Jeremiah 7:27-28 & 20:8-10: Even When They Will Not Listen, Keep Your Fire

 

Jeremiah 7:27-28 & 20:8-10: Even When They Will Not Listen, Keep Your Fire

As a Christian, sometimes the hardest thing to do is not to give up on spreading the True gospel message and praying for other people. We can feel very alone and isolated when so few of our family, friends, co-workers, and even fellow Christians believe the way we do. When others find every opportunity to make a jab at our expense, and even sometimes go out of their way to turn a conversation into an insult about our holiness beliefs and other Biblical viewpoints, it is very difficult not to give up wanting to speak the Truth. You will wonder, "Am I making a difference?" And you will ponder, "What's the point of standing up for my beliefs if no one listens?" We can cling to our own ego of wanting to be accepted and liked by the world more than wanting to cling to pleasing God.

Did you know that the Bible tells us if we refuse to share the True message of the Bible (not some watered-down version), and the people we know go to Hell, we are responsible? Yet, on the other hand, if we warn them and they refuse to listen, we can wash our hands clean of their wrong choices. Pretty serious responsibility when you look at sharing the message of holiness from that angle.

(Ezekiel 33:8-9) When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Whether speaking casually to people you know, sharing a message over the Internet, or preaching behind a pulpit or on a street corner, you will ask yourself, "How often do any of my words help others think about God and holiness differently? Does anyone read their Bible more because of my encouragement? Has anyone considered giving up even one sinful habit or unbiblical viewpoint because they listened to what I reminded them what is in God's Word?" When you see little to no fruits of your labor, you will want to give up. Out of a desire to and be liked rather than be ignored, you will want to be silent about what the Bible says concerning issues that are shutting believers and nonbelievers alike out of the Kingdom of Heaven.

(Galatians 1:10) For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

When I am feeling discouraged about the lack of change I see in people I pray and weep over, and when I do not feel as if any of my efforts I put into sharing the love and True grace of God that must be accompanied by daily repentance (see Luke 9:23) has helped anyone, I get discouraged. I sometimes want to quit writing. However, when I feel as if I have not helped even one person, I first remind myself that only God knows if a person is being challenged and it is NEVER my place to determine if someone is being affected or not.  Also, it is not my job to change people as ONLY the Holy Spirit can do that, but I am called to challenge others and plant the seeds that point them to Jesus Christ. I must also remember that spiritual warfare is very real, and many choose the ways of darkness rather than yield to the Holy Spirit prompting them to change; many stubbornly push away God's tugging upon their heart and soul. Quite I often think of the prophet Jeremiah.

Jeremiah was called to preach repentance to a very obstinate people. In Jeremiah chapter 7, God is very honest with the prophet and tells him that the people will not listen to his message, in verses 27-28 God says, "Therefore thou shalt speak all these words unto them; but they will not hearken to thee: thou shalt also call unto them; but they will not answer thee. But thou shalt say unto them, 'This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.'" God tells Jeremiah to keep preaching the Truth even though He knows Jeremiah will be ignored, ridiculed, and persecuted. Jeremiah did not give up because He loved the Lord and he was willing to please the Lord, even if no one listened and he suffered greatly for it.

In Jeremiah 20, Jeremiah is feeling very discouraged and frustrated with God and with people. In verses 8-9 he says, "For since I spake, I cried out, I cried violence and spoil; because the word of the Lord was made a reproach unto me, and a derision, daily. Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name." He was determined to give up, but, and I love this verse, He says also in verse 9, "But His word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones." And in verse 10 adds, "For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. Report, say they, and we will report it." Therefore, in spite of being overwhelmed by constant abuse and rejection, the fire to serve God is stronger and he knows he cannot give up and will continue to report God's messages.

Ezekiel was also told very bluntly by God that the people to whom he was called to preach would not listen to him in Ezekiel 3:7, "But the house of Israel will not hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto me: for all the house of Israel are impudent and hardhearted." Yet, God grants the man of God a gift I know we all wish we had. In verse 9 of the same chapter, God tells Ezekiel that He will make Ezekiel's forehead stronger than flint so he can bear the abuse without fear or bitterness. I literally also pray for a head so strong that I do not care if I am ignored or ridiculed, but that I can preach on in spite of my ego being bruised. So, you see, this writing is meant to encourage me as well!

Again, with the prophet Isaiah, he is warned no one will listen to him. In chapter 6, right after the beautiful scripture where the angel cleanses his lips with coal (verses 5-7), and Isaiah says in verse 8, "Here am I; send me," God lets him know what he has signed up for. In verse 9 God tells Isaiah the people will "...understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not." Then Isaiah asks in verse 11, "Lord, how long?" And God tells Him in verses 11-12, "Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land." It sounds to me as if God is saying people will refuse to listen to all prophets' warnings until the end of time. But Isaiah continued forward in his ministry writing the most powerful and beautiful books in the Old Testament.

In 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul also warns, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." This verse, along with all the others I have listed can seem very discouraging and make you want to give up. However, I do not want to discourage you from preaching through your actions and your words. I am not saying that we should assume all are lost to the Truths of the gospel message. I am not saying we should cease praying for individual revival for our friends and family. The word revival essentially means 'an awakening,' and I strongly believe we need never cease praying for those we love to have their eyes opened and ears unplugged.

We preach by action and deed (not just in sermons) because we love the Lord and want to be obedient to Mark 16:15, "And He said unto them, 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.'" As I often say and write, I teach, not out of a self-righteous heart, but because I also wish that none should perish in a lake of fire. Although it is often tempting to give up, I press forward, choosing to believe that even when it seems as if none if my messages on holiness are getting through, that a seed has been planted. If even one person softens his or her heart enough to let that seed grow, then I have done my job. I want to please God above all and glorify His holy name. To help people understand the great love and mercy of God and then to teach them what the Bible says about walking down the narrow path that leads to Heaven. I pray to stay on fire for God and for you to feel the same urgency that time is short, and we need to keep trying to point people to Heaven.

Bottom line here is not to give into discouragement and doubt but keep on preaching and praying for those you love and for those you don't even know. Luke 19:13 tells us "To Occupy till" Jesus comes. In other words, being a Christian is proactive, and we should continue to work for His kingdom until we die or until the end of the Tribulation. Even when it is emotionally, physically, and even financially difficult. God will provide all you need when your desire is to glorify His name.

Encourage your fellow believers as well in their faith and share with one another when you feel like giving up. Even when others will not listen, remind each other of all those in both the Old and New Testaments that were not well received, including our dear precious Jesus, and know we are not better than they and we are sure to be rejected as well. In John 15:18 Jesus says, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you." And yet, in spite of being rejected Jesus was "obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:8). So be encouraged and do not give up! Be like Jesus and be obedient to the will of God in your life and continue to share the Truths about holiness what it takes to walk down the straight and narrow path. Pray that the Holy Spirit gives you the strength to not give in to compromise or fear but press forward and be a light in the darkness!

Jeremiah 1:4-9: God Reminds Jeremiah that He alone Made Us

 

Jeremiah 1:4-9: God Reminds Jeremiah that He alone Made Us

NOTE: I know I recently shared a link to this full post, "Profile of a Doubter, Part 6: Moses & Jeremiah," but since I am in the book of Exodus, I wanted to share the first part of this writing in case you did not see it.  The link to the full writing is: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2024/03/profile-of-doubter-part-6-moses-jeremiah.html

Now here is where I want to parallel Moses to one my favorite Old Testament prophets, Jeremiah.  When he is called by God, He has the same insecurities Moses had.

(Jeremah 1:4-9) Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." Then said I, "Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child." But the Lord said unto me, "Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord." Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth." 

You can see here that Jeremiah also had a moment of doubt in his own calling.  He felt he was too young and probably also did not feel the older men would respect what he had to say.  But just as with Moses, God reminds Jeremiah that He alone made us, and if He chooses us for a specific task, He will make it possible for us to serve Him.

Whether we think we are too shy, poor speakers, too old, too young, not healthy enough, not smart enough, or whatever excuses we may use, God does not want our doubts but our faith.  He wants us to trust His will and His plans to serve Him.  God is gracious and understands our doubts, and if needed He will send us a helper as he sent Aaron.  More importantly, He will send His Holy Spirit to enable us and help us serve according to His perfect will.  To glorify His name, and not our own.  

May we quit making excuses why we cannot serve and instead start saying, as my other favorite Old Testament prophet says in Isaiah 6:8, "Here am I; send me." 

It is important to be humble and not puffed up with pride as God prefers to use a "broken and contrite heart" (Psalm 51:17) to serve Him.  In fact, it is those of us who say, "Why me, Lord?" in humility and understand the nature of serving others other than self-service, that God is more likely to call.  He wants ones willing to change, not ones who think he or she is already perfect.

Isaiah 64:4-8: Clay for the Potter's Hand, Written by my Husband and Me

 

Isaiah 64:4-8: Clay for the Potter's Hand, Written by my Husband (Mel) and Me

(Isaiah 64:8) But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

We cannot save ourselves through the strivings of the flesh, nor be transformed by our own merit. We must get out of the way and yield our lives to Christ, and His transforming Holy Spirit. We are saved by faith in the atonement that Christ provided upon the cross following true repentance. Then the Holy Spirit molds the clay into vessels of honor. We are sanctified by the blood of Christ unto salvation, and transformed (sanctified, set apart) by the Holy Spirit. To walk in the Spirit is to walk away from sin. You must be born again to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

If you belong to Christ, you are an ambassador for the Kingdom of Heaven, and your life should be a living testimony to those around you. We are not all called to be pastors or evangelists, but there are many members to the body of Christ, and we are called to be faithful to the ministry that God has placed us in. God is the potter, and we are the clay, if we will allow His Spirit to have His perfect work in us, then we will be vessels of honor that He may work through. A potter is an artist that molds, and shapes vessels into many forms, for many different uses.  If we live a sinful lifestyle, then we will be vessels of dishonor to be destroyed by the potter. For the wages of sin is death, but there is forgiveness through Christ if we repent and turn from sin (see Romans 6:23). 

If you do not know where you fit into the body of Christ, I suggest that you pray, as well as fast, for an answer. When a person goes on a fast, they are showing God that they desire heavenly food more than earthly food. When you seek after God, as well as put his Kingdom first, He will reveal his plan for your life. God’s timing is perfect, but we sometimes get impatient waiting upon the Lord to open doors to ministry. A Christian preparing for a ministry does not need a theological degree, or any training from manmade institutions. However, we are to study God’s Word to show ourselves approved, a workman who is not ashamed (see 2 Timothy 2:15). We need to get alone with God and allow his Holy Spirit to teach us the ways of the Kingdom of Heaven. I refer to this time of Spirit led training, as the wilderness experience.

(Romans 9:20-21) But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this?" Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?

 There are many examples in God’s Word of holy men who left their hometowns and spent time in wilderness locations, or foreign lands, being taught by God’s Spirit. After being water baptized, the Spirit led Christ into the wilderness to be tested and tried by the devil for forty days and nights. Christ fasted during this time of testing and fought off the devil by quoting scripture. After this time of preparation, Christ began his ministry. We are not above our master, if Christ was tested and tried by Satan, we will also most surely be tested. 

The wilderness experience is a time, when the potter molds and shapes his vessel into the object that he desires. Joseph is another example of a man who was hand crafted by God for a great purpose. When Joseph was seventeen years old, he was sold into slavery by his brothers. After the incident with Potiphar’s wife, he was thrown into prison for thirteen years until the day he was brought before Pharaoh. This time of preparation for leadership was necessary for Joseph to be the humble man useable for God’s purpose. When Joseph’s wilderness experience was concluded, Pharaoh made him governor over all of Egypt, and he prepared for the time of famine.

After his road to Damascus encounter with the risen Christ, the Apostle Paul also had his time of preparation for ministry. Paul did not confer with any man, nor did he go immediately to Jerusalem to see the apostles. Instead, Paul went into Arabia for three years, to be taught by God’s Spirit before going back to Jerusalem.  When he returned to Jerusalem, he stayed with Peter for fifteen days and also met with James the brother of Christ. Then Paul went into Syria and Cilicia for another fourteen years, before he presented himself to the churches in Judea.  It was by revelation from God’s Spirit that Paul knew when it was time to present himself to the Judean church. A true vessel that God can work through, is taught and led by God, not man, nor man- made institutions. Man- made theology stifles the Spirit, as well as shuts people out of the Kingdom of Heaven.

If you truly want to be used by God to bring glory to His name, you must be willing to pray the sincere prayer asking God to mold you into His image.  In many cases, this will mean giving up the things of this world that He hates so that you will only reflect His Light.  

Our goals should never be to be molded into the world's image.  If you are striving to look like the world instead of like Jesus, you need to reevaluate your priorities.  Whether you want to admit it or not, certain hairstyles, piercings, tattoos, clothing, and even choices of entertainment often reflect what the world teaches but go against the holiness views in the Bible. Do not let Hollywood or even "Christian" celebrities decide how you should walk, talk, act, dress, or live, but let only Jesus be your potter!  When in doubt of what is wrong or right, do not ask the world's point of view, look to the words of the Bible and see what God and Jesus had to say on the subjects in question.

Our goals should also never be to point people to an actor, singer, writer, or even pastor, but to God the Father, Jesus the Son, and The Holy Spirit. 

Let's look at some really good news as we read more from Isaiah 64.  That first sentence is verse 4.  What a beautiful promise!  When we allow God to mold and change us, we will someday enjoy a Heaven so amazing we cannot even begin to perceive how wonderful it will be!  The next verse after that says God meets and rejoices with those that work righteousness.  We are sinful and filthy, but when we allow God to clean us up, we can be used to be molded into His image, so we can enjoy the amazing Heaven He is preparing for those who faithfully serve Him!     

(Isaiah 64:4-8) For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways... But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away... But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

Links to Various Writings From my Husband & I on the Timing of the Rapture

 

Links to Various Writings From my Husband & I on the Timing of the Rapture 

Saw this picture on Facebook today and wanted to share it with links to various writings from my husband & I on this subject. Time is very, very short, please do not be deceived and put yourselves in danger by believing in a pre-tribulation rapture. Our writings will Biblically give you something to think about. But please, let's not divide over such issues and still love and support each other as fellow lovers of Jesus Christ!

Here are those links:

Discerning the Signs of the Times https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/09/discerning-signs-of-times.html

Please do not let Fear Influence What you Believe: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/please-do-not-let-fear-influence-what.html

"When shall these things be?" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/mark-133-8-13-14-21-27-32-37-when-shall.html

The Great Day of the Lord, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/zephaniah-23-great-day-of-lord-written.html

Where the Eagles Gather https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/01/luke-17-22-where-eagles-gather.html

Questions and Answers About the Rapture https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/questions-and-answers-about-rapture.html

The Truth About the Second Coming of Christ, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2022/08/the-truth-about-second-coming-of-christ.html

Dream of the Return of Christ and Preparation for his Coming, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2017/04/dream-of-return-of-christ-by-mel.html

The Seven Churches: Part Two, Written by my Husband https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/04/revelation-31-22-seven-churches-part.html

There’s Hope For All Who Follow The Instructions  https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/10/theres-hope-for-all-who-follow.html

The Oppression of the Poor, Written by my Husband

The Oppression of the Poor, Written by my Husband (Mel)

Note from me: We need to have more compassion and less criticism for people who require government or other assistance. It is cruel and unfair to assume that the majority of the people needing help are lazy and unwilling to work. I have heard or read too many times people misuse 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat).  We need to look at people one at a time and see their individual plights, not prejudge all people who struggle financially as lazy, drug-addicted, or scam artists (and pray for those who are).  Some people truly are not physically capable of working and are in genuine need of assistance. Please consider praying for those less fortunate than you and donating time and/or resources when you can, for you never know when you may need help and suddenly you are standing in line with people at a food bank you looked down upon. If you choose, you can also read my writing here, "What does the Bible say about taking care of the poor?": https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/what-does-bible-say-about-taking-care.html

Here is Mel's post:

This year over 3 million people lost their food stamp benefits. In January 2027 millions will lose their Medicaid health insurance and Medicare advantage plans will significantly cut back their benefits. Federal assistance to food banks, housing projects, and daycare services, have also been cut. Due to tariffs and war inflation is skyrocketing and housing, gas, and groceries, are no longer affordable. The White House doesn't need a ballroom, and Trump doesn't need his Triumphant Arch, or a military parade. Americans need to eat, as well as pay their rent or mortgages.

Most disabled people are unable to get Social Security disability. The SS administration workers are taught how to work against them in order to deny their claims. Over 80% of disability claims are denied. Most people have to hire an advocate service or an attorney to acquire benefits, and that may take up to two years. Many poor and disabled people need their food and health benefits. The work requirements for the sick, disabled, as well as for people up to age 64 who cannot get hired is a travesty.

The US government is diverting money from social programs and putting it toward building missiles and supporting Trump's Gestapo ICE. Trump has asked for over one trillion dollars to build up the military. We have a Hitler in the White House as the Lord showed me in several audible visions. The Beast worships and glorifies himself!

In my town, the Salvation Army food bank used to distribute food every week, now they only allow people to come once a month because of federal cuts. Food banks are limiting families to ten items because donations are down, as well as due to federal cuts. The food banks are unable to feed the poor and the churches aren't doing enough.

Millions have died in third world countries since donations to world hunger and medical programs were cut. Trump coldly said, "Let the poor die"! When asked about those who would die from losing their health insurance, Trump said once again, "Let them die"!

Christians should have compassion for the poor, sick, and disabled, as well as be willing to help them, not oppress them. Sadly, I have witnessed a cold, heartless, church that looks down upon the needy with scorn. However, not all Christians are cold. World Vision, the Salvation Army, as well as many other charity organizations and food banks are an example of true Christian love.

(James 2:13-19) For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

(James 5:1-8) Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you. Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

(Matthew 25:32-42) And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:  And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.  Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:  For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:  Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.  Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?  And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 

Isaiah 55:6-9: Learning to Stay Within God's Will

 

 

Isaiah 55:7-9: Learning to Stay Within God's Will

I originally wrote this in 2018, but the lesson of consequences of going outside God's will always stay with me!

One of the biggest lessons God has been teaching me may be the hardest for me to swallow because it includes a huge slice of humble pie.  In order for me to share this lesson with you, I have to admit that I have been a stubborn, willful, untrusting child of God. 

In order for me to make this story a complete picture, I must go back to May 2017.  I had applied to a job at fast food place and had been called for an interview.  Because I had previously worked at the local school and was food safety certified, the boss was very interested in hiring me but wanted a face-to-face interview to be certain.  The night before the interview, I prayed that if the job was not within God’s will that either I or someone else would be sick and the interview would be cancelled.  I was sick all night with extreme nausea and stomach pain.  But was this just psychological because of what I had prayed?  Maybe, but what was not a coincidence was that the boss called me half an hour before the interview to say his wife was ill and he would have to cancel and reschedule the interview.  I saw this is a definite sign and chose not to reschedule.  I was not certain why God had chosen to block me from the seemingly harmless job, but I could not pray a prayer asking for a specific sign and then ignore it when God answered.

Now, fast forward to January 2018.  Feeling weary of being broke and struggling to pay bills, and not able to find any office jobs that had openings in what I was skillfully trained to do, I began believing God was not interested in our lives.  Yes, I love God and He loves me, but does He really care about every detail?  One day, when driving back from an errand, I noticed a sign on the door of the same fast-food place I had applied to the previous year.   I asked Mel to pull into the parking lot to see if it was another “Help Wanted” sign.  Yes, it was.  In spite of God blocking me from the same job eight months prior, I filled out another application.  I remembered how enthusiastic the boss had seemed at my prior kitchen experience and knew I would be called for another interview.  Sure enough, he quickly called me again and even remembered that he had called me in 2017.  This time, I did not pray for God’s will to be done.  I decided that if God really cared about me, He would understand the need for more money.  I was hired on the spot.

I trained on days for my first four shifts but was moved to nights my second week (I only worked three days a week).  Night shift is responsible for the majority of the cleaning, which includes all the dishes.  Well, my first time being exposed to the sanitizer, I began coughing and I could feel my chest tighten.  Next thing I knew, my asthma attacks began increasing.  Up until then, the asthma had been controlled with a daily inhaler, and I only needed my rescue inhaler 7-10 times a month.  I had to start using my rescue inhaler 3-6 times a day!  The last time my asthma had been that bad the doctor said it could cause me to go into respiratory failure and/or end my life, which is why I now take the daily inhaler.

Less than two weeks into the increased asthma attacks, I had developed bronchitis, a bloody nose, double ear infections, and a throat infection.  It is obvious I was allergic to the sanitizer as I had also been itching and had a mild rash.  I tried my best to stay at the job, hoping the antibiotics would make me better, but they did not.  I spent every day for at least a month with increased asthma attacks as well as feeling generally very sick (I won’t go into it all).  In spite of the need for money, I finally decided I had enough of feeling so horrible every day.  Also, remembering the doctor’s previous warning about increased risk of lung failure, my sweet hubby was very worried about my health, so I resigned.

So, why am I telling you all this?  To remind not only myself, but my readers as well, that when we go outside of God’s will, we cannot expect to be protected.  Remember that God had answered my prayer in 2017 and showed me the job was outside of His will.  In His foreknowledge, He knew my weak lungs would not be able to handle the chemicals used, and that it would literally place my life at risk.  Yet in my stubborn pride and refusal to believe that God cared about my needs, I rebelliously took the job God clearly had blocked me from in the past. 

We cannot jump off a cliff and then demand that God must save us.  When we do something we know is against His will or against the laws of Jesus Christ, we cannot expect divine protection.  It is not God’s fault I was sick and suffering, it was my own because I disobeyed His will. And having asthma in general is simply the result of living in a fallen world.  I spent time in serious repentance for arrogantly believing God really did not care about my life and that He really did not care if I took that job or not.  He cares very much about every one of us and our actions!

I have learned my lesson.  I will always pray over every application or résumé I drop off (as I have done since 2018).  If God shows me any job is the wrong fit, I will immediately back off and move on.  In fact, I am going to do my best to better adopt this attitude for everyday life experiences much better than I have ever done before.  Whether it is looking for a new job, writing a blog or book, looking for a new place to live, or even what book to read, I am going to do a better job of listening to God’s Voice and following His signs.

From now on, whenever I am so arrogant to believe my will is better than the Almighty’s will, I going to focus more on Isaiah 55:6-9, especially the last two verses:  Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. 

I will no longer fight God’s plans for my life, nor disbelieve His love for me.  I am also going to strive to better believe in Romans 8:24-28: For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  

There is so much beauty in those verses how can I not see how much God cares about my life?  The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to try to keep us within the will of God.  When we love God and are called for His purpose (not our own), God will work things out for our good.  I have heard verse 28 my entire life, so how could I still be so thick-headed that I still have the nerve to purposefully stray outside God’s will?

Another favorite Truth to remember is found in Jeremiah 29:11-14: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord.

God only wants His best for His children.  When we seek Him, we will find Him.  If I had prayed again before my second interview, I am certain God would have again blocked the job because He does not want “evil” for my life.  Excessive asthma attacks are not part of God’s will! 

Although bad things typically happen to us when we refuse to stay within God’s will, I want to make it clear that not all bad things are our fault as we live in a fallen world where man’s rebellion causes the innocent to suffer.  So do NOT believe that every time you are sick (or something else bad occurs) that God is punishing you.  It was clear the added asthma attacks had been because I had rebelled but having asthma in general is not a punishment.  However, with that said, I am still going to do better to let this lesson permeate my life and control my actions from now on!  (Update: Again, this was written in 2018. God healed me of asthma around April 2019, and the only time I have needed to use an inhaler since then was for about 3 months after I had COVID in 2020. To God be all the glory!).  

Isaiah 5:20: Choose Light Over Dark, Part 2

 

Isaiah 5:20 & 8:19-20: Choose Light Over Dark, Part 2

I have been praying about what God wanted me to write about next.  He gave me two phrases: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil." And "They traded the truth for a lie." God also told me very clearly not to be afraid of anyone who might reject me for my writings because it is important to share the Truth.

(Isaiah 5:20) Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

Keep those words in mind as they go along with the theme of this blog.

The second phrase God gave me, I knew I had heard before, but could not remember where it was in the Bible nor what the context of that scripture was.  I had to look it up.  It is in Romans 1.  

I realize that a portion of Romans 1 has to do with the sin of homosexuality, but I do not believe that is what God is specifically calling me to write about at this time.  The theme God wants me to focus on is the backsliding of saints. Those that have been taught the Truth and have rejected it.

If you have taken the time to read part one of this blog, then you know that I was once just as guilty of watching things God considers evil even though I knew better. 

So, if we are taught at an early (or not-so-early) age to avoid witchcraft, drugs, alcohol, sexual immorality, etc., then why do we choose to sin?  It is because we have been hurt to the very core and we blame God.  We think He should have intervened and saved us from a miscarriage, a divorce, abuse, illness, a death of a loved one, the loss of a home, etc.  We may think we have gotten over the anger towards God, but in all reality, we choose to rebel against the scriptures we have heard for many years, and probably even memorized.  We choose this as a child rebels against a parent they think is being unfair.  In all honesty, I was a good kid, but, when my parents set a curfew I did not agree with, I simply chose to come home whenever I wanted and didn't care if I suffered the consequences later.  Sound familiar?  Our attitude may sound something like this, "God, I think it was pretty heartless of you to allow my wife to cheat on me, so therefore, I am going to smoke this joint."  or "God, I don't understand why I have lost a child, and since you don't seem to care, neither do I."

Satan absolutely loves it when we allow our minds to wander down such paths of what we consider logical rebellion.

But don't be fooled...  God does care! He does not will bad things to happen to us.  Bad things often happen due to poor choices we make, and God will not save us when we jump off a cliff without a parachute just because we say we have faith.  He expects us to be proactive.  You cannot expect God to heal you of high blood pressure if you continue to eat unhealthy foods.  You cannot expect God to save your marriage if you refuse to put down the sin of pornography.  Or bless your business if you treat your employees unfairly.  We have to take care of our marriages, our bodies, and other people if we want God's blessings.  We cannot hold someone responsible that did not pull the trigger.  Unfortunately, our mistakes can cause others hurt.  If you refuse to have your vehicle serviced on a regular basis and it breaks down on your wife and she gets stranded in the middle of nowhere, that is not God's fault.

I am well aware that bad things happen to people who live life as clean as they can.  They are devout in their faith and love God with all their hearts.  Do they have a reason to be mad?  Sure.  In fact, even those that are victims of their own fault have reason to be mad.  The Bible says it is okay to be angry as long as we do not sin in anger (Ephesians 4:26).  But don't stay mad; pray that God helps you heal by the power of His Holy Spirit as it is impossible to heal on our own.  We live in a fallen world where man chooses to alienate God.  Therefore, God does not always intervene.  I once had very serious asthma to the point where doctors said I could die if it did not improve.  Was that my fault or God's?  No.  Did God choose to heal me?  Yes, Praise God! After 4 years of dangerous asthma attacks, I was healed.  I have not used my inhaler since 2019 (except when I had Covid in 2020 and I needed it for a few months).  If I was still obsessing over "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (or other satanic/violent/sexual program) and knowingly watching a show that was displeasing to God, I would have had no right to ask God to heal me.  Any more than you could expect a boss to give you a raise if you are always late to work or have a bad attitude. 

My point was that we choose to dishonor God with our rebellions because we blame Him for our unfortunate circumstances.  We justify glorifying witchcraft or drinking alcohol or even following the ways false religion because it is fun or makes us feel better.  I have heard people often say, "Oh, I know there's swearing, violence, and sex in that movie, but overall, I really loved it."  And they watch it again and again.

(Romans 1: 20-21) For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

This sounds to me like they were well aware of God's power, rebelled, and God was absolutely going to hold them accountable because they knew better.  In fact, I believe God holds us more accountable when we know the Truth and trade it for a lie than when our sins are a little bit more ignorant. 

(Hebrews 6:4-6) For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.  

Romans 1:22 states, "Professing to be wise, they became fools."  To me, this sounds like they knew better and justified their actions with false logic, and therefore, became foolish.   

But there is good news for those that have rebelled and chosen to backslide.  I see a lot of people who choose to do wrong still going to church, calling themselves Christians, and reading their bibles.  The hope lies in prayers. We can pray this all sinks in once and for all.  That God will ultimately open their eyes, or re-open as the case may be.  Or if it is us that has fallen away, we need to repent and start over.

(Revelation 2:4-5) I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.  

Please prayerfully consider all I have said.  Remember my goal is never to condemn anyone, but if the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart and convicts you, please listen and obey.

If you are interested, here is another writing that offers Light to ones who have once walked in darkness: "Hope for the Backslider" https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/hosea-141-9-hope-for-backslider.html & "When the Righteous Turn Away From Righteousness https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/07/ezekiel-1823-33-when-righteous-turn.html

Isaiah 5:20: Choose Light Over Dark, Part 1

 

Isaiah 5:20 & 8:19-20: Choose Light Over Dark, Part 1

We need to let the light of Jesus permeate the darkness of our hearts and souls, to completely remove the dark places and replace them with His Light. We need to quit stubbornly refusing to give up the dark things we know God hates. We need to quit walking with the world and let go of what we know God hates. Love the light, hate the dark!

(Isaiah 5:20) Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

(Isaiah 8:19-20) And when they shall say unto you, "Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter:" should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

We know that Jesus calls himself the "Light of the World."

(John 8:12) Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

We also know that, just from observing with our own eyes, that even the smallest flicker of light eliminates the darkness. In other words, light and dark cannot coexist. They cannot coexist in the other's space because one will destroy the other's exclusivity.

(John 11:9-10) Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

If Christians claim to walk with Christ, that means that are attempting to live a life in the Light. There are many areas that could be considered "dark," but today, I am going to focus on just one. Christians should not compromise in the area of witchcraft.

Yes, we all know that people who practice witchcraft will not inherit the kingdom of heaven...

(Revelation 21:6-8) He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

But I am not just referring to the art of practicing witchcraft. I am also referring to the compromise of watching movies and reading books filled with magic. Before anyone thinks I am being self-righteous, I want to make it very clear that I once compromised in this area in a big way. That is why I am so compelled to warn against it now. I will admit that I was a huge "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" & "Angel" fan as well as "The Lord of the Rings" being my favorite movie/book trilogy. I loved fantasy fiction. I owned the above-mentioned TV shows/movies and watched them all the time. Whenever I would watch episode after episode, I found myself in a bad mood all the time. I knew it was because I was allowing demonic influences into my home, but I did not care because those shows were an addiction to me.

The Bible makes it very clear that we are not to call the dark things of this world light:

(Isaiah 5:20 ) Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

When we watch movies like Harry Potter, Star Wars, Wicked, The Lion the Witch & the Wardrobe, and even so-called innocent children's movies such as Snow White, Moana, Cinderella, Frozen, etc. we open up our hearts and minds for all sorts of evil to walk through our door.

Don't take my word for it:

(Ephesians 6:12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

This verse lets us know that angels and demons are very real, and the dark forces of this world will try to influence us. We must keep up our guard by not allowing the dark into our homes. These "cute" Disney movies may seem innocent, but anything involving a witch, wizard, incantations, magic wands, potions, telekinesis, telepathy, fortune telling, levitating, demon possession, communing with the dead, false gods, and even certain hand motions should not be allowed in a Christian home.

It was difficult, at first, to throw away all my movies and books that contained any form of witchcraft because I like to be entertained as much as you do, but I knew it was a necessity if I wanted to have peace in my home. I did not want nightmares or any other negative influences harassing me and especially not my husband. But I loved God more and wanted to choose His Light! I indeed noticed the peace as soon as they were all gone, and I was able to hear God's voice much more clearly.

Reading tarot cards, playing with Ouija boards, having your palm read, & séances are all things are also extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

(Deuteronomy 18:9-14) “When you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you. You shall be blameless before the Lord your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.

There is only ONE Light we should follow.

(Joshua 24:15) And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, the gods... in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

You cannot serve both light and dark, one cannot love both light and dark. Choose today whom you will serve.

Here are a few more scriptures on this subject:

(Acts 13:8-12) But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him. And said, "O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season." And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.


(Philippians 4:8-9) Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

(Philippians 4:8-9) Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.



(John 1:13) There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

(Galatians 4:16-25) I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law [of Moses]. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

(Ezekiel 13:18-23) ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all their wrists and make veils of various lengths for their heads in order to ensnare people. Will you ensnare the lives of my people but preserve your own? You have profaned me among my people for a few handfuls of barley and scraps of bread. By lying to my people, who listen to lies, you have killed those who should not have died and have spared those who should not live. “‘Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against your magic charms with which you ensnare people like birds and I will tear them from your arms; I will set free the people that you ensnare like birds. I will tear off your veils and save my people from your hands, and they will no longer fall prey to your power. Then you will know that I am the Lord. Because you disheartened the righteous with your lies, when I had brought them no grief, and because you encouraged the wicked not to turn from their evil ways and so save their lives, therefore you will no longer see false visions or practice divination. I will save my people from your hands. And then you will know that I am the Lord.’”

Proverbs 6:16-19: Seven Abominations

 

Proverbs 6:16-19: Seven Abominations

I wrote this post for my other Blog/Facebook Page, "The ABCs of a Joyful Marriage," https://abcsofajoyfulmarriage.blogspot.com/2025/01/week-53-number-7-seven-abominations.html Although this was written for a marriage blog, these issues can be applied to anyone married or single.

(Proverbs 6:16-19 & 27-28) These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

I am not sure why Solomon (who wrote Proverbs) writes, "six," then "seven," but there are 7 items listed.  All of these issues can absolutely apply to marriage (or even to non-married relationships). Let me briefly break them down.  

To be technical, the word "abomination" is listed in Proverbs 20 times.  Some of the same issues listed below are repeated as well as saying God hates things such as a false balance (Proverbs 11:1), the sacrifice and ways of the wicked (Proverbs 15:8-9), he that justifies the wicked (Proverbs 20:10), etc.  There are more items in the Bible than listed in Proverbs that God hates as well (see also Galatians 5:19-21 & Revelation 21:7-8), but for the sake of this writing, I will narrow it down to just Proverbs 6:16-19.

A proud look: How often have you acted superior to your mate in a prideful manner?  You may even have made fun of the other when you think he/she is wrong and laughed and ridiculed the other when you were proved right.  Next time you are tempted to act this way, remember how much God hates pride. Psalm 51:17 says that the Lord will never despise a broken and contrite heart. It is essential to your walk with the Lord to be humble before Him, but also vital to your marriage to be gentle with one another. Do not ever think yourself better than others (see Philippians 2:3), and that includes your spouse. As I always say, yes, the husband is the head of the home, but you are equal partners in every way. Remember to act in love the next time you have a disagreement and know that God hates pride.

A lying tongue & a false witness who speaks lies: I'm including these together because they are both reminding us to always be honest. The second part of that statement probably also has to do with making up stories about another person as well as lying about something. So do not lie to your mate, and do not lie about him or her either. Even exaggerating good qualities is the same as lying. God does not want us to lie even if we are falsely trying to build up someone else's reputation (especially your own).  Honesty is absolutely always the best policy.  

Hands that shed innocent blood: Murder is not the only way to shed blood. Physical abuse can also bring such harm. You do not have to put up with an abusive spouse (even in blood isn't technically shed, but any form of violence still occurs)! It is not wrong to send him/her to jail. If they adamantly refuse to get help, I do not believe divorce is wrong in such a case. Also, do not keep silent when someone else is the victim, related or not. God expects us to speak up for the innocent, and I will even add that this includes violence towards animals as they are also God's creation. 

A heart that devises wicked plans: Notice that one does not even have to carry out wicked plans but just dreaming them up is an abomination to God.  The Lord knows all your thoughts and if you are considering harming someone or breaking the law, you will be held accountable for your thoughts. Matthew 5:28 says we commit adultery just by thinking about having sex with someone not our spouse.  Proverbs 23:7 says that we are what we think.  The Bible also says that whatever we sow in our hearts we will reap in our actions.  Remember that song, "Be careful little mind what you think? For the Father up above is looking down in love."  Well, sing that to yourself every time you are devising wicked thoughts. Repent, and change your thought process! (You can read more about this from my blog "Is the abundance of your heart dark and crooked?" here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2025/11/is-abundance-of-your-heart-dark-and.html )

Feet that are swift in running to evil: Do not be quick to jump on the band wagon with everyone else doing wrong. That wagon is headed straight to hell!  Be swift to run away from evil. If your first instinct is to run toward the sinful things of this world, you need to repent of your ways and get back to living for Christ! Running to evil includes cheating on your mate and pornography. You do not have to participate if your spouse wants you to do something you know is sinful. It is okay to say no and encourage him/her to repent and walk away from sin.  Pray together that you will be strong enough to flee temptations in your marriage individually and as a couple.

And one who sows discord among brethren: There are so many, many ways we can sow discord. Gossip is the biggest thing that comes to my mind. Remember the above verse speaking against lying? Gossip is rarely truthful or at the most half-truths.  I cannot stand to be around a gossip as many people have harmed me and/or my precious husband with false gossip (I am including from before we knew each other as well). Again, do not talk about your spouse behind his/her back. Also, sowing discord in your home could mean simply being antagonistic and argumentative. Be kind to each other and sow peace and joy. Those are things God loves!