Wedding Etiquette-To My Children

The degradation of society is seen through posts I find oddly, and shockingly, necessary to write to you three. In my heart, I feel certain this is unnecessary for each of you, but so that I can rest easy, and incase you marry worse than your father and I hope and pray, here it is.

You invite those to your wedding who will pray for you and support you in your marriage. You invite those who are family members in good standing and who have a relationship with you or dad and I. Honor those who've taken an interest in you in the church family with an invitation. Above all, never invite married couples individually, meaning, without including their spouse. It is rude and insulting, and if you deigned to invite a wife without her husband, particularly if he is known to you, that is the height of matriarchy and insult. I don't care the reasons, fabricated or otherwise, but know that is unacceptable in a Christian setting to do such a thing. Let people decline, but do not presume to decide for them for any reason whatsoever. People make their own decisions based on what they are able to do and based on what is most important to them.

You include friends and family of you and your spouse, and you include people who mean a lot to your parents. Sometimes it is work friends of your parents--people who care about us and so in turn, care about you. It is a beautiful time of celebrating and realizing that marriage involves support through the years of many, and it often comes about on the prayers of people who have loved you since before you were born, or helped along by those who are involved in our lives the most each week.

Cut costs where you can and must, but not at the cost of harming relationships with people who rightly expect you to include them in such a happy time. It is better to do small and well, than bigger and foolishly.

Lord willing, Dad and I will be here to help guide you through one of the best days of your life.

Love,

Mom

mustaches

I'm not sure why there is this craze of young men growing mustaches, but they don't look good. A quite handsome young man shifts to a rather unattractive young man because of one.

You may ask how I have come to this opinion? I can think quickly of 3 examples that I've known personally. Then there are countless in the cyber online dating app world.

What is up with mothers not telling their sons they look far less cute with a hairy upper lip? Lest you think this is just my opinion, think again. It's a view attractive young women I know have, as well as an attractive mature man.

Please, if you are actually looking to find a beautiful young bride, shave!! Shave it all!

When A Battle Ends

There are situations that God allows us to be in which take us to our ends...our wits' end, the end of our patience, the end of our mercy and grace, the end of our understanding. Situations that frustrate us to no end, and which torment us because we want to be gracious and kind, but the offense to our Lord is too great. The offense is more than should be borne. And yet, when others' do not know the story, we must rely on God alone to carry us through. For many years this was a story for us, and it wasn't until the 11th hour that I began to seek help in prayer from trusted, mature, Christian women. In times, as the end drew nigh, and my strength and resilience were at the brink of failure, my soul poured forth it's anguish. At times we struggle to pray because the challenges are great, and it is by God's design that we need the fellowship of believers to be fellows in our suffering. We bear one another's burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ.

This might be one of the only times in my life where I see us having lived through something of biblical proportion. Picturing how it would be written in the Holy text. How years of failure would be penned, how years of toil would be recorded, and then the swift victory and how that would be said. Many hours of pain, prayer, anguish, disbelief in what was happening, injustice, infuriating disappointment, love for His church, love for Him, love for the brethren...and pressing on and pressing on and pressing on. And it would be said in a sentence. Maybe two.

Our lives and the hours spent wrapped up neatly with, "And then he was gone." Just like that. Cain killed his brother Abel. But all the details in the midst we aren't told...and Enoch walked with God...but all the things we aren't privy to. And God slew him...and God smote him...and God's anger was kindled. Many day in and day out details are not said or known, but the high points where we see God's hand of power, God's direction of the destiny, stated. And we know all things work together for good to them that love Him and are called according to His purpose. How humbling to be a part of history like that. God is too good and mysterious, and yet, He is known and wants us to know Him...those He called before the foundation of the earth was laid! How can it be?

Oh my King, how powerful You have shown Yourself to be! How great and mighty is Your hand! How you bring justice! Even when You do make it right, it is still painful as we're torn between sadness and joy. Why do we force Your mighty hand to act? When you answer our prayer to do what must be done because evil acts prevail and Your creation is suffering...why must it hurt to witness? You have wrought us as so frail we cannot handle Your justice without a mix of emotions. But God, I praise You for Your deliverance! My heart is so full and so fearful of Your just hand. We have seen Your salvation. We have seen You defend what is Yours. It is You who lifts up and puts down! How can my soul ever despair when men come and go as powers and kings? It cannot! You are too great! Too Sovereign! Too Almighty! My soul exalts the Lord who made Heaven and earth! You have done it! You have redeemed and freed, and cast down what must be cast down. You have seen, You have heard our cry. Be magnified Oh Lord in Your church! Be magnified in all the earth! We are but clay, mold us and make us, move us and use us for Your honor and good pleasure and glory ALONE. Now to Him who is ABLE to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all generations, Amen and amen!

How do we live our daily lives, making decisions, living and dying, building and tearing down, and all the while it is under the umbrella of your Sovereignty and perfect will? You are too great for me. Holy, HOLY, HOLY is the Lord God Almighty. I am Yours. Do with me what you will. Amen. Thank you, Father. You have saved us.

excellent free resources on gty.org

If you know me, or read this blog, you know I've learned a great deal from John MacArthur over the past 30 years. I'm not on websites much, but when ordering a free resource tonight, noticed that the site has several terrific devotional options free to read and learn from daily! I love this! We give one of these books to graduating seniors in our church, and I use it when having a group over monthly. I'm happy to see this hear and hope you will share it with others.

Devotional Reading Options:

The Stupidity of Virginians

https://notthebee.com/article/democrat-who-wanted-his-opponents-and-their-children-murdered-becomes-top-law-enforcement-officer-in-virginia?utm_source=Not+The+Bee+Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=11062025

A Discussion that Reeks of Disillusionment

I was talking to someone today, praising the work of her relative who is a man who is en route to be a naval flight officer. I said it's a good job for a man to have. The reply was that women have faster reflexes. In turn I say, yes, but there's more to the job than that. She went on to say it'd be interesting to see the reports or statistics, as if to imply there are reasons it is a job a woman should/can have...

I dropped the conversation because there's no reasoning with women who still think so lowly of the roles traditionally assigned to women. Women who think that only "male jobs matter" are clueless to true reality. They can't see that just because you "can" doesn't mean you "should". Plus, what is wrong with there being things each sex is better equipped to do? It's not a problem for each of us to be better at certain things... I feel like women who can only be satisfied if girls get to do all the things the boys do are only perpetuating the erroneous thinking that some jobs (MAN jobs) matter most. It's this idea that has so many females pushing to be in all the boy things. We can't have boy-only sports or groups because stupid women have jumped into the perceived "male stuff is better", leaving their girl only groups. This only adds more credence to that notion that what the men do and think must be better, so let's all run over there. I say, why not embrace and love what God designed women to excel with? I find it small minded to compete with men for roles that require physical strength and hard mental stamina. Women are gifted differently and beautifully. Why not find value in that? I sure do.

Divine Design book

This stems back to the Garden of Eden. The woman wants to rule OVER the man, not be equal. But nothing will change the REALITY. God made us DIFFERENT yet equal, and the husband is the one to rule over his wife. To lovingly lead her and give the guidance she needs.

Eve in Exile book

Women, who are wives like this one I talked to today, are so unhappy in their marriages compared to the ladies I know who think very differently, including myself.

Wear the pants, do the extremely stressful full time work... how satisfied are you at 50 years old with what you poured into your home and children? How's your health and marriage?

Reformation Day Posts That Are Here

https://annscommunisvita.blogspot.com/search?q=Reformation+Day

The above link will take you to what all is posted on this site about Reformation Day. I hope it is a blessing!

The Pillars of Christian Character

From Grace to You...

Check out "The Pillars of Christian Character"

Hinduism in the White House

How Serious is Pagan Worship?

Not the Bee-Christians Being Slaughtered in Nigeria

Check out this article from Not the Bee: https://notthebee.com/takes/the-world-is-ignoring-a-christian-genocide--and-youll-never-guess-who-just-blew-the-whistle

Spanberger Supports Jay Jones

So charming. What a classy woman to stand by her man like this still. He's an absolute NO for any public service.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/08/us/jay-jones-text-messages-va-attorney-general.html?smid=url-share

Marriage and Singleness for Christians

Pastor Paul

I listened to Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man as I awoke. Worthwhile!

Jay Jones AG Democrat Nominee

Even kids know that who you are friends with says a lot about you.

https://notthebee.com/article/leaked-texts-show-democrat-attorney-general-nominee-in-virginia-fantasizing-about-killing-the-republican-speaker-of-the-house

Charlie Kirk Engaging Others Well

Charlie Kirk

A great man in action

Voddie Baucham's Home Going

Voddie's Obituary with Books to Read

I hope you will get the books listed in his obituary. They didn't mention one I always liked the title for (of course, can't mention them all in an obit...), What He Must Be.... If He Wants to Marry My Daughter. Confession: haven't read that one myself, but I'm sure there are some good points made.

I would at least recommend Fault Lines and Family Driven Faith, which I have read. ;)

Not the Bee on Voddie's Passing

May God bless Voddie's legacy for strong truth proclaimed unashamedly, and may the Almighty comfort and provide for his beloved family.

Charlie Kirk's Memorial Service

Memories from Not The Bee on Charlie Kirk

https://notthebee.com/video/our-memories-of-charlie-kirk-and-what-this-means-for-the-country

It is important to not move on quickly from Charlie Kirk's heinous, evil assassination. He is a Christian martyr, and we cannot let evil prevail. Our fervent prayers for the lost must intensify as well as our willingness to forgive. Christ has conquered the evil in our day; at some point in the future, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ is Lord!

We're in a War

I was just reading a post I'd written in 2016 regarding who to vote for, and it is pretty shocking how society has unraveled so much since that writing. The left has gotten so wicked and evil, and we see it in the appalling reaction so many have had regarding the vicious murder of Charlie Kirk. There is no place now for any debate on which side to vote for, even if neither candidate is ideal (which is leaving a lot out in stating that in such a way; of course we've had numerous elections where that is true). The reality has become, and was here in the last Presidential election, where we as believers must do all we can to stem time tide of those intent on promoting evil. Who would have conceived that people would be so deceived they'd actually think they could change their God ordained gender? It is impossible and yet, people who should know better pretend like it can happen. We cannot change our DNA. Fact.

Anyway, old posts need to be viewed in the light in which they were written. The political parties no longer have valid but different views. Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness in the heavenlies.

Top Charlie Kirk Debates That SHOOK Campuses This Spring 2025 👀🔥

My heart has grieved so much this past week. May God protect Erika and her children, and heal their profound aching. Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power within us.

How Evil Lives in the Political Left

My husband and I were taking a walk and discussing the horror of the assassination of Charlie Kirk. What he wanted me to know is that it really isn't a different opinion the left has. They are totally different people. Their is such vitriol and wickedness. We see it in the response of this hard working family man being brutally murdered, leaving a wife and 2 children behind. We can be assured Mr. Kirk is with Jesus. Sadly those he tried to witness to are dancing on his grave. The enemy is Satan. Let's pray for the lost.

On the Third Day

In looking at the different ways Jews used the word "day" in preparation for teaching Genesis 1 and 2 for Sunday School, I came upon this article. It's a topic of interest because I believe Jesus was crucified on Friday, as most Christians do; yet I have been surprised to meet one or two people through my years who think it was a different day. Here's a great explanation hashing out the details!

Why Did Jesus Mention "Three Days and Three Nights"

A Life of Service

My sweet sister asked if this was an off weekend for us, since they are rare. I happily told her, Yes!, and listed what was on the agenda.

It was work. Which could seem counterintuitive to some. But a life of service to the Lord means downtown involves the work we want to do and have to do, usually at home. I think of it as resetting for the week ahead. It is so relaxing to get all the things done so the "work week" runs more effectively. Tasks that have been on the list, things that make my home run most effectively for everyone...a few hours at night to do leisure activities is plenty.

Of course, some weekends it is fun to get out and get away from the house. But that brings stress when things aren't in order at home or when there's been an awfully large amount of work during the week. It's something to think about and consider, whether it's a time to just say, "Forget the work, I need some fun!!" or to find that the work will bring more long lasting benefits.

Let us work heartily as unto the Lord and not men while we're able. He brings the needed rest and increase!

Does God Still Care About His Enemies? The Good and the Beautiful

We've recently finished studying Judges in Sunday School, and I was able to teach a few times. It is always so good to get to teach because of how much more study is accomplished. It is clear in Judges that God took His enemies VERY seriously. In looking at Samson alone, the wickedness of the Philistines was not something that God trifled with. In our culture of accepting everyone and all beliefs as valid, I think we need to be careful not to add to the problem. What is it that causes God to withhold His blessings upon us? Do we all, who follow Him, get the same blessings irrespective of what we do? I'm not talking salvation issues, but day to day living in obedience, which brings more blessings to God's children. Here are some questions to ask as you consider life choices.

Is God truth?

Are we the friends of God if we teach truth?

Are Mormons teaching truth?

Are Mormons the friends of God?

Do people with money gain more influence over our culture?

I think it is valid to consider how many Christians willingly add to the immense financial coffers of Mormons by using The Good and the Beautiful homeschool curriculum. The issue isn't merely if anything anti true Christianity is taught, but are we not helping normalize this false religion by defending and supporting this curriculum? Do Mormons have a prominent influence in our world?

Things to look at and consider for the follower of Christ.

I do not know the woman who wrote this blog post and all the reasons behind it, nor do I care. I do care about this curriculum being made more mainstream if it is Bible believing Christians helping do it.

https://homeschoolon.com/the-good-and-the-beautiful-controversy/

Deuteronomy 31:8 KJV [8] And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed

Samaritan's Purse Career Opportunities

https://careers.samaritanspurse.org/

Why has He given you the talents He's given you? Is your career meaningful?

Why Are You Downcast, Oh My Soul?

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Phil 4:19

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My life passage, mostly memorized in this translation. When the torrents continue from without in multiple ways....when strength is failing. Battles fought as a team against the outside forces of darkness press down.... I cannot but see the continual trials as anything but from the enemy masked in a multiplicity of ways and means. My High Priest allows all that reaches me. All that reaches us. But oh God, it is too much. I do not think we can take much more. Bring the relief quickly, Father. Words do fail. The anguish in my soul is tremendous. When will relief come? How much longer, oh Lord? In my desperation, it is You alone who can help. You alone know it all. And in my distress, You remind me...O Taste and See that the Lord is good! You will not leave me as an orphan! You turn my grief into joy, and all of this happens while circumstances remain the same. I will not be thwarted by those who intimate that trust and relief in You is a sign of not working and caring. I will not live in a mindset of despair. No, I will trust in You. You whose ways are higher than my ways. You who turns the tides, raises the sun, sets the moon, hung the stars, parted the seas, raised the dead, and saved this utterly wicked person from the penalty of sin. You are King of kings and Lord of lords, great is Your faithfulness. And I will trust in You. Halleluiah to the One who set me free, Halleluiah death has lost its grip on me. You have broken every chain, there's salvation in YOUR name, Jesus Christ, my living hope. In all things.

Psalm 40

God Sustains His Servant. For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

40 I waited [a]patiently for the Lord;

And He inclined to me and heard my cry.

2 He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the [b]miry clay,

And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.

3 He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;

Many will see and fear

And will trust in the Lord.

4 How blessed is the man who has made the Lord his trust,

And has not [c]turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood.

5 Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders which You have done,

And Your thoughts toward us;

There is none to compare with You.

If I would declare and speak of them,

They would be too numerous to count.

6 [d]Sacrifice and meal offering You have not desired;

My ears You have [e]opened;

Burnt offering and sin offering You have not required.

7 Then I said, “Behold, I come;

In the scroll of the book it is [f]written of me.

8 I delight to do Your will, O my God;

Your Law is within my heart.”

9 I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation;

Behold, I will not restrain my lips,

O Lord, You know.

10 I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart;

I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation;

I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth from the great congregation.

11 You, O Lord, will not withhold Your compassion from me;

[g]Your lovingkindness and Your truth will continually preserve me.

12 For evils beyond number have surrounded me;

My iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to see;

They are more numerous than the hairs of my head,

And my heart has [h]failed me.

13 Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me;

Make haste, O Lord, to help me.

14 Let those be ashamed and humiliated together

Who seek my [i]life to destroy it;

Let those be turned back and dishonored

Who delight [j]in my hurt.

15 Let those be [k]appalled because of their shame

Who say to me, “Aha, aha!”

16 Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You;

Let those who love Your salvation say continually,

“The Lord be magnified!”

17 Since I am afflicted and needy,

[l]Let the Lord be mindful of me.

You are my help and my deliverer;

Do not delay, O my God.

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The Lord, the Keeper of Israel. A Song of Ascents. Psalm 121

I will raise my eyes to the mountains;

From where will my help come?

2 My help comes from the Lord,

Who made heaven and earth.

3 He will not allow your foot to slip;

He who watches over you will not slumber.

4 Behold, He who watches over Israel

Will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is your [a]protector;

The Lord is your shade on your right hand.

6 The sun will not [b]beat down on you by day,

Nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord will [c]protect you from all evil;

He will keep your soul.

8 The Lord will [d]guard your going out and your coming in

From this time and forever.

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Psalm 28

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12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. 1 Cor 10:12-13

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2 Sam 22, ........here is just a portion of this passage, which is worth reading in its entirety.... The violence is not necessarily outward war. There is a spiritual violence assaulted against God's children. It bruises and bashes us against the rocks leaving us so weary if we fail to go to the One who refreshes and restores our soul.

Now David spoke the words of this song to the Lord on the day that the Lord had saved him from the [a]hand of all his enemies and from the [b]hand of Saul. 2 He said,

“The Lord is my [c]rock and my fortress and my deliverer;3 [d]My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,
My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge;
My savior, You save me from violence.4 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
And I am saved from my enemies.5 For the waves of death encompassed me;
The floods of [e]destruction terrified me;6 The ropes of [f]Sheol surrounded me;
The snares of death confronted me.7 In my distress I called upon the Lord,
Yes, I called out to my God;
And from His temple He heard my voice,
And my cry for help came into His ears.8 Then the earth shook and quaked,
The foundations of heaven were trembling
And were shaken, because He was angry.

Protestation of Integrity and Prayer for Protection.

A Psalm of David.

26 [a]Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity,

And I have trusted in the Lord [b]without wavering.

2 Examine me, O Lord, and try me;

Test my [c]mind and my heart.

3 For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes,

And I have walked in Your [d]truth.

Pain

The people who feel your pain at least as much as you, and possibly more, are your parents.

Silence

Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom. -Francis Bacon

Nothing strengthens authority so much as silence. -Leonardo da Vinci

We are so rarely in the presence of silence, by choice and by the reality of our world. We rob ourselves of the great depths of learning with music in our ears non-stop. Even at the check-out, the workers have an earbud in, hindering their interest in interacting with customers I think... keeping their mind entertained. We share something that isn't self absorbed when we share the same sounds.

Children and adults listen to all manner of things on their phone or tablet. TVs are on for "white noise" in many homes. The most dangerous I think though, is the earbud. It shuts us off from the world, and we struggle so much with self absorption. I'm not saying to never use them, but when alone in a room or outdoors, that's not necessarily the time.

How is this changing us as a race, all this noise?

I feel that children need quiet and time to get bored. Creativity blossoms in that environment. Our bodies and minds settle when we aren't being stimulated externally. It's not just diet that matters, but also personal lifestyle choices.

Adults need to model how to be still and thoughtful, but we also need to be still and thoughtful.

I find myself returning to not listening to music as much as I started to recently. Talk radio ceased when Rush died. There's something I feel is very important in quiet.

A Forever Partner

I was thinking about how when looking for a spouse, so many things are thought and discussed. It's almost like the miracle of birth that two people find each other! The reality is, we're all looking for someone to deeply trust with who we are. That that person will not harm us, but will help and love us. Aren't we all closest to those we do not have to fear will break our hearts or bring us pain? People aren't perfect, but we certainly gravitate to those who we believe have the best judgment. Wise counselors. And don't we all pull back and seek to protect ourselves from those we deem otherwise?

Those things can't be posted on a dating app, and yet, it's the core of what everyone is seeking I'd say. It's such a gift that God uses what we can say, and do say, to connect us to the one He has for us.

Sobriety

Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

Is this true?

In life, we can choose the actions, but we can't choose the reactions.

Might be something to remember when being rebellious, disrespectful, cavalier, stupid, selfish, foolish...sin takes you farther than you want to go, costs you may than you are willing to pay, and keeps you longer than you want to stay. Foolish decisions like dismissing wise counsel can do a lot that also.

The Worthy Walk

I love the book of Ephesians. It is truly one of my favorites in Scripture. If I could choose two favorites, I would say Romans also because it really is the most thorough.

Check out the message "Walk Worthy" from Grace to You. Some worthwhile messages to encourage and challenge!

Psalm 46:10

Being still takes time. It doesn't occur in seconds or minutes. It requires something of us. It needs a decision on our part to put off things so we can put on other things.

How can you be still when there are always stimulants coursing through your veins? Or rockish music pouring into your ears? Or a phone with images continuously being scrolled?

When do we make sure to have long stretches of time with nothing artificially stimulating us or distracting us? Do we ever calm down inside and externally?

Education for Christans

https://youtu.be/HFXaOPOM7qA?si=pHc972HwkD8dnWdv

Good reminder from John MacArthur on public education for Christians. It is short.

Memorial Service: John MacArthur

Here is the link for John MacArthur's Memorial Service

August 23rd

Teachable Spirit?

Those who have all the answers also have all the problems.

Why I Love the Sovereignty of God

If I had to pick a favorite book of the Bible, it would definitely be something written by the Apostle Paul. I love him. I think of being in Heaven and just getting to see him from a distance. He will probably be glorifying God next to John MacArthur and Martyn-Lloyd Jones. Great men that I esteem so highly, yet are in a realm far from the one in which I tread.

Ephesians is truly a book I love. There is so much peace when I read Ephesians 1...the clear reminder that God is God and I'm far below but yet still thought of and planned for and known. It is a very humbling reality. Romans is incredible, and the man I'm bonded to as they'd say in a Chuck Black book, finds it to be his favorite, and so did MLJ. Oh the depths and riches of God! It's a high brow book and I like the parts that show God's sovereignty and yet, man's responsibility. I'm in awe of God for having two roads that do not clearly intersect in my mind, yet I know they do in His. I love that before the foundation of the world God chose and predestined who would be saved, and that He has set up believing in Him as something we have to do, and that faith comes by hearing. He is brilliant, magnificent, the only wise God.

This reality is one that has helped me so much the past many years. Life is hard. It is hard a lot of the time when you are a parent, spouse, sibling and an active member of your church. Add the other roles you have and the more there are, the more difficulty there can be. It is obvious how life is designed to make us long for Heaven the older we get. The prime years of life are fast. When there is boundless energy, beauty, intellect and strength the years fly by. When you awaken bright eyed or groggy, yet not in any pain. There is so much that we take for granted at each stage of life.

Through it all, I'm seeing there are always new opportunities to trust the Lord. Deeper challenges with really giving it ALL to Him. "Have hopes, but don't count on them. Have dreams, but don't bank on them. Have wishes, but be willing to forgo them. Love deeply, but with a hand that isn't clutching."

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. -Jesus

When life is not what I want, when there are hurts, disappointments, fatigue from the daily grind, questions, drudgery...I go to the Sovereignty of the King of kings and Lord of lords. I don't care what this church or that church teaches but I read the Bible and I see what it says. There was a beautiful man who has taught me for over 30 years that summed up exactly what I believe, and he is now, very recently, fulfilled wholly and has heard the words I long to hear, "Well done, my good and faithful servant, enter into the presence of your King."

God, help me to be good and faithful as Your servant. Help me want what You want, love what You love, die to myself, and take up the cross You have assigned me, and please help me carry it with a smile on my face. And help me talk less when I'm excited. It's so embarrassing sometimes. I just love people and it is hard to reign myself in. I love to know and be known.

An Explanation of the Sovereign Gospel

Check out "An Explanation of the Sovereign Gospel" from Grace to You

https://www.gty.org/

Grace to You

I'm comfortable with the way this is explained. I'm merely a follower, not one with the mind of God. There's no need for me to force this view, which logically works in my mind and aligns with what I read. I see that the Bible says various things that have to be true at the same time, whether they gel logically in the human realm isn't the question or issue. God has a mind far above my own, and God is good. He is just. He is love. Bottom line, I trust Him.

Why to Love the Church

https://youtu.be/i_Oi1yeo-ZI?si=DjKq5SQWJ0GXnxua

A great sermon by John MacArthur on Reasons to Love the Church. This is part 2 which I don't think any serious Christian could disagree with.

My Small Tribute

Pastor John MacArthur has been a part of my life for nearly 30 years. While studying at Virginia Tech, I met Jesus, and landed at Harvest Baptist Church. The pastor, who was studying for his MDiv through The Master's University, was very good with helping me grow in Christ. He gave me the first MacArthur book, Charismatic Chaos, because some of the roommates I had at the time were into speaking in tongues. One was part of a movement that taught you how to do that because it meant you were genuinely saved (due to the filling of the Holy Spirit, which they wrongly taught happened apart from salvation). The book cleared up many confusing points of Christianity, and it was the seed that grew into many titles from that godly man. I've listened to more sermons on Grace to You than any other source, and am so thankful. Being forgiven and set free from the bonds of my sin was the greatest event of my life, and John MacArthur taught me more than I could ever say. I've never rejoiced at the news of someone dying until his passing. It was just the immediate thought to be happy to know such a faithful servant was finally in the presence of the One he longed to glorify. John MacArthur taught me to love the church...to put myself in the background and be content serving where God has chosen. I'm thankful GTY.org will continue to play sermons. I'll continue listen. And while I am very sad that John isn't out in California anymore, I've got a peace that God's timing is best and that everything is going to be alright.

Power of Prayer

Often I don't share prayer requests. People have so many of their own. I try to be discreet as well. That said, sometimes several struggles come along all at once. If trouble impacts those closest to me, I'm generally sharing with others so they can pray with me.

This past week, my beloved sister fell quite ill. She's been in a hospital that's about 7 hours from me because we're on vacation. It's been very difficult to not be with her. We pray, and I've asked many others to pray. Mostly friends I've prayed for in the past. That's how love goes, right? We bear one another's burdens. If we believe the heart of God is moved by prayer, then we ought to beseech Him when we've got needs. He's the Great Physician, so He's who we go to.

During this same time period, my middle daughter took a hard hit and fell backwards onto concrete, sustaining a concussion that lasted several days. Five days later, she still finds bright lights to hurt her eyes. She was feeling ill when the collision occurred, and has been sick a couple of times already this summer. She's a delicate girl, and this job has been a very new endeavor for her. Working at a physically and emotionally demanding job is quite the opposite of a government type computer science internship. I'm so grateful for the friends who have prayed for her healing. We're blessed to be in a church where everyone knows each of us.

It's a balance to be found: troubling others with our needs or keeping them between us and God. Pride can keep us from asking, and it can compel us to ask when we ought to hold off.

Being on this particular vacation, I used to enjoy being off my phone and computer all week. We are still not on the computer doing normal life, but I've been on my phone a lot for the first time. There's just no way with the health issues and two kids working where they barely get free time to text or call. It's a season. God is faithful to give us the rest we need in other ways. To be broken and spilled out for His use is my dream. At the end of this life, I hope all who know me think of good works I've done to bring glory to the Lord. Whether it be having them over, praying with them, giving them something they needed, or doing something for them. What else is this life for?

Best of the Burg Fredericksburg VA

Two realities make Best of the Burg seem far less serious than it did even a year ago.

1. It took weeks longer for the results to come out than what was originally slated as the deadline.

2. As of July 1, 2025, the results aren't posted online anywhere.

It appears The Freelance Star wanted to try to increase newspaper sales so they allegedly put an insert in the paper with the results, finally, on June 29th. My guess is that one could buy a digital subscription to the paper to see if they can then find the results online. Of course it's the papers prerogative to run the contest and do what they want with the results. I'm just putting it out there that despite my voting, none of this is going to entice me to buy a digital subscription or a paper. Had we been in town, maybe I would have bought a Sunday paper. What is being accomplished is my lack of interest next year in voting. The whole thing seems to have lost its luster now that it's drug on for so long and I still can't see the results. Why bother?

Signed,

20 yr Fredericksburg resident who voted faithfully the past 4 yrs.

Baby Cacti

These were started as seeds last summer! 15 started and now we're looking at 9. For a while I thought all had died. Not sure if I'm doing something wrong, but they sure grow slow!

Only One Life by C.T. Studd

Only One Life
C.T. Studd

Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgment seat;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its days I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, “twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say, “Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say ’twas worth it all”;
Only one life,’ twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

The Sting of Death and Remembering

Technology is such a blessing and a curse. I'm torn at the moment on which it is. I've just finished reading an email exchange between my dear old friend and myself from Aug 2015. My friend has been with the Lord for 8 years now, so this was not terribly long before the end of her life. The end was so unexpected and tragic. Out of it was born another wonderful friendship for me between her mom and me. That sweet friendship lasted until 2024 when she, at 93, said her final farewell. Two great losses from the same family. Both caring listeners with comforting advice. Reading my friend's words just makes me cry. I hear her voice in those words and am flooded with memories on what a comfort she was during some lonely years. The narrow road of raising conservative Christian children was often one where I wished for friends. I had this one friend who understood my concerns and why we just didn't fit with most people.

God knows what we need when we need it. He knows who we need when we need them.

I'm not sure how I went from being 41 to 51 so fast. How I went from having a very close friend to being someone who tragically lost my closest friend. We all live with loss and we move forward. God shows us blessings and those do ease the pain of loss. I'd never want to trade the friendship with my friend's mom for anything. She was such a dear lady to me. My first widowed friend as a matter of fact. How I loved that English girl!

It is amazing how we can be so sure we need something only to look back and see that we don't need it presently at all. God is so faithful. He has carried me along and now so many things I recall struggling with, are barely a thing in my world. There's still hints here and there at times, but He has filled gaps, given purpose, and given friends to walk this road of life. I don't have the same needs now as I had as a younger woman.

He gives a greater grace, and He gives it when we need it. My church family has become so important to me. Moreso than I would have ever thought possible. And God has used the tragedy of my friend's loss to always keep the flame burning of truth in mental health issues and how many of the struggles in that category are not dealt with rightly by the world. My faith in psychology couldn't be lower. My faith in mental hospitals couldn't be lower. My belief that mind altering drugs help people is nearly zero, and when they do, it is a needle in a haystack situation. People struggle with real problems and respect for human life and dignity demands real answers, which come from God and His word and those who know how to use it to help. Hormonal changes from cancer and surgery need a very careful handling. Mind altering drugs are not the answer. We have to have a solution to the crisis a woman's body goes through before we remove all her hormones.

God's timing is perfect, always. And He knows the end from the beginning, yet somewhere in there is human responsibility and consequences to actions. A lot of things do not add up, and I'm thankful I can take comfort that my friend is with the Lord. That is the only way I can relax and leave it in His hands to have the final justice.

Signing off tonight, remembering Terri and Rita, with love. ♥

Productive Days

Some people make lists and work off them for weeks and weeks, sometimes even months. I've certainly made lists when there are specific tasks I'm knocking out and need to prioritize, but often there are long tasks in my mind that only I can do, and which only really matter to me. They are the hard things that aren't going to happen incidentally or bit by bit. Multiple rooms in the house will be impacted simultaneously while I clean out, organize and restructure spaces.

Today was such a day of productivity.

Epic things have happened in this house since May with kitchen cleaning out and reorganization, armoires being reorganized and items consolidated or tossed, and we're using one desk in the living room that finally has all my stuff in or near it, organized. I've done a major culling of my clothing and have seriously tackled my husband's clothes, piling up categories for him to go through when he gets the mind to do it.

The impetus was packing up my daughter's items from college and then packing all of her items for moving out. Suddenly the volume of what one person can have hit me hard, and I needed to take a solid look at my own clothes hoarding. No longer do my drawers have clothes crammed in them, and I've taken lots out that I simply never wore. It is so freeing. Shoes that didn't work are gone. Why hold on to them?

This is just the start, and I hope to free up more space in this house before 2026, but at least we're off to a good start.

The garage needs work yet again, but that can't happen until the desk we removed from the house sells and my daughter's stuff is in her apartment. Meanwhile, I've got more than a few old computers to deal with. That is a project I can't wait to be done with! ♥

Critical Issues in Biblical Counseling

Here are some trustworthy resources if you want to learn more about this important topic. 🌺

https://www.shepherdpress.com/store/critical-issues/

Child Rearing Tip

I was reminded of something today.

If a child is old enough to defy a parent in a certain way, they are able to understand enough why you are correcting them. Waiting until they have the understanding you have is a recipe for a very sinful, rebellious child. Don't be deceived by resources that tell you kids need to understand before you discipline them. The rod of correction drives sin far from a child. When sin is committed, it is the parent's job to correct it as God instructs. As with the Israelites in the time of the Judges, partial obedience will bring God's hand of correction and consequences that are serious. The Lord has called parents to train up their children in the way they should go. Doesn't mean they will go that way, but we have to do the hard work of driving sin far from them while they are still young and under our control. First time obedience with a good attitude is critical. No talking back, no defiantly questioning before obeying, and it should be very rare that there's questioning at all before obeying, unless you somehow were not clear in your instructions. Kids can bring a biblical appeal if they think you've forgotten something, but if they question you and your authority in their lives, it is rebellion against God and needs to be treated seriously, right away. It isn't a matter of offending you, making you angry, or inconveniencing you as their parent. Are they obeying the authority God has put over them? If they aren't responding as they should to the Lord, then you need to step in and make sure they do not do it that same way again.

Remember with firstborns, the younger are watching and the stakes are high. Satan wants your firstborn because he knows the others are more likely to follow and it will cause marital strife. It is like bowling pins. Knock down the one in front, chances of it hitting the rest are great.

United Healthcare Denies UC

It's incredible to see that United Healthcare still denies college kids with Ulcerative Colitis.

I'm working with my son's roommate, who is alone in this country, fighting with his insurance who refuses him the medication he desperately needs. I can't help but wonder how it would be if this young man had a mom who was living, how this would be going, or a father that lived in this country. An insurance company that cared would sure be nice though.

Inside UnitedHealth’s Effort to Deny Coverage for a Patient’s Care — ProPublica

https://www.propublica.org/article/unitedhealth-healthcare-insurance-denial-ulcerative-colitis

I'm very interested in seeing this young man get the help he needs.

Reality: Cholesterol

Here's a hard truth. God doesn't make disciples so they can do whatever they want, whenever they want. This includes eating. At no time in civilization has eating been as abundant and as focused on as it is now. I don't feel this statement needs any qualifiers to convince the reader of it's veracity. It is an opinion I think easily proven. The ingredients available, TV shows about cooking, books, and the internet, have made food move to a place of near idolatry in some cases.

I'd like to encourage the young readers, meaning under 40, to pay attention to foods you'll need to really moderate so you don't end up with health issues later in life that cause doctors to want you to go on medication and have tests done regularly. Developing a taste for something and then having to cut it out is a lot harder than never developing the taste. We see this in plenty of areas as Christians: music, books, movies, clothing, scrolling the internet...we do not encourage living fast and loose and then reigning it in before it is "too late" in any area but eating I'd say.

Lowering Cholesterol

The issue of lowering cholesterol and it being a positive or negative is interesting when you start looking it up. It seems inflammation is usually the thing to concern ourselves with. Sugar is something my body just doesn't like. It is low numbers-wise, but day in and day out, my system wants VERY low. I can feel it, and with how it keeps me awake, think it is just my lot in life to avoid it as much as I can. It's a bummer because I've just recently gotten good with making layered cakes look nicer.

I'm trying Milk Thistle and Niacin (B3), alternating daily, plus losing 10 lbs to see if that will lower my cholesterol enough...meaning get it below 200. Even though I strive to eat little dairy most of the time, I'm going even lower again with it but adding in whey protein for it's cholesterol benefits. We will see how the sinuses do and if it is causing too much inflammation, it'll go by the wayside of course. The other thing is exercise that gets my heart rate up, which is not enjoyable and is a little difficult given my hip issue (labrum). Working slower the past 2 yrs and cutting my daytime hours is surely part of the culprit for the sudden spike in my LDL. Working 4 days/week two years ago made a difference! But I could feel the strain physically so started to reduce and then my leg issue started, and we cut my daytime work in half. Working by the job instead of by the hour allows me to do this work but I'm no longer getting the physical workout the same way. It is hard to balance learning to sit more and rest with getting enough activity to be healthy!!

Looking forward to testing all of this out and seeing where things are in 3 months.

Stay tuned!

Chiropractic

It's been about 10 years since I've seen a chiropractor, and have been quickly reminded of why it is a good thing for me to continue with for my life's duration. Everyone's body is different. Mine gets out of whack, especially my neck. It is likely due to my vision that causes me to tilt my head to see straight, but also just the way things are. My low back needs adjusting, neck, and mid back, and it has been this way for a long, long time. My first venture to the chiropractor was when I was 19 and had a skiing accident. It helped a lot! When we were first married I would drive an hour to a good chiropractor in Ohio. It was during one of those trips our first dog was found at a pound. What a time! We enjoyed Jakey for over 16 years.

This doctor was a Divine appointment and like a doctor I saw 15 yrs ago, did some Active Release Therapy on my hip to break up scar tissue that is not helping my torn labrum (what we assume is). Just a note to my kids that if you start having physical pain in various places, remember ART has been a huge help to me, after spending countless hours and thousands of dollars. Massage, chiropractic, PT, ART...it is what it is with my pain and body. Add to it needing to be limited with sugar and dairy because inflammation hits me hard, plus my metabolism is sensitive to sugar. Maybe there's a catch-all condition title to how I am. I don't know. I'm just eager to stay off medication, be strong, and have no pain if possible.

Johann Sebastian Bach | Matthäus - Passion / St Matthew Passion (BWV 244)

This is pretty amazing, from 1727 Bach. You can follow along with the translation to get the meaning!

Good Friday Services

For over 10 years I've posted churches where you can find a Good Friday service. This year, I'm mixing it up and sharing links to two great messages.

One is from Grace Fellowship Church in downtown Fredericksburg, and the other is CityLight Baptist Church in Culpeper, VA.

Grace does their service at 6:30 pm and CityLight's is at 7 pm and it is a Communion service. If you missed worshipping at a church with some of the best preaching around FXBG, head to one of these next year!

Holy Week Focusing

I've been enjoying a Holy Week reading from Desiring God each day this week. Just trying to keep focus and get my mind more on Jesus and drawing closer to God through Him this week.

Here is a link to Tuesdays: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/he-loved-us-through-loneliness?utm_campaign=Holy+Week&utm_content=Day+3+%28Holy+Tuesday%29&utm_medium=cio&utm_source=email

I'm not sure it will come through because I signed up to receive them in my inbox.

Using my phone often isn't something that's enjoyable. Last week I had to use it a ton because of a texting pampered chef party. It was great to earn a ton of free products again this year which I'm very excited about getting, but being on my phone for 4 more hours per day or something insane nearly pushed me to the brink. Even so, I signed up for YouVersion's Easter week readings as well so I'm sure to get more time in the Word than I would otherwise. Running to appointments and such, extra time can be found so I try to read.

I hope you are reading and thinking this week about what God did for you in having His One and only begotten Son come to earth about 2000 yrs ago to live a sinless life and then be crucified as one guilty, yet innocent, so He could be the payment for your sin (and mine). Trust Him today and ask Him to forgive you and put a new song in your mouth, a song of praise to our God.

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Only One LifeC.T. Studd

Only One Life
C.T. Studd