Tag: Faithfulness

Write It Down: Lessons for Writers from Exodus 17:14

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Write It Down: Lessons for Writers from Exodus 17:14
By: Jimmie Aaron Kepler

I don’t know about you, but there are days I sit staring at the page and wonder, Does any of this matter? Will these words ever mean anything to anybody but me?

Then I come across Exodus 17:14, and it’s like God gives me a gentle nudge:

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it, because I will completely blot out the name of Amalek from under heaven.’”

Now, God could have just whispered to Moses, “Relax, I’ll take care of Amalek.” But He didn’t. Instead, He told Moses to write it down. To make sure Joshua knew. To leave a record.

Writing Is More Than Ink on a Page

This wasn’t about Moses doodling a few notes to himself. God wanted a testimony—something that would stand the test of time. That scroll became more than parchment and ink; it became a witness to God’s faithfulness.

That’s what we do when we write. We’re not just filling journals or typing drafts on a laptop. We’re capturing moments, truths, and reminders that somebody else may need long after we’re gone.

Every Writer Has a “Joshua”

Moses had Joshua. You and I might have children, grandkids, church friends, or even complete strangers who will stumble across our words one day.

Your “Joshua” could be a weary soul who finds your poem, story, or devotion just when they need it most. They may never meet you, but they’ll carry your words forward like a lantern in the dark.

The Weight of Words

Writers, poets, bloggers—we carry a holy burden. Not everything we write will be polished or published, but when the Lord whispers, write it down, that’s not busywork. That’s obedience.

Our words can be seeds. We may never see the fruit, but someone else might harvest it.

What It Means for Us Today

Exodus 17:14 shows us that writing isn’t just an optional hobby. It’s sacred. It matters. God told Moses to write, and I think He still tells His people today: Write it down so they’ll remember.

So, friend, don’t wait until your draft is perfect. Don’t worry if the words come out crooked. Just write. Tomorrow’s Joshua may be depending on today’s scribbles.

Takeaways for Writers and Poets

  • Writing Preserves Memory – We write to remember, to remind, to testify.
  • Writing Shapes the Future – What we write today may be the guidepost for someone else tomorrow.
  • Writing Is Sacred Work – Each word written in obedience joins the long line of witnesses before us.

Closing Thought

Next time you’re tempted to push your notebook aside or shut down the laptop, remember Exodus 17:14. God told Moses to write it down so Joshua would remember.

Your Joshua may be out there waiting on your words.

Grace and peace,
Jimmie

Did you enjoy this article? You can find more of Jimmie Aaron Kepler’s books at Jimmie’s books available in paperback, ebook, audio, and large print

Walking With the Shepherd: Living the 23rd Psalm

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Walking With the Shepherd: Living the 23rd Psalm
By: Jimmie Aaron Kepler

The 23rd Psalm is one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture. It isn’t just poetry—it’s a picture of life with God. Each verse carries a promise, paints an image, and invites us to live differently because of who the Shepherd is. Let’s take a walk through it together.

“The Lord is my Shepherd – That’s relationship.”

God isn’t far off—He’s close, like a shepherd tending his sheep. He knows us personally, by name, and cares for us with relentless love.

I remember walking hand in hand with my dad as a boy. Even in unfamiliar or scary places, I felt safe because he was beside me. That’s what the Shepherd is like—always present, always personal.

We can lean into that relationship today. Speak to Him honestly. Trust Him as more than a distant God—trust Him as your Shepherd.

“I shall not want – That’s supply.”

When the Shepherd leads, we lack nothing essential. He may not give us everything on our wish list, but He always provides what we truly need.

I think back to lean years when the money stretched thin. Still, food made it to the table, bills got paid, and somehow we made it through. Looking back, I see God’s fingerprints in those small mercies.

Take a moment to list today’s provisions—big or small. Gratitude reveals just how richly He supplies.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures – That’s rest.”

Sheep only rest when they feel safe. In the same way, God brings us to places of rest where we can breathe, slow down, and feel secure.

For me, those “green pastures” have been an afternoon nap in a recliner, a quiet walk in the park, or even sitting at Starbucks with a blonde roast, just letting the noise fade.

This week, make space for rest. Don’t push until you break—trust the Shepherd enough to pause.

“He leadeth me beside the still waters – That’s refreshment.”

Still waters aren’t turbulent or threatening—they’re calm and renewing. God doesn’t lead us into chaos, but toward peace that restores.

I think of a Texas creek in summer, cool and steady, refreshing me just by being near it. That’s how His presence works—quietly renewing a weary soul.

Find your “still waters” this week—maybe prayer, maybe silence, maybe a favorite hymn. Let Him refresh you.

“He restores my soul – That’s healing.”

Restoration is more than rest—it’s repair. God puts broken pieces back together in ways only He can.

After grief, I’ve felt like I had nothing left. But slowly, day by day, the Shepherd mended me. Healing didn’t erase the pain, but it gave me strength to keep going.

Whatever’s hurting today, bring it to Him. Let the Shepherd begin His restoring work.

“He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness – That’s guidance.”

Life is full of decisions, big and small. God promises to guide us toward what is right—even if the road isn’t always easy.

I’ve seen it in closed doors I didn’t understand at the time. What looked like setbacks were actually God steering me toward better paths.

If you’re facing choices today, seek His wisdom. Trust that He sees the road ahead more clearly than you do.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death – That’s testing.”

Valleys are inevitable. But they’re not permanent—we walk through them. And the Shepherd is with us the whole way.

I’ve stood in hospital hallways waiting for test results, shadows looming large. Yet even there, I knew I wasn’t alone.

When shadows fall, cling to His presence. The valley doesn’t define you—the Shepherd’s faithfulness does.

“I will fear no evil – That’s protection.”

Fear is real, but it doesn’t have the final say. The Shepherd guards His sheep, and His protection gives us courage.

It’s like a child sleeping peacefully because Dad is standing watch at the door. That’s the kind of peace we have in Him.

When fear creeps in, say it out loud: “I am not alone. The Shepherd protects me.”

“For Thou art with me – That’s faithfulness.”

Here’s the heart of the Psalm: God is with us. His presence isn’t conditional—it’s constant.

I’ve felt Him in hospital rooms, at gravesides, and even in the quiet of a coffee shop. His faithfulness never falters.

Carry this truth into your day: no matter where you go, the Shepherd goes with you.

“Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me – That’s discipline.”

The rod and staff aren’t harsh—they’re tools of protection and correction. They keep sheep safe and on the right path.

In my own life, God’s “no” has sometimes been the greatest mercy. A closed door that frustrated me later became clear as His loving redirection.

When God disciplines you, receive it as care, not punishment. It’s His way of keeping you safe.

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies – That’s hope.”

Even when surrounded by trouble, God blesses us. He sets a table right in the middle of difficulty.

I’ve had seasons when others doubted me. Yet, in those times, God poured blessings into my life—almost as if to remind me, “I’ve got this.”

Look for God’s table today. His blessings are often right in the middle of hard seasons.

“Thou anointest my head with oil – That’s consecration.”

Anointing is about being chosen and set apart. It’s a reminder that we belong to Him.

In moments of self-doubt, I’ve felt God whisper, “You’re mine.” That truth changes everything.

Today, remember who you belong to. You are chosen, loved, and set apart.

“My cup runneth over – That’s abundance.”

The Shepherd doesn’t give just enough—He overflows our lives with goodness.

I see it in the laughter of family, in friendships that endure, in music, and in simple sunrises. Blessings I don’t deserve, but receive anyway.

Count three overflow blessings today. You’ll be surprised how full your cup really is.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life – That’s blessing.”

God’s goodness and mercy aren’t occasional—they are constant companions.

Looking back, I see mercy catching me when I fell and goodness following me even when I didn’t notice.

Reflect today: where do you see His mercy trailing behind you? Give thanks for it.

“And I will dwell in the house of the Lord – That’s security. Forever – That’s eternity.”

The Psalm closes with home—not a house on earth, but eternity with God. That’s the truest security we have.

I’ve lived in many houses, but none compare to the thought of dwelling with Him forever. That’s the Shepherd’s final promise.

Live today with eternity in mind. Forever changes how we walk through now.

Application

The 23rd Psalm isn’t just for funerals—it’s for everyday living. The Shepherd doesn’t only show up in crisis. He’s there in the green pastures, in the still waters, in the valleys, and at the table. The call is simple: trust Him. Trust His supply when you feel lacking. Trust His rest when you’re weary. Trust His protection when fear presses in. And trust His presence every single day, knowing that goodness and mercy are never far behind.

Three Takeaways

  1. The Shepherd provides: You don’t walk through life empty-handed when you walk with Him.
  2. The Shepherd protects: Even in valleys, you are never alone. Fear doesn’t get the last word—He does.
  3. The Shepherd promises forever: He not only leads us through this life but welcomes us into eternity with Him.

The Shepherd is with you. Today, tomorrow, forever. And because of that, you can say with confidence: I lack nothing.

Grace and Peace,
Jimmie

Did you enjoy this article? You can find more of Jimmie Aaron Kepler’s books at Jimmie’s books available in paperback, ebook, audio, and large print 

A Response to Change

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A response to change

Meditations

The seventieth decade of life has descended on me. While my body feels the wear of the years, my brain feels like I’m sixteen going on seventeen. If life was an hourglass, the sands would be running out.

Eight years ago, I heard former Super Bowl winning football coach and current NASCAR owner Coach Joe Gibbs describe life as a football game. He had turned seventy-five years old and likened his age to being in the fourth quarter of a football game. The officials have given the two-minute warning.

He said, “To achieve all your life’s aspirations, when you’re my age, it’s time to run the hurry-up offense. You feel the pressure of time running out. The clock will be all zeros before you know it.”

Writing has always been a key part of my aspirations, but more importantly, I want to share the life lessons I’ve learned from my loved ones, military experience, and Christian leaders. I’ll call the lessons learned “The Meditations of Jimmie Aaron Kepler.”

Change

During my early twenties, I served as a second lieutenant in the US Army. My previous company commander’s term ended, and a new captain took charge. The new commander brought about significant changes. Lightning quickness describes the pace of change. My role shifted from leading a rifle platoon to leading a weapons platoon.

Change dominated the day. I asked my father, a military retiree, for advice. Overwhelmed and frustrated best described my feelings during this process. I was my first experience going through a change of command.

My father emphasized that change is the sole constant in life. My ability to adapt to change was crucial for survival in the workplace. He told me that the new company commander or any boss or supervisor makes changes. I need to support those changes and help him or her succeed.

Dad told me if I can’t get along with the new commander or boss, I need to “get along.”

I asked him what he meant by that statement.

He told me I should be able to work with or adapt to any manager or leader placed over me. If I decide I don’t want to work or follow the new person’s leadership, I need to move on – get along to a new job. He said that it’s me who has to change; I will never change my boss. Me developing a negative or resistant attitude because of the changes does no one any good.

Dad quoted Philippians 4:11 from the Bible, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

He added, “Jim, it’s up to you to be content where you live, where you work, with your friends, with your family, and with your boss. Quit your whining, adjust your attitude, and be happy you have a successful job and a loving family. Now go help make your new boss a success. When he succeeds, you succeed.”

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.

 

What Can Cast Out Fear?

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God’s Love

What do you do when the future you had planned is suddenly erased? 

A person confronting a chronic illness may feel uncertain about the future. Their hopes and dreams may be placed on hold or have to be altered. They may feel hopeless and helpless. When they feel uncertain about the future, lead them to that perfect love which casts out all fear. Share the love of Jesus Christ.

What is a chronic illness? A chronic disease is one lasting three months or more, by the definition of the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics. Chronic diseases generally cannot be prevented by vaccines or cured by medication, nor do they just disappear.

Examples of chronic illnesses are:

  • Alzheimer disease
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma
  • Heart Disease
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Parkinson disease

Bible Verse:

1 John 4:18 (KJV), “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”

What the verse means:

  • John says that perfect love produces courage in the day of judgment. Why?
  • Perfect love produces likeness to Christ. Jesus Christ is the Judge.
  • There is another way in which love produces boldness. It does this by its casting out fear.
  • The entrance of perfect love through Jesus Christ is for fear a cease and desist letter to quit. A person cannot both love and fear the same person or thing. When perfect love comes in, the darker fear exits.
  • When love arrives, it brings hand in hand with itself Courage.
  • Boldness is the companion of love, only when love is perfect.
  • Only professing Christians can experience this perfect love of God, a love that casts out fear.
  • As Believer’s we can face the future, including a chronic illness, and even death with the peace that only comes from Christ’s perfect love.

Praying using the verses:

  1. Lord Jesus, thank you that there is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.
  2. Heavenly Father, help us to keep our minds focused on you and your love for us.
  3. Remove any fears we may have as we look to the future. 
  4. Provide us with your grace to meet the challenges we encounter daily.
  5. Help us to know as Believers in Jesus Christ our ultimate future is in Heaven.

 

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.

Walk By Faith

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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.

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