“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

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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

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Since I last wrote, I have frequently thought of my question, “How do we express to the Lord our appreciation of all He is to us, who we are in Him, and what He has done for us?” This seems to be a common theme in most of my writings. At first, to answer this question seemed somewhat intimidating. I do tend to overthink things. But the Lord simplified it for me by consistently showing me that I just need to get first things first.

By that I mean, I put Him first by making my relationship with Him priority. It is something that should be done before anything else because it is the most important. Everything else that we put before Him and His Word is an idol. Yes, you heard me right. Everything else is an idol. That is a mighty big statement, I agree.  But let’s look at it with the understanding of Jesus being our Lord and Savior.

King Jesus is on the throne at the right hand of our Father. He is King Jesus. Very few of us have ever served a King in our lives today. But if we examine the days of Kings and kingdoms, we see that the King ruled. Most everyone else was a servant with specific duties and tasks for each day. Their lives were dedicated to the King and serving him first. They each had a purpose and it was all to serve the King, their master.

If you have never read about God’s people desiring a King to rule over them, I suggest you do. God knew it would not be His best for His people. But He certainly had a plan and purpose for allowing Kings to rule over them.

Ok, so let’s get back to this day and age. And remember Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8. God created everything with order. With that order in mind, when we accept His Son Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are added to His Kingdom. He is not only our Savior, but He is our Lord. He is King on the throne in His Kingdom that we belong to. As we come to Him to serve Him, we find our purpose, direction, and everything we need in Him to live in His Kingdom of abundance. Not only that, but we also add to His Kingdom as we spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. Notice He says. “all these things shall be added to you”, after the previous verses where He acknowledges all the things that our heavenly Father knows we need. James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. The last part of that verse in the Amplified Version says, “in whom there is no variation (no rising or setting) or shadow cast by His turning (for He is perfect and never changes). It does not get any better than this my friend!

Putting our King first and adding to His Kingdom is a pertinent way to show our appreciation of who He is,  who we are in Him, and what He has done for us. Wouldn’t you agree? Other expressions of our appreciation or gratitude will naturally flow, such as praising Him, spending more time with Him in prayer, growing in His Word, serving Him, and trusting Him more. We develop an attitude of gratitude and we express it by gladly serving Him first and then others. What a beautiful and powerful way to express our appreciation of our Lord by getting first things first.

In my book Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, I have several poems and narratives that tell of more obstacles that hold us back from putting our Lord first. “Liking Stuff” says, “Now the Lord is teaching me; I like the wrong stuff. I need eternal treasures that are more than enough. He gives me what I truly need and even more to share. So I can store real treasure with Him up there”…”Gain” is another that comes to mind. A few lines from it say, “Authentic gain through the giver of everlasting good, My utmost for Him, seeing gain with clarity as I should. Life of immeasurable value, as my Holy King is reigning, Faith, Hope, and Love all three of these remaining.” And then of course there are “Distractions”. Why in the world is there so much distraction? Minds all cluttered with no plan of action. Our thoughts are running all over the place, Can’t focus on God or give Him some space”… “Walking On My Knees” speaks of how we should start each day and how we benefit from it. “So starting each day on my knees before God, With my heart rightly postured, I do more than just trod. My spirit soars high on eagles’ wings Walking with God through what life brings.” And in Inspire Me in my poem “More Than Words” the last two lines say, “So I can stand humbly before You someday And truthfully utter, “I love You more than words can say!” And if you read “God in Our Seasons”, you will find a lengthy list of “life’s excuses and so many lame reasons.”

By me writing these poems, narratives, and now blogs, they serve as constant reminders and it helps me to stay on track of putting Him first. My hope is that by reading this you gain a better understanding, or maybe just a reminder, as I do, of why it is always best to get first things first.  I’ve heard it put this way… The Word. The Will. The Walk. The Way. You will never regret it and the rewards are eternal gain.

I do appreciate you spending time reading what I have written. And your comments are always welcome.

As always, I hope this blesses and encourages you,

Reba

Well, my friends, I’m sure glad I ended my last blog with this statement, “I hope you join me to see if that is what the Lord has for us next.” I’m glad because expressing our appreciation is packed with all sorts of revealing “stuff”. So much so, that I believe we will have to take this one a bite at a time also.

I must tell you that the Lord is still working in my heart with my last “Losing My Sight” blogs. He never stops teaching me and growing me up in my knowledge of Him, who I am in Him, and what He has done for me. And the Holy Spirit is always there to remind me, not only of these things, but His Word planted in my heart.

I am sharing these with you to serve the same purpose as my books. As in my Final Thought in Inspire Me, “As I have been obedient to write His messages in poetry, even in the storms of my life, my hope is it will not only please Him, but inspire us to seek Him, build our faith in Him, and add to His Kingdom. He has so much more in store for us!” And in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, as I have shared some of my highs, lows, and transformations, I pray you will reflect on the same in your life and see the love of God who created you.

So, I continue to write…

This appreciation topic is going to begin very differently than I first thought. I thought, and maybe you also, that this was going to be another creative list of ways we can express our appreciation of others and why we should do them. You know, things like kind words, pretty cards, flowers, special acts of kindness, or thoughtful deeds toward them. Let’s not forget a poem or a book of poetry! Lol!

But I believe the Lord is helping me approach expressing appreciation from a different angle. We will get to that in the process, so please read on.

This reminds me of Valentine’s Day. I have wondered why in the world would we have just one day to try to express our love to our loved ones. How about every day? Or how about expressing Love to the world as Jesus did? Not only that, but some of us compete to see who gets the most delightful gifts. We don’t leave it there either. As we try to outdo ourselves and others, we take it to another level of craziness. We feel obligated to buy gifts for everyone we know and feel disappointed when it isn’t reciprocated. Could this be the cause of Valentine’s Day spending being expected to reach just under $26 billion US dollars in 2024? This number is mind-boggling to me! $26 billion in a failing economy? Even in a great economy, in my opinion, it is insanity in action!

I had to step back a moment from my rant to collect myself. Before I move on though, I’d like to point out, we can, me included, get caught up in those dark places where our sight is diminished and we participate in “insanity in action”. No judgment from me. Like my previous blogs about losing my sight, we can all lose our sight in different areas. With that in view (no pun intended) as I got on the rant about Valentine’s Day, I made the statement. “When we follow the world’s way, we get the world’s results”.

So, let’s look at following what God says. As in my answers from the Lord about feeling unappreciated, the cure is in His Word. God surely knows our weaknesses. Yet He knows…Psalm 103:14 “For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.” And He just reminded me of my poem Dust to Diamonds in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds. And He does bring these things to the Light to give us clarity and free us from the world’s insanity. His Word is powerful and transformation is a process. Thank You again, Lord, for the process.

 With that said, I do believe setting aside a special day for expressing our love can be a good thing. Just let the Lord guide us in the way we celebrate it or not, as the case may be. And remember when we follow the world’s way, we get the world’s results. $26 billion industry and steady growth. Wonder how many hungry mouths we could feed or missionaries we could send with that enormous amount of money? Oh goodness! Don’t get me started again!

If you are still with me, I believe now is the right time to move on to our new angle of expressing appreciation. I bet you’re glad of that! Lol!

Appreciation defined… According to Merriam-Webster, the appreciation I am referring to means a feeling or expression of admiration, approval, or gratitude. The Oxford Dictionary defines it as the recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.

So, now the “different angle “is about to be revealed. If, by faith, we believe what God says about Who He is, who we are in Him, and what He has done for us, would we not have such an appreciation of Him that we hardly know how to express it? If we get first things first by showing our appreciation of Him, I believe an appreciation of others will naturally flow from us. A natural flow of life and light. Psalm 36:9 NKJV “For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light.” Our sight is restored in His light. As we see by expressing our appreciation of Him first, this fountain of appreciation flows to others. Him first then others.

 Again, I refer to not conforming to the world’s ways but renewing our minds to what God says. 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 will of God.” I repeat, “that you may prove what is that good and acceptable will of God.”

He is always drawing us into that intimate relationship with Him where are transformed to bring Life and Light to a dark and dead world. This is that good and acceptable will of God.

With appreciation defined and us approaching our expression of appreciation of others from a different angle, Him first then others, it leads to the question, how do we express to the Lord our appreciation of all He is to us, who we are in Him, and what He has done for us?

I will let this question be the wrap-up of this blog and the clue to the “next bite”.

Before I go, did you notice in my PS that I mentioned not being well? Thank you for your prayers, I am well. Meanwhile, we got some extremely difficult news involving our family. I am continuing to believe the truth about Who God is, who we are in Him as His children, and what  He has done for us (and will continue to do through His faithfulness). I am standing on His Word. Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

 I am also reminded that I thanked Him “most of all when storms prevail,” in my book Blue Skies Butterflies and Battlegrounds, the poem with the same title pgs. 36-37. And I am reminded of the reasons why… “You grip my hand, guide me through, the very one I am desperate for. While drenching me in Your cleansing power, You’re transforming me even more!”

I am looking forward to what He has for us next and am hoping you will watch for my upcoming blog and join us. As always, I am appreciative of your comments.

Blessed peace from the Prince of Peace,

Reba

By the way, if you are not getting my email notifications, you should check your spam folder or even your social folder.

Part #3 The Answers…

Well, here I am to wrap it all up in His Word, and with the end of my poem in Inspire ME

“The Answer is Coming”

“So always remember, Our Father hears our requests.

And however, He answers is always the best!”

Now on to the Word. Thank you, Lord, for your Word. These are a few scriptures the Lord used to regain my sight and set me free from misery. I’m only sharing a few. There are plenty more. If you seek more answers from Him, He will no doubt give you all that you need personally. He is that personal with each of us because He is a personal God. He created us each individually and through the Holy Spirit He can guide us to the exact Words we each need to hear. I’m hoping these verses will get you started delving into His Word for you.

To begin, we need to look at who we serve.

Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, and not for men.” NKJV. Notice he says whatever you do. No matter how big or small. For those of us who scrub toilets or haul trash, or executives of large corporations, government officials and everything in between. Whatever you do! I believe we are off to a great start, how about you?

The next verse goes on to say who rewards us. “Because you know you’ll receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward, it is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

And in Matthew 6:3-4  Amplified Version: But when you give to the poor and do acts of kindness, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing (give in complete secrecy), so that your charitable acts will be done in secret; and your Father who sees (what is done) in secret will reward you.

Who values and appreciates us?

Luke 12:7 NKJV “Why even the hairs on your head are all numbered. Fear not, you are of more value than many sparrows.” God sees you and the work that you are doing for Him.”

God tells us form Genesis through Revelation how He values us. Afterall, didn’t He love us so much that He gave His only son for us? You don’t give the priceless for worthless. We have worth in Him! In my book Inspire Me, the poem “When I Feel Like a No Count” pg. 36 addresses these very things.

Who gets the glory?

Isaiah 42:8 “I am the Lord, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images.” NKJV God says He won’t share His glory with anyone, that includes ME. Could it be that I have tried to hog some of the glory?  We must remember He reveals things in our hearts for correction, not condemnation. I thank Him that He loves me too much to leave anything unclean in my heart in the dark. He does not do that! He washes us with His Word.

I was just reminded of another poem He gave me to solidify this message. It is also in my first book Inspire Me pg. 21 titled “Soul Digging”. And then in the poems following it, there are “Cleaning Out The Clutter” and “Dark To Light”. All to address dark places in our hearts, forgiveness, victory, and peace.

Next is:

How do I serve with the right heart?

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you“. We are called to give thanks in everything. It is a privilege to serve others, whether in our family, church, job, or community. When I look upward instead of inward and give thanks to God, it relieves me of my selfish self-pity. I can enjoy the privilege of serving Him with the right heart—a heart of gratitude. Also, in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds, “Walking On My Knees” pgs. 77-78, addresses humbly coming before the Lord for our answers for everything. 

Who is keeping a record of our good deeds?

 Malachi 3:16-18 NKJV “Then they that feared the Lord spoke often one to another and the LORD listened and heard them; So, a book of remembrance was written before him for those who feared the LORD, and who meditate on His name.”

For me, realizing that the Lord has a book of remembrance for those who talk about Him and think about  Him is incredible and assuring; for those who “fear” the Lord. That is to those who hold Him with a sense of reverential awe and meditate on Him. It makes it easier to let go of hurt, sadness, and even self-pity when we remember who He is and who we are in Him.

Mark 9:41 NKJV “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”

He not only gives the reward but also keeps a record for us! What more could we need?

Summing up the way my sight was restored:

Who do I serve?

Who values and appreciates me?

Who gets the glory?

How do I serve Him with the right heart?

Who is keeping a record of my good deeds?

I am no longer losing my sight in the darkness with my feelings dragging me down. But walking in the light of His Word; in freedom with my joy, sense of purpose, and value restored.  Clarity! And to God to whom all praise is due! I am encouraging you to read “Walking on my knees” pgs. 77-78 in Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds.

I hope you have benefitted from my experience because I believe this feeling is not foreign to most of us. I am asking you to consider reading “Overcoming Roadblocks”, “Emerging”, and “Artist Rise Up” in Blue Skies, Butterflies & Battlegrounds. Sprinkled throughout these three poems are the words, “Having the power of God’s Word to shut the mouth of the deceiver”. “Coming before our Father with a grateful heart”. Another… “As I believe and receive my true identity. Walking with You is where I thrive”. And last but not least, “Overcoming the enemy’s lies and rising above Serving my purpose spreading God’s love”.

God bless you for sticking with me through these three days of transforming my mind. I pray that it has been transformational for you also. Dark to Light. I can see clearly now. How about you?

I look forward to hearing from you either in the comments on this blog page, or through email.

 My next blog could lean toward the theme of showing others our appreciation of them. Isn’t that an interesting topic following this one? I hope you join me to see if that is what the Lord has for us next.

Reba 

PS I have been writing for the past two days with the flu. Thank God for His help and your understanding if you find errors along the way. Please pray for my complete healing soon.
“The Lord Bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”  Numbers 6:24-26

Diagnosis attained…

Good morning, I hope you are interested in “the rest of the story”, as Paul Harvey would say. I would never want to leave you stuck where I was. My whole purpose of these blogs is to confirm God’s faithfulness to bring us out of those dark places. By the way, did you notice the light behind the medical technician in yesterday’s blog? The Lord brings these issues from the dark to the light. As my poem  Dark to Light says in my first book, Inspire Me. In this same book, my poem says …The Answer Is Coming pg. #37.

 So, let’s pick back up where we left off.

Through my attempt to reason something unreasonable, I could see that I was not wanting to be noticed physically. Of course, the enemy wants us to stay confused. He is always hissing in our heads. Spewing his venom that slowly devours us from within. You know, that gnawing within.  Where those dark places take us.

Bump in the road…

So, I then moved on to battle with the enemy. It’s his fault that I am in this gloomy state of mind! Not to mention the weather has truly been miserable day after day, week after week. Ugg! After all, it is January in NW Arkansas. But we walk not by sight, circumstances, or feelings. Hmm…

At this point, you might be thinking, “This woman just doesn’t get it!” It’s called transformation for a reason. Romans 12:2 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. NKJV.

As we read about the Israelites, many of us believe we would never respond to the Lord the way they did. When in actuality we as Christians do the same thing. In some cases even worse! It’s sad to say we Americans are a good example of this. I thank my Lord for walking with us, just as He did with the Israelites. We should know that the Lord is the very essence of Love. 1 Corinthians Chapter 3 is considered the Love chapter. It tells of the character of God. Also, we might need to take a look at Casting Stones pgs. 149-150 in my new book Blue Skies, Butterflies & Battlegrounds.

With that said, trust me when I tell you I brought this before the Lord each morning and I did sit quietly to listen. His mercies are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness, Lamentations 3:23 NKJV.

Through His mercies, coupled with my seeking and listening, I received my diagnosis. I was able to move forward by recognizing the feeling of being unappreciated was the issue. If the enemy can keep me confused and living by emotions, he can then keep me stuck and defeated. Praise God for clearing up the confusion to get me unstuck and on to victory! Lamentations 3:22 It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, Because his compassions fail not.NKJV.

So, with my issue diagnosed, the Lord led me straight to His answers in His Word! There’s the answer! In His Word.

Will you take a look at His answers with me? If so, be sure to watch for my next blog coming soon! And your comments, through comments or email on my connect page, are welcome as we walk this out together.

Thank you so much for joining me.

Reba 

Celebrating the release of my new book “Blue Skies, Butterflies, & Battlegrounds”

Part #1 Diagnosis (The identification of the nature of an illness or other problem by examination of the symptoms)

Dear friends, did that catch your attention? Good! That’s exactly what I wanted to do so I can share something with you that I believe can help the majority of us when losing our sight.

No, this is not a physical sight, so please read on for clarity. No pun intended. This is spiritual. I’m telling how the Lord gave me clarity to bring me out of the dim and dark place I was slipping into.  I hope my sharing this will help someone else have their joy,  sense of purpose, and value in the Lord restored. Clarity!

Since my clarity has come through a step-by-step process, I decided to share it as my answers fold.

Thus step #1 Diagnosis

I’m speaking of a feeling of being unnoticed and unappreciated. I know this is really putting it out there. But I suspect many of you have had the same gnawing experience as I. I say gnawing because it will eat away at us if we walk according to our feelings.

With that said, I have never been inclined to desire or seek attention. As a matter of fact, as a little girl, I used to hide behind my mom when someone would notice me. I remember being so thankful that my mom was big enough to hide me. That was until she would move and drag me up front. Then the squirmy little girl just stood there hoping this too would pass. I was always shy and quiet in school and didn’t have a lot of friends. Just a few close friends were good enough for me. As an adult, I did not like to wear hats (hats draw attention), high heels (I was tall enough, and tall people get noticed), or lots of bling (I wear small jewelry items so as not to catch the eye). Compliment me in public and I would blush. For someone who doesn’t like to be noticed, you might wonder how it could feel bad to be unnoticed. I wondered about this also. What a quandary! I needed help!

As I tried to reason with myself, this feeling got even worse. After all, it was unreasonable for all the reasons I had stated.

Again, a diagnosis was necessary before the solution could be found. 

In tomorrow’s blog, I will continue with my quest for a much-needed diagnosis. Clarity!

Is this something that you’ve experienced? Or something similar? If so, I would love to hear from you through your comments on my comments page or email.

I’m looking forward to our time together tomorrow and I hope you are too!

Reba 
Celebrating the release of my new book “Blue Skies, Butterflies, & Battlegrounds”.

“The Lord Bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”  Numbers 6:24-26

To all our family and friends, young and old, in-between, near and far,

I hardly know where to begin talking about our year 2023. As with each year, it has held many blessings sprinkled with a number of challenges (or “battlegrounds” since publishing my new book).

I will start there, with my new book. Most everyone who knows me knows March was the release of my second book, “Blue Skies, Butterflies, & Battlegrounds.” What an event! My first book “Inspire Me” was a cakewalk compared to hiring a publishing company. I could have never imagined what was ahead of me, but I know that is why the Lord didn’t show me in advance. I wouldn’t have done it! Then I would have missed out on the many lessons He taught me, and the blessings that come from my obedience to Him. Also, I learned why they say publishing a book is much like birthing a baby! Lol!

As for David and the rest of the bunch, there is rarely a dull moment. With jobs, promotions, school, college, certifications, awards, sports, and church to name a few, there are activities and events galore. Then you add first-time house buyers, wedding plans, trip to Hawaii, Mexico, and France for some, and recently a dream job for one, it has been a year full of abundant blessings. It leaves no desire to speak of the “battlegrounds” other than to say, “Thank you Lord for using those to transform us into your likeness and to cause us to draw closer to You.”

With that said, I will make mention of two loved ones passing this year. First, our dear friend, George Bostock’s mother, Genny. George was David’s best man in our wedding many long years ago. His mother’s funeral was in Louisianna and David and I attended. It was a beautiful tribute to memories of an incredible woman and an opportunity to reconnect with an old friend and his family.  Afterward, we headed for the Houston area to visit our family there. The first stop was my sister, Karen, and Mike’s home. We had a good dose of love of family and love of God! Too many memorable events to mention now. The next stop was at my sister, Denise, and Mike’s home (yes, both married a Mike). Our time with them and other family members was enjoyed again. But while at their house, she got word that our oldest sister, Laura, had passed. Laura had been under hospice care for many long months and she was ready to go to her eternal home where she was finally healed and whole. She is missed but we will never forget her spunk, laughter, generosity, and love.

This Christmas I decided in her memory, to decorate the Norfolk pine tree that Laura had given me years ago. David and I strung blue lights and then I placed silver butterflies on its branches. Hanging on the wall next to it is my treasured infinity cross that Haley painted for me. Sitting next to the tree is my peace lily which has been in bloom since last Spring. On a table next to it is my nativity set all lit up and my Christmas cactus my dear friend Joanna gave me. Its blooms are abundant and spectacular!

As I look at these special items, I think of the blue skies that represent the Heavenly place where God the Father and God the Son reside. I see the silver butterflies that represent our purification and transformation process through the Holy Spirit while on this earth. And baby Jesus who came to provide the way. The abundance in the blooms of our Lord’s provision. The peace in the lily from our Lord Jesus the Prince of Peace. And certainly, the infinity cross where Jesus fought our enemy for us and won the victory for all of our battlegrounds. He rose again to give us eternal life. His love, greatness, and our relationship with Him is infinite.

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. 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!

And we ask Him to bless you, our family, and friends that He has so generously gifted to us,

Reba 

PS Can’t leave our furry buddy Howie out. He has adapted well to our new home and “aging” with us. You get the idea.

Yes, it has been a while I know. I had the misconception that I needed to iron out all of the issues with my website before continuing to write. Many times, I had thoughts or events that inspired me to write but I held back. I thought I might hit enough keys or watch enough tutorials to fix the glitches. Or better yet, get help!

So, here I am after another session with my friend Pati. She is who I fondly call my Hummingbird Friend. She is tiny, energetic, and all over the keyboard and mouse like a hummingbird zipping from flower to flower for nectar. Now here I am trying my hand at duplicating her steps to enjoy the nectar. Therefore, the title Pressing On.

Pressing on when you know it is what the Lord has for you to do is always right. I think of many times I’ve wanted to just give up when things got really hard. What if our Lord had done that when facing His crucifixion? This question should help us get things into their proper perspective, right? When we are faced with hardships, typically frustration, discouragement, doubt, fear, or confusion sets in.

A prime example of this in my life is a recent event, publishing my new book Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds. With the guidance and assistance of a newfound friend, I self-published my first book Inspire Me. Several others pitched in and made it easy.  

Therefore, my plan was to self-publish Blue Skies, Butterflies, and Battlegrounds. But God had other plans! I told how I came to publish with TBN/Trilogy in my acknowledgments. I made the comment that it was more like doing a cannonball out of the boat, rather than stepping out! Lol! But what I didn’t tell was how I was tested throughout that process. I must have thought that you hire a publisher and they do it all. I can tell you that I quickly found out that is wrong, and why they say publishing a book is like birthing a baby. Interestingly enough it took nine months from submitting my manuscript to my release date.  

God’s plans are always better than mine I can assure you.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

He had numerous lessons to teach me through this experience and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Let me make it clear, if I could have learned those same lessons an easier way, I would have chosen the easy way.

But I thank God He knows me better than I know myself. He knows how to get the job done!

My number one lesson has been through the testing.

Question number one in the test… would I be obedient to complete what God had given me to do even when was it harder than I had imagined?

Question number two…would I let frustration and confusion cause me to say I can’t do this? Or let doubt overcome me and say I must have misunderstood God’s direction? I admit those thoughts did come. But the Holy Spirit reminded me that, David (my husband), and I were in full agreement this was the direction the Lord was taking me.

Another important lesson I learned is that if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. You know we have many clever little sayings like this one, but God makes it real to us as we “press on” with Him.

As I reached the other side of my unexpectedly difficult tasks, I knew without a doubt who would get the glory! I hold my books and remember that without His gifting, His guidance, and His faithfulness to see it to completion, I would have never written a word of poetry or published any of the eighty that I have written. Nor could I share them with you.

Therefore, even with this website http://rebabailes.com, I press on because I know it is the right thing to do. May it encourage you to do the same. Always for His glory!

Philippians 3:13-14 NKJV Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, v14 I press forward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.