the “childlike” faith I had, I mustered up enough courage to walk that long lonely aisle to reach the Pastor standing at the altar. I felt like every eye in the church was zeroed in on me. That was a painful experience for the very young and shy girl I was. Thankfully, the Pastor welcomed me with open arms. He had me kneel as he knelt with me and briefly explained that I was to repeat a prayer after him. Plain and simple, from the heart of a child, and it was done! Thank God, through Christ, I was saved by His grace and added to His Kingdom!

 To this day, I wonder why some adults have to make salvation so complicated. Don’t misunderstand, the salvation experience is just the beginning of all the Christian life encompasses. But, it can get complicated quickly with the many different denominations, Bible translations, and opinions. However, it is the simplicity of the cross of Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection, and that He did it for you and me that should not be complicated or confusing.`

My life-changing decision was quickly attacked by those who believe a child cannot understand enough to make that choice. Others were confused themselves, therefore spreading their confusion to me and anyone within earshot. Some tried to explain to me how Christians must “act.” Much like the Pharisees that preached living by the Law. That set me on a course of guilt and condemnation each time I did something wrong, resulting in becoming a “people pleaser”.  After all, when I messed up, I wasn’t “acting” like a Christian, so I knew I wasn’t pleasing God. So I would try even harder! “If I am a Christian, surely I can do this!” How did being saved by God’s grace, not by works, get overlooked?

I have lived sixty-one years since accepting Jesus as my Savior. I thank Him every day for clearing up wrong thinking for me. Through His Word, He continues to give me clarity. I find His Will so I can Walk in the Ways of God. He knows me better than I know myself. And that, my friends, is something I am truly grateful for. And you should be too!

While writing this testimony, I was reminded of a poem I had written in my first book, Inspire Me titled “Thank God for Hope”. It speaks of the very things I am writing about. Deception, confusion, having to earn God’s love, and the struggle. Then Jesus cleared it all up! Here are some verses from that poem.

“So, in the midst of confusion, He gave me eyes to see

My Holiness, Righteousness, Salvation for all eternity.

Father, Son, Holy Spirit Provider, always there for my every need

All I could hope for to become all I could ever be.

What a joy it is to have hope for us all

When He opens our eyes and we follow His call.

Just lay it all down, the struggle and strife

Give it all to Him, begin your beautiful new life.

Hope for your future, each and every day

Clearing up the deception and showing you the way.”

And in my poem, “I Am Not”, in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds a few verses say,

“I am His child, secure, significant, most of all free

To be all my Creator created me to be.

Released from the Am Nots, having freedom to just be me!”

With this foundational testimony told, I believe I can go forward from here. Salvation is the starting point in every believer’s new life. There are multitudes of stories I could share going forward and many have a poem, a dream, or another experience to coincide. Truly, the Lord must be orchestrating the events of my life. Or as some would say weaving a tapestry, the potter shaping the clay, or the gold or silversmith’s refining fire.

Hope for your future, each and every day. Clearing up deception and showing you the way.

To be all your Creator created you to be. Released from the Am Nots, for you to be free!

If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I would like to take this opportunity to invite you on a walk down …

 The Romans Road To Salvation

• God is the creator and ruler over all.

Romans 1:20:21 For since the creation of the world His visible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

• No one is righteous.

Romans 3:10 “…as it is written, “There is none righteous, not even one.”

•  We have all sinned and fall short of His standard of perfect, holy righteousness.

Romans 3:23 “…for all have sinned and fall short the glory of God…”

• The penalty for sinfulness has already been set. But God has provided a gift through grace of life eternal.

Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

• God’s love is so great for us that He gave His only son as a sacrifice for the sins of all humanity.

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

• Confessing Jesus Christ as Lord and believing (placing your faith/trust) in Him for the forgiveness of your sins provides you with salvation.

Romans 10:9-10 “…that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.”

Finally… There is only one way to receive salvation: Faith alone in Jesus Christ alone.

Romans 10:13 “… for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

To simplify the Gospel message even more I have heard it taught this way:

The  A B C’S OF SALVATION:

A= Admit that you are a sinner and that you need a Savior.

B= Believe in your heart that Jesus died for you to cleanse you from all sin.

C= Confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord.

This reminds me of my earlier statement, “I wonder why some adults make salvation so complicated.” It’s only because they need clarity of the Word of God so they can know the will of God and walk with Him in His ways. All because of His salvation through God’s grace alone.

And for those of us who have already received our new life in Christ, I will end by quoting Ron Hutchcraft:

“The most important thing you could ever do is to tell others about the sacrifice Jesus made for them. The greatest possible difference you could make with the rest of your life is to help others be in heaven with you.”

I pray that you have a Salvation testimony of your own. And as I continue to write, that my mission is fulfilled.

I’m looking forward to our time together again soon. Thank you for spending your time reading my blogs. If you haven’t already gotten my books, they are available through Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and online booksellers everywhere. I would be honored if you read them. Please notice my comments and connect page. I will be looking for your response.

God Bless you, 

Reba

comments

Well, I’m back! I hope my period of dormancy has not caused you to lose interest in my blogs. Or, worse yet, it implies that I have lost interest in writing. On the contrary, I consistently have thoughts of topics to write about. Since none seemed highly motivating, I would dismiss it and wait for that special one. And then there are always moments when I wonder if the Lord has given all there is for me to write about.

So as I live out each day and see the horrible things happening in this world, I recognize that I need more time reading and hearing The Good News. That is for each and every day. You know… “First Things First”. Therefore, I have been focusing more on  God’s promises of what is to come through His Prophetic Word and the hope for our futures.

There have been moments when I have sat quietly, (have I mentioned that doesn’t come to me naturally?) to just soak in the beauty of my surroundings. Our Creator God could burst forth through the sky to Rapture us at any moment! Surely the Day is approaching! This reminder consoles and soothes my soul and relieves my anxious thoughts. Much like the Scripture says in Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

 And I humbly admit this Spring was a time when my husband and I tackled some major house and property projects. Somehow, I forgot, once again, that I’m not twenty, or even sixty years old! Lol! Are you familiar with overdoers’ syndrome? It’s when you typically discover you have done too much, after the fact. My body started reminding me of my age and syndrome a little late. So I have been doing damage control through physical therapy, pool therapy, and being more mindful of what constitutes healthy eating. Realistically, it is revisiting many lessons I have learned about taking care of my body and life in general.

So that statement brought me right to the topic I want to write about. I bet there for a moment you thought I was going down the path of many excuses for not writing!  Me too!

Finally, moving on (no pun intended) to the topic:

MOVING ON TO MATURITY

 I recently had a dream. Not that having a dream is anything unusual, but this one apparently had a message for me that I eagerly share with you.

In this dream, my cousin’s wife, Miranda, was showing me her High School diploma. She was holding it up so that I could view it as she read. It was in the most eloquent penmanship I had ever seen. Comparable to a fine piece of art. It was definitely like no other diploma presented. I realized that her diploma read as though it was a story of someone’s life. I assumed it was telling of Miranda’s life since it was presented to her. I said to her, “Why aren’t we all given a diploma like this?” Then I woke from the dream!

As I lay there revisiting the dream in a wakened state, I knew that a message from the Lord was the purpose of this dream.  It was too incredible to think otherwise.

As I walked through my memories of the dream, the meaning began to unfold. The Lord was using a human experience to reveal a spiritual lesson.

Let me explain my revelation in this…

In my country, our educational system is typically based on a 13-year program, with variations and personalization to individual needs. We start with Kindergarten and work our way through Elementary classes, to Middle or Jr. High, and then High School. If all the requirements are met through the 12^th grade, we often have a graduation ceremony and are presented with a diploma to prove this accomplishment.

As we learn through this system, some subjects are more difficult for us while others are easier. Sometimes we have to study harder and get extra help that others don’t seem to need. As knowledge is gained for each given topic, we are tested to see if we are ready for the next grade level. We must “pass the test” before moving up. (Maybe some of you are already getting the message in this dream.) If we don’t pass the test, we go through the test again. We are held back from the next grade level until we have proven we have the knowledge needed to move up. We are not required to complete all of these grade levels but, whether we do or not has a life-long effect on all of us. We also have the freedom to further our education/training in any field of study we choose. Only if we can afford it, though.

That’s a different topic, so I won’t go there. But let me interject this statement. Although we have one of the best educational systems in the world, it is in drastic need of improvement. We truly do need to pray more for our children, teachers, and all of our governmental systems. As my Pastor would say, “Can I get an amen?” This reminds me of my poem “Happy Birthday Teacher” and the accompanying narrative in my book, Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds. I hope you will read it and see if you agree.

Now that I have explained our system of education, I would like to share the spiritual connection.

Once we become believers, we are to grow in the Word and spend time with our teacher.

Many verses in the Bible describe Jesus as a teacher, Rabbi. While He was here on earth with us, He was certainly the Master Teacher. Since His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension to the right hand of the Father, the Holy Spirit is our teacher. Jesus said in John 14:25-26 NKJV These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

Jesus is also the Word.  John 1:1-2 NKJV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God, and the Word was with God. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.

Doesn’t it make sense that we would study the “Word” as we sit under the guidance of our Holy Spirit Teacher? This is the way, much like our man-made system, to move up to the next level. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life!

Much like our man-devised educational system, as we study under the guidance of our teacher, the Holy Spirit, and learn what is written in our Holy Bible, the Word of God, we move up to the next level. Of course, this reminds me of a couple of poems the Lord has given me. Two are in my first book Inspire Me, “Fat Babies” and “Body Builder Food”. One of the scripture references I used in “Fat Babies” is Hebrews 5:12-14. It addresses Spiritual Immaturity. And The Peril of Not Progressing in Hebrews 6:1. There are plenty more for our exploration. I purposely did not write these scriptures out for you, believing you will be drawn into your Bible. If you do not have one, please message me on my connect page. We need to rectify this ASAP!

As we are learning and growing, we go through tests to see if we are ready for the next level of spiritual maturity. If we don’t pass the test, IN God’s spiritual growth system, we get to do it over again. Unlike man’s system, we are never failures in God’s eyes and He never holds us back! We hold ourselves back by not spending time studying the Word and letting our Teacher lead and guide us. How we grow and move on to maturity in Christ depends on our dedication and desire to grow and progress. I must add that staying a baby Christian does not keep you from Heaven. But it certainly has a lifelong effect on you and those around you. Some of us never get past the elementary things mentioned in Hebrews 6:1. It is by our choice, certainly not because God doesn’t desire a closer relationship with us. And remember the scriptures warn us of the perils of spiritual immaturity. Not to mention missing the abundant living the Lord has for us in this life. Do you know also that the more we grow in spiritual maturity, the more we look like Jesus? It’s true! There’s another great topic for our exploration of the Word.

Now, I believe it’s a good place to mention the incredible penmanship in which the diploma was written. Do you know that God Himself wrote our story? I’m sure His penmanship is like none other our eyes have beheld! Just like in my dream. And this also explains why Miranda’s diploma was written like a story of her life.  It was a beautiful story! Of course, it was, God wrote it! Do you believe He wrote a beautiful story for you? I know He did: Romans 8:28… and if we love Him (read the scriptures and it makes sense) John 14:15-18; John 14:21; and 1 John 2:4-6.

Through this dream and His Holy Word, God has revealed many encouraging thoughts toward how we move and grow in maturity. He always brings us to a higher level with Him, but He does not force Himself on us. Isaiah 48:17 NKJV “Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go”. God Himself (through the Trinity) teaches you to profit. He is the One who leads us to a higher level. He leads us. He never drags us! And if He is leading us, we must follow or we hold ourselves back! He’s ready to take us to a higher level right now! Are you ready to apply what He has already provided through His Word and the Holy Spirit?

I hope by the Lord giving me this dream, the poems, narratives, blogs, and most importantly the scriptures, and me sharing with you, you are encouraged and inspired to continue growing in spiritual maturity. As Hebrews 10:24 says, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Emphasis mine.

I love hearing comments and receiving emails. Please sign up and let me hear from you too. And don’t forget to reach out if you don’t have a Bible.

Growing together in Christ,

Reba

Read more