Recently, I read the account of Sarai, the wife of Abram and destined mother of Isaac. Bless her. Her story is filled with some questionable choices, often at Abraham’s suggestion, but she is known for that laugh. You know the one I'm talking about. Sarai laughed at the promise God made – the promise to bear a son when she and Abram were so advanced in years – and denied it. Honestly though, who could blame her? Abram laughed, too. Sarai’s laugh though. I think it carried every single question swirling in her mind: I will be 90 years old. ·       Can I conceive? ·       Can I carry a child to term? ·       Can I endure labor? ·       Can I nurse a child? ·       Will I live long enough to raise the child, or will someone else? ·       Will I see the child marry and have children? Have you ever waited for a promise to come true and wondered if it’s even possible? Maybe you laugh at the idea because your circumstances do not seem to match the dream. Does your laughter swirl with the same types of questions? ·       Will I really give birth to this? ·       Did I hear God's voice in this? ·       Will I have what I need? ·       Can I endure and see it through? ·       Will I be able to enjoy the outcome, and can I sustain it to maturity? Take heart. Some things had to happen before Isaac’s arrival, but he did arrive and on time as God promised. ·       Name change : From Sarai to Sarah – no longer just a “household princess”, but destined matriarch of many nations. From Abram to Abraham – no longer “exalted father”, but a father of many nations. The fulfilled promise was greater than the original vision – there was territory expansion. ·       Circumcision : For Abraham, this was a physical sign of covenant in exchange for the covenant that was born of the name change. Every day, we should walk as a new creation with a circumcised heart in covenant relationship with Jesus. (2 Corinthians 5:17) ·       Waiting : The delay was a time of preparation and an exercise of enormous faith which deepened their gratitude at the fulfillment. Isaac was worth the wait! In the end, the barren woman who laughed became the mother of Isaac whose name means laughter. She said in Genesis 21:6 : “God has made me to laugh; all who hear will laugh with me.” If Abraham and Sarah’s faith ever waivered even for a moment from that day forward, I bet they would see their son, God’s promise in tangible form, and laugh. Proverbs 31:25 (ESV) “She is clothed with strength and dignity. She laughs at the days to come.” Maybe you are wondering if miracles like those in the Bible still happen today. Does God really work in such extraordinary ways now? Scripture tells us that when we look at nature, we can see the attributes of our Creator leaving us with no excuse not to believe. (Romans 1:20) Early this year, a Galapagos (guh-LAA-puh-gows) tortoise named Mommy gave birth at 98 years old at the Philadelphia Zoo. The father, Abrazzo (ah-BRAH-tso), whose name means father, was 97. Their journey was not easy: Initial struggles with mating. First eggs did not hatch. Eventually, four daughters hatched, making Mommy the oldest first-time mother of her species. This modern-day miracle echoes the biblical account, reminding us that patience, perseverance, and faith can lead to extraordinary outcomes—even when it feels like the answer is “no”.  Whether in the wilds of the Galapagos Islands or the deserts of ancient Canaan, God continues to amaze us! ❤️ I want this kind of faith. I want to walk on the water.

Saint Simons Island, affectionately called the “Isle of Whales,” is a playground where endangered Right Whales swim by and tree spirits grin from hidden carvings. Wander through historic gardens and beneath majestic oaks, discover presidential rocks, and soak in the legacy of hymn composers and poets. With a superstar cast of athletes and mouthwatering eats featured by Guy Fieri , this sunny spot is perfect for photo ops, golf rounds, and culinary adventures. Every visit to Saint Simons is a chance for fun and unforgettable memories! Gimme Some Grub  🦞 I have to say this was probably the tastiest vacay we have ever had! We did not have one bad meal...including those chain restaurants we dropped in for cheap breakfast food. Certified Burgers and Beverages : Burgers So Good They Should Come with a Degree $10-$20 per person—Your taste buds will rejoice, and your wallet will smile in gratitude. Burgers, sandwiches, shakes, and sides—lunch and dinner Indoor/outdoor seating with dog-friendly patio https://www.thecertifiedburgers.com/ Every Slice Feels Like Home at Sal's Neighborhood Pizzeria $10-$20 per person—Savor the flavor without breaking the bank. Italian dishes and pizzas Indoor/outdoor seating https://salsneighborhoodpizzeriacom.wordpress.com/ Get Southern Fried at Sago at Sea Palms Resort $20-$25 per person—Less than your last impulse buy of a useless kitchen gadget! Southern and coastal cuisine Indoor/outdoor seating https://www.seapalms.com/dine.htm Snooze Spots 🛏️💤 The Sea Palms Resort did not disappoint! Set on the salt marshes, the resort feels quite literally like an island on an island. We were amazed by the profound silence...an excellent spot for rest and relaxation! A screened in balcony on this side of the island is sheer genius! https://www.seapalms.com/ Things To Do 👙🛟🚎 St. Simons Pier Village https://www.explorestsimonsisland.com/Pier_Village.html Free pier access and tons of shopping! St. Simons Lighthouse Museum https://www.coastalgeorgiahistory.org/visit/st-simons-lighthouse-museum/ Free for children under the age of 6 $6 for children (ages 6-12) $12 for adults ($2 military discount with ID) St. Simons Trolley Tours https://www.stsimonstours.com/ Free for children under the age of 4 $10 for children (ages 4-12) $20 for adults WWII Homefront Museum https://www.coastalgeorgiahistory.org/visit/world-war-ii-museum/ Free for children under the age of 6 $6 for children (ages 6-12) $12 for adults ($2 military discount with ID) Neptune Park https://www.explorestsimonsisland.com/Neptune_Park.html Daily pass $8 Massengale Park/East Beach https://www.goldenisles.com/listing/massengale-park/173/ https://www.goldenisles.com/listing/east-beach/151/ Free

Kure Beach, North Carolina 2020 In July of 2020, my family and I gathered to celebrate the 4th of July at Kure Beach in North Carolina. The day was radiant! The sun gleamed upon the refreshingly cool ocean water, while pelicans and seagulls soared above us, chattering and occasionally swooping down to catch a mid-morning snack. We played in the water for hours, laughter mingling with the gentle sound of waves. The tide was out, and the water appeared deceptively low. As we drifted toward a sandbar near the newly renovated, 700-foot pier, the waves were mildly active, inviting us to explore. Suddenly, the waves began to rise higher and come more quickly. The tide rolled in without warning, violently separating me from my husband and children. Panic surged through me as I realized I could no longer touch the bottom. The waves, relentless and tumultuous, seemed determined to pull me under rather than push me to shore. I began to tire quickly, my breaths growing shallow as I struggled to keep my head above water long enough to inhale deeply. I was neither moving forward nor backward. People often say that if you find yourself in such a situation, you should roll onto your back and float. I tried this, but the sheer terror of being swept under the waves kept me trapped in a whirlpool of water that would not let me go. The strength of the current fought against my every effort to survive. I kept thinking, I'm not strong enough. I wanted to scream for help, but I hesitated, fearing I would embarrass my family by causing a ruckus. Instead, I called out to my husband, "Steven, I need your help!" My voice was barely audible over the thunderous waves, and I wasn't sure he could hear me in time. In desperation, I prayed: "Dear God, please. Help!" Realizing I was in real trouble, my husband swam to my rescue, only to find himself caught in the same predicament as the water crept higher than his six-foot stature. With a voice much stronger than mine, he yelled to a nearby swimmer to call for a lifeguard. That beautiful, precious woman looked into my eyes and calmly said, "Swim to the side. You are in a rip current, and you must swim out of it. Just swim toward me." In an instant, the nightmare was over as quickly as it had begun. I could stand up on my own. I could breathe full, deep breaths. I was safe! When I fell into my beach chair moments later, tears streamed down my face. I felt the weight of another wave overtaking me. Emotions welled up inside and poured out onto my cheeks. I could not speak except to thank my Jesus for His protection and sovereign will over me, my husband, and my precious kids, who could have become orphaned that day on a beach in North Carolina. Reflections on Resilience Over the next few hours and days, our family recounted the details, shared our fears, and expressed our eternal gratitude. We embraced tightly and talked about how we had overcome together as a family once again. Lord knows we have faced some rough waters together in our few short years. And yes, I believe we all drew closer to Jesus on this road trip! James 4:14 AMP : Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air]. When we experience events like this, there is a tendency to reflect on our frailty as humans. Scripture reminds us that our lives are but a vapor. Experiences often come to teach us, not to take us out. At the shallow end, one might think the lesson would be a review of swimming safety rules or a reminder to watch the lifeguard flags. However, this traumatic experience offered a lesson in something deeper, something thought-provoking, something life-changing. I left the beach that day, thanking God that His strength was made perfect in my weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV : "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." More importantly, I realized that not every battle we face, no matter how strong we think we are, can be won. People usually do not change without some divine intervention. Amen? Some situations will never change. So, the purpose of the battle may not be to gain a victory but rather to change our way of thinking, to redirect us, to alter our course entirely. The Current of Life At some point in our lives, we all find ourselves caught in a strong current, with breaking waves crashing around us. Perhaps it is turmoil at work, a personal struggle that feels insurmountable, or a relationship that is chaotic or suffocating. Whatever the current may be, the struggle exhausts us, leaving us treading water in a vicious cycle of riding the wave only to be pulled back under before we can take another breath. Our cries for help drown in the noise, and we feel utterly alone, living in tremendous anxiety, unable to see the shoreline, much less reach it. Swim to the side, Friend. South Port, North Carolina As I stated earlier, you will only gain fresh perspective by extracting yourself completely from a tumultuous situation. Just like in a riptide, you will not catch your breath and secure your footing until you swim entirely out of it. Change course. Then, reevaluate. Do not be afraid or embarrassed to cry out for help. Jesus calmed the storm and walked on the water. He is with you, and He is for you! Then one day, you will find an opportunity to be that calm voice of reason for a friend, family member, or even a stranger who needs to know they too can swim to the side. Psalm 89:9 ESV : "You rule the raging of the sea; when its waves rise, You still them." In the end, life is a journey filled with waves of challenges and moments of clarity. Embrace the lessons learned in the depths of struggle. They may just lead you to a shore of newfound strength and faith. Adaptation of https://brittni-thejourney.blogspot.com/2020/07/swim-to-side.html

As King David approached the end of his reign and was close to death, Adonijah (add-uh-NYE-juh), who was David’s fourth-born but eldest living son, boldly declared himself the next king of Israel. Scripture tells us that Adonijah boldly “exalted himself, saying, ‘I will be king’” and went so far as to prepare chariots and horsemen, with fifty men to run before him. He also secured the support of influential figures, including his cousin Joab and Abiathar the priest. In 1 Kings 1: 6, Adonijah is described as a handsome man who had not been disciplined by his father. This lack of correction contributed to his unlawful actions, birthing  pride and arrogance. Notably, the number four—Adonijah’s position among David’s sons—symbolizes divine order, yet Adonijah failed to remember his own family history where family position does not validate kings. In the book of Samuel, chapter 16, the Lord rejected Saul as king. When the prophet Samuel went to anoint the next king, he initially looked to Jesse’s oldest son, assuming he must be God’s chosen one. However, God corrected Samuel, saying, “Look not at his appearance or the height of his stature, for I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” Recognizing the Spirit of Adonijah Let us examine the traits of the spirit of Adonijah so that it does not steal our destinies: ·       Demonstrated self-ambition  by declaring himself king while his father was still alive by acting before the proper time or authority was given, seeking to usurp his father’s authority and position. He took advantage of his father’s perceived weakness in leadership due to his poor health to grasp power for himself. ·       Acted in rebellion  by refusing to honor established order. The number fifty, which symbolizes Jubilee—a time of reset and freedom—was a sign that he was declaring himself free from his father’s rule and disregarding protocol. ·       Rejected God’s appointed successor , Solomon, and in doing so, attempted to steal a destiny and hinder God’s will. Adonijah tried to overtake the throne without legitimate authority or qualification, making his claim illegitimate—just as Satan once tried to do. ·       Relied on worldly resources : horses, chariots, and men, rather than waiting for God’s direction and provision and tried to manipulate circumstances for personal gain. He sought support from powerful and influential figures to bolster his claim. ·       Unqualified for the position  as king because he lacked discipline and wisdom. His actions caused division rather than unification in the kingdom. We know Adonijah was out of order because his attitude and approach stood in direct contrast to the scriptures. Psalm 147:10–11 reminds us: “He delights not in the strength of the horse, nor does he take pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord takes pleasure in those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy and loving-kindness." ( AMP ) Let us be mindful not to fall into the same patterns, but to wait on God’s timing, honor His chosen ways, and walk in humility and obedience. Let us also be diligent to recognize any spirit or “high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.” Go read : 1 Kings 1:6, Psalm 147:10-11

To prepare for the GO BE SALTY™ October Challenge, which involves reading the book of Proverbs throughout the month, I started rereading the account of King Solomon in 1 Kings. In the wee hours this morning, the Lord gently dropped this resounding message in my spirit. 🎺 At the beginning of 1 Kings, our beloved King David is nearing the end of his 33-year reign in Jerusalem, the city of peace, and is described as feeble and close to death. Scripture tells us that his fourth born, but eldest living son, Adonijah (add-uh- NYE -juh), has unabashedly declared himself to be the next king of Israel. Upon hearing this, Nathan, the prophet, informed Bathsheba—queen consort and mother of Solomon—about Adonijah's actions and advised her on how to approach King David. Following Nathan’s guidance, Bathsheba entered the king’s chamber and respectfully bowed before him. She reminded King David of his oath to her that her son would succeed him and occupy his throne. Then, she told him all that Nathan had said. While she was still speaking, Nathan entered the room and confirmed all that Bathsheba had spoken. After Nathan had finished speaking, King David summoned his wife. As Bathsheba came into the king’s presence and stood before him, he responded, “Even as I swore to you…even so will I certainly do this day.” That very day, the trumpet sounded 🎺, and Solomon was anointed king before all the people. Later on, in the eighth chapter of 1 Kings, after building the temple for the Lord, the ark of the covenant was brought to its resting place in the Holy of Holies, the priests could not stand for the glory of the Lord filled the house!! King Solomon prayed in 1 Kings 8:24 : “You have kept what you promised Your servant David my father. You also spoke with your mouth and have fulfilled it with your hand, as it is written this day.” ( AMP ) 💫This fed my soul this morning! By all accounts, it seemed as though the king’s promise to his wife had been broken but notice what the queen did. ·       She entered the king’s private chamber alone. ·       She bowed in reverence and submission before him. ·       She reminded the king of his oath to her, and she stated her case. This is what it looks like. This is how it feels.  She interceded for her son and his destiny. ·       She said, “Now my lord, O king, the eyes of Israel are on you, to tell who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after you. 🎺By all accounts, it may seem the King has not kept His promise to you, but according to Numbers 23:19 ( ESV ): “God is not a man that He should lie.” ·       Go into His chamber – a private, secluded place – that secret place of refuge and intimacy with God alone. Matthew 6:6 instructs us to: “...go into your [most] private room, and closing the door, pray to your Father, Who is in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open.” (AMP)   In biblical times, the most private room in the house was the storeroom because it had a door that could be shut. The storeroom housed food and provisions, valuables and treasures. Ah, let that sit!   ·       Bow before Him in reverence and total submission. Notice the queen did not enter in the chamber in distress or anger insisting on an explanation.   ·       State your case. This is what it looks like. This is how it feels.   ·       Remind Him of His promises to you – the Bible is full of them!!! Like Queen Bathsheba, intercede for your children and their destiny. Do this for your spouse, for yourself, for your church, and for our country even as Queen Esther did for her people.   ·       Stand before Him in His presence knowing that He has heard your intercession and He will respond – even this day and all the people shall see it!🎺   ·       Then, let the glory of the Lord fill your temple!! Hallelujah!! Remember to thank and faithfully serve Him for what He has and will fulfill in your life at HIS WORD with His mighty hand!! Father, at Your Word, I want to walk on the water. To God be the glory.   Go read : 1 Kings 1, 1 Kings 8, Numbers 23:19, Titus 1:2, Hebrews 6:18, Matthew 6:6, Esther 4:16 (AMP, ESV, NIV) Notes : queen of consort – a king’s wife; she shares his social rank but has no governing power. She supports the king in their royal duties. 🎺Be sure to read the blog following this one: “The Spirit of Adonijah”. This blew me away!

Ah! Mexico Beach, nestled on the Florida panhandle, is an idyllic spot to relax and bask in the sun with its white sands and emerald waters. 🌴Before Hurricane Michael devastated this coastal town, we’d only visited twice. Since then, our trips have been few, but each one has left its mark. While we’re still getting to know the area, we’re excited to share what we’ve discovered so far. 📸 Enjoy these snapshots from our early days at the beach with our girls and some from a few weeks ago. Be sure to subscribe to the blog for updates—we’re looking forward to making more memories and capturing even more moments at this beautiful coastal spot. Gimme Some Grub  🦞 When we are in Mexico Beach, we often travel about 20 minutes over to Port St. Joe for dinner. Beware of the time change! Get Wrecked (In the Tastiest Way Possible) at Shipwreck Raw Bar $20-$30 per person—Budget-friendly-ish. Your taste buds will thank you, and your wallet will forgive you eventually. Seafood—breakfast, lunch, and dinner Indoor/outdoor seating https://shipwreckrawbar.com/ Get Fired Up for Joe Mama’s Wood Fired Kitchen $10-$20 per person gets you a wood-fired crust, and the smug satisfaction of knowing you didn’t settle for frozen cardboard. Pizzeria Indoor Seating https://www.joemamaspizza.com/ Cheers for The BrickWall Sports Bar & Grille $10-$20 per person—the burgers are hand-pattied, the seafood’s fresh, and the TVs are big enough to make you forget your team is losing. Seafood, burgers, wings & fingers, salads, and homemade desserts Indoor seating https://thebrickwallpsj.com/ Feel Fancy at Provisions Restaurant & Catering $20-$30 per person—the flavors are upscale, the vibe is cozy, and the goat cheese appetizer is fancy enough to make you forget you’re still wearing flip-flops. Southern comfort foods Indoor seating https://provisionsfl.com/ Snooze Spots 🛏️💤 We love El Governor Beachfront Resort! ❤️ Every room comes with an ocean view, but snag a corner room and you’ll get a panoramic view of the coastline! https://elgovernorresort.com/hotel/

Nearly every summer for almost seven or eight years, we escape to Amelia Island. It never loses its small-town charm and always feels like home! Gimme Some Grub 🦞 Get Excited for Tasty's Fresh Burgers Just $10-20 per person, cheaper than a therapy session and way more fun! Burgers, hotdogs, shakes, and all the pairings. Indoor/outdoor seating Located in the historic downtown Fernandina Beach https://www.tastysfreshburgersandfries.com/#locations Welcome to Slider's Seaside Grille $20-30 per person—because even your wallet deserves a little workout! Seafood Indoor/outdoor seating—Only oceanfront tiki bar on the island https://www.slidersseaside.com/ Greetings from Beach Diner! — FAVORITE breakfast spot! $10-20 bucks per head—unless you've mastered the art of charming your way to freebies! Breakfast and lunch https://beachdiner.com/location/fernandina-beach/ Experience the Excitement at Down Under Restaurant! Just $20-30 per person—cheaper than a fancy coffee habit and way more exciting! Seafood Indoor/outdoor seating http://www.downunderfb.com/ DeNucci's: Where calories go to party and diets come to cry! Only $3-10 per person—adulting is hard, but sprinkles make it better. Hot dogs, pretzels, and nachos, but we go for the ice cream! 🍦 https://www.denuccis.com/ Snooze Spots 🛏️💤 Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa —where we pretended to be fancy— FAVORITE https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/amelia-island Seaside Amelia Inn —just a few steps from the water https://www.seasideameliainn.com/ Hampton Inn Amelia Island at Fernandina Beach —very shady pool https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/aisflhx-hampton-amelia-island-at-fernandina-beach/

How Big is our God? On our last little getaway, Steven and I found ourselves deep in conversation about the ocean, its endless stretch and calming effects and how downright terrifying it can be when stirred up! This is how I see a holy, reverential fear of our God. He is all encompassing and steadies me. He is peace and His heart is for me! Yet, I tremble in His presence. My ears perked up and my spirit leapt within me when Steven whispered, “We are just a speck.” Just how BIG will we allow our great God be to us? When we look at nature, we see the almighty God. Romans 1:20 ESV states: For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."  The Blue Whale The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth, reaching lengths over one hundred feet and weighing up to two hundred tons—about as much as 20–30 elephants or 2,500 people. Its heart weighs roughly four hundred pounds, large enough for a person to swim or crawl inside its veins, and its heartbeat can be heard two miles away. Now that’s a BIG whale! The Ocean The blue whale population was once estimated at approximately 275,000. Covering about 71% of Earth's surface, the global ocean (or the five major ones) has the capacity to support more than 200,000 blue whales along with various other marine life in different shapes and sizes. Now that’s a BIG ocean! The Earth Our magnificent planet Earth is large enough to contain this massive ocean with its gigantic whales as well as its nations amassed with a human population of about eight billion people. Now that’s a BIG planet! The Universe The universe is large enough to encompass all things—the sun, moon, stars, galaxies, and all the planets. Yes, even Earth with its people, oceans, and whales. Now that’s a BIG universe! Perspective Isaiah 40:12-15  describes the immense power and vastness of our God, stating that He has measured the waters of the sea in the hollow of His hand and gauged the heavens with the breadth of His hand. The passage further describes earth as being held as effortlessly by Him as a small object in a container. Verse 15 declares that "the nations are like a drop from a bucket" and that our Creator “ takes up the isles or coastlands like a very little thing.” David so eloquently wrote in Psalm 8:3-4 NIV : “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” In Psalm 33:6 NIV , he writes: “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth.” Now that is a VERY BIG God! Reflections So, when life feels overwhelming, recall this imagery. Our God holds in His hands the colossal universe, which contains Earth, which contains an ocean, which contains the massive blue whale. You may feel that your problem is bigger than you are, but it is not bigger than your God! Let Him be a VERY BIG God to you! Dive a Little Deeper In researching this blog, I came across Habakkuk 3:4 AMP, and it came ALIVE in me! The prophet wrote, “He stood and measured the earth…” The compelling imagery of our Creator standing up and measuring Earth is awe-inspiring in and of itself, the enormousness of the Father. Immediately, the Lord turned the focus from planet Earth to me. Isaiah 40:12 ESV says, “He enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure.” In scripture, the earth often represents humanity. I imagined my Creator measuring me, much like parents mark a wall to track their children's growth over time. Oh Father! It is my desire that You find continuous and significant growth in me. I long to embody Your presence so fully that it is evident in me and that I grow in maturity to the “measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ and the completeness found in Him!” (Ephesians 4:13 AMP) Lord, fill me to overflowing! I want to walk on the water.

(pronounced TAH-lih-kwah) I woke up this morning thinking about the grieving mama orca, Tahlequah. You may remember her highly publicized “Tour of Grief” in 2018. Heartbroken, she carried her dead baby girl, Tali, more than 1,000 miles over seventeen days. This story of raw grief is not uncommon in wildlife. In the same year, I read about a mother chimpanzee who also carried her stillborn baby for three days (“ Stillborn ”, The Journey blog). Over the years, I have read of two other chimps who did the same – one for three months and the other for seven. The thought of Tahlequah this morning drew me into a self-reflective mood. What is God saying through this powerful, yet sensitive, grieving mother? Am I still mourning a loss, or perhaps I am still bearing the weight of dead things? Does the internal work ever end? When I researched the biblical numerology in these sorrowful accounts, I found some remarkable and even uplifting insights. 🎺For the seventeen  days of mourning, we find victory and complete triumph (10+7). Ten represents a full measure or a whole entity and completeness. Seven represents perfection, completeness, and wholeness. 🎺For the one-thousand- mile grief tour, we find divine totality (10 x 10 x 10), completeness, and perfection. 🎺For the three  days and three  months of carrying the dead, we find divine completeness, wholeness, and perfection. Mind blown, overwhelmed by God’s goodness. Tears of joy and thankfulness of heart! My heavenly Father woke me this morning with a message of HOPE. Take heart daughter, your faith has made you well. - Matthew 9:22 ESV Friend, while grief may be part of the story, it is only a chapter or maybe two, but it is not the final one. Incidentally, the name Tahlequah means “just two” or “two is enough”. Imagine the two. You and Jesus walking hand-in-hand on the water of redemption and restoration as He leads you to a place of completeness, wholeness, and perfection in Him!

“A fish always begins to stink at the head” is corporate jargon for saying leadership is the cause of an unsuccessful business or its organizational failures. Typically, that is a true statement not only in business, but in our country, communities, churches, and homes. If the head is not aligned with the Father, the rest of the body is out of sync. Let’s go deeper here and consider how this applies to us individually. Have you ever heard the phrase “stink’n think’n”? That begins at the head, right? If our thoughts are not aligned with the Father’s, our whole being is out of sync which translates to a life of chaos and disorder. Why It Matters What We Think King David wrote in Psalm 139 ESV : “O Lord, You have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.” This verse illustrates just how closely God hovers over us. Another verse in Isaiah says God will answer while we are speaking – before we finish our thoughts, because He already knows them. This brings an awareness to my spirit. Just what am I thinking about? Is it pleasing to the Lord, or is it vain and worthless? Go read: Psalm 139:1-2, Psalm 94:11 Benefits and Consequences Thoughts, whether rooted in wisdom from God or shaped by worldly influences, define the course of our lives. Examining the impact of right versus wrong thinking reveals a profound truth: the condition of our minds influences transformation, peace, and spiritual insight—or leads to instability, corruption, and spiritual decay. Benefits of Right Thinking 1.      We are transformed . Scripture tells us that when we do not think as the world thinks, but we renew our minds in Him, we are transformed! 2.      We are kept in perfect peace . When we keep our thoughts on Jesus, trusting in Him, He keeps us in His perfect peace. This is peace that surpasses comprehension, and it guards our hearts and minds. 3.      We receive revelation . When our minds are on things above, we can see and hear and partake of the Spirit. I love this passage in Jeremiah 33:3, “Call to me and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” 4.      We have all that we need . When we receive the knowledge of Him, we have everything we need to live godly lives and to walk in the calling He has given to each of us. Go read: Jeremiah 33:3, Romans 12:2-3, Isaiah 26:3, Philippians 4:4-9, 1 Corinthians 2:11-16, 2 Peter 1:3 Consequences of Wrong Thinking 1.      We are unstable. Have you ever found yourself between both worlds? One minute, you see God in everything and trust Him to be King of your life. In the next minute, however, you do not acknowledge Him in your thoughts, situations, or decisions. This is being double-minded, which is nothing short of instability. There is no consistency and certainly no order. 2.      We are defiled . The first chapter of Titus tells us that if we are not pure, but unbelieving and corrupt, our minds and consciousness are defiled and polluted. The ESV translation states, “Nothing is pure.” 3.      We are depraved. Paul tells us in Romans 1 that men became self-confident fools and stopped relying on God’s wisdom and began to serve other gods. So, He left them to their depravity. Let us strive to keep God first and discern His thoughts about everything so that we are not given up to our own vices. 4.      Death will come to us. Most often, sin begins with a thought. If we entertain that thought long enough, we act on it —we sin. Sin not dealt with “gives birth to death.” This may not be a mortal death at that moment, but it can bring death to your motivation, death to your faith, death in your mind, and ultimately death to your calling, or even death to your relationship with Jesus, who is our very lifeline! Go read: James 1:8, Titus 1:15, Romans 1:28, James 1:14-15 How to Stop the Rot So, now that we know what we know, how do we stop the rot and get back in alignment with our Father? 1.      Renew your mind so you may be transformed. Take off the old and put on the new! 2.      Take every thought captive so that you are obedient to Christ. 3.      Walk in wisdom so you may be delivered. 4.      Walk in maturity so that you are only innocent of evil things, but not childish in your thinking. 5.      Lean not on your own understanding so that things are pleasant and wisdom will flow from your lips and your paths will be straight. 5.      Set your mind on things above because you have died and are now hidden in Christ! You should now share His mindset. Matthew instructs us to love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind ! 6.      Be sober-minded and prepare your mind for action  so that you may hope in the grace that comes through the revelation of our Lord, Jesus Christ! Go read: Romans 12:2-3, Ephesians 4:22-24, 2 Corinthians 10:5, 1 Corinthians 14:20, Proverbs 28:26, Proverbs 22:17, Proverbs 3:5-7, Colossians 3:2, Philippians 2:5, Matthew 22:37, 1 Peter 1:13, Romans 7:22-25 Conclusion Two psalms written by David bring it all together for us. In the first passage, he writes that he is not so arrogant as to worry about the things he cannot control but relies confidently in his God. Psalm 131:1-3 ESV "O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. " In the second, the psalmist stays accountable to God, asking Him to reveal any place in his heart or in his mind that may not be pleasing to his Savior. This is true alignment with the Father. Kingdom order. Psalm 139:23-24 KJV : “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me and lead me in the way everlasting!"

Our Wakulla Springs Adventure: A Mix of Excitement and a Touch of Chaos! Last weekend, Steven and I set out on a little road trip to Wakulla Springs, and let me tell you, it was quite the adventure—though not exactly the one I had in mind! I had pictured a sprawling sandy "beach" area, perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. Instead, we found ourselves navigating a narrow, grassy riverbank (note to self: holiday weekends can be tricky!). We had plans to hop on a boat tour, but alas! Only one of the many boats was in operation, and it was fully booked before we even set foot in the park. Spontaneity isn’t always perfection, I suppose. Just when we thought things couldn’t get any more "exciting," Steven had a little reaction to something in the water or the grass—or perhaps a sneaky critter lurking about! So, we decided to call it a day in less than an hour. We traveled further south in hopes of getting our feet in the sand for a little while before heading home. Along the way, we stumbled across a food truck with delicious seafood and covered outdoor tables, which was perfect since we still had on our swimsuits. But Wait, There’s More! Despite our little hiccups, the water at the springs was 69 degrees and crystal-clear —absolutely refreshing on a hot, summer day! Kids were having the time of their lives, splashing around and swimming out to the deck in the middle of the springs. Daredevils were leaping off the towering 22-foot observation platform! In this, we did not participate! A Touch of Nostalgia And let’s not forget about the stunning 1930s Spanish-style lodge! It’s like stepping back in time, complete with a charming gift shop and an old-fashioned soda fountain that makes you want to order a cherry soda just for the nostalgia. The walls are adorned with amazing photos from the 40s, telling stories of the past. Oh, and Tarzan's Secret Treasure (1941)  and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)  were filmed here! How cool is that? Gimme Some Grub 🍦 We traveled about 20 miles south and ate at this cute little food truck in Crawfordville. You have to try Hutton's Seafood & More FAVORITE $10-$20 per person Seafood Outdoor seating Adventurers, go explore the options at Wakulla Springs State Park : ( We did not eat here.) ✨Soda Fountain: The Fun Zone where ice cream dreams come true! Milkshakes, Root Beer floats, hot dogs, pretzels, and other fun food served on the 70-foot counter! ✨Welcome to The Lodge: Where Your Wallet Gets a Workout - $8-$20 per person ✨ Outdoor grills and picnic tables for the brave souls who enjoy nature (and bugs)! 🐜 Snooze Spots 🛏️💤 This was a day trip for us; we did not spend the night. The Lodge at Wakulla Springs runs around $158/night. It was built in 1937 and sits right in the middle of the state park. Things To Do 👙🤿🏇 Entrance fee: $4 per vehicle (for a single person) $6 per vehicle (2-8 people); add $2 per person over 8 people Boat tours: Free for children under age 3 $5 for children (ages 3-12) $8 for adults ✨There are trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also available. For more information, check out the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park website: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/edward-ball-wakulla-springs-state-park/experiences-amenities

Twice in the night I heard these words. “Hide My word in your heart so that when these things come up that is what comes out of your mouth.” The words were soft, but the seriousness was the piercing sound of a trumpet in my ears. I could not wait to get out of bed that morning and dig into the scriptures because I knew I was embarking on a treasure hunt.  “I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You. Praise be to You, Lord; teach me Your decrees. With my lips, I recount all the laws that come from Your mouth.” ~Psalm 119:10-13 NIV The author says, “I seek, I have hidden, I recount.” For further clarification, I consulted a Greek and Hebrew resource to verify the definitions of some familiar, key words from this passage. Seek  – to inquire for, to yearn for, to ponder, and to study Seek is an irregular verb which means the conjugation (past, present, future tense) is sought, seek, or will seek. Here, seek is in the present tense. I seek now, continually. Not I sought yesterday, or I will seek tomorrow, but TODAY. In the present, in the now, I seek You with ALL MY HEART. I think we Christ followers often dwell in complacency. We rely on others to do the work, gather the food, and hopefully bring deliverance to us on a silver platter. Did you know that we serve an all-access God? That means we, you and I, can go straight to The Source for ourselves. Dig in. Search it out. What does God say about this matter? Seek Me and you will find Me.   All – ·        Everything, totality, whole, entire Hidden  – ·        Stored up, keep safe; treasures, to be treasured, cherished Decrees – ·        Clear communication of what someone should do With my lips I recount  – ·        I proclaim Laws  – ·        What is right When you put it all together in context, you find God instructs us through the psalmist: Seek Me with totality of heart. Store up those treasures and keep them safe (do not let anyone or anything steal them) so that you will clearly proclaim what is right! The phrase “that I might not sin against You” appears in the same passage as a vow to proclaim  what is right. In other words, hide My Word in your heart so you do not sin against Me with your mouth!   The author continues in the verses that follow, “You are my hiding place” and “my lips shall pour forth praise.”  Verse 66 says, “Teach me good judgment, wise and right discernment, and knowledge, for I have believed.” Psalm 119 is the longest of all the Psalms and the longest chapter of the Bible with 176 verses. The psalm is not as much about fitting the bible into our daily lives but more the reaction of one who has the Word hidden within them roaring with an outcry of faith! This kind of depth does not come from a just-skimming-the-surface, shallow-water, I-read-my-bible-check-that-off-the-list task. This is the consumption of the Word. This is holding on to it with all your might as to a tangible object, protecting that treasure, and keeping it pure and incorruptible within you as a resource that springs forth from your belly. I love the descriptive, call-to-action words written throughout the entire passage! Verse 2 in the amplified translation tells us we are blessed when we CRAVE  Him ( AMP ). May the following words and phrases from throughout the psalm seep into your soul and spring up a deep hunger within to delve into His word so that you may be filled to overflowing! Proclaim these words today! ·       I rejoice, delight, meditate ·        Open my eyes, make me understand, teach me, give me understanding ·        I cleave, long for, my soul languishes, my heart is breaking with longing ·        Revive and stimulate me, incline (or turn) my heart, make me go in the path Scripture tells us that we are truly blessed when we seek God with a whole heart. In this way, we come to know His character. God’s attributes are clearly reflected throughout His word so when we have that invaluable treasure stored up in our hearts, our reflection will be His! Oh, that I may know  Him!   Today, I seek You, Father. Today, I hide Your word in my heart. Today, I PROCLAIM your faithfulness to me!