Numbers 13:1-14:10, In-depth Study

Welcome back to our in-depth Bible study. May God be with us as we study His word today. 

Numbers 13
1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2 Send thou men, that they may search the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel: of every tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a ruler among them.

3 And Moses by the commandment of the LORD sent them from the wilderness of Paran: all those men were heads of the children of Israel.

4 And these were their names: of the tribe of Reuben, Shammua the son of Zaccur.

5 Of the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat the son of Hori.

6 Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.

7 Of the tribe of Issachar, Igal the son of Joseph.

8 Of the tribe of Ephraim, Oshea the son of Nun.

9 Of the tribe of Benjamin, Palti the son of Raphu.

10 Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi.

11 Of the tribe of Joseph, namely, of the tribe of Manasseh, Gaddi the son of Susi.

12 Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli.

13 Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael.

14 Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.

15 Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi.

16 These are the names of the men which Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses called Oshea the son of Nun Jehoshua.

17 And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain:

18 And see the land, what it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many;

19 And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;

20 And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the firstripe grapes.

21 So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.

22 And they ascended by the south, and came unto Hebron; where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the children of Anak, were. (Now Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)

23 And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff; and they brought of the pomegranates, and of the figs.

24 The place was called the brook Eshcol, because of the cluster of grapes which the children of Israel cut down from thence.

25 And they returned from searching of the land after forty days.

26 And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and shewed them the fruit of the land.

27 And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it.

28 Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

29 The Amalekites dwell in the land of the south: and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and by the coast of Jordan.

30 And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

31 But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.

32 And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.

33 And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.

Source: https://kingjames.bible

Numbers 14
1 And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.

2 And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!

3 And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?

4 And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.

5 Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel.

6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:

7 And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.

8 If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey.

9 Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not.

10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the LORD appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.

Thank you for reading and God Bless!

Joseph, an Extension Study of People in the Bible

Joseph




The story of Joseph is a remarkable narrative that showcases the sovereignty of God and the power of forgiveness. Here’s a detailed account:

Joseph, the first son of Jacob and Rachel, was born with a special destiny. His father, Jacob, favored him above his brothers, gifting him a coat of many colors, symbolizing his love and preference. However, this favoritism sparked jealousy among Joseph’s brothers, who despised him.

The situation worsened when Joseph shared his prophetic dreams with his brothers. In one dream, their sheaves of grain bowed down to his sheaf, while in another, the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed to him. These dreams further fueled their resentment, as they couldn’t comprehend the divine plan unfolding before them.

When Jacob sent Joseph to check on his brothers, who were tending their flocks near Shechem, they saw an opportunity to get rid of him. They conspired to kill him but were dissuaded by Reuben, who suggested throwing him into a dry well instead. The brothers then sold Joseph to a caravan of Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

There, Joseph was sold to Potiphar, the captain of Pharaoh’s guard. Despite being a slave, Joseph’s integrity, diligence, and God-given abilities earned him favor with Potiphar, who entrusted him with significant responsibilities.

However, Joseph’s success attracted the attention of Potiphar’s wife, who attempted to seduce him. When Joseph refused her advances, she falsely accused him of misconduct, leading to his imprisonment. Even in prison, Joseph’s faith and God-given gifts shone through, earning him a position of authority among the prisoners.

Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams caught the attention of Pharaoh’s cupbearer, a fellow prisoner. When the cupbearer’s dream was fulfilled, Joseph asked him to remember him when he was released. However, the cupbearer forgot Joseph for two years.

It wasn’t until Pharaoh himself had a dream that Joseph was remembered. Pharaoh’s dream foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine, and Joseph advised him to store grain during the abundant years. Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom, Pharaoh elevated him to second-in-command, tasking him with overseeing the grain storage.

When the famine struck, people from neighboring countries, including Jacob and his sons, came to Egypt to buy grain. Unbeknownst to them, the governor overseeing the grain distribution was their long-lost brother Joseph.

When Joseph’s brothers arrived, they bowed down to him, fulfilling one of his prophetic dreams. However, Joseph didn’t reveal his identity, instead testing his brothers to see if they had changed. He accused them of being spies and demanded that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, to prove their innocence.

After a series of events, including the brothers’ return with Benjamin, Joseph’s emotional reunion with his brothers was finally realized. When Judah offered himself in Benjamin’s place, Joseph couldn’t control his emotions any longer and revealed his identity to his brothers.

Joseph’s story showcases God’s sovereignty and faithfulness, even in the face of adversity. Through his trials, Joseph grew stronger in his faith, and God used him to save his family and the Egyptians during the famine. His narrative provides encouragement and edification for those facing challenges, reminding them that God can use their pain for good.

The parallels between Joseph’s story and Jesus’ life are striking, with themes of favoritism, suffering, and ultimate exaltation. Both Joseph and Jesus were beloved sons who suffered at the hands of others, only to be elevated to positions of authority and glory.

As the Bible says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Joseph’s story testifies to this truth, demonstrating that God’s plans are always good, even when circumstances seem dire.

Feverfew: The Chronic Migraine Remedy

Feverfew

Unlock the Power of Feverfew: Nature’s Migraine Warrior

For centuries, feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) has been a trusted ally in traditional medicine, harnessing its potent anti-inflammatory properties to combat a myriad of ailments. This unassuming daisy family member has been quietly working wonders, from easing feverish symptoms to soothing the debilitating pain of migraines and tension headaches.

The Magic Behind Feverfew

At the heart of feverfew’s remarkable benefits lies a powerful compound called parthenolide, nestled within its leaves. This natural wonder has been clinically proven to reduce migraine attacks by:

Blocking serotonin and prostaglandin receptors, the brain chemicals that trigger blood vessel dilation during a migraine episode
Preventing blood platelets from releasing inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing pain and discomfort
Stopping blood vessels in the brain from widening, a key factor in migraine development
Decreasing spasms of vascular smooth muscles, further alleviating migraine symptoms

But parthenolide isn’t the only hero in feverfew’s arsenal. Tanetin, another potent compound found in the plant’s leaves, flowers, and seeds, also blocks prostaglandin synthesis, amplifying feverfew’s anti-inflammatory effects.



A Modern Miracle: Feverfew’s Role in Migraine Prevention

In 1978, a groundbreaking account of feverfew’s efficacy in preventing migraines was shared in a British health magazine. A 68-year-old woman, plagued by severe migraines since age 16, found remarkable relief after incorporating three feverfew leaves into her daily routine. After 10 months, her migraine attacks had ceased completely.

Today, feverfew is recognized for its multifaceted benefits, extending beyond migraine prevention to:

Easing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
Soothing digestive issues and toothaches
Calming insect bites and skin irritations
Supporting heart health and cancer treatment
Alleviating menstruation and respiratory issues
Combating dizziness and more

Harness the Natural Power of Feverfew

As the world turns to nature for answers, feverfew stands out as a shining example of Mother Nature’s pharmacy. With its rich history, potent compounds, and impressive range of benefits, feverfew is an herb worth exploring for those seeking relief from migraines, inflammation, and beyond.


https://www.migraineagain.com/feverfew-migraine-prevention/



Buy a tincture already made or try a hand at making it yourself. This is one everyone should have in their God given medicine cabinet.

Feverfew





Feverfew Tincture:

Ingredients:

80 Proof vodka
2 Parts lemon balm
1 Part feverfew

Instructions:

Finely chop the fresh herbs.

Measure out the herbs (2 parts to 1 part) so you have enough to fill a mason jar and leave two-inches of headspace. (Same instruction applies of using dried herbs)

3. Add the herbs to the mason jar.

4 Add the vodka but leave enough space to shake the mixture (about 1/2 inch or so).

Place the lid on the jar and shake until well mixed.

6. Place in a sunny spot where it can steep for two to six weeks.

7. Shake the jar daily.

8. After steeping, strain the mixture through cheesecloth of fine strainer and discard herbs.

9. Store in tincture in dark bottles or in a cool dark place.

Dosage:

I/2 teaspoon when you feel the onset of a migraine. Repeat every 30-60 minutes until you feel the symptoms dissipate. Because of the inclusion of alcohol, ask a doctor’s advice before you administer it to a child.

Notes:

The shelf life is approximately 5 years.

I am not a doctor, only an avid reader who believes God gave us a lot of natural resources to take care of ourselves. Please do your own research and seek a second opinion. This is not medical advice.

The Way to God

Thank you GodSo much for thisI can’t express enoughJust how thankful I am for this.Even when it’s tough.I know now why I’m doing this.I know just why I’m here.It hasn’t been the smoothest road.But the way to You is clear.

The Way to God

Reblog! Short and oh so very sweet. Great poem!

Traveling the World

What countries do you want to visit?

What countries do I want to visit? I want to visit ALL OF THEM. I want to travel the world and see every sight to see. Especially the ones that take you off the beaten path and into the little known places. One day I hope to fill a journal full of my wondrous adventures.

Daily Bible Study #115

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
Psalms 103:13 KJV
https://bible-strong.app

Psalms 103
A Psalm of David.

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

9 He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.

10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

15 As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

16 For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.

17 But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;

18 To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

19 The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

20 Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

21 Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

22 Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

Source https://kingjames.bible

As always thanks for reading and God bless

Numbers 11:26-12:16, In-depth Study

Welcome back to our in-depth Bible study. We are still in the book of Numbers and are quickly working out way through. May you have eyes that see and ears that hear. May you find truth in God word and put aside the traditions of men that are so often taught in replace od scriptures.


Numbers 11:26


26 But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.

27 And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.

28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them.

29 And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!

30 And Moses gat him into the camp, he and the elders of Israel.

31 And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day’s journey on this side, and as it were a day’s journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high upon the face of the earth.

32 And the people stood up all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and they gathered the quails: he that gathered least gathered ten homers: and they spread them all abroad for themselves round about the camp.

33 And while the flesh was yet between their teeth, ere it was chewed, the wrath of the LORD was kindled against the people, and the LORD smote the people with a very great plague.

34 And he called the name of that place Kibrothhattaavah: because there they buried the people that lusted.

35 And the people journeyed from Kibrothhattaavah unto Hazeroth; and abode at Hazeroth.

Numbers 12
1 And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman.

2 And they said, Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the LORD heard it.

3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)

4 And the LORD spake suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out.

5 And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth.

6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.

7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house.

8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

9 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed.

10 And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous.

11 And Aaron said unto Moses, Alas, my lord, I beseech thee, lay not the sin upon us, wherein we have done foolishly, and wherein we have sinned.

12 Let her not be as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother’s womb.

13 And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, Heal her now, O God, I beseech thee.

14 And the LORD said unto Moses, If her father had but spit in her face, should she not be ashamed seven days? let her be shut out from the camp seven days, and after that let her be received in again.

15 And Miriam was shut out from the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again.

16 And afterward the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the wilderness of Paran.

That is all for today’s lesson. Thank you for reading and God bless!

Rachel and Leah, an Extension Study of People in the Bible



Rachel and Leah

The biblical account of Rachel and Leah’s marriage to Jacob, as recorded in Genesis 29-30 and 35, provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural norms and customs of ancient Mesopotamia. The narrative revolves around the complex relationships between Jacob, Rachel, and Leah, and the births of their children.

According to the biblical account, Jacob’s marriage to Rachel and Leah is facilitated through a series of agreements with their father, Laban. Jacob served Laban for seven years in exchange for Rachel’s hand in marriage, which represents the payment of the bride-price. However, Laban deceived Jacob by substituting Leah for Rachel on the wedding night.

After Jacob confronts Laban, they come to another agreement, allowing Jacob to marry Rachel in exchange for an additional seven years of service. This arrangement highlights the economic aspect of marriage in ancient Mesopotamia, where the bride-price was a crucial element of the marriage contract.

The biblical narrative reveals that Leah bears children shortly after her marriage to Jacob, while Rachel remains barren for an extended period. This delay in Rachel’s childbearing can be understood in light of the customs and traditions surrounding ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts.

Research by scholar Korine Garroway on ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts sheds light on the possible reasons behind the delay in Rachel’s childbearing. According to Garroway, these contracts often stipulated that the groom pay a bride-price to the bride’s family, which could be paid in installments. However, the final installment had to be paid before the birth of the first child.

In the context of Jacob’s marriage to Rachel, the birth of Joseph after Jacob’s additional seven years of service suggests that the bride-price for Rachel was paid in full. This interpretation is supported by the biblical narrative, which indicates that God remembers Rachel and she bears her first son, Joseph, after Leah has already had seven children.

The timing of births in the biblical story of Rachel and Leah takes on significant meaning when considered in light of ancient Mesopotamian customs. The birth of Joseph after the payment of the bride-price in full underscores his legitimacy as Jacob’s heir.

This understanding highlights the importance of considering the cultural context in which the biblical narrative arose. The story of Rachel and Leah’s childbearing reflects the societal norms and expectations of ancient Mesopotamia, where the payment of a bride-price and the legitimacy of children were closely tied.

In conclusion, the biblical account of Rachel and Leah’s marriage to Jacob provides valuable insights into the customs and traditions of ancient Mesopotamia. The delay in Rachel’s childbearing can be understood in light of the payment of the bride-price, which was a crucial element of ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts. The birth of Joseph after the payment of the bride-price in full underscores his legitimacy as Jacob’s heir, highlighting the significance of cultural context in understanding the biblical narrative.

Elisa’s Prayer

Altar of God

Elisa woke up early excited for the day’s events. Yesterday Mother promised to take her to the park and her mom always sticks to her promises. She hopped out of bed bouncing down the stairs.
“Good morning Mother.”
“Good morning Elisa, are you ready to go to the park today?” Mother asked.
“You bet, as soon as I finish my breakfast. What is for breakfast today?”
“Anything you would like.”
“In that case I want jelly toast. Quick and simple to get is out the door and on the way to the park.” 

Mother agreed and made her some toast with strawberry jelly smeared on top. Elisa scarfed down the food and rushed her mother out the door. She was bouncing in her seat as they arrived at the park. Elisa waited patiently for her mother, knowing she isn’t allowed to exit the car without her. After what seemed like an eternity, they left the vehicle. With a look of approval from her mother she sprints off to the giant fort style jungle gym, the biggest structure at the playground.

Elisa climbed high, feeling like she could almost touch the sky. She slid down the slides and hung on the money bars, she swung on the swings and climbed up the rock wall. On the last trip down the slide she saw a girl close to her age sitting all alone. She decided to ask the girl if she wanted to play.
“Hi, my name is Elisa. Would you like to play.”
“I really don’t feel like playing right now, my pet kitten is lost, we haven’t seen her in days.”
“Oh no, that’s awful. I am so sorry you can’t find your kitten. I know! We can pray for her safe return.”
“Pray, what does that mean?”
“It means we ask God to help us.”
“God? Who is God?”
“God is the one who made us and everything, even the world.”
“I have never heard about God.”
“Here let me show you.”
Elisa grabbed the girls hands and placed them together, with her hands on top.
“Close your eyes and open your heart.”
The girl nods in agreeance.
“Our heavenly Father, if it is your will I pray that her little kitty cat will come home safe and sound. Thank you Father, I love you and amen.”
“Do you really think it will work?” She asked with eyes full of hope.
Johnny walked by overhearing the girl’s prayers.
“God doesn’t care about your cat. He has more important things to worry about.” He said, nevermind the fact that he had never asked God for anything.
“That’s not true Johnny, God loves and cares for all the creatures, they are all God’s creation.”
Johnny scoffed at her silly notion.
With new hope that her beloved pet would return, Sarah decided to play. Before long the kitten was an afterthought and it was time for the children to return home. The girls said their goodbyes with plans to return the next day.
Sarah returnes home tired and ready for a hot meal. She drug herself out of the car and up the porch steps, her legs tired and weak. To her surprise a furry little face stood on the top step eager to greet her.
“Meow!”

Joy filled Sarah’s heart as she hugged the little kitten tight. “Thank you God. Thank you for caring about my baby kitten.”
Sarah went to bed that night praising God for the answered prayer.
The next morning she leped out of bed and scurried outside, confident her beloved pet would be there. Sure enough Misty the kitten sat at the door awaiting her breakfast. Sarah scooped her up again and thanked God once more for her little miracle. She ran inside to tell her mother about the divine intervention and how excited she was to tell Elisa today. Her mother admired her faith, something she could use some strengthening in.

At the playground Sarah joyfully tells Elisa about her answered prayer.
“You were right! God brought her back home safe and sound. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I returned home.”
“See I told you! I knew she would be there, I just KNEW it!”
Little Johnny overheard all the excitement but decided not to interject this time. That was all he needed, a couple of girls pointing out how he was wrong. Instead he ignored them and played alone.

A few weeks later and little Johnny is picked up from school early. His mother told him that his father was in a bad car accident. They went to the hospital to see him but Johnny was scared. His mother seemed really worried and was crying, his mother never cries unless something really bad happens. Like when his grandma passed away, she cried a lot thay time. In that moment a stark reality shook him to the core. Could his father be dieing? Was this morning the last time he would ever speak to him? Johnny started crying also, unsure of what to do he recalled Sarah’s lost kitten and Elisa’s prayer. If God was willing to help a lost kitten, maybe God would help his daddy too.
In the hospital waiting room he dropped to his knees and prayed like he had never before. He hoped his prayer would be just half as good as Elisa’s.
“God I’m sorry for saying you didn’t care. I’m sorry for laughing at Sara and Elise. God my daddy is really hurt right now and he needs you. Can you please give him and miracle like you have Sarah’s kitten. I know you care about God, and Mommy and me really need Daddy here with us. Please God heal him and let him stay with us. Amen.”
While little Johnny was busy praying his mother took notice. Her heart filled with pride and shame, for prayer never crossed her mind as it should have. Yet her son, who was never taught God, was praying for his father no doubt. It has been a long time since she called upon God and that was something that was going to change. Not just today but everyday.
She joined her son on the floor and prayed harder than she had ever before. Johnny was amazed when he finished praying and his mother was next to him, still deep in her own prayer. Once she finished she lifted her tear stained eyes and hugged her son tightly. Just then a doctor approaches them.
“Are you Mrs.Huxley”
Johnny’s mother nods her head yes. She rose from the floor meeting the doctor.
“Your husband almost didn’t make it. He is in stable condition as of now. His injuries are serious but it seems as though he will pull through. You will be able to see him shortly although he is heavily sedated at the moment and may not be responsive.”
The doctor walked away and Johnny’s mother hit her knees once more.
“They both prayed, thank you Father for this miracle. I will never forget what you have done for us.”
Johnny thought back to Sarah and Elisa. If he would have never overheard Elisa’s prayer he might not have ever known of the God who cares about all of His creations. He might now have ever prayed the prayer that he believed saved his Father’s life and brought his mother before God. Johnny couldn’t wait to tell Sarah and Elisa about his miracle and how God answered his prayer.

I was inspired to write this story by my oldest daughter. We were at a small local eatery waiting on our order. She noticed a painting of Jesus hanging on the wall and asked to move a chair beneath it so she could “set with God” while we waited. At first I was going to object but the wholesomeness made me oblige.   What was the harm in moving a chair anyways? I would put it back once she was finished. After a few minutes she hopped up and began playing with the toys provided by the restaurant. She decided to bring the fun to her older brother, so she ran to him with a toy in hand. As they were playing together a man walked through the door, I got the vibes that he was out of town. I took note of his hat that said Jesus’s name as well as the hefty Bible he carried with him. When he spoke to the restaurant owner, he solidified my perception. His accent was definitely not from my town and most likely not even my country. The man sat his stuff down on a nearby table, awaiting his food. Next he removed his hat and set it atop his belongings. To my surprise, he approached the chair my daughter had set below Jesus just moments before and used it as a makeshift altar. I looked away not wanting to draw attention during his private moment and happened to catch my daughter’s eye. She never said a word but her smile and eyes said it all. My heart overflowed with emotions. What if he asked God for a place to pray. What if that was exactly what the man needed at that moment and God used my daughter to do it. What if I stopped my daughter from moving the chair? I often forget that my children can and will have a profound effect on people. I forgot that them just being who they are will shine a Godly light into this world. I forgot that tiny voices can make big waves. I am one proud momma of children rooted deeply in God’s grace.

My Innards

What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

Oh Me Heart

What is my favorite thing about myself? My big heart. Its large enough to fit the whole entire world, though few ever get the pleasureto see within.