Category: Faithful

Why Should We Wait on the Lord?

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Waiting:

Waiting on God’s timing can be hard. The Bible gives us guidance on waiting in Psalm 27:14.

Bible Verse:

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”

Psalm 27:14 KJV

Who wrote Psalm 27:14 and when was it written?

Psalm 27:14 was written by King David. It is part of the Book of Psalms, which is traditionally attributed to him. 

The exact date of its writing is uncertain, but it is believed to have been composed during David’s reign as King of Israel, around the 10th century BC.

What is the context of Psalm 27:14?

King David expresses his trust and confidence in God despite facing adversaries and challenges. 

Throughout the psalm, David speaks of seeking refuge in God, finding strength in His presence, and waiting patiently for His deliverance.

Verse 14 encourages patience and courage in waiting for God’s timing and intervention. 

It emphasizes the idea of trusting in God’s plan and relying on His strength to sustain us through difficult times.

What does Psalm 27:14 mean?

Psalm 27:14 encourages believers to trust in the Lord and wait patiently for His timing. It emphasizes the importance of having courage and faith while enduring trials or waiting for answers to prayers. 

The promise is that God will strengthen the hearts of those who put their trust in Him and wait for His guidance and provision.

What does “wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart:” from Psalm 27:14 mean?

Psalm 27:14 is an encouragement to trust in God and have patience in His timing. It advises believers to wait patiently for the Lord’s guidance, help, and deliverance in difficult times. 

The phrase “wait on the Lord” implies a sense of dependence on God and His plans, rather than relying solely on human efforts or understanding.

The verse also encourages believers to be courageous and not lose heart while waiting for God’s intervention. It assures that God will provide strength and support to those who trust in Him.

Psalm 27:14 is about maintaining faith, courage, and patience in God, even when facing challenges or uncertainties in life.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 27:14 (KJV and ESV)? 

Psalm 27:14 KJV biblical translation says:

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”

Psalm 27:14 ESV biblical translation says:

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”

How does Psalm 27:14 give encouragement?

Psalm 27:14 provides encouragement in several ways:

  1. Encouragement to Wait on the Lord: It reminds believers to be patient and trust in God’s timing. Waiting on the Lord implies putting faith in His plan and recognizing that He knows what is best for us.
  2. Encouragement to Be Courageous: Psalm 27:14 encourages believers to have courage despite their circumstances. It acknowledges that waiting on the Lord may require endurance and steadfastness, but assures that God will provide the strength needed to persevere.
  3. Promise of Strength: Psalm 27:14 promises that as we wait on the Lord and remain courageous, He will strengthen our hearts. This strength comes from the Lord’s presence and enables believers to face challenges with confidence.

Psalm 27:14 encourages believers to trust in God’s timing, to be courageous in the face of adversity, and to rely on His strength to sustain them through difficult times.

How can I apply Psalm 27:14 to my life?

Here are some ways you can apply Psalm 27:14 to your life:

  1. Trust in God’s Timing: Psalm 27:14 encourages patience and trust in God’s timing. Sometimes, things don’t happen as quickly as we would like them to, but waiting on the Lord means trusting that He knows what is best for us and will act in His perfect timing.
  2. Be Courageous: Psalm 27:14 calls us to be of good courage while we wait. Waiting can be difficult and uncertain, but having courage means facing challenges with confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
  3. Seek Strength from God: When we wait on the Lord, He promises to strengthen our hearts. This means that as we wait patiently for His guidance and provision, He will give us the inner strength and resilience we need to endure and overcome any trials or obstacles we may face.
  4. Persist in Waiting: The repetition of “wait, I say, on the Lord” emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in waiting on God. It’s a reminder to continually trust in Him, even when the waiting seems long or difficult.
  5. Pray for Guidance: While waiting, continue to pray and seek God’s guidance. Use this time of waiting to deepen your relationship with Him through prayer, meditation on His word, and seeking His will for your life.

Applying Psalm 27:14 to your life involves trusting in God’s timing, being courageous, seeking strength from Him, persisting in waiting, and continually seeking His guidance through prayer and meditation on His word.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 27:14:

A prayer based on tPsalm 27:14 might go something like this:

Dear Lord,

As I face challenges and uncertainties in life, help me to wait patiently on You. Grant me the courage to trust in Your timing and Your plans. 

Strengthen my heart, Lord, so that I may remain steadfast in faith, even when the journey is difficult. 

May I find peace and confidence in knowing that You are always with me, guiding and protecting me. 

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

What are five takeaways from Psalm 27:14?

Here are five takeaways from Psalm 27:14:

  1. Patience and Trust: Psalm 27:14 emphasizes the importance of waiting on the Lord, indicating the need for patience and trust in His timing and plan.
  2. Courage: It encourages believers to be of good courage, suggesting that maintaining courage is essential while waiting on God.
  3. Divine Strength: The promise of divine strength is given to those who wait on the Lord, indicating that God provides the necessary strength to endure difficulties and challenges.
  4. Repeated Emphasis: The repetition of the phrase “wait, I say, on the Lord” underscores its significance, highlighting the importance of relying on God and not acting impulsively or out of fear.
  5. Encouragement to Persevere: Psalm 27:14 serves as an encouragement for believers to persevere in their faith and to continue trusting in God’s guidance and provision, even in times of uncertainty or waiting.

 

This blog is adapted from his  book, “Wait Upon the Lord: Waiting For God’s Movement and Activity in Your Life” in Book Four from “The Bible Speaks to Life Issues” which  will be released in the Spring of 2024. You can learn more of the book series and purchase it at MORE INFO ABOUT SERIES.

It’s Okay to Cry

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It’s Okay to Cry

It is okay to cry; the Heavenly Father cares about our tears. Today we look at what God’s word says about crying.

Bible Verse:

Psalm 56:8-9 (KJV), “Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book? When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.”

What the verse means:

Why would one keep tears in a bottle? The idea behind the keeping of “tears in a bottle” is remembrance. King David, the writer of these verses, is expressing a deep trust in God. He knows that God will remember his sorrow.

He knows God will remember his tears. He also is sure the God will not forget about him. David is confident that God is on his side. 

Praying using the verses:

  1. Heavenly Father, thank you for tears. Our tears help us identify and deal with our feelings. 
  2. Lord, thank you for letting us know crying is okay.
  3. It is comforting to know that our tears are noticed by God, that he keeps track of our tears.
  4. Pray that we will turn the sorrow concerning our chronic illness over to God.
  5. Pray that we would feel the freedom to cry out to God and let the tears flow when we need to.
  6. Pray that our family would be supportive, loving, and understanding during the times the tears flow. Pray he would just hold her during these times without questioning and comfort her.
  7. Help us to have the confidence of King David, the author of these verses, and say with him – for God is for me.

 

This blog is adapted from his  book, “Prayers for the Chronically Ill: 60 Prayers” from The Bible Speaks on Life Issues Book One. You can learn more of the book series and purchase it at MORE INFO ABOUT SERIES.

 

A Love Story

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Onset of Evening

Embracing the onset of evening, the sky painted itself with hues of orange and pink, gently draping a tranquil enchantment over the city. Amidst the streets, weathered by the hands of time, strolled a couple, their love deepened by over five decades spent together.

Holding hands with fingers intertwined, they embarked on their quest for dinner, enjoying the shared moments.

The gentleman, his gray eyes a perpetual twinkle of affection, turned to his beloved with a smile that radiated warmth. “My dear,” his voice playful, a vessel of countless shared memories, began, “where shall we dine tonight?”

Her response, soft as a whisper carried by the wind, danced between them. “It matters not where we find ourselves, my love, for your choice is all I need.”

In the crinkle of his eyes, an unspoken understanding bloomed. 

Golden Arches

He saw the golden arches of McDonald’s beckoning from around the corner. A big black poster with gold lettering advertising a senior coffee discount was in its window.

While he proposed this fast-food haven, her gaze wandered to the opposite side of the street where Subway’s bright green and yellow sign promised a world of fresh sandwiches.

Healthier Option

“Subway is a healthier option,” her reply, like a petal brushed by a breeze, conveyed more than words. The five simple words were a testimony to the harmony and trust woven into their relationship.

“Then, Subway it is.” He desired to meet her wants more than his needs, shown by his words. 

Hand in hand, they crossed the street, arriving at their chosen destination. 

“Allow me.” He bowed, holding the door for her.

Inside the fragrant cocoon of Subway, they stood shoulder to shoulder, exploring the menu with a childlike curiosity. The shared decision-making transformed a simple meal into a cherished experience, with the food being of secondary importance. A playful touch of indecision described their discussion to get a foot-long sub.

Choices

“Does anything catch your eye, my dear?”

“No, my love. Your preferences are mine, and the joy of sharing is my desire.”

His smile widened; a silent agreement exchanged. Their gazes settled on the young man behind the counter. 

“We’ll have a foot-long Italian meatball on white bread,” he stated with a glint in his voice.

“Dear, although the Italian meatball tempts me, the Black Forest ham on wheat is healthier.”

“Change it to Black Forest ham on wheat bread, crowned with American cheese.”

“Ah, pepper jack might add a zestful twist,” she proposed.

“Pepper jack cheese it is.”

The young man behind the counter managed a slight shake of his head.

“Add lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, green peppers, and jalapeños…”

“Your desires intrigue me, my love, yet I think omitting jalapeños and pickles would suit our taste.”

“Let’s skip the jalapenos and pickles. Please add one squeeze, mayo,” he said with another sigh and a slight chuckle.

“Indeed. Maybe choose light mayo, for your health, and instead of the green peppers, spinach.”

With a slight shake of his head, he looked at the young man behind the counter. “Could we perhaps opt for the light mayo for a healthier choice and spinach instead of green peppers?”

The young man’s patience seemed to wear thin.

“Combo with chips and drink?” the server inquired.

“Yes, what do you want to drink?” he said, looking at his wife.

“Love, let’s remember our water and crisp apple slices at home. An economical choice would be wise. We can skip the chips and drink,” she interjected.

“Just the sub,” he said, grateful for her balanced judgment.

With a subtle droop of his eyelids, the server delicately rolls his eyes upward, conveying a mixture of exasperation and amusement.

An ordinary dinner, yet within its simplicity, love bloomed.

They walked home and dined on the back patio.

Your Preferences

“Thank you for tonight. Aren’t you glad I let your preferences guide us?” she purred playfully.

As they savored each bite of their sandwiches, they tasted not just the flavors, but the essence of their journey together. Amid the mundane, his gaze locked onto hers, and he said three simple words, “I love you,” where he conveyed his heart.

She returned his smile, her eyes echoing his twinkle.

“Love is patient, love is kind,” he recited softly, invoking words that resonated within their hearts.

As their meal wound to an end, rising from their chairs, she enfolded him in an embrace that transcended language.

In that moment, he felt the weight of those words.

This Subway encounter, seemingly trivial, unfolded as a symphony of love’s melodies, a sonnet of tenderness and compromise. Amid the world’s chaos, their love remained a steadfast anchor, found in the simple gestures they exchanged daily.

Time for Television

Leaving the patio for an evening of TV, hands intertwined, they knew their love was unbreakable, a bond that would withstand time and circumstance.

And they moved to the television room. He asked, “What do you want to watch, my dear?” he asked.

“No, my love. Your preferences are mine, and the joy of sharing is my desire.”

“Great. How about Top Gun: Maverick?”

“Okay, but I thought maybe a Hallmark Mystery Movie would be more in line with OUR preferences.”

“Hallmark Mystery Movie it is,” he said with a slight chuckle. He then took her right hand and kissed it.

Love is patient, Love is Kind

His choices reflected the verses of 1 Corinthians 13; Love is patient, love is kind. 

And she knew he cherished her.

_____

Note: A Love Story by Jimmie Aaron Kepler was a winner of the 2023 Flash Fiction Contest of the Writer’s Guild of Texas.

How To Pray

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Praying
Pray, Faith, God

Classical Spiritual Disciplines

The classical disciplines of the Christian faith, often referred to as the “spiritual disciplines,” are practices that aim to foster spiritual growth, deepen one’s relationship with God, and cultivate a Christ-like character. These disciplines have been historically recognized and practiced throughout Christian tradition.

Here are some of the classical disciplines: prayer, study/scripture reading, meditation/contemplation, fasting, worship, simplicity, solitude, service/good works, confession, and community/fellowship. 

These disciplines are often associated with the teachings of Christian spiritual leaders and writers throughout history, such as St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and others. While different Christian traditions may emphasize these disciplines to varying degrees, they are generally considered integral to spiritual formation and growth in the Christian faith.

Today I want to focus on prayer.

Prayer:

Communication with God 

Christian prayer is a direct communication with God, involving both speaking and listening. Prayer is expressing praise, gratitude, confession, and requests. 

It involves seeking guidance, forgiveness, and aligning with God’s will. Prayer is a foundational practice in Christian worship, fostering a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

One Approach to Praying

Praying is a personal and subjective experience, but a common approach is to:

1. Begin with Praise

Acknowledging and worshiping God during prayer involves expressing reverence and adoration. Here are some ways you can incorporate this into your prayers:

A. Address God with Reverence: 

Use titles like “Heavenly Father,” “Lord,” or “Almighty God” to acknowledge God’s majesty.

B. Express Praise: 

Commend God for His attributes, such as love, mercy, wisdom, and sovereignty. You can use phrases like “You are holy” or “You are worthy of all praise.”

C. Reflect on Scripture: 

Incorporate verses from the Bible that emphasize God’s greatness and character.

D. Admire God’s Creation: 

Acknowledge the beauty and wonder of the world as a reflection of God’s creativity and power.

E. Speak from the Heart: 

Sincerely express your awe and appreciation for who God is and what He has done in your life.

Remember, the key is genuine sincerity and a heart-focused on recognizing God’s greatness.

2. Confession: 

Admitting sins and seeking forgiveness during prayer involves genuine repentance and a humble heart. Here’s a simple guide:

A. Confession:

Honestly acknowledge your mistakes and sins before God. Be specific and sincere.

B. Express Regret:

Share your remorse for any harm caused, both to others and your relationship with God.

C. Request Forgiveness:

Humbly ask God for His mercy and forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

D. Commit to Change:

Express your desire for transformation and ask for God’s help in avoiding similar mistakes in the future.

E. Receive God’s Grace:

Believe and receive God’s forgiveness, trusting in His love and grace.

Remember, God is merciful and willing to forgive when we approach Him with a contrite and repentant heart.

3. Thanksgiving: 

Expressing gratitude for blessings during prayer involves acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of your life. Here’s a simple guide:

A. Reflect on Blessings:

Take a moment to consider the various aspects of your life for which you are thankful.

B. Specific Thanks:

Be specific in expressing gratitude. Name particular blessings, experiences, or people you are thankful for.

C. Thank God:

Direct your thanks to God, acknowledging Him as the source of all blessings.

D. Count Your Blessings:

Consider both big and small blessings, fostering a thankful heart.

E. Share Your Joy:

Express the joy and appreciation you feel for the blessings you’ve received.

Gratitude in prayer cultivates a positive and humble perspective, recognizing the goodness in your life and attributing it to a higher source.

4. Supplication:

Presenting requests and needs during prayer involves sharing your concerns, desires, and hopes with God. Here’s a simple guide:

A. Be Specific:

Clearly articulate your requests, specifying what you need or desire.

B. Align with God’s Will:

Express your requests while acknowledging that you trust God’s wisdom and plan.

C. Seek Guidance:

If you’re uncertain, ask for guidance and clarity in making decisions.

D. Pray for Others:

Include requests for the well-being of others, fostering a selfless attitude.

E. Express Faith:

End your requests with faith and trust in God’s ability to answer prayers in His perfect timing.

Remember, prayer is not just about asking; it’s also about building a relationship with God and aligning your will with His.

5. Closing:

Concluding with faith and trust in God’s will during prayer involves expressing confidence in God’s wisdom and surrendering your desires to His plan. Here’s a simple guide:

A. Express Trust:

Affirm your trust in God’s character, acknowledging His wisdom and love.

B. Surrender to God’s Will:

Submit your requests, desires, and plans to God, recognizing His sovereignty.

C. Pray for Acceptance:

Ask for the strength to accept God’s will, even if it differs from your own.

D. Express Gratitude:

Thank God in advance for His guidance and for working according to His perfect plan.

E. End with Amen:

Conclude your prayer with “Amen,” signifying agreement and affirmation of what has been expressed.

By concluding with faith and trust, you affirm your belief that God knows what is best and that His will is ultimately for your good.Remember, prayer is about connection and sincerity, so speak from the heart.

In its simplest form, prayer is taking to God and listening for Him answer.

9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

What Does the Bible Say About Burning the Candle at Both Ends?

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What Does the Bible Say About Faithfulness?

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Unwrapping Christmas Joy and Beyond

Posted in @jimmiekepler, American Poets, Authors, Bible, Blessed, Blessing, Blog, Christ Jesus, Christian Living, Christian Love, Christmas, Devotional, Devotions, Dr. Jim Kepler, Dr. Jimmie A. Kepler, Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Encouragement, Faith, Faithful, Friends, Friendship, Giving, God, God the Father, God the Holy Spirit, God the Son, Grace, Happy, Hope, How to Accept Jesus, How to be Saved, Inspirational, Inspire, Integrity, J Kepler, J. Aaron Kepler, JA Kepler, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler EdD, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Journal, Joy, Life, Love, Memoir, My Testimony, Peace, Refuge, Rest, Righteous, Salvation, Strength, The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, The Lord, The Way, The Word, Writer's Life, Writer's Log, Writers, Writing3 Comments

 

Christmas Has Come and Gone

Beloved friends and family,

As I sit down to pen this post, the echoes of festive cheer still resonate in my heart. Yes, it’s true – Christmas has once again graced us with its magical presence, and just as swiftly, bid us adieu.

The flurry of excitement, the joyous reunions, and the warmth of love shared during this season have left an indelible mark on our souls. All the boxes Santa, err Amazon, brought to the front porch have long been carried into the house. We opened the boxes and packages, verifying the received orders. From their former home is the box with a smile under the company name. The supplier promised everything from A to Z. We re-wrapped the contents in magical paper covered with Santas, snowmen, candy canes, and even stars over mangers.

Excitement to Aftermath

Within the previous twenty-four to thirty-six hours, the wrapped gifts were delivered or opened. The air once infused with the scent of anticipation, though now, the excitement has settled into the muted aftermath of celebration. Remnants of the season lie scattered around the house. Bows, ribbons, and crumpled papers with tags and tape now litter the floor. The present’s contents are spewed across sofas, love seats, coffee tables. A floor, once a pristine canvas, is now a tapestry of holiday remnants, a testament to the joyous chaos that ensued.

Now What?

The question that lingers in the air like a delicate snowflake is – what now?

The routine unfolds predictably. New socks and undies, a few even adorned with holiday motifs, will undergo the ritual of washing before finding their place in the proper chest of drawers or dresser drawers. Nana and grandpas will gather trash bags, their sighs mingling with the rustle of torn wrapping paper as they contemplate the disposal of holiday excess. They’re already missing their precious children and while missing the grandkids, they feel a little guilty. They’re glad the grandkid’s are gone back home with their parents.

Indecision reigns as moms ponder the fate of the new acquisitions. A select few will become cherished staples in daily life, while others await their destiny, teetering on the edge of becoming garage sale treasures or contributions to a local charity.

The lucky few will not have over spent. The most fortunate will have paid for the items. The impulsive and undisciplined added the purchases to their credit cards monthly balance, causing financial pressures on their quality of life and even relationships.

A Hush Descends

In the wake of the festive storm, a hush descends. A very few among us will take a moment to reflect on the true essence of Christmas. Perhaps they will turn to the pages of the Bible, finding solace and meaning in the timeless story of Jesus. However, for the masses, the routine resumes. Jesus, like a cherished ornament, is gently placed back in the closet until the next significant occasion—perhaps Easter or a family funeral.

True Gifts Endure

And so, with a sigh of contentment and a touch of nostalgia, we bid adieu to another Christmas. Yet, for the fortunate, the true gifts of the season endure. As we clear away the holiday clutter, may we replace it with the daily presence and worship of Jesus, the greatest gift of all.

If you’re curious about my personal journey to discovering and embracing Christianity, I invite you to click HERE for my story.

Wishing you all a season of love, reflection, and newfound grace as we step into the dawn of a new year.

The Brightness of His Glory

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Embracing Life’s Challenges: How Problems Shape Your Life Journey

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Welcome to “It’s Never Too Late: Uncovering the Magic of Writing After Sixty,” I’m Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Christian nonfiction author and poet. This is my writer’s log for Monday, July 10, 2023. Today, I’m writing about embracing life’s challenges as I look at how problems shape your life journey.

Introduction

Maybe, like me, you’re facing challenges in various aspects of your life. I’m dealing with health issues like trigger finger (see photo), irritable bowel syndrome, and pancreatitis. Plus, I’m sixty-nine years and nine months old. Father Time has found me and is working me over.

Some of these issues are my excuses for being slow in getting edits/rewrites completed.

Dr Jim Kepler with trigger finger in a splint.

Be it personal, professional, or spiritual, it’s important to recognize that life presents us with many opportunities for problem-solving.

How we respond to these obstacles determines whether they will defeat us or contribute to our personal growth.

In this article, we’ll explore how God uses problems to guide, examine, correct, protect, and perfect us, as supported by powerful verses from the Bible.

1. God Uses Problems to Direct You (Proverbs 20:30)

Sometimes we need to experience painful situations to prompt us to change our ways. The blows that wound us can cleanse away the evil within us.

“Blows that wound cleanse away evil; strokes make clean the innermost parts.” These challenges can act as guiding forces, redirecting us towards a better path.

Proverbs 20:30

2. God Uses Problems to Inspect You (James 1:2-3)

Faced with various troubles, we are called to embrace joy, knowing that these challenges test our faith and build patience within us.

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

James 1:2-3

However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid excessive self-analysis, which can lead to a detrimental “why me Lord syndrome.”

3. God Uses Problems to Correct You (Psalm 119:71-72)

Difficulties can often be the catalysts for necessary corrections in our lives.

“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.”

Psalm 119:71-72

These afflictions, in hindsight, may be the best things that could have happened to us, guiding us to pay attention to God’s teachings and guiding principles.

4. God Uses Problems to Protect You (Genesis 50:20)

When others intend to harm us, God can transform those negative intentions into something good. Joseph acknowledges this truth in Genesis 50:20.

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”

Genesis 50:20

God’s divine intervention can protect us from harm and transform our trials into blessings.

5. God Uses Problems to Perfect You (Romans 5:3-4)

Rather than discouraging us, problems can serve as opportunities for growth and character development.

Romans 5:3-4 teaches us to rejoice in our sufferings because they produce endurance, character, and hope.

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”

Romans 5:3-4 ESV

These challenges strengthen our faith, enabling us to trust God more deeply.

Conclusion

Problems, when approached with the right perspective, have the potential to shape our character. While comfort may be appealing, God is more interested in our character development.

Our relationship with God and our character are the only things we will carry into eternity. Therefore, let us embrace the challenges we face, knowing that God desires to bring about positive changes in our lives, allowing us to make a difference in this world.

Remember, problems are not roadblocks, but stepping stones on our journey towards personal growth and spiritual maturity.

Writer’s Log – July 7, 2023

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Welcome to “It’s Never Too Late: Uncovering the Magic of Writing After Sixty,” I’m Dr. Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Christian nonfiction author and poet. This is my writer’s log for Friday, July 7, 2023. Today, I’m writing about my writing life as a sixty-nine-year-old writer.

In Personal News

I’m continuing to make it to the fitness center twice a daily. Stretching my leg and hip muscles begins each session followed by a 30 minute walk and five minute cool down session. I do this twice a day. The walking has not had an impact on my weight which is staying steady in the weigh too much category. I’m five feet six inches tall and weigh in the 206 pound range with my weight fluctuating between 202 pounds and 212 pounds. 

Trigger finger update – Last time I mentioned I’ve been gripping the treadmill wrong or too much. I have developed something called “trigger finger.” My finger physically locks and I have to force it to straighten out. I saw the doctor on July 6. They still have me wearing a splint and added physical therapy of the hand and a RX for nerve pain. I am still waiting for the pharmacy to fill the RX after 24-hours. I’ll see the physician again on Monday, July 10. Potentially, I’ll receive a steroid shot if the hand isn’t better. So far, it isn’t better.

My new black Sketcher step-ins for exercising on the treadmill are working out fine. I have prescription orthotic in-souls and they’re great. They were a $600 plus investment from the podiatrist. 

In Spiritual News

I continue to spend time in God’s word and attending Bible study class plus attending worship.

My devotional time today was from the Christian Devotions US website https://christiandevotions.us/viewblogentry/21322. The devotion was from Romans 1:12 NIV, “That is, that you may be encouraged by each other’s faith.” 

In Reading News

This week I finished Harry Potter and The Soccer’s Stone. The auto scrolling feature on my Kindle is working wonderfully where I can read while walking on the treadmill. I’m now reading Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets.

When I finish rereading The Harry Potter series I will read Lindsay Buroker’s Fallen Empire Series. I purchased the entire series on Kindle eBook this week. I previously owned and read book one in the series. The series is science fiction. Lindsay is a wonderful writer. The cost was minimal. I spent under $35. The books in the series are: 

  • Cyborg Legacy: A Fallen Empire Novel (prequel), 
  • Star Nomad: Fallen Empire, Book 1; 
  • Flight: Fallen Empire, Book 2; 
  • Starseers: Fallen Empire, Book 3; 
  • Relic of Sorrows: Fallen Empire, Book 4; 
  • Cleon Moon: Fallen Empire, Book 5; 
  • Arkadian Skies: Fallen Empire, Book 6; 
  • Perilous Hunt: Fallen Empire, Book 7; and 
  • End Game: Fallen Empire, Book 8

I purchased the books to in this series to read on my trans-Pacific cruise in October – November 2023.

Writers need to read. Stephen King and my university English professors taught me this.

In Writing News

You may enjoy Joanna Penn’s podcast The Creative Penn, You can find Episode #701 – 9 Ways That AI Will Disrupt Authors and the Publishing Industry in the Next Decade [2023 Update] with Joanna Penn and Nick Thacker at https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2023/07/03/9-ways-that-artificial-intelligence-ai-will-disrupt-authors-and-the-publishing-industry-an-update-with-joanna-penn-and-nick-thacker/ and episode #700 – Using Sudowrite for Writing Fiction with Amit Gupta https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2023/06/29/using-sudowrite-for-writing-fiction-with-amit-gupta/ 

I continue to edit/rewrite my latest book. It goes slow with the “trigger finger” as I have to type primarily with just my right hand.

Pen and journal have also come back into my life as I am using my journal for writing my poetry. It’s a great way to avoid using my left hand.

I did not attend a Zoom or local writer’s group this week.