Saturday, August 22, 2015

Jesus Calling: August 23

Entrust your loved ones to Me; release them into My protective care. They are much safer with Me than in your clinging hands. If you let a loved one become an idol in your heart, you endanger that one--as well as yourself. Remember the extreme measures I used with Abraham and Isaac. I took Isaac to the very point of death to free Abraham from son-worship. Both Abraham and Isaac suffered terribly because of the father's undisciplined emotions. I detest idolatry, even in the form of parental love.
     When you release loved ones to Me, you are free to cling to My hand. As you entrust others into My care, I am free to shower blessings on them. My Presence will go with them wherever they go, and I will give them rest. This same Presence stays with you, as you relax and place your trust in Me. Watch to see what I will do. 

Genesis 22:9-12
English Standard Version

When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. 11 But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 12 He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.”

Ephesians 3:20
English Standard Version 

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,
 
Exodus 33:14
English Standard Version 

And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 



Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

243 comments:

  1. Every day my husband I give our children, their spouses, their children to God, thanking Him for His protection and Grace. I am thankful this day for all of His many blessings and for Sarah Young who diligently set forth to write this devotional to bless our lives. And for the Peyton family for faithfully posting them and encouraging us with a good Word.

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    1. Amen! Most appreciative

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    2. Amen a big part of my life.

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    3. How revelatory to understand Abraham’s understandable but forbidden idolatry of his desired son. Thankyou.

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    4. Amen!
      I echo and agree with your prayer NorahπŸ™πŸΌ

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    5. Amen! God is so good. Thank you Lord for your faithful followers that have blessed us with your word and are shining your light and love.
      Thank you Lord for your love, protection, guidance, peace and joy. Lifting up each of of the JC prayer requests. Love, prayers and blessings
      πŸ™❤️πŸ™
      Brandy

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  2. I’ve been reading jesus calling for years and this August 23 is one of my favorites. It brings me peace to let go and trust God.

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    1. Totally. How easy to put children ahead of God. He is a jealous God and if we hover too closely over our kids his blessing can’t get through the block we make. Hmmm.

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    2. Indeed. I've been guilty of being a hovering mother. Sometimes it's difficult to find the balance between hovering and completely letting go. My children are grown now and out of the nest. I entrust my husband, my kids, my family and friends to the Father. It's amazing to see the many blessings that rain down on them when we let go and let Him work! Praise the Lord!

      Blessings from California

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    3. So true for me Chris Wren and Rose.  Do I believe God is Who He says He is in Isaiah 41? Yes I do. So I asked myself, then why on earth would I hover over my grownup child, blocking her direct Sonrays? Myself had no answer except to back off and let Him be her light. GOD says I alone am your God. I alone will Strengthen you. I alone will help you. I alone will uphold you with My Victorious Right Hand! I alone am The Lord your Holy Redeemer. And The Joy of The Lord shall fill you full and you shall Glory in The God of Israel alone.  I alone will open up rivers on high plateaus. I alone will give fountains of water in the valleys. On the deserts, I alone will provide pools of fresh water, and rivers fed by springs flowing across. I alone will plant trees.  Everyone will see My Miracles and understand that IT IS GOD WHO DID IT, Israel's Holy One!
      REVERENCE GOD and TRUST GOD!
      God forgive me from applying Sonblock and "protecting" my child from all of Your Direct Goodness. Help me remove me, myself, and I out of Your Way. Shine Jesus Shine. Let our lives be filled with Your Glory, Grace and Mercy. Amen.

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    4. Thank you for your prayer Brie! Amen sister!
      Love, prayers and blessings
      πŸ’–
      Brandy

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    5. Thanks for the prayer Brie

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    6. How timely for me as a parent whose first born just left for college. Dear Lord, thank you for this reminder that You have this. My children are your children. I need to let your Sonray shine on them and trust in You. Thank you Lord.

      SC Anonymous

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    7. And for me, SC, as my daughter is newly married. I told them I would set a priority to only give advice when asked. Thank you for the reminder to let go and let God.

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    8. Beautiful and powerful prayer Brie ❤️
      Thank you for sharing
      πŸ™
      God bless you and your family
      Love and prayers
      Brandy

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  3. Amen! I love all the scripture and devotions daily. I so look forward to each and every one.

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  4. I learned unconditional love with my daughters and have to trust God to care for them now that they’re grown. Thank you for the comments. I read the hard cover book daily and then visit this site for even more inspiration! God is awesome!

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  5. This is very tough for me to grasp right now. My 18 year old son was taken from me in a car accident just 2.5 months ago. Why? I felt as though I was trusting God with him. I'll never understand why it had to be him. Why not take me instead? The pain I feel everday is excruciating. I'm not angry at God I just don't understand.

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    1. My deepest sympathies, Yolie. May God comfort you and bring peace to your soul.

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    2. My best friend's brother passed away from a car accident when he was 9, and my grandpa passed away when he was 69 because of cancer. It was so hard for me to understand why they had to die. I wrote in my journal about wanting to die so much after my grandpa passed away. I didn't understand it at all. My grandpa had so many more years ahead of him. He didn't get to see me graduate and he won't get to see me go to college. And my friend's brother didn't get to live at all. He didn't get to date or graduate or even go to high school or get married. It's taken me YEARS to realize that it may feel like a punishment to us, but it's a gift to them. They don't have to suffer and they don't have to feel the pain the this world brings. They've been rewarded with getting to be with God in Heaven for all of eternity. My best friend has lost faith in God, and her family has struggled a lot, and I always believed that her brother died when he did because if he was alive today he would have lost faith in God as well. And my grandpa only had six months left in him, and I believe he would've suffered if he hadn't passed away as soon as he did. It's not always clear to us why people pass away when they do, and it's so hard to deal with losing someone. I never understood why good people died and the bad people stayed down here. But I realized that going to Heaven is their reward for being down here. It obviously makes us sad and it feels like a punishment because we're still here and we don't get to feel and see what they're experiencing, but they're free. They have no pain and no suffering and no sorrow. It sucks for us because we don't get to be with them, but if we're here now then it's for a reason. God still has plans for us. He wants us continue fighting and he wants us do great things in honor of the people we lost. My parent started a foundation in honor of my grandpa, and we're trying to help as many people as we possibly can with any problems they have. I eventually want to dedicate part of it to car safety, because of my friend's brother. I know that it's not an easy thing to lose someone, and I can't even imagine what it's like to lose a child. But please don't give up. Find a new way every day to honor your son's life and his memory. He would want you to keep going and to find hope. As much as I can think of reasons why I lost my grandpa and my friend, I still don't know for certain why they had to go when they did. But I have faith that God knows what he's doing, and I want to try to keep going for them and I want to make them proud. I'll pray for you and your family, and if you need anything please feel free to contact us at the foundation. If you ever need someone to talk to or anything else please let us know. https://singblue.org and if you just want to talk to me (about grief or anything else), here's my email: lucy@singblue.org

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    3. Lucy, I pray in the name of Jesus that time has healed your wounds and that of your friend and family. God remains a GREAT God and we must believe that! Praying for you all.

      Maplewood NJ

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    4. Dear Yolie, praying for you that these last two years have brought you His peace which surpasses all understanding and comfort. As Lucy so eloquently wrote, only God knows why our loved ones had to go, but, if they received Jesus, they are in Heaven with the Lord. What a reward indeed! It is our job to stay in faith and thank Him for the blessing of having known them. Here on earth is temporary. Our forever home is with God, the Father. My father went to be with the Lord on February 6, 2020. I miss him so much, but I'm trusting God to heal my broken heart little by little, day by day. I try to focus on the many blessings He has bestowed on me. They are many. Praying for Yolie, Lucy and all those who have lost loved ones and those who are struggling with trusting God's infinite wisdom. Keep holding tight to His hand, and soon you'll look back to find that He carried you through the storm. God be with you.

      Blessings from California

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    5. I am so sorry about the loss of your son. May God give you peace.

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    6. Continuing to pray for Yollie may God grant her peace and comfort.

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    7. Yes Yolie, praying that today you have been given the peace and understanding that you so needed. Blessings to you. πŸ’žπŸ™

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  6. Yolie, My heart breaks for you. But remember our savior can heal broken hearts. There have been many situations in my life of raising 4 children(their issues!!), wife with cancer tx, and a still born child that are beyond my understanding. I try, after much heart-ache yes, to step back and let the story that has been written for each of us unfold. There will be mysteries we may never understand why our story has been written in this way. Sometimes it is revealed to us, other times it may be revealed in heaven as we face God. I know this may not help with your daily pain, but I pray it lessens, I think it will with time, faith and pleaseknow God has not left you but is with you every step of the way. God Bless you today and everyday.

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  7. Well said ABC. Yolie, A good word of God based church, showing love to each other is a place of healing, especially one with grief share classes

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  8. Thos is hard for me to understand cause my kids are not in a good place at all and I've pray and try to trust god but it's not helping at all.

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    1. So, what would it look like to you - for God to be helping you?

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    2. Help them with their addition help them understand why their dad was kill at a young age help us understand why he choice us to go through all these problems we face and how to face our struggles it's been 22 years we lost their father and it wasnt our choice he was taking and I honestly think he got the easy why out because he doesn't have to deal with everything we are going through. I am very angry. And there is so much more problems so yes I would just like for the world to end already that's one way he can help instead of just having us suffer. what's the point on being a good person if it doesn't make a difference

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    3. I know it feels like it doesnt make a difference to be a good person because of all that has happened to you, but all of this brings you to ypur knees in prayer to our Savior. It shpws ypu that you cannot do it without Him. You need Him, and He loves you. Place everything in His hands to grow closer to Him. Stay in constant contact through prayer and Scripture and He will show you the Way.

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    4. Losing people absolutely sucks. It’s the worst thing ever and it feels impossible and I know what it’s like to want to give up because you don’t want to live without the person you lost, and to just want the world to end. This world is a cruel, and scary place. But the people we lost would not want us to give up. They would actually be quite upset with us if we just laid down and completely gave up and lost all hope because of them. That is such a disservice to them, and it completely dishonors their memory. They would want us to stand up and fight and live and find ways to be happy and find ways to keep their legacy going and they’d want us to share the best parts of them with the world. I know it feels impossible to go on at times, but God wants us here for a reason. We still have unfinished business down here. It is our job to help as many people as we can to find God by allowing his light to shine through us. God still has a purpose for you, and good things will come. You just have to trust God. And I know it can feel so impossible, but we have to try for the people we lost. I wanted to die after my best friend (also my grandpa) passed away. But my family has started a nonprofit in his name to help as many people as we possibly can, because he would have wanted us to. So don’t give up. Find ways to give your loved one to the world by helping others in his name, and showing them that he is still alive through you. I’ll pray for you and your family.

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  9. This is a day full of Hopes and Fresh Possibilities. Thank You Father for allowing me, my mom, family and my JC family to breathe again!

    Today"s devotion reminds me to let go and LET YOU!. I entrust my mother and ALL of our loveones that have not yet receive Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, into Your care. Thank You for allowing me to release the concern of my her salvation to You and not letting it ruin my trust in You by worrying about it to endanger us both. Thank You Lord. I put my trust in You.

    I pray for you my JC family, that the LORD shall grant you and your family the grace of HIS unfailing protection and sustaining power to transcend all that is unworthy and excel in your affairs this day and beyond.
    You may have been troubled on everyside, yet not distressed, keep your eyes on Him, You are perplexed, but not despair. Hold on a little longer! Persecuted, but not forsaken , cast down, but not destroyed. He just pick you up for VICTORY! Rejoice, He's the way Maker, Promise Keeper and the Miracle worker who has made a way for you. Release yourself and your family to Him! Be encouraged, because your season is just around the corner, watch and see what HE will do, in Jesus name!

    My JC Family, I am humble by Your comments and prayers for me and my mom re: yesterday's posting. Thank You all. I read ALL your requests and lift them up to our AWESOME Father and give thanks to Him from whom ALL Blessings flows.

    Stay blessed family!

    Maplewood NJ

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    1. Amen Maplewood! The Lord knows well my concerns about my family's salvation and protection especially at this crazy time when things seem to be hanging in the balance. No one knows when all this will end and when we will see God's plan revealed. But I have seen good changes in His people and I surround myself with love and beauty and the truth of His Word. I will sure Let go and Let Him bring my loved ones to salvation, heal those on my huge prayer list and calm all of my fears. Thanking and praising Him from whom all blessings flow. God bless you too. Much love.

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    2. Amen Amen! Good food for my soul, Maplewood. Thank you for always being His vessel to bless our JC family. Love and blessings to you and your mom. God be with you.

      Peace from California

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    3. Amen dear Maplewood. I pray everyday for my family that our loving Father will strengthen their faith, heal their weaknesses, protect them from harm and sickness, and guide them to seek Him. I pray for their salvation and my unsaved dear ones. Instead of worrying about them, I do my best to let go and let God, because I believe in His faithfulness. Praying always for you and your family, and your Mom and son's salvation. May God open the hearts of all the unsaved loved ones of our JC Family so they will seek the Lord and find HIM for themselves. Thank You Jesus!

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    4. Amen, Jeanne! Thank you Jesus for hearing all of our prayers in your name. We pray without ceasing.

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  10. Reading about the heart ache shared a year ago on this blog reminds me of dear Kelly's response to a friend who had a hard time accepting Kelly's situation "This is the path God has chosen for me, He knows I have a 5 year old son."

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  11. I am always amazed at how many times the JC speaks to me exactly where I am. "Entrust your loved ones to me." My younger son who just graduated from college is moving out this weekend to start a new job in D.C. I'm thrilled, but it will be hard to let go. His older brother has been out on his own working for two years,even farther away in Detroit, so I have been going through this process of letting go for a while. I have been praying for quite some time to God, giving them over to him, especially since they both are going through a"prodigal"time. Today, the words that really hit me were "father's undisciplined emotions." I wonder if that is what I am guilty of as well. I could use some prayers about this.

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    1. I read this again the morning of the 23rd, 2020. It's been a year since that post. And so much has happened. Last year it was about letting go of my son as he moved on to being independent. This morning it was about letting go of my brother, whose funeral was on the 23rd. God was speaking directly to me both times. I delivered one of the eulogies for my brother and I mentioned that I knew God was telling me to entrust my brother to Him. These messages are always timely. It was also interesting that when I reread my post from last year, I was with both of my sons who came for the funeral. My brother's funeral was very good and I feel might have been the start of the healing process. Thank you JC family for all of your prayers.

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    2. Praying always for your comfort and your family's comfort. May He guide your paths and draw you all close to Him in trust and faith. Amen

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  12. A dear beloved friend and I exchange scripture verses every morning. This is what she shared with me.
    "For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand; and tells you: Do not fear, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
    This is what I shared with her: The grass withers and the flower fades, but the word of God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8 AMEN!! AMEN!!

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    1. Amen, Sassy Mom. Great scriptures! Holding tight to His hand. He's never let me down and never will. All Glory and Praise are His forevermore. Hallelujah! May God's abundant blessings be upon you and your family. Much love.

      Blessings from California

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  13. Good morning sweet Jesus and to my JC family. This precious book was given to me as a retirement gift 3 years ago and I read it daily but would fall behind and catch up never thought it would be online (I'm old school) until this year I tried and found a new family along with my daily reading. Thank you Jesus. Your prayers are helping me and my family so much and I thank you and yes today's reading was for me. Let go and let God. I trust you Lord with all of my loved ones and I know you will give me the strength to accept thy will. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. Psalm 121:7-8

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    1. Amen! I was also gifted the book, Jesus Calling, but stumbled (God lead) across this blog of amazing prayer warriors. God has a plan for each of us, and there is no coincidence that we have found each other here. Praise God! Love our JC family that lifts and inspires and prays for each other. Such a blessing in my life! Thank you, Jesus, for every person here. Love you all!

      Blessings from California

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    2. What a lovely stumble that was! It was not by accident that God led all of us here to worship HIM together in Spirit and in Truth. Amen Rose! Such a blessing in my life too. <3 :)

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    3. I'm blessed being here as well. Thank you all.

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  14. Once again, perfect timing! God is so good to send me such immediate feedback through these readings. It's what I need, when I needed it. After listening to my daughters heartbreak and emotional distress, I am comforted in knowing that God has a plan for her, and for me that makes all things new. Thank you Jesus, I trust you, Jesus.

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  15. Entrust your love one to me. God has never failed me whenever I have let go and trusted him with the lives of my loved ones. Thank you Jesus for bringing my son thru a dark addiction. He has been clean for almost a year now. Now I pray for peace and the ability to completely entrust my husband with you. He is home with you but I struggle daily with the chains of grief, after nearly 3 years. I feel your healing hand on my life but realize that I idolized my husband and probably still do. Free me Lord and help me to rejoice in knowing he is home with you.


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    1. Purple martin, Praise God for your son's release from addiction! Praying God's strength be with him to continue on the road to recovery. Praying for you also as you grieve your husband's passing. Keep trusting in Him and holding fast to His hand. He will mend your broken heart. Leave it all at the foot of the cross. God be with you.

      Blessings from California

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    2. Dear Purple martin, God knows you miss your husband but you must walk forward now realizing it is a blessing that he was called Home. God's promises are reliable and you will be with him again. Praying your son is still clean and now walking on the good road that God has prepared for him. Thank You Jesus!

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  16. Good morning JC family!
    What a great (much needed) reminder today as my son prepares to leave for college. I so struggle with change but know he belongs to God & will be cared for by our heavenly father. Jess I trust in you!
    YW

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  17. Happy Friday from Houston!
    What an appropriate JC as many of us have students beginning a new school year. As we release our kiddos into our society, we entrust them into the His care first. Have a wonderful weekend all!

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  18. The only way I could receive that peace that passes understanding when my daughter & son were both in Iraq during the war was to hand them over to Jesus. I was able to sleep like a baby every night. They both came home safe & sound. PTL

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  19. Happy Happy Birthday to our Dear Sister Norah. May you be blessed with many more happy ones in all the years to come. We love you!

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    1. Yes. Happy happy birthday Norah!!! We celebrate the gift of you! May you, Norah, know how much your Papa God delights in you and rejoices over you with singing.

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    2. Happy birthday Norah!!!!! 🎁

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    3. Happy Birthday dear Norah! Amen! You sure are a sweet gift to us! Celebrate life, love and all the joy and peace we share in believing! Thanking the Lord for all the blessings and answered prayers He will drop into your brand new year. God is so good and every day is a precious gift. Have some silly fun today and rejoice with some singing and dancing too!

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    4. Happy Birthday to my friend Norah. Will your "silly fun" be bungee jumping or sky diving? LOL.

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    5. Happy brithday sweet Norah!!

      Blessings from France

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    6. Happy Birthday Norah! You are too funny Sassy Mom!! May God bless you both with many more years. NOT TODAY..right Norah on fun in the sky..

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    7. Loveconquersall - That's what I did on my 86 th BD. Thought Norah should give it a try too.

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    8. You go girl! 86 years young and unstoppable. Praise God!

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    9. Happy 87th Birthday, dear Norah! Enjoy every precious minute!

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    10. I think Sassy Mom may enjoy 87. Our Norah is a bit younger. But happy happy birthday nonetheless, Norah. You are loved! ❤️

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    11. Happy Happy Birthday dear Norah! Celebrate you as God has done all these years! We are blessed to call you friend! ❤️❤️❤️

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    12. Salutations, celebrations and blessings for you today, Norah! Happy birthday! πŸŽ‰

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    13. Happy Birthday Norah! Much love to you!

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    14. Another year around the SON, dear Norah! Happy birth day to you... And many more ♥️πŸ€—

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    15. Thank you so much, Dear Audra and Jeanne and all my JC Family for the BD love and prayers. <3

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  20. Sharing "A Prayer for Uncertain Times" from Turning Point

    In His name we ask: May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May Your Word spread among the nations. May Your plan for history move among its preordained course. And may Your Name be exalted from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets. Give us leaders who fear You. Give us missions instead of misery; hope instead of despair; food and water where there is hunger and thirst; peace where there is war. Bring healing to the diseased and freedom to the oppressed. And hasten the day when the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord. Amen.

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    1. Thank you Sassy Mom for sharing this prayer. It is lovely and much appreciated. I'm going to print it out.

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    2. Absolutely beautiful and needed words, Sassy Mom. I, similarly to Kmertens, am taking a picture of your prayer to save in my phone. Thank you!

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    3. Well prayed SassyMom. I join you. Continuing to pray for Connie & Helen & victories!! We love youπŸ₯°

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    4. Thank you so much Sassy Mom!! Love this beautiful prayer!
      God be with you.

      Blessings from France

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    5. Beautiful prayer. Thanks Sassy Mom.

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    6. Wow Sassy Mom! I loved that awesome Prayer so much, I saved it, I shared it and I printed it! Thanks!!!! Praying also for Connie and Helen. I expect to hear of more victories to His glory!

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    7. Sassy Mom, Amen and Amen!!

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    8. Still such a wonderful prayer dear Sassy Mom! Thank you!
      I hope I will be as adventurous as you on my 86th Birthday.

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  21. Happy Sunday to you all.
    I continue to pray for you and am blessed to be part of this JC family where we can come and share our lives. I'll pray for your health and safety Brie. Have a blessed time with them and a Happy Birthday celebration.
    This message was timely for me and I too have to submit my 21 year old daughter to His care. She wants to go back to MSU for her senior year
    and live in her house with her sorority sisters. She is smart and sensible but some in her house will be going out so I know the chance of spreading the virus in her house is probable. I've been against her going back but her father and the the two doctors she nannys for in the summer all think she should be okay. She has to fly from Oregon to Michigan to come back. I gave her and her twin sister to the Lord's care when I moved away from Oregon to Michigan to take care of my mom 3 years ago. So, once again I need to give her to the Lord and trust in faith. She won't be able to visit me once she comes there like she did other years. I see Jan above wrote about entrusting her daughter and son to the Lord's care while they went to Iraq. I'm going to give my best effort to turning my daughter over for the Lord's care that can be the best there is. Please pray for Kaela. Thank you dear brothers and sisters in Christ for hearing me out.
    I've been on lockdown too since I lost my job to Covid-19 shutdown on March 12th and they've not been able to reopen. When they do, I don't know if I should risk going out every day. My mom is 92 so we have no visitors and I don't go anywhere. I wash everything that comes into the house in hopes I'll do a good enough job not allowing any spread of the virus in our home. It has been weird to live this way, but I feel under the safe wings of the Lord.
    Love and Blessings to you all! Kathy

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    1. Praying for you dear Kathy! There is no better place for our loved ones than to entrust them into His care. It's not that easy but He's faithful enough to give us the strength we need. I declare protection, peace that surpasses everything, comfort and clarity for you, Your daughter and loved ones.

      "May His favor be upon you
      And a thousand generations
      And your family and your children
      And their children, and their children

      May His presence go before you
      And behind you, and beside you
      All around you, and within you
      He is with you, He is with you

      In the morning, in the evening
      In your coming, and your going
      In your weeping, and rejoicing
      He is for you, He is for you."

      Blessings from France

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    2. Thank you, dear B F F. That is such a fantastic song.

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    3. Kathy, Kaela and Mom,
      My heartfelt prayers are being said for all of you and will continue
      Love you and all of our JC Family dearly and prayerfully.

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    4. Thanks BFF. I needed this great blessing!

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    5. Joining JC Family and staying in prayers with you Kmertens! It shall be well! Jesus said so and you must believe!

      Blessings and Peace to you!

      Maplewood NJ

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    6. Joining in prayers for you, your daughter Kaela and your Mom. May God guide Kaela to making good decisions to stay safe and protect all of you from Covid. I have a 92 year old Mom too and I do my best to keep her well. May God also calm all your fears, dear Kathy and bring you some rest from worry. God doesn't lie and He says: Be Not Afraid. I'm trusting in the truthfulness of His Words and staking my life on them.

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    7. Kathy- surrounding you & loved ones in prayer also.πŸ™πŸ₯°

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    8. Thank you all so very much for your prayers. My heart is so grateful and you've helped me feel they are covered by two or more now. God Bless you and keep you and your loved ones in His care as well. Love, Kathy

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    9. How are you sweet Kathy! Praying for your comfort and guidance dear sister, and for your daughter Kaela. May God wrap His loving arms around you both and keep you safe and in good health.

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    10. Happy new week Jeanne. Thank you for asking. Looking back on this from a year ago so much has changed, You all prayed my daughter safely through her senior year at college. This year she's going to Rome, Italy for a one year contract once her visa gets accomplished. I'm again relying on my faith in God taking care of her, so far away and where I can't drive over and visit her.
      Sitting here reading from last year and my concerns I am thankful to be here with this JCfamily as we go through our days and share our life events. I'm so very thankful to be here. She's a 22 year old twin and her sister, Janine, is also out in the world being taken care of by prayer and His hedge of protection. Praise God!!
      There's a big empty spot in my house since my mom has been gone now 11 days. She sat in a recliner all day every day. I had to donate the recliner so I didn't look at it empty. I have a hard time looking at her bedroom where she took the fall that brought on her passing. I keep the door mostly closed for now. I'm getting through by reminding myself this isn't about her life here and my sadness.... its about that fall is how Jesus chose to establish the events in line to bring her home.

      I'm having to find a new identity since my identity for the last 5 years was my mom's caregiver. I'm lining up projects that I'll start today. I listened to Bible teachings this last weekend. .

      How are you dear sister Jeanne? How will you spend your days this week?
      It is a pleasure and honor to see your loving caring heart through your writings here. Love, Kathy

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    11. Praying for you Kathy and protection over your daughters. In trying times I pray we surrender into the loving arms and protection of our Father. Well, in all times really. The power of a hug is unmistakable, so I send a virtual one to you πŸ€—

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  22. Dear Lord, help me to not fall into the trap of "worshiping " my children to the point of "idolatry". Help me to support them with YOUR guidance, knowing they are now adults and need to enter into a relationship with YOU on their life journey. Help them to accept their story that has been written specifically for them, as well that I accept their story(not try to change it!) and support it with You at my side always! Amen.

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    1. Yes to this prayer! Turning my love and worries for my daughter's safety over to you Lord. It is not for me to change her thinking,. Holy Spirit, you've got this!
      Parental love is a great opportunity to grow closer in trust to Jesus. Thank you! I trust you, Jesus! Blessings to you all today. Hubby and I are taking a 3 day reprieve from smoke and stress to go see the ocean again. I plan to marvel at the wonder of God's creation with all my senses, surrounded in his Prescence.

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    2. Amen! We must all put God above Family always. And just place them in His tender care. He is far better parent than we could ever be and He loves them unconditionally.
      Audra, May God protect your dear daughter in bring her close to Him. I am also going to the beach for 2 weeks on August 31st and I have waited all year for this blessing and renewal and refreshment. Hope you have a wonderful time in His Presence. Enjoy the beauty of the ocean and the peace He is covering you with. Breathe that good salt air and watch some sunrises and sunsets! Fill yourself to bursting with His love and all of His blessings.

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    3. I am a Beach Person as well! Last summer, pre-covid, We were blessed to spend 3 weeks on the Caribbean, where I suspect God rested on the 7th Day! I was able to extend my beach time when I had to leave the beach and return home, and this year when I was not able to go there at all. I find my beach extension in a picturesque book of 100 devotions entitled, Devotions From The Beach.
      With love to our JC Family on our days of rest, relaxation and renewal.

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    4. I love the beach too and my husband also does. August 29th is our 40th Wedding Anniversary. Because of Covid we will not fly anywhere. But we are planning to stay down the Jersey Shore in a Hotel for 3 nights a few blocks from the beach from 9/14-9/17. Looking forward to it and some special days of rest, relaxation and renewal.

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    5. The cool ocean breeze calls but we are instead still working thru post knee surgery recovery for hubby. It's taking longer than expected, but that's our thought. Thank you for continuing prayers for Marc, increased mobility, less pain, the promise of all things new. HIS timing, not ours. Brother Paul is doing great, taking one day at a time in gratitude. It's a blessing to see and experience. Thank you, I pray for all requests here, known and unknown, in Jesus' name.

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  23. Very timely JC message for me. This morning hubby decided to join his cycle crew for an outing. Looking out the window I saw it was foggy, without missing a beat, I climbed up on my wifey podium & proceeded to announce the dangers of this ride on a foggy morning! It cleared, he went, I had a hearty breakfast on "worry" with a side of mistrust πŸ₯΄. Go figure, I stumbled again. Thank you Lord for putting up with me.

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    1. I know that podium only to well. It's the one where I try to pretend I am God! Hope your brunch is better than your breakfast! And our God helps us to throw our podiums overboard. Amen.

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    2. Been there, done that! My husband tired of me saying: Maybe you should play golf. Did you bring your hand sanitizer? Did you keep your distance from everyone? Now it really bugs him so I just pray and keep my little mouth shut. God will take care of Him.

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    3. Gotcha dear Jeanne, zip the lipπŸ˜„!

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    4. I have Holy Water in a spray bottle that I keep in my purse. Every time Darling Husband gets within 6 feet of another person, I spray him. Sometimes, I forget to put the spray bottle in my purse, but when he sees me putting my hand inside my purse, he backs up. Jesus, if I am wrong for that please forgive me. Amen

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    5. Brie - Thank you for bringing a smile to Warriors.

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    6. Brie, You are like a breath of fresh air to me! You always make me smile.

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    7. These exchanges were so fun to read today. Did you really spray water at your D H, Brie? πŸ˜‚❤️

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  24. Please pray warriors. I have a bum tooth, kept me awake. Don't want a root canal, really don't even want to go to the dentist, $$$ & I'm a whimp.

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    1. God will go with you, as will our prayers. To focus on Him instead of your trial (the good old trust muscle strengthening tool), can you bring headphones and Christian music to listen to?
      Love You

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    2. Good idea Brie! ThanksπŸ€—

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    3. Jan I know how it is and I've already lost two teeth so get in the dentist if the pain persists. Save those pearly whites. God will be holding you in His loving arms as you sit in the chair. Hold onto His hands and before you know it, you will be walking out the door knowing you did the right thing. Praying for you.

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    4. What blessed assurance, siigh, I needed that. Thank you.

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    5. Jan - Praying you are blessed with courage to go to the dentist.

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  25. This is such a timely entry for me as I struggle with releasing my sons to God's good care. I didn't really think that I was elevating them to idol status, but ,I can see that I really have been , and showing a lack of trust in God as I try to figure out ways to help make their lives better and easier,( though ease may be the last thing God is interested in having them , and me, experience ! )
    I found it interesting that my copy of Sarah's book cited the example of Jacob and Joseph's relationship ( vs Abraham and Isaac's ) as the one that did not honor God, but created an idolatry situation, with terrible consequences of "suffering and separation from one another" and a delay of blessing for them both.Both examples help me understand the wrong of This approach.

    This idea that my misguided and misapplied "Mother,love" may actually be blocking my son's blessings really hit me, particularly as one is a prodigal and I so long for him to find the Lord again. Trust seems to be my daily "pop quiz". I pray to get better at it !

    Blessings to all on this Lord's Day !

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    1. CapeCodgirl- Just praise and thank God! Keep holding HIS hand and trusting. I stand in agreement with you releasing them to Him and thanking Him in the process!

      Stay Blessed!

      Maplewood NJ

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    2. I know the Defensive Blocking situation only to well and are praying for all of us to release our precious cargo gift back to to Him, the One and Only Gracious, Generous, Giver of all Good Gifts, Whose they really are in the first place.
      Dear Heavenly Father God,
      Thank You for Your Presence that stays with me on this ship called life.  You alone know everything, that is going on inside my vessel, and what is inside the cargo I carry in it, including my idols. Would You point out what cargo needs to go? Would You  give me Your Strength to release it? Would You help me toss it overboard so You can  fill up the cargo space in my heart, your vessel, with Your Truth and Your Love so I can become a purified, useful, special vessel of honor to You, honoring You alone, in all my words, in all my works, and in my daily closer walk with You? Thank You Jesus. Amen.

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    3. Beautiful! Thank you ❤️

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    4. CapeCodgirl, All we can do is give them to Him and wait on His faithfulness. We can't serve Him when we are burdened with worry and fear anyway. Lighten the load and give to Him. He's mighty to save.
      Dear Brie! Amen! He sure is the Giver of all Good Gifts and I place Protection and Salvation on the top of the list of Good Gifts. Praying your sweet prayer with you. Tossing the unwanted cargo overboard with all my worries. We must empty ourselves in order for Him to fill us to bursting. Praying our loved ones will someday do the same. Praising Him with all that I have and all that I am. In Him I am made complete and every good thing I do or have is from Him and for Him. Thank you Jesus!!!!

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    5. PS Cape Cod Girl I also have the Jacob/Joseph version of parent/child idolatry in my JC book. I still get snagged by the coat of many colors, hoping the spiritual lift will come and shed its light on that coat???

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  26. Today's JC entry is so meaningful to me. Thirty-seven years ago The Lord took my dad to His heavenly kingdom. At the time, I was a teenager along with my brothers and sister. I always assumed my dad would recover from his battle with lung cancer but that was not to be. Sadly, I didn't have the relationship with my dad like my siblings did. I don't think he "got me" kind of thing. While my siblings did sports, I was a dancer and he just didn't get or try to understand that that was my "sport". He and my mom had a wonderful relationship. They adored and respected one another immensely. After his death I looked back at how I tried to get him to look my way...to get his attention in some way, shape, or form and nothing. When I was a senior in high school, somehow my mom got him to go to our big dance performance at the school. My mom told me after he died that my dad leaned over to her during one of my dances and said, "I didn't know she could do that". I keep a picture my mom took of my dad with his arm around me after the show. He seemed proud. I am not bitter. I get he didn't understand me and he had no sisters, as my mom would tell me, so he didn't get it. I sadly was a rebellious teen, causing my parents strife before my dad died and also battled anorexia. I knew, however, that whoever I married, he'd be an attentive dad to his kids...especially a daughter if God blessed me with them. And He did. One of each and my daughter (and son) has an incredible relationship with her dad. I have long since released my anger with my dad. I know he didn't get it and I know he loved me. Today's JC entry is especially comforting with its words of: "Entrust your loved ones to Me; release them into My protective care..." So perfect. For years my mom wondered why God didn't listen to her prayer for my dad to recover. She said that one day she heard God speak to her down deep and say, "I heard your prayer but needed to answer George's prayer to be released from this pain and suffering". That brought her so much peace.
    What's been so odd and strange to me for many years is that the number "23" has always been a favorite of mine. Psalm 23, for one...but I'd ask myself how could "23" be a favorite number when that was the day my dad died? It came to me...which was, I'm sure the Holy Spirit, that my dad GOT TO go to heaven! How glorious was that?!

    Lastly, "Entrust your loved ones to Me; release them into My protective care" also pertains to my NICU nurse-niece(27) who has been struggling with depression and health issues. You all came through with prayers and she is headed in the right direction! I am beyond grateful!

    I didn't know why as a kid that "23" was always "my" number. I now realize its significance and it comforts me.

    Be well and blessed one and all. Happy Sunday!

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    1. NJS- Very powerful revelation from God to your mom!! Thanks for sharing! I am standing in FAITH and Trusting God! He never fails!

      God bless you.

      Maplewood NJ

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    2. Thanks for sharing with our family NJS.
      May God's Peace reign supreme over you and our entire JC Family.

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    3. Dear NJS, Thank you for opening your heart to us. What a blessing to hear from your Mom that your Dad was amazed at how well you danced! I'm sure that blessed and comforted you so much! I too lost my father from lung cancer and there were many things I wished I had told him. Wished we had more time but God in His mercy lifted him out of his suffering so I am grateful. I have pictures in my head of him praying in Church with such sincerity. His faith ruled his life. He spoke of how God saved him when he was at war too. So, as much as his passing shook me to the core, I was blessed He knew where He was going, and I know I'll be with Him again. I got all my gifts from God and from my good but very strict Dad. He was an artist, a singer, a cook and a baker. Those gifts just keep on giving! Praying for your dear daughter always. I'm so thankful she's doing better.

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    4. Thank you NJS for sharing your story with us! Praying for you and your loved ones.

      Blessings from France

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    5. Dear NJS, I'm sure you are thinking of your Dad and Jessie and Prime. You will be with them again and I'll be with my dear ones again someday in the Grand Reunion. That will indeed be a perfect day.

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  27. Dear Heavenly Father, Teach me to walk in love, because faith works by love and will draw my mom and other unbelieving love ones to Jesus. I choose to love them into the Kingdom and be led by the Spirit as to what I should say and what I should do. I resist impatience and frustration. I cast their care on You and refuse to worry or be anxious. I bind the devil, claim their salvation, claim laborers for the harvest, thank You for their salvation and intercede for them in the Spirit. I will stay in faith and watch my mom and others come to know You, in Jesus’s name. Amen and Hallelujah!!!

    Whether it’s a concern for a love one’s salvation, deliverance from addiction, sickness etc., The Word says, we should turn them over to God. It is a natural desire and love to want our love ones to personally experience the saving grace and magnificent love of Jesus. It is also one of the greatest desires of a Christian's heart. It can also be one of the most difficult and frustrating areas in a Believer’s life. But there is hope to see our love ones won to Jesus and free from all other bondage.
    Believers have been delegated the authority to tread on demons, serpents and over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). Whatever we bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever we loose on earth, will be loosed in Heaven(Matt 18:18). We have the power to break the devil's hold over the lives of our loved ones. He is responsible for blinding them and keeping them from receiving their salvation and being free from addictions or afflictions. We may not have authority over people's will, but we do have authority over the devil's evil influence on them.
    As we agree together in faith, praise and thank God for their total salvation, deliverance, healing and filling of the Holy Spirit, we are claiming them for the kingdom of God. Strong faith (Romans 4:20-21) is giving glory to God and being fully persuaded. This is the kind of faith that gets results.
    Hebrews 1:14 reminds us to ask the Father to give them a hunger and desire for His Word and for spiritual things, because for them to be saved they must hear the Word (Romans 10:14, 17).
    Praising and thanksgiving God for our love ones in the Spirit, we see them saved in the eye of faith with holy hands lifted up worshiping God and witnessing. We should not allow anything to move us off this mental image. "We look not at the things that are seen, but at the things which are not seen".(2 Cor. 4:18).
    When we have done all this, lets hold fast our confession(Heb.10:23). Hold fast to the Word, because if not, we are moved by the circumstances and give up. Satan will say, "You're wasting your time. Look at them, do you really believe they'll ever be saved? Let’s remember that we walk by faith, not by sight!(2 Cor 5:7). W.E Vine says patience is, "that quality that does not surrender to circumstances or succumb under trial." True faith in the Word of God never backs down to adverse circumstances. "Having done all to stand, STAND!"(Eph. 6:13). "Call those things which be not as though they were"(Rom 4:17). People will always be asking if our loved ones are saved and we should not take this opportunity to get into unbelief, but simply say, "By faith they are" or "You can agree with me for their salvation.”

    Father, We thank you that satan and his demons are bound away from love ones. We praise and thank You for their salvation, deliverance, healing and infilling of the Holy Spirit. Thank You that they have a hunger and desire for You and for the Word. Thank You for angels working in their lives. In the name of Jesus, we claim our love ones for the Kingdom of God. Thank You, Father, that it's done. in Jesus' name! Amen!

    Blessings and Peace.

    Maplewood, NJ

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    1. Thank you for your wise and insightful words, Maplewood! I am going to remember to say, "By faith they are" regarding my son and daughter-in-law. They believe in God, they say, and my son while he was engaged in his faith in high school has since fallen out. He says he still believes, that's about it. Thanks, again, for your teachings! I will put them to use!

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    2. As always, thank you for your encouragement, prayers and good food for my soul. May God give our unsaved loved ones a hunger and desire for His Word and the Spirit so they will know the joy, peace and love we share in believing, and so they will be Home with us someday for all eternity.

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    3. Amen amen amen!!!!

      "It can also be one of the most difficult and frustrating areas in a Believer’s life."

      Oh how I needed to read this post. Thank you Lord for comforting me through the wisdom of your beautiful servant Maplewood. I'm saving this post in my phone. Thank you so much.

      Blessings from France

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    4. Loving my unsaved dear ones into the Kingdom. Thanks for the encouragement dear sister. Claiming them for the Kingdom of God.
      Amen and Amen!

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    5. AMEN! And again. By faith they all are saved. Thank you Holy Spirit, the real work is yours and you always find a way.

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  28. Amen & Amen. Just found out warriors that my bff's hubby is having another round of chemo tomorrow. She has felt the power of our prayers. So far no nausea, no weakness, he's still walks the dog for exercise. Go warriors go! They need your prayers.

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  29. Jan, Praying with my family for your Bff's strength and peace and for her Husband to have no ill effects from his Chemo and may it be a successful treatment tomorrow to God's glory and his comfort.

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  30. They have my prayers Jan Gridley, God's Life surrounds them, God's Love enfolds them, God's Power protects them, God's Presence hovers over them. Wherever they are GOD IS! They are safe and secure. Amen

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  31. Today’s post has been so helpful for me. Last night before I even read it I was prompted to release my daughter and her health to God and told Him I trusted Him for her healing. It was a relief and I was able to go back to sleep and not worry. This site has been SO helpful for me!

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  32. Dear Ellen! So happy you surrendered your worry for your daughter to the Lord and you got your much needed rest. Whenever I am thinking to much and sitting right on that worry, I just say "Jesus, I need you right now. Thank you for handling this." Next thing I know, I am breathing in freely and releasing all that tension. He gives us the ret we need and He heals our physical, mental and spiritual infirmiteis. He is able to cope with what we cannot. And it's a waste of time and energy to worry when we can give it to the Way Maker.

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  33. Continuing to pray for your BFF and her Husband, dear Jan! Trusting in God's healing and faithfulness.
    Dear Ellen, I am waiting on the Lord for good news about your daughter's results from her surgery. Praying she is feeling better and the doctors are happy with her outcome.
    Father, Thank You for all these things and dear MadFox's healing and the healing of all our JC Family and their loved ones in the Name of Christ Jesus. Amen

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  34. Heavenly Father, thank You for being sovereign over all things. You are the Creator and the best Father ever. There is no one above You. You are the most high. You are amazing and wonderful. Please help me to let go of everything in my life that needs to be removed, to surrender all I am/have to You, and to release my loved ones into Your very capable, loving hands. Grant me the peace of mind, heart, and spirit to accept Your handling of ALL things and that I need to stay out of Your way. Please help me to keep You the center of my life and to always look to You in all things. Let me keep You my primary focus. You are the most important aspect of my life. You are my heart and soul. Open my heart and mind to receive all You have for me and help me to abide in it. Forgive me for all my sins and shortcomings. I am so sorry. I am so grateful for Your mercy and grace. I don't like when I make You sad by my actions. It makes me sad. I am weak, but You are strong. I need Your strength. I lean on You Jesus. I praise You Lord always. Thank You Jesus. You are always with me. You are the joy in my heart. Please give all Your children the provisions that they need in the world. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.

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    1. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Issac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, "In Issac your seed shall be called," concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense. (Hebrews 11:17-19). "For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him." (Hebrews 10:37-38).

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  35. Happy Blessed Birthday to our Norah, a sweet sister-friend in Christ Jesus! May she have many more Happys, Many More Blessings, and many more b'earthdays, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

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    1. Happy birthday sweet Norah ! God bless you and your loved ones ! ❤

      Blessings from France

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  36. UPDATE To My previous post: Brie August 20, 2021 at 9:03 PM
    Prayers requested family: Attempted to have end-of-life conversation with our daughter. Did not seem to go well. There was no agreement for all of our wishes to be accommodated. Would you kindly pray for the Jesus to be in our midst and for openness to the highest good of ALL concerned? I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. I yield. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
    UPDATE: Thank you for all of your prayers, JC Warriors. Our Daughter brought up the end-of-life conversation (We followed Audra's suggestion to make it two-way) We listened and heard her concerns about following all of our wishes. We dropped some wishes, added some, and at the end of our 2 way conversation, all of us are comfortable with the decisions. Thanks again for your prayers family. As my brother Keith would say, God was in the Plan!
    Now would you pray for us to de-furnish our home with HIS JOY reigning Supreme, and get rid of all our "shtuff"? We learned that we are not the burden, but her having to dispose of all of our shtuff, would be.
    In Jesus' Name. I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. I yield. Amen.

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    1. For the clearing out, I invite You in Lord, because Ephesians 3 reminds me that You are able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think or imagine, according to Your Power at work within us. Clearly, we need help with the clearing. Great is Thy Faithfulness. Thank You, Lord.

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    2. How GREAT is HE! So happy for you all that round two of your end of life discussion with your daughter, Brie, went well and you had good dialoging back and forth! You and Larry gave some and she gave some. So great. And what a blessing that you're choosing to declutter now and rid yourselves of, as you hilariously put, "shtuff" (I often add a "sh" to words as well, lol). May the ridding of things go well for you. It's rather freeing, I think, sometimes, and, yes, relieves our loved ones of that burden.
      Again, so pleased you were able to have a productive conversation with your daughter! God WAS definitely in the house! Thanks for the update! Blessings to you and yours and all our JC family! In Jesus' GREAT name, amen!

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    3. Praying dear Brie. It's a difficult time trying to set things in order. So glad you guys got through it. Hubby & I scaled down 6 years ago, but still more clearing needed. After 51 yrs. Of marriage so many of the baggages are difficult to let go of. But let go we must! Have fun! πŸ’•πŸ€—

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    4. Glorious news. Thank you for the update. Release. I say this to you and any entanglements with your things. It’s hard. But you have got this. ❤️

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    5. Thank you for the update dear sister Brie. There is so much wisdom here and I too have taken the suggestions of our brothers and sisters here and found them to be quite valuable. Prayer and guidance from The Spirit does wonders beyond anything we could have ever imagined. Blessings to you and yours as you move forward with your plans. I can imagine you with your music on while you go through your de-furnishment. This also helps me think about doing the same. When my mom passed it was easy for us to go through her belongings. I thought about my own and how hard it would be for my daughters to do mine so it is on my list to de-furnish as well. God Bless you! Love, Kathy

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    6. Yay Holy Spirit! Cheers to clear communications, compassion and compromise. Love you, Brie. I bet I would love some of your schtuff, but I too am purging, in hopes of merging our two homes into one, whenever that ends up being. Thank you for your prayers that guide us to this place and point in our lives in retirement. ♥️

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    7. Sweet Brie, tough conversations to have. I'm glad you found compromise and agreement. I'll be praying for the de cluttering and down sizing. Love you sweet Brie. Mindy

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  37. Please pray for Afghanistan disaster, all the areas that are devastated with Covid surge, floods and fires. Please pray for my state of Tennessee.

    Announced on local news. School is closed in my county because there aren’t enough school bus drivers or substitute teachers.

    10 minutes on national news dedicated to mass flooding in Waverly, Tn. 25 missing 21 dead, including 7 month old twins, (safe in the arms of Jesus). "Entrust your loved ones to Me; release them into My protective care. They are much safer with Me than in your clinging hands." Waverly is at the other end of the state from me. High temps in the 90’s predicted today in my area.

    GOD is in control and you just can’t beat that. RDS.

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    1. Amen, joining in prayer. Entrusting all of this to our Lord Jesus.

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    2. Praying for you, your loved ones, and other Tennessee residents, New England, Haiti, France, Afghanistan, and San Francisco tenderloin district, etc. My heart has been heavy for this past week or so because there are so many tragedies all around the world right now. There are so many natural disasters, wars, removal of protective laws, and just plain common sense. My heart aches with all that is happening, but I trust in the Lord and His promises. Today has been one of those days where it has been a long one and a bit overwhelming. Then I see all this senseless, destructive, heartbreaking stuff in the world and it just makes me cry out to the Lord for His perfect comfort and peace. May you be safe and comforted Sassy Mom. Peace be with you.

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    3. Joining my sisters in prayer, Sassy Mom. Giving it all to our Lord who is in total control and has a perfect plan!

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  38. Praying with you for Afghanistan and all their problems. Putting them in the Hands of The Most High. Praying for Tenessee and their schools and those who have lost loved ones because of the mass flooding and all natural disasters.
    Father, You are so much greater than all these tragedies and problems. Lift your people up out of their sadness and misery and distress. Make all things right again. Rid your world of Covid and bless and save your people. Thank You in the Name of Christ Jesus.

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    1. Father, help me to find the good in what I see as bad. "For I know all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28. GOD IS IN CONTROL!

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  39. Driving to Brooklyn to spend some days with my good Mom. Trusting Him to keep me safe and blessed. Thank You Jesus! God bless you all.

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    1. Jeanne, Blessings on your travels and visit! Amen

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    2. Mercy travels sweet Jeanne and enjoy your time with her. God bless!

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    3. Thanks for your prayers ABC and Janet!! I had a good ride with just a little traffic and rain and my Mom and I are having a wonderful time together. We are blessed to be together. God bless you too!

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    4. So wonderful to hear, Jeanne! Enjoy. ❤️

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  40. And there it is! Lord my apologies for again not trusting you with the future for my sons. Constantly telling you what I want in prayer form. Lord I hate when people second guess me, you the creator of the universe being challenged by me, the created? Foolishnes. I am sorry for my unbelief please help me with my unbelief and my idolatry of my children and husband, that is not love and certainly not the love you deserve. I love you Father, help purify my love so it is authentic. True love, from your truth not my fears.
    Lord you know exactly what's going on with my son even though I am in the dark Miles away. A dead cell phone means nothing to you. I trust you Lord please keep me updated on what's going on leading me to what steps if any I need to take. Lord I release my son to you asking that the Angel's take charge of him and knowing He is under your watchful eyes in the shelter of your wings. My only job right now is to trust you. Thank you Jesus.

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    1. Praying always for healing and guidance for your dear son Dan and for God to comfort and lead you and your husband in your wilderness. God is where we can’t be. Two of my sons and their dear ones live far away from me and all we can do us put them in His able Hands and trust they are well taken care of as we are. Thank You Jesus!

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    2. Thank you precious Jeanne, All is well. Did finally hear from both my boys. I will remember u & your 2 sons in my prayer. God bless you sister

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    3. I am so glad to "see" you Fern:)
      Our Dan remains in my prayers, and so do you and your husband. Letting go of everything I cannot take back Home with me when I return to The Master is still an unperfected gymnastic feat for me, so I am thankful for the reminders to practice. Love you our dear sweet sister friend in Christ. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

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  41. Dear heavenly Father, continue to guide me and strengthen me as I support my children and not make their life and issues my life/issues. You as their heavenly Father are all they need. I am here to support YOUR relationship with each of them. Amen.

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  42. Prayers dear JC family. My daughter Chloe and I are serving this week at bible camp for 150 high school and middle schoolers. She is running activities and I am running the kitchen to keep them nourished and fed. Pray for lives to be touched and for peace and rest in our serving.
    Also for daughter Chloes health and for wedding planning (oct 16). And for housing for them after marriage as the market here is ridiculously expensive and hard to find.
    I read and pray daily for each of you. Much love to you all. Mindy

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    1. May our Father guide, strengthen, comfort, heal, and give you the words to fill others with His truth. Have a wonderful time changing lives. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen. God bless!

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    2. How wonderful, Mindy, that you're working side by side with God and your daughter teaching God's word to middle and high schoolers while keeping them nourished! May these kids hear what is taught...right down in their souls and leave with a new and wonderful understanding of who Jesus is in their lives!

      Mindy, you were so kind a gracious back when my niece, who lived in Spokane, died in February hours after her second shot. You offered to go help my sister and BIL with any help they might need. Your kindness and generous spirit has never left me and I want to thank you, again, for that.

      Praying for your daughter, Chloe's, 10/16 wedding! That is actually my daughter's due date for her (first) baby! I will keep Chloe's health and wedding in my prayers as well as housing. Yes, it is crazy-expensive in WA to find reasonable housing. I know you know our AWESOME God we serve has a place for them!

      Hoping for a terrific bible camp week for you, Chloe, and all the kiddos, Mindy! In Jesus' great name, amen!

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    3. Dear Mindy, What a blessing to join together for so much good for the Lord! You have a special daughter. And Chloe is blessed to have such a wonderful and caring mother. Congratulations on the upcoming Wedding. So much joy to come!
      Father we thank you for providing Chloe and her love with the perfect place to live because You know all their needs! Guide their path together to fulfillment and a lasting love, and a sweet and fruitful life in Your presence. Thank You fir all this in the powerful Name of Christ Jesus.

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    4. Dear Mindy, Continuing to pray for you, Chloe and Camden. Trusting in God's faithfulness.
      Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,
      We are well taken care of.

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    5. Mindy.

      Thank you for the work you and your daughter are doing with middle and high schoolers. That age is so impressionable. Prayers for you both and for the October wedding.

      SC Anonymous

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  43. Thank Lord. This is so apt.

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  44. Happy Birthday dear NorahπŸŽ†πŸŽ‰πŸ°πŸŒˆπŸ’πŸŽπŸ’žπŸŽΌ! Praying you will enjoy your day with a carefree spirit. Let go of what burdens you today. Tomorrow will be soon enough for it to sneak in again. Praying for your DH. Let go, God's got him. Bless your special dayπŸ™πŸ’ž

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    1. Thank you so much Dear Jan!! We love you and thank you for your prayers. I'm letting go and letting God! :)

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    2. Hope you had a wonderful Birthday dear Norah! Was so busy with my son’s family today I was helping at their apartment and I had hardly any time to rest. They were over for dinner. too. Gabriel is staying for a sleepover. I am blessed. Know you were in my prayers. Hope you enjoyed every special moments.

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  45. Dear God, I trust you with my children and grandchildren’s health, work, and choices. You love them so much and protect, guide, and heal them. My worry is not healthy for me or productive to them. Please help me to trust You with them, and live my life to the fullest. Amen

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    1. May God cover you with His peace dear Ellen. It takes a conscious effort each day to nip worry in the bud and give it all to the Lord. I worry about my youngest son and his family because they don’t have any faith. But I pray for them every day. My middle son’s family doesn’t go to Church anymore but they have a baby and a 3 yr old. But they do believe in God and baptized their children. I have little Gabriel with me now. He’s asleep beside me. He is going to be 4 on September 15th and he is not completely potty trained and he hates to get his hair washed. We had our usual battle in the tub tonight to wash the shampoo out. And he hates to sit on the potty.,He would rather dirty his pull up than use the potty. But I’m exercising my trust muscles and giving it all to the Lord to handle. And my oldest son in CA wants to move east with his wife and baby girl to be closer to the family but he needs to find a job here first. Praying God will guide him to it. You are so right. Worry doesn’t help anyone so let’s just take our burdens to the Lord and leave them there. He is our Way Maker.

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  46. Wow! Didn't realize this was today's reading, when yesterday I posted how God removed fear from me enabling me to trust God and hand my son to Him. For years now it's been my habit to hand over my loved ones to the Lord's more than capable loving care. He loves them more than I ever could. Today's Jesus Calling "Entrust your loved ones to Me;" reminds me of a sermon I heard long ago entitled
    " Hands off"; essentially warning that we cannot pray effectively and receive answers to prayer if we're trying to manipulate situations in the lives of our loved ones. Food for thought.

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    1. Thank you Peter, I was thinking the same thing as I had read your post yesterday as well. This devotional, and your words yesterday, come at a time when I am realize I must release, and surrender, my loved one to God. Thank you for your presence here and may God continue to bless you and your family richly.

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    2. Thanks Peter! Great advice. We must trust in His Word and His promises in all things, especially with our family and grandchildren. If we hand Him the reins we must not be so quick to yank them back. His way is the right way,

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  47. Happy Birthday Norah!!! Hope you have a wonderful day! JE

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  48. Showers and showers of God's choicest blessings are being prayed for you today, our dear sister- friend in Christ, Norah! I entrust your new year into His Presence which will go with you wherever you go, and give you rest, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

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    1. May you have a happy and blessed b'earthday.

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    2. Thank you sweet Brie and Janet! I'm one blessed woman.

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  49. Dear heavenly Father, thank you for helping me turn the care of my children to you in all things. I want to continue to support them through a relationship with You always. Help me to see that YOUR plan is the RIGHT plan. My prayer is for me and my children to accept your plan and not ask that OUR plan to be blessed. When following your will its already been blessed!! Amen.

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    1. Amen dear ABC! We must trust the Lord for guiding and protecting our children and grandchildren. No leaning on our own understanding. His plan is the best one. I trust His Hand is guiding us and our dear ones each day. Praying on that.

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  50. Happy birthday Norah! Hope you have a great day! Please let us know how you and your DH are doing. Always praying πŸ™

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  51. That’s the wrong passage for Genesis. Should be 37:3-4 according to the devotional book.

    “Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children because Joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe. But his brothers hated Joseph because their father loved him more than the rest of them. They couldn’t say a kind word to him.”
    ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭37:3-4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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  52. Norah, you'll find my birthday wish for you above with last year's birthday wishes for you. How cool is that, multi year birthday wishes!!!!

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    1. Such a blessing! Sweet Audra, Your sincere Birthday wishes for Norah remain the same through the years just like the Love of the Lord. .

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  53. In Sarah Young’s book she refers to the love Jacob had for Joseph. Abraham and Isaac are an example of a different situation. God would never ask for child sacrifice. Seems Abraham got it all wrong. The Bible verse referred to by Sarah is Genesis 37: 3-4. Please stick to what Sarah has written. Her writing is inspired by the presence of God.

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    1. Same book, different editions, perhaps???

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    2. Oh Brie, so glad to see your post! Missed you! Sending you Great Love and Blessings!!! JJ

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  54. Praying for each of you - all of you and thanking God for His many blessings. I still haven't gotten the gumption of Sassy Mom bungee jumping. It still makes me laugh with joy and admiration.
    Praying for you daily - all of you and holding you in prayer, always, Sassy Mom.
    Have a wonderful day, JC Family. You have certainly blessed mine. My Best Man greeted me with Birthday Wishes at 6:00 and then we both snoozed for another couple of hours. What a fun day off work!
    Thank you again! <3

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    1. Bless you Norah! So thankful for your prayers. Keep them coming! And have the Best Blessed Birthday Ever!!! Lord, surround Norah, with your Ministering Angels and lift her up on high! JJ

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    2. Norah - belated birthday blessings to you. At 89 my feet are on solid ground. Maybe on your BD next year you will surprise us with a bungee jump. Thank you for loving me and continuing to pray for my broken heart. It is comforting to know my Debbi is with her daddy and in the arms of Jesus. We love you Norah.

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