Day 24 of 47 for Lent Plan

On May 2, 2020May 2, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersion12 Comments

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 24 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Healing: Man Born Blind”
Reading: John 9:1-34 KJV

Further Study

According to John 9:3, what seems to be a common cause for someone having an infirmity like blindness?
– For God’s purpose, to glorify God.
How was the healing different than Jesus merely saying the word?
– He used mud to put in the blind man’s eyes, and He had spit in that mud.
Why were the religious leaders angry that this man was healed?
– Because Jesus healed Him on the Sabbath.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Interesting. Lord, Your ways are so unique so interesting, often teaching us wisdom if we just ask, listen, and pay attention. Thank You for being free with Your knowledge.
Prayer: Pray for your extended family members.
Remembrance: John 9:25 is a profound statement, “One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” Have you ever felt something like this? Fill in your own blanks: I was filth but now I am cleansed.
– Thank You, God, for it. Thank You, Jesus, for ridding me of filth, cruelty, and ungodly ways and ungodly people. In Your name I pray. Amen.
Self-Examination: Think about something great that happened in your life that you just can’t explain. Write about it.
– Anthoni!! Why You allowed a single teenager who was promiscuous to have a child she had been praying for, and blessed Anthoni and me! I can’t explain except that it was all by Your hand! Answered prayer.

A Kind Act

Buy or pick flowers for someone

Day 25 of 47 for Lent Plan

On May 1, 2020May 1, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 25 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Healing: All Who Touch Jesus”
Reading: Matthew 14:34-36, Mark 6:53-56 KJV

Further Study

In both passages, it says the people recognized Jesus. What happened after that?
– They brought all the sick and diseased to Him just to touch the hem of His robe.
What did the people want to do to be healed? What was the outcome?
They wanted to touch the hem of His robe? They were made whole.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Accessible. Thank You, God, for always being there! For wanting us to come to You! ❤
Prayer: Pray for your closest friends.
Remembrance: Think about a time you were so desperate for Jesus. Write about how He met you right where you were.
– You remind me of a time during a bad storm. It was when a Hurricane 4 had traveled so far north on land (from the gulf that is) and was still a tropical storm when it came over us. Anthoni and I were living alone then, and Justin was spending the night .
Nathan, Tim, Phillip, and Irene were in Nathan’s trailer and the rain was gushing down the mountain into his home. They kept calling to check on us even when the water was to their ankles in the trailer. Then they went outside in that gushing water and dug around the trailer to make the water go around.
Meanwhile Anthoni, Justin and I were bunked down. I started calling on Your name. “Jeeeeeeesuuuuus! Jeeeeeeesuuuuus!” And instantly the incredibly powerful storm STOPPED! I KNEW You had heard my cry, and saw my hand stretched out toward heaven. You answered my prayer just like when You calmed the storm for the disciples. You even had Nathan call back to tell me the digging gave the water a new route, and not only did it STOP raining so suddenly but the water was already out of their trailer. I was so scared they were going to wash away… all 4 of them.
THANK YOU, JESUS! I can’t put to words how incredibly powerful that was to witness, and how touching it was to know You did it for me too! (Not just for the disciples) For calling on Your name! You allowed Anthoni and Justin to have peace and sleep!
Self-Examination: Do you tend to depend on Jesus or close friends/family members in your time of need? Share your response.
– I try to always come to You first! You are the only One who can help me, even if You do that by using family. But even then, it is all You!

A Kind Act

Leave a kind note for someone to see.

Day 26 of 47 for Lent Plan

On May 1, 2020May 1, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, COVID-19, YouVersion3 Comments

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 26 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: The Sower”
Reading: Mark 4:1-20 KJV

Further Study

Where was Jesus when He taught this parable? What made Him teach from that location?
– In a ship out on the sea because the multitude was so large.
List the four places that the farmer scattered seed what happened to each seed and what happened to each seed.
– 1. The seed that fell by the WAYSIDE places were seeds that heard the word but was eaten by the fowls of the air, Satan coming to snatch it away.
2. The seed that fell on STONY GROUND withered and died because it had no roots.
3. The seed that fell among THORNS was choked up by the cares of this world.
4. The seed that fell on GOOD GROUND was planted and grew good fruit.
When a seed is sown ‘ among thorns,” what makes it fruitful?
– The cares of the world chokes it out. It is not put fully into God’s hands. Being in even a part of the world’s hands can bring destruction.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one tribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Teacher. Thank You for teaching us the parable of The Sower, and for showing how You had to teach it.
Prayer: Pray for the people you work or go to school with.
– Lord, I pray for Your hedge of protection on us all, a special prayer for Blue Ridge Metal.
Remembrance: Think of a time in your life when the worries and desires of the world pulled at you and sent you down a wrong path. How did God intervene in your life?
– God, I am grateful for every way You intervened with Charlotte and Dwayne.
Self-Examination: Do you tend to entertain temptation when it is in front of you or do you run from it?
– Lord, I pray I always resist temptation as You advise in Your word. I pray I run as fast and as far as I can.

A Kind Act

Make or buy a meal for someone.

Day 27 of 47 for Lent Plan

On May 1, 2020May 1, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, COVID-19, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 27 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: Lost Sheep and Lost Coin”
Reading: Luke 15:1-10 KJV

Further Study

Who was gathered around listening to Jesus?
– Sinners and the Pharisees
What was the significance of searching for the lost sheep and coin?
– God pursues! He loves us enough to come save us from ourselves and all that aims to hurt us.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Persistent. Thank You, God, for loving me enough to pursue me! ❤
Prayer: Pray for your church leaders and your neighbors.
– Yea, Lord. Amen.
Remembrance: Think about a time you felt lost. Looking back, do you see how God was pursuing you? Write about that.
– Many times. You are so faithful to pursue! ❤
Self-Examination: Do you have a friend in your life who feels lost? What can you do to impact his/her life for the better?
– Bobby! (My stepdad) You can see it in his eyes, Lord. I think even he finally understands this virus now. Protect him, Lord. Help me to do what You want of me for him. Thank You for allowing us to read through Your word! ❤

A Kind Act

Put your phone away during mealtime or a conversation.

Day 28 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 26, 2020April 26, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, COVID-19, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 28 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: Good Samaritan”
Reading: Luke 10:25-37 KJV

Further Study

What was the question from the expert in the law that began this parable? What was his intentions in asking?
– He asked what must he do to be saved. He was trying to tempt Jesus, even his question on who was his neighbor was just an attempt to justify himself.
How did Jesus respond?
– He told the parable of the Good Samaritan.
According to this parable, what should we do for our neighbor?
– love our neighbor as our self by showing mercy.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Thank You, Lord, for being so merciful.
Prayer: Pray for yourself – your needs, concerns, desires, dreams.
Remembrance: Think about a time when someone went above and beyond to help You in Your time of need, Write about it.
– Lord You bring to mind when Mrs. C. had me working and cleaning her house on Fridays when I was 13 years old. She was a teaching going out of her way to spend time with me. I had no idea how much of a need I was in. Thank You for all the years and all the love you sent me through her. Hug her for me! ❤
Self-Examination: When You see someone in need, do You tend to offer help? Why or why not?
– Yes. Sometimes too much. I can even make people mad around me. But, Lord, I pray I always help. If you sent me to them, You sent them to me too! ❤

A Kind Act

Give your favorite book to a friend.
– Lord, my favorite book is Your HOLY WORD! As soon as this Corona Virus threat is gone, just tell me who! ❤ 🙂

Day 29 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 26, 2020April 26, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 30 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: King’s Ten Servants”
Reading: Luke 19:11-27 KJV

Further Study

How did the king respond to the two men who multiplied the money he gave them? What about the one who did nothing with his?
– The king was pleased with the first two men and gave them cities according to the number of talents the were able to give the king, but he was upset with the one who did nothing and had him killed.
What is the point of this parable and what can you learn from it?
Lord, I have a hard time with this parable because it is exactly what I would have done because we’re all taught to be wise and careful with our money. So it seems wise if someone told me to take of their money, I would hang on to it in a safe place.After reading the king’s response and different preachers through the year, I understand You meant you through the year he should have done something profitable. But when he is slain because he kept it in a safe place and said He knew the King was an austere man, I guess I took that to mean he was afraid of You (or the green.
The only things I can figure is the passage did say they hated the King, and that the servant knew the king used usury. When I pray to You about this passage that You, I get that You are telling us to be good stewards with Your gospel.
This parable is less about showing and more about justice. What did you read that lines up with this:
– If the man kept the money because out of spite Because he hated him, I could understand. In the end was it just is God is ruler of all. My lack of understanding is ignorance, and does not make God unjust. I trust Him even with that I do not understand, and continue to pray and ask God to help me be a good and faithful servant in all that he trusts me with, especially the gospel.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship him for who He is.
– Austere to those who would mean evil and hatred to You. Thank You for Your deep mercy towards those who You love and seek to do Your will. Justice is a good thing. We should pray for wisdom, understanding, discernment, and to be faithful with that which we are entrusted with.
Prayer: Pray for the salvation of people on your life who don’t know Jesus.
Remembrance: Think about a time you multiplies something. Write about it.
– Giving moneys toward grant matched?? Investing in bible studies and kingdom materials?? Buying bibles for others?? Teaching others about You?
Self-Examination: With all that God has given you to steward, are you multiplying it or stowing it away??
– God, I pray that I am doing what You, expect of me. I keep thinking on the writing and encouragement. May You find me pleasing and faithful.

A Kind Act

Text someone a kind note first thing in the morning.
– The verse you had me send to Anthoni as he left for work this morning??

Day 30 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 24, 2020April 24, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 30 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: Lost Son”
Reading: Luke 15:11-32 KJV

Further Study

How much did the younger son receive of his father’s estate and what did he do with it?
– All of his inheritance, and he wasted it on drinking, harlots, and riotous living.
What was it that made the younger brother realize what he was doing and go back home to his family?
– Hunger caused him to think on “Even the servants of his family had plenty to eat and to spare.”
The passage said that while the younger was still far away that the father saw him. What does that tell you about the father?
– That he had been looking for him to come home so badly. Hoping with the faith prodigaf possibility.
Do you find yourself identifying with the older brother and being bothered by the father’s response? Why or why not?
– I did when I first read it, and at times wen you see such wicked people gain and prosper while the innocent are enslaved and stolen of everything to do with their life. But when I read the part where his father says, ” All that I have is thine” it shows justice is still just, but he is teaching his older son compassion on his younger brother.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Thank You, God, for being such a loving FATHER. ❤
Prayer: Pray for your immediate family members.
Remembrance: Think of a time you were shown mercy after doing something you shouldn’t have done. Write about it.
– There was a time when I went off on a big adventure in the world, only to return in tears and changed for life. God was so merciful to ride home with me, and use that time to make me a new person, the person I am today.
Self- Examination: Do you lean more towards showing people mercy or hoping they get what they deserve? Ponder this and ask God for insight.
– Father God, I pray I’m always showing the mercy You expect me to extend, and pray for discernment in following Your will.

A Kind Act

Make a donation to a cause – it doesn’t have to be a lot.
– I gave to Franklin Graham’s ministry Samaritan’s Purse toward the work they are doing in New York through the Mercy Ship to help lighten the burden of the hospitals and to minister to everyone.

Day 31 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 24, 2020April 24, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 31 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Parable: Two Men Who Prayed”
Reading: Luke 18:9-14 KJV

Further Study

Some of the listeners were confident in what?
– Themselves, and in their own righteousness.
Whose heart condition was God pleased with – the Pharisee or the tax collector?
– God was pleased with the tax collector who was so humbled that he could only keep crying to God for forgiveness. His heart was fixed on God, not bragging about himself.
What happens to those who exalt themselves and those who humble themselves?
– Pride goeth before a fall, according to God’s word. He says He is angered by the proud, but He draws nigh to those with a broken and contrite spirit. He sent His Son forth to save us, but through humility, not pride.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Humble. Lord, thank You for showing us such humility in how You ordered the coming of Jesus at the time of His birth, how He lived His life, how He conducted His ministry (and His own behavior despite being the Son of God, and because He IS the Son of God), how His death occurred, and even once He was resurrected. You are a proud Father and lead by example.
Prayer: Pray for your extended family members.
Remembrance: Think of a time when you were overwhelmed by your humanity. Write about that.
– At the altar when I was so sorry that Jesus would be losing someone He died for because I knew I was so sinful. I cried to You that I knew I didn’t deserve heaven and understood, but that it seemed so unfair to Jesus after what He went through and did, and that it didn’t seem right to have someone who is burning in hell that’s burning for desire of You. You surprised me when I instantly heard a voice say to me, “Honey, he’ll never have you.” (He being Satan.) I looked up and saw Mrs. Passetti, Mrs. Cagle, and several of the ladies from church with their hands on me while they were praying. I didn’t even really know them other than they were Anthoni’s teachers when he was little. I didn’t know they were beside me either.
Self-Examination: Do you find yourself relying on your own works and good deeds or upon the grace and mercy of God?
– I pray I am always relying on You, God, but I confess that in my efforts to obey, to sacrifice out of honor and pleasure for You that sometimes I am too focused on my behavior and my works. Thank You for Your mercy.

A Kind Act

Tell someone close to you what you appreciate about them.
– Anthoni was up this early, so I sent him a message. 🙂

Day 47 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 14, 2020April 14, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersion4 Comments

GOD, I HAVE BEEN ENJOYING THE BIBLE READING PLAN YOU HAVE BEEN WALKING ME THROUGH. I’M SORRY TO BE SO LATE GETTING THEM ON, BUT WITH YOUR HELP WE’LL GET THEM ON LITTLE BY LITTLE.
NO RUSH. JUST CONVALESCING WITH YOU, AND FOLLOWING YOUR LEAD IN SHARING WITH OTHERS.
YOUVERSION (A BIBLE APP YOU HAVE BLESSED ME WITH)
IS DOING A PLAN CALLED 40 DAYS OF LENT.

Day 47 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Resurrection Sunday”
Reading: Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24 KJV

HE IS RISEN! What a day to celebrate all that Jesus did on behalf of every soul who has and will walk this earth. His love for us is that great!

As you go through life, don’t just remember what Jesus did during this Lenten season. Make this a part of your regular practice! How? Incorporate the pieces of reflection that we did throughout this plan.

Study the bible passages you read or go through another Bible Reading Plan.
Worship God for who He is in the passages you read each day.
Pray over the people in your life and those you want to see accept Christ Jesus.
Remember what God has done for you through difficult seasons in life.
Examine yourself by asking God to help you become self aware so that you can grow into the best version of yourself.
Always look for little and big ways that you can do Kind Acts for those around you – those you know and those you don’t know.
We’re proud of you for getting through all 47 days of this plan. Our hope is that you grew to love God more through His sacrifice of His Only Son, Jesus, and His glorious resurrection. Take this love, this hope, this joy, this peace with you each day and allow it to not only transform your life, but the lives of people you come in contact with.
God is our all-powerful, all-knowing, all-encompassing Heavenly Father, and He’s absolutely smitten with you! ❤ ❤ ❤ 🙂

Further Study

Who told the women Jesus had risen from the dead?
– The angel.
How did Jesus appear to the disciples? (Luke 24)
– As a stranger at first.
What was the last thing Jesus told His disciples before He was taken up into Heaven?
– Lo, I am with you alway. Even unto the end of time, Amen.
Where was Jesus sitting in Heaven?
– At the right hand of the throne.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Reconciled: Thank You for saving us for Yourself.
Prayer: Pray for the people you work or go to school with.
Remembrance: Think about how you would have felt to see Jesus alive after watching Him die: what would it had taken for you to believe it was Him?
– It’s hard to know what I would have thought, believed, or not. The times, customs, and mindsets were different.
Self-Examination: How often do you think about what Jesus did on the cross for your sins? Consider making this a habit where you offer Him your praise and thanks.
– I think about it all the time. Thank You, Jesus, Praise Your Holy Name! Be my Holy habit forever! I love You! ❤

A Kind Act

Of all the kind things you did during this plan, do 3-5 of them before the day is over. Then make your own list of kind acts you can do every day going forward.
– helping with tasks
– complimenting
– show/convey appreciation
– Take Jesus with me
– notes of encouragement
– encouraging posts
– encouraging verse each day
– TRUST GOD!

Day 46 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 14, 2020April 14, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersion1 Comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 46 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Holy Saturday”
Reading: Matthew 27:62-66 KJV

Further Study

Why did the leading priests and Pharisees go to see Pilate on the sabbath?
– To guard/secure the sepulchre through the third day.
What were they afraid of?
– The disciples stealing Jesus’ body and claiming that Jesus rose from the grave.
What did Pilate do to ease their fear?
– Placed a guard in front of the tomb.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Resurrected/Alive. Thank You, Jesus, for conquering death. Thank You for holding the power of life and death… ETERNAL life.
Prayer: Pray for your closest friends.
Remembrance: That about that day all those years ago. If you were a follower, you were devastated – you started to doubt the last few years. If you hated Him, you were scared that He was going to do what He said He would – come back to life. Ponder your thoughts.
– You have me thinking so heavy. Today is the biggest, most emphasized SELAH EVER. There’s something so sacred and Holy about the Sabbath to You, that even when orchestrating the most important thing in life (Your Son’s death, burial, and resurrection), no one was doing anything on this Holy day. Rest. Convalesce.
Self-Examination: When things don’t turn out the was you expected, do you immediately go to doubting God or do you trust Him regardless?
– While I tend to doubt myself, Jesus and His Father are always worth hanging onto.

A Kind Act

Thank someone for what they mean to you.

Day 45 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 14, 2020April 14, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, COVID-19, YouVersion6 Comments

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 45 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Good Friday”
Reading: Matthew 26:47-68, Matthew 27:1-61, Mark 14:43-65, Mark 15,
Luke 22:66-71, Luke 23 KJV

Further Study

What was the signal from Judas to the men armed with swords?
– A Kiss
Where was Jesus taken after He was arrested?
– Jesus was taken to the high priest Caiaphas. The scribes and pharisees were there.
Who was the Roman governor? Did he think Jesus committed a crime?
– Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor. No, he did not think Jesus committed a crime. Nero did Herod.
What chant did they use when they taunted Jesus during His beating? Why did they say this?
– “Tell us who hit You, if You be king?” Because Jesus had said He was King of the Jews.
What was the name of the hill where Jesus was crucified? What did the name mean?
– Golgotha, a place of a skull
What time of the day did they nail Jesus to the cross?
– The third hour of the day
Who mocked Jesus while He was on the cross?
– The people, the scribes and the pharisees
What Jesus shout at God right before He died? Why do you think He said this?
– “Father, Why hast thou forsaken me?” After praying through the years, God always has me thinking on the fact that Jesus was in human flesh. It was that flesh that caused Him to feel what most human feel in their suffering…. being abandoned. This would allow Jesus to remember what it was like to feel abandonment even when God is right there.
Knowing God has to turn away from sin, makes us feel like He is turning away from us. Jesus was to experience that abandonment as personally as it gets. It allows Him a mercy that only He could have in a One on One with God on our behalf. We often feel God has abandoned us, but God is there. He is just so broken to see us and the sin that covers us. God is so often discounted as a God that isn’t emotional. He is not ruled by it, but His compassion for His children does not leave Him afraid of it or too proud to express any. He is a Father… who loves… pities… aches… longs… celebrates… embraces… and sends His only Son to die on a cross to save!
Who asked to prepare Jesus’ body for the tomb?
– Joseph of Arimathaea
What was rolled in front of the tomb’ entrance?
– A great stone

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Misunderstood. With all that we put on You, God, and all that we rob You of, we sadly misunderstand You. Every single one of us. Whether it be in ignorance, pride, or simply because we are mere humans, we all place judgments on You, limitations, expectations, and so much more. Thank You for such patience, mercy, and long suffering. Thank You for being You!
Prayer: Pray for your extended family members.
– Yea, Lord, Amen.
Remembrance: Think about what this day was like for those who didn’t believe Jesus and those who did believe Him. Write your thoughts down.
– Sadly, it was a celebration to those who didn’t believe, a devastating day to those who did.
Self-Examination: To know that Jesus’ death on the cross was to cover your sins, how does that affect you?
– I used to feel so bad (and still do at times), but there was a year that You had me help some young people with their skit. By the time I found out my role, I had already committed as You had led me to do. No wonder they had a hard time finding someone to do that role. I was to be the crowd mocking Jesus, laughing at Him on the cross. cheering for Him to die. My heart sank the minute I realized. I was praying underneath my breath, “*Gasp* Lord, how could I ever do that?” I prayed for days.
You then had me think on Satan always trying to stop Jesus and the cross. You had me seeing it as cheering “for” Him being almost free of the misery, and conquering death once and for all. While doing this part of the skit was a silhouette for the eyes watching, having no sound allowed me to be cheering for Death To Die! And when Jesus died, it was a time to cheer! It was finished! Jesus conquered death! I’m so glad He did. That was indeed a Good Friday!

A Kind Act

Invite a friend to lunch and pay for it.
-Lord, You’ll have to work all these out during this Corona Virus.

Day 44 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 12, 2020April 14, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersion2 Comments

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 44 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Maundy Thursday”
Reading: Matthew 26:17-30, Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:12-26, Mark 14:32-42,
Luke 22:7-30, Luke 22:39-46 KJV

Further Study

What meal was Jesus having with His disciples?
– The Feast of Unleavened Bread (aka Passover)
What disturbing news did Jesus tell them while they were eating? What was their response?
– Jesus told them one of them was going to betray Him. They were sick at heart.
What did they eat and drink symbolically?
– Bread that represented His body that was broken for many. Wine that was symbolic as His blood that was shed and poured out for many as a ransom for their sins.
When Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane with a few of His disciples, what was the condition of His soul?
– Troubled, exceeding sorrowful unto death, in agony, sore amazed, in fear
What did Jesus ask the Father in Matthew 26:39? How many times did He pray this prayer?
– Jesus asked the Father to remove His cup from Him, but said, “Nevertheless, Thine will be done, not mine.”

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Ransom. Thank You, Jesus, for paying the ransom to save me from my sins. I’m sorry You had to drink my cup. As much as I have been through, I am so grateful that I will never know the full extent of what I had coming to me because I deserved every bit of it. You have taken it upon Your shoulders, and bore it upon Your cross. Help me to bare what You ask of me. I love You, Jesus! I love You, Father God! I love You, Holy Spirit! ❤
Prayer: Pray for your immediate family members.
Remembrance: Think about how it must have been for Jesus that night before His crucifixion. Ponder all He endured on your behalf.
– Oh, Jesus, I could never fully understand Your agony, and Your dread and sudden fear. No One can understand what it was like for You to fear the hands of Your enemies, and the pain they were eager to inflict. You knew what the Romans were like. How they loved to torture a body. The cruelty they were experienced in so well, and dispensed with pleasure. Only You, God, could see what it was like to see the weight of the sins of the world upon Your shoulders.
We have only an idea of parts of it, the parts we have experienced, or witnessed in the world that disgusts us, seen in our community to frighten us, seen among our family and friends to weigh so heavy in our hearts, and bare in our own flesh to know the agony of pain so much we wish to die, the darkness that suffocates us so much that we feel like we can’t breathe and inwardly hope we never draw another breath. The mental agony of shame and guilt that makes us feel so inhumane, the contrite spirit of being rejected, the cruelty of what man can say or do to the soul merely through his words, and the darkness that numbs your soul from life itself just hanging on and on when your heart, soul, body, and mind has been in so much pain that you simply check out mentally while all the pain still exists, as strong as ever. That’s just a glimpse for us.
The overwhelming disbelief of how evil we can be to each other takes its toll and we turn away, turn our back, turn the channel, whatever we are blessed to be able to do. But You had to face it in order to pay that ransom for me. Your Father had to look upon You under the weight of all that as much as He could before He simply had to turn His face away, else His anger could’ve so kindled that He could’ve wiped us all off the face of the earth.That feeling of abandonment that hit You when You cried, “Father, why hast thou forsaken me?” How that must have felt. It’s a feeling that we humans know too well. Yet God did not abandon. He just could not bear to see what You were going through because a parent’s heart can only take so much before we have to cover our eyes, or look away for just a moment if we are going to continue to the strength we need to be for our children. All this, and it’s only an idea. Just a glimpse. A pondering.
Self-Examination: How do you navigate your mindset when looming situations may be on the horizon? Do you deal with it or choose denial? Write your thoughts.
– I have had those moments, Lord, when I too saw agony upon my son’s face. They are not moments that our bravery and heroism have any room to be present. As when Anthoni was just 6 or 7 month old and developed a fever that would not go away. By the times we got to the doctor’s office he went into a rheumatic fever seizure. They frantically took him from my arms. went into a room and closed the door, kept trying to stop his seizures (as I could see his little body shaking like crazy when they would race in and out of the room for things), and once somewhat under control they took him away in an ambulance to the hospital
They would not let me ride with them because they said they would have to keep working on maintaining his seizures. When our family got to the hospital, Anthoni was in the ICU. They were struggling to keep his fever down and his body at rest. It didn’t help that I had begun developing severe anxiety at that time of my life, even hyperventilating. When I became so dizzy that I was afraid to pass out on Anthoni should they need me for something, I asked my dad if he would stay with Anthoni while I went home. I could see the shock and disappointment in his eyes, and the disgust from the hospital staff that I would abandon my baby. My dad was very forgiving as he had my brother Charlie to help walk me to the car and drive me home.
I cry even now whenever I think of that because I was afraid he could die, without me even being there. I cannot put into words how grateful I am to You, Lord, after looking after Anthoni, for the hospital staff that worked so hard to save him and take care of him, and my dad who was so loving, even though he was so hurt… at me… and for Anthoni. YOUR LOVE was shown to me through my dad. I am forever grateful!
(I had to step out side for a few minutes because I was crying so hard, Lord.)
I am so grateful for my dad’s heart, and Yours. I am so grateful You had my dad there. The early next morning when I came back they had Anthoni in a room, stripped down to just a diaper, with an IV taped around his leg like a cast, in a tall crib, and wouldn’t let us hug him or hold him, except from time to time with a sheet between us when his fever was a little down. It was so hard to see him crying in pain from the IV in his leg, reaching out for me to pick him up, and crying because I wouldn’t. He did not understand that I couldn’t. His little face was crying, “Mommy. Pick me up!” And the added pain when he didn’t understand why I did not. I had to look away from my only son too.
How often You have given me so many similarities in my life to Your own life with Your own Son. And yet nowhere near the same. You entrusted me with my son, and You entrusted me with the heart and salvation of Your Son.
In this situation with Anthoni, I came so close not to dealing well with it. Even when I had came back, for 3 days Anthoni could not settle down at times. They said he could feel my anxiety, and they feared I was making myself sick by refusing to go home. I didn’t want to leave him. Finally the doctor forced me to choose between going downstairs to the ER to be checked out, or be forbidden to see Anthoni and therefore sent home. I did not know that he had a plan set up between him and the ER doctor.
The ER doctor convinced me that I needed an antibiotic to go back upstairs, but it was a Valium. Withing minutes I knew something was wrong. He told me the doctor upstairs didn’t want me to come back until I had went home and got some rest. Charlie had to help me to the car. The medicine put me out. Next day my nerves were so calm as though even a bomb couldn’t phase me. They were like that for 4 days When I had went back the next day after taking the medicine, Anthoni was doing good. They said I looked so much better, and that Anthoni’s health was affected by mine.
That’s the way things seem to go. I try my best to trust and follow. Yet there are times You have brought my healing through medicine. Whatever way You choose, it’s still me following You and trusting whatever way You see fit to teach me by, or simply heal/comfort me.

A Kind Act

Help someone with a chore or task.

Day 43 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 10, 2020April 10, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, Uncategorized, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 43 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Judas’s Intent to Betray Jesus”
Reading: Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11, Luke 22:1-6 KJV

Further Study

What do you think made Judas go to the priests in order to betray Jesus?
– Satan entered Judas and used greed, wanting to make a name for himself.
How did the religious leaders respond when Judas came to them?
– They were glad because they were looking for a way to catch Jesus and kill Him.
What kind of opportunity was Judas looking for?
– A convenient way to betray Jesus, To get Him alone.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Aware. Jesus, Your awareness of who Judas was and what He would do speaks volumes of mercy, and love we’ll never fully know.Amazing strength, strong and Godly character to restrain Yourself. Thank You for Your example. I’m sorry You’ve ever had to know betrayal… even from me.
And You, Father God. To know what Judas would do to Your only Son. What depths there are to calling You Almighty. Thank You for Your example I’ve needed as I have to trust my son’s walk in this life to Your mighty hand. Thank You for caring about him just as much as You did Jesus. ❤
Prayer: Pray for the salvation of people in your life who don’t know Jesus.
Remembrance: Think about how Jesus must have felt to be betrayed. How has God helped you when you’ve felt betrayed by someone?
– Lord, with a heavy heart I remember well the pain of being betrayed. And it made it so more devastating that it was someone I trusted. It’s gut wrenching, and leaves you feeling so alone in the world. Even if there is someone else there to witness it. The fact that it can not be undone or that it happened at all, numbs you in a state of shock. A shock that numbs out what is happening to you, yet there is no way to escape what is happening. You are betrayed. To be betrayed with something as personal as a kiss, for a friend to take part in your pain, and find pleasure in just handing you over. It leaves my soul so heavy.
I’m sorry You ever experienced that pain, that shame, that disbelief. I’m so sorry that the Holy and Righteous Son of God had to experience that for me. Thank You for loving me in ways that feel nothing like love, but is in every way love, to remove that great human barrier that our pain puts between us… :You just don;t understand. You don’t know what I’ve been through.” The great human lie.
Self-Examination: What is one way you can ensure that you don’t betray other people? Write your thoughts down.
– Pray, Pray, Pray! Stay in God’s word. Worship at His feet. Lay there at His feet and pray, pray, pray. Ask God help you to remember the enough to never forget how it feels to be on the receiving end. To remember what it feels like to be humiliated in front of the eyes that witness. And never forget what something as personal as a kiss can do to someone who has it used to betray them, to put them in the hands of the enemy. Never forget how the enemy waits to smile that he can suck the life right out of another soul.
Thank You, God, that the death of Jesus brought only life! To Him! To everyone who believes in Him! And even to me! ETERNAL LIFE!
“Oh Victory in Jesus, my Savior, forever.
He sought me, and bought me with His redeeming love.
He loved me ere I knew Him.and all my love is due Him.
He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood.”
– Victory In Jesus, hymn lyrics by Eugene Monroe Bartlett

A Kind Act

Post 3-5 encouraging comments on social media.

Day 42 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 10, 2020April 10, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, YouVersionLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 42 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Jesus Prays”
Reading: John 17 KJV ❤

Further Study

Over whom did the Father give authority to the Son?
– All flesh
What is the way to have eternal life?
– To know the one True God, and believe in Him and Hos Son Jesus Christ.
What did Jesus pray for in John 17:11?
– For His Father to keep the disciples (to look after them).
Who did Jesus pray for in John 17:20? What comfort does this bring you?
– He prayed for all who believe in the words of His disciples, which is the word Jesus gave to us from God. I believe in them, so yes He is praying for God to protect me from evil. Oh what comfort He is! ❤ My favorite prayer in the Bible.

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Consolation/Intercessor. Jesus, Thank You for being both my Consolation and my Intercessor. That You would know way back then the evils I would face today… in the world… and in me. Thank You for praying to Your Father for me! Thank You for making me family! ❤
Prayer: Pray for yourself – your needs, concerns, desires, dreams
Remembrance: Think of the time Jesus prayed over you. Ponder this fact and allow it to encourage you, and build your faith.
– Lord Jesus, I am humbled to think on how much You have prayed me through and protected me from. Especially in those years that I did not even know You, not the years I did not understand You as You allow me to now. You make me think on Romans 10:14, “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”
THANK YOU FOR LOOKING AFTER ME! FOR LEAVING ME THE HOLY SPIRIT TO TEACH ME HOW TO PRAY… AND THE DEPTH OF YOUR UNDYING LOVE! SO PRAISE YOUR HOLY AND GLORIOUS NAME!
Self-Examination: What kind of prayer life do you have? Is it vibrant and rich, or is it only when a need, concern, or fear arises?
– Oh, Lord, how grateful I am that my prayer life is an ongoing conversation with Someone who loves me and looks out for me! ❤

A Kind Act

Reach out to an old friend you haven’t talk to in a while.
– Mindie surprised me by reaching out to me.

Day 41 of 47 for Lent Plan

On April 9, 2020April 9, 2020 By gaillovesgodIn 40 Days of Lent Bible App Study, blogging, COVID-19, UncategorizedLeave a comment

God, I have been enjoying the bible reading plan You have been walking me through. I’m sorry to be so late getting them on, but with Your help we’ll get them on little by little.
No rush. Just convalescing with You, and following Your lead in sharing with others.
YouVersion (a bible app You have blessed me with)
is doing a plan called 40 Days of Lent.

Day 41 of 47 for Lent Plan – “Holy Week: Jesus Clears the Temple”
Reading: Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:12-19, Luke 19:45-48 KJV

Further Study

What made Jesus angry when He entered the Temple?
– He saw people selling stuff in the Temple.
What did Jesus do when His anger subsided?
– He healed people.
Why were the religious leaders indignant?
– Because the people were calling Jesus the Son of David, praising Him as their King

Reflect

Worship: Write down one attribute of God and worship Him for who He is.
– Sacred. Thank You, Jesus, for caring about the sacred things of God, and for leaving us an example of how to treasure the right things!
Prayer: Pray for your church leaders and your neighbors.
– Yea, Lord. Amen.
Remembrance: Think about how Jesus must have felt when He arrived at the Temple. Do you ever have righteous anger? Write about it.
– I believe I’ve had small glimpses of that feeling when I have seen people using the church to sell things, even from the pulpit. It seems so wrong. I let someone convince me once that I was not doing the same thing in helping them sell banquet tickets. I felt so horrible afterwards. You have taught me righteous anger. It is not something to use God, to guilt someone else into using God. It is wrong to seal from people and call it a living. Our faith, our reverence, and certainly the house of God should be exactly what You called it, Jesus… a house of prayer
Self- Examination: Do you find yourself getting angry often? How do you keep from letting anger overwhelm you?
– Yes, I do lately. The stress of this Corona Virus, and people not complying, and companies forcing people to work that want to be home and safe for their families, is making me so mad. This isn’t one of those moments where someone rebelling or being careless is something they will bring on themselves, so just do the best you can in taking care of you. ALL these consequences are affecting THOUSANDS, MILLIONS around the world. It’s like one of those movies where the one who takes it lightly causes everyone to get killed.
All I know is to give it to You, God.Whether I’m venting to You or doing the best I can just to focus on my own behavior, You know. I have to keep trusting You with my situation and my anger.