Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 2

The Virus God Saw Coming...

This is a  particularly worrisome time for all who can't help but see & hear the newscasts day in and day out regarding the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

But it is also a unique time in our history, one which presents a rare silver lining for Christians. We can use this as an opportunity to share our faith and hope in Jesus Christ.

There will be debates whether or not God allowed this sinister pandemic to occur in order to bring about His sovereign plan to unfold at this time in our nation's history. There will also be discussions on a litany of subjects related to end-time events and signs of the times as it relates to Christ's return.

One thing I know for sure:  God saw this virus coming... 

Nothing takes God by surprise. He is not "wringing His hands" and "shaking His head" because the virus is spreading like lightning. God is still on His Throne. He already sees the beginning of this crisis from the end. 

So what can we do in the meantime as we are faced with possible government imposed Martial Law? (you can read about it here if you are curious) Martial Law in the U.S.  How should we spend endless hours of self-quarantine in our homes? Can we still be productive and make a difference around us?

Some people have careers that allow them to work from home with little difficulty. Others have jobs that require them to be in close proximity to the public at large - whether they are in law enforcement, the medical field, or the food & home goods supply chain. Many simply won't be able to keep their jobs because their places of business have suspended operations or closed down temporarily.

If you are blessed to work part-time from home or still have children (or grandchildren) under your roof, then you might have some discretionary time like I do to be an "encourager from afar." This blog post is a small contribution I can make to the public at large. My little blog reaches across the globe with the click of a mouse. I know that the internet can play a vital role for those who are isolated - irregardless of this virus.

People are becoming more aware of their mortality and vulnerabilities. They are increasingly uneasy and are more afraid of the unknown. We all have some level of anxiety of what is yet to come. However, the Christian is in the unique position to spread God's truth and give a testimony for the "hope we have within us" (I Peter 3:15).

When we are in the midst of a crisis and face afflictions and suffering, first use it as a time of self-reflection. Then use what you have learned as a tool for ministering to others. Tell them why you are in love with Jesus. Share your testimony. Explain to them why they need a Savior and a spiritual rebirth in order to be with God in heaven.  

In times of uncertainty you can still be an effective ambassador  for Jesus Christ. Don't let fear rob you of your mission.
First, clothe yourself with humility Second, divest yourself of anxiety and worry Third, arm yourself with sobriety Fourth, remind yourself of eternity


Remember, FEAR is an acronym for:  False Evidence Appearing Real.  Many times what we fear actually never comes to pass. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt said over the radio to millions of Americans in 1933, "You have nothing to fear but fear itself."  

Fear is a weapon Satan uses to immobilize the masses in a way that is debilitating and destructive. In Luke 12:32 Jesus said, "Do not fear..."  So how can we rise above that feeling and function in a healthy environment with those around us?


Here are three things from God's Word that you and I can take comfort in:

1.  God can be trusted in times of trouble
      Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."  

Number 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?"  God is indeed trustworthy.

Corrie ten Boom said, "God has no problems, only plans."

2.  God will take care of us in times of trouble
      Psalm 91:9-11 says, "Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your habitation, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."  I Peter 5:7 encourages us to, "...cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."

Martin Luther said the following, "Pray and let God worry."

3.  God will always be with us in times of trouble
      Joshua 1:9 declares, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." 

Remember the three Hebrew youths Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego who were cast into the fiery furnace? Even Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God's presence in Daniel 3:25, "Look! I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."

Jesus Himself said, "...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)

Take heart... God never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalms 121:3-4)   He is still sovereign over all - now and forever. 





Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Transformation in the New Year

Have you been waiting for your spouse to come to knowledge of Jesus Christ that will transform his life?  

Sometimes that personal revelation takes awhile...  You can read about Thomas in John 20:19-29. I firmly believe in divine appointments. Thomas was not in the room when Jesus met with the disciples on the evening He arose from the grave. Did you ever wonder why Thomas wasn't present with them?

Remember, this was the same Thomas that asked Jesus in John 14:5, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way"? Jesus then told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me". "If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him".

Isn't it interesting that we also often don't recognize the Lord. We know through scripture that Thomas knew Him, but he did not believe that the other disciples saw Him that night in the upper room. In John 20:14 Thomas insisted, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe".

He was basically giving himself an ultimatum! Proof is often needed, even demanded by the natural man. But Thomas was a spiritual man, one who knew the Lord intimately - face to face. What hampered his ability to "see without proof" what he already knew in his heart? Or did he really believe what he had been told?

John 20:26 says, "And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace to you!" Do you think Thomas had peace after the other disciples told him he missed seeing Jesus? 

In verse 27 we read, "Then He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing." Jesus turned toward Thomas and personally addressed him. Isn't that just like our loving Lord, to meet us at our weakest point with His immeasurable grace and mercy?

Your spouse also needs to have a transforming meeting with Jesus - face to face. His doubts and fears can be overcome when Jesus dialogues with him on his level, just like Thomas!

Seek God while He may be found and reach out to Him for salvation and understanding.  He is waiting with open arms. Jeremiah 29:11-13 says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."



This is a great quote from Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest:
"The experience of salvation means that in your actual life things are really altered, you no longer look at things as you used to; your desires are new, old things have lost their power. If you are born again, the Spirit of God makes the alteration manifest in your actual life and reasoning, and when the crisis comes you are the most amazed person on earth at the wonderful difference there is in you. There is no possibility of imagining that you did it. It is this complete and amazing alteration that is the evidence that you are a saved soul."

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new. II Corinthians 5:17

There are many people sitting in church who are not spiritually reborn. They do not understand the concept of being "a new creation in Christ." They think God welcomes them with open arms because He "loves everyone."  Here is a post I wrote awhile ago on the difference between religion (works) and a real relationship with Jesus Christ (grace).

RELATIONSHIP not RELIGION








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The 12 Days of Christmas and it's Christian Meaning

The "Twelve Days of Christmas" is a song that many of us grew up singing - yet what do we really know about its origins? 


From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.

It has come to my attention that the historical version of the song and its origins posted here may not be completely accurate. Nonetheless, below is a possible explanation as to the song's history and meaning that also matches the video at the end of this post.
-The partridge in a pear tree was  Jesus Christ.
-Two turtle doves were the  Old and New Testaments .
-Three French hens stood for  Faith, Hope and Love .
-Four calling birds were the  four gospels of  Matthew, Mark, Luke &   John .
-Five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first  five books of the     Old  Testament .
-Six geese a-laying stood for the  six Days of Creation .
-Seven swans a-swimming represented the  sevenfold gifts of the 
 Holy Spirit -  Prophesy,Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution,         Leadership, and Mercy.
-Eight maids a-milking were the  eight   Beatitudes .
-Nine ladies dancing were the  nine fruits of the Holy Spirit --  Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, 
  Gentleness, and Self Control.
-Ten lords a-leaping were the  Ten Commandments .
-Eleven pipers piping stood for the  eleven faithful Disciples .
                                     -Twelve drummers drumming symbolized the  twelve 
                                     points of   belief in the  Apostles' Creed .



The popular Christmas carol goes like this:
On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...       A Partridge in a Pear Tree.On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...2 Turtle Doves, and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.
On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...3 French Hens, 2 Turtle Doves, and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.
On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...4 Calling Birds, 3 French Hens, 2 Turtle Doves, and aPartridge in a Pear Tree.
      And so on... until the twelfth day -
The earliest well-known version of the music of the song was recorded by English scholar James O. Halliwell in 1842, and he published a version in 4th edition The Nursery Rhymes of England (1846), [Wikipedia]

Here is the Twelve Days of Christmas performed          by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra -          









Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The Abigail Syndrome

When I became a Christian at the age of 33 yrs. old, I had already been married for seven years to my present husband. Neither of us went to church or were interested in the things of God.
As time went by, I began to grow more and more unsettled. I was a new creature in Christ.  I had new interests and desires.  I was growing in the Lord and was still an immature Christian who had much to learn. I became irritated with my husband when he didn't want to attend church with me. I even began thinking about what it would be like to be married to a Christian. Maybe I needed a new husband.

Living in an unequally-yoked marriage is difficult and lonely. You might not recognize the phrase "unequally-yoked". In marriage it refers to a husband and wife who are not both Christians. I have a  FAQ's  section on my website that addresses the issue.

Thank God He soon convicted me and stopped my flawed thinking before it was too late. He was revealing to me an idea I hadn't thought of. God could do the impossible. He could reach my husband for Christ and change his heart. He alone could draw him into a relationship and regenerate his very soul. I would  get a new husband with the same man !

“For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife…  For how do you know, O wife,  whether you will save your husband?”   (I Corinthians 7: 14, 16)
Here is a little history lesson on Abigail and David:
After King David had commanded several successful military campaigns, he mercifully spared King Saul’s life in a cave in the region of En Gedi. David then journeyed into the wilderness of Paran following Samuel’s death and burial. Samuel had, under God’s direction, chosen and anointed David as the future King of Israel.
By this time David had already taken Saul’s daughter Michal as his wife; a gift from the King to David for a crushing defeat of the Philistines in exchange for his bride’s dowry, as vengeance on the King’s enemies. David and his men were in the wilderness when he heard that a man in Carmel named Nabel, whose sheep were being sheared, might have provisions for him and his young warriors (I Samuel 21-24).


Below is an excerpt from my book MISSION POSSIBLE  
Chapter 4   “The Abigail Syndrome”
Mission Possible is a book for women who are unequally-yoked in marriage. Using God's Word, it offers the reader hope and encouragement, 
while applying Biblical truths.

The traditional story of “Abigail” in I Samuel 25 is a familiar one. Abigail was married to Nabal, a man of means who treated her and everyone else like dirt. Though Nabal was descended from Caleb, he shared none of his virtues.  When King David heard that her husband Nabal reviled his men, he was ready to kill him and his household. Abigail went out to meet David with humility and gifts. David highly praised Abigail’s courage and advice. Nabal soon died upon hearing what took place after his drunken binge. Abigail became David’s wife when he proposed after learning of Nabal’s fate. Abigail would now reside with the King in a  “fairy tale”  ending.

Not so fast… Don’t be “caught up” in the  Abigail syndrome . I believe God has a New Testament application for those of us who stand in the gap for our unbelieving husbands. Let’s look at what this passage does not represent: 
   We don’t pray that our husbands will “drop dead” so we can marry a believer as that would not be in God’s perfect will for us. Neither do we hope he’ll die from a heart attack to “pay him back” for his evil ways. God has a better plan. I believe this would be the God honoring scenario for the wife who believes for her husband’s salvation.
   Abigail was a woman of good understanding. (I Samuel 25:3). Godly wisdom and understanding promote knowing God’s will. Isaiah 11:2 is a picture of the Holy Spirit for us today:  “The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon [us], the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.” We must be in tune with what God would have us do with regards to our mate. Daily prayer and being in God’sWord helps us to know God’s will.
   Interestingly, when David sent his men to ask favor and provision from Nabal, he was indifferent and inquired: “Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse?…Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat … and give it to men when I do not know where they are from?” (I Samuel 25:10-11). Likewise, your husband, just as Nabal, doesn’t know the King yet.
   Often times it is difficult to tithe, attend every church service, or be at every Bible study or function because your husband doesn’t see a need for you to participate or share you with God. Be patient. He must see your commitment and desire to be with God’s people and in God’s presence.
   Nabal was a self-made man who was very prideful and greedy. Reading Jesus’ parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-20, we see similarities.  Nabal was not thankful for anything, nor recognized God’s hand of provision at all. Your husband may be “rich and full of worldly things.” His equating “good things & provision” to GOD are foreign. Only GOD can change his heart and priorities as you pray for his spiritual enlightenment (Ephesians 1:18). Pray for God to woo him by His Spirit into a curiosity and awareness of the things of God. 
 Unlike King David who planned to wipe out Nabal’s lineage,  God has compassion and mercy on our spouses.  He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (II Peter 3:9). God wills that your spouse join you in “holy union.” The apostle Paul states in I Corinthians 7:14, 16 “for the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife …for how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband?” 
   When Abigail heard what Nabal had done, she quickly prepared an offering for King David. Our offering brought to our King is a  humble heart, a willing & submissive spirit, and unwavering obedience.  We intercede on our husband’s behalf by meeting the King of Kings.
   King David praised Abigail for her good sense and devotion:  “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! And blessed is your advice and blessed are you , because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed… unless you had hastened and come to meet me, surely by morning light no males would have been left to Nabal” (I Samuel 25:32-34). David would have wiped out Nabal’s name but it was God’s desire to “promote a Godly lineage.” Abigail’s actions and attitude spared Nabal but Nabal didn’t recognize her sacrifice. Our sacrifice on our spouse’s behalf is unwavering faith and persistent prayers offered up to the Throne of Grace.  GOD always takes notice of devotion!
 God cherishes the soul we carry to Him in love when it’s “one flesh” we seek.
You can visit my website  HERE  for information on
ordering a copy of   MISSION POSSIBLE .








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Supernatural Friendship

Webster’s defines a friend as, “one attached to another by affection or esteem.” There is a particular passage of scripture that is a wonderful example of Godly friendship, and that is in I Samuel chapters 18-23.

David had already been anointed as the future king of Israel, but he would not ascend to his throne for approximately twenty-two more years. During that time he defeated the Philistine warrior Goliath, served in King Saul’s court as his armor-bearer, and played the harp to calm the King’s restless spirit.

It was during the early years, while David served at the King’s pleasure, that he met Saul’s eldest son Jonathan. It is my guess that Jonathan observed David during the time he was ministering to his father in the palace, as well as hearing about David’s conquest of Goliath in the King’s court. Saul decided that David would not return to his father’s house, but henceforth reside in Jerusalem with him.

I Samuel chapter 18 tells us in verse 1 that  “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David.”  A supernatural friendship had been forged. Verse 3 says, “Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.”

Jonathan and David’s friendship was unique and God ordained. Theirs was a deep spiritual connection – soul to soul – that was sealed with a covenant to honor and respect each other’s office. Jonathan was next in line for the throne by virtue of his birthright. However, he relinquished his power and position by offering to David his royal robe and armaments. God had no doubt prepared Jonathan’s heart in advance of David’s arriving in Jerusalem. Jonathan exemplified all that is noblest in friendship – true affection, unselfishness, helpfulness, and loyalty. His steadfast belief in David’s divine ascension to the throne, and rule of all Israel enabled him to intervene when his father, the King, attempted to kill David on more than one occasion.

After one such attempt on David’s life, Jonathan went out into the field where David was hiding, and after dismissing his servant, reunited with his friend. After an emotional exchange, he said to David, “Go in peace, since we have both sworn in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘May the Lord be between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants, forever.’” During David’s season of flight, while he was in the wilderness of Ziph, Jonathan met David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God. He assured David that his father, King Saul would not find him or prevent him from becoming the future King of Israel.

Sometime later King Saul, Jonathan, and his two brothers would be defeated and slain in a battle on Mount Gilboa. When word got back to David, he lamented Saul and Jonathan’s deaths, tore his clothes, and wept and fasted until evening for them. His sadness was amplified in his eulogy in song to honor their lives. He especially missed the close friendship he shared with a man of unquestionable integrity and honesty. The love he had for his friend surpassed even the romantic love he had experienced with the women he had known up to that time. That would even include his marriage to Jonathan’s sister, Michal. In the Near Eastern culture, the exchange of kisses by men upon greeting was simply an expression of deep affection between friends and family. David’s loss of his friend evoked strong, reflective emotions, matched only by the mourning for his beloved house of Israel upon losing their King at the hands of the Philistines.

Proverbs 17:17 says,  “A friend loves at all times…”  And in Proverbs 18:24,  “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”


To have a great friend, is to be a great friend...  (Anonymous)

Do you have a special God-given friend? I do and it is hard to put into words the love you feel for that dear friend. It truly is a spiritual friendship as well as a practical one. The bond is strong and eternal. Tell me about your soul-sister and what makes your friendship God centered.


This is one of my all time favorites from Michael W. Smith  -  "Friends"











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com


If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Is Exercise Really Good For Us?

As I begin to approach my mid-sixties, I am amazed at how quickly the last thirty years have flown by! I am the mother of an adult married son who is now a father to two darling kids (my sweet grand kids), and I’m sharing our empty-nest full-time with a retired husband.

I was listening to a pastor’s message on the Christian radio station in my area, and heard a familiar verse that some have used in a humorous way: exercise profits little.  But as I listened to his sermon, I began to hear and understand it in a whole new light.

I Timothy 4:8 says, “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”

Another translation puts it this way:  "...physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things ..."

A brisk walk lowers blood pressure, lowers your cholesterol, and reduces stress on the body. Engaging in some form of regular physical exercise will generally add years to your lifespan. Exercise helps to reduce harmful chemicals in our bodies, and provides a form of abreaction (letting off steam), builds up stamina, counteracts the biochemical effects of stress, and reduces the risk of psychological illness.

I attend a local gym and wear a workout monitor belt using My Zone to track my physical exertion. It tracks your heart rate & is nearly equivalent to an EKG. It shows and rewards your effort (as a percentile) when you work out, as well as your calories burned. The intensity is displayed using color-coded zones. Time spent in each zone is converted into MyZone Effort Points (MEP's) which rewards you based on effort and not your fitness level.

As women of faith, our temples need to be strong and fit, for that is where the Holy Spirit resides. We might not accumulate MEP's, but we will certainly notice when our efforts are making a difference in our personal lives. Spiritual wellness is more important than the latest fad diet or workout routine.

Health and fitness are godly goals when they are balanced with common sense and right priority. In biblical times, physical exercise was not touted as necessary because people living in that time period generally walked everywhere and performed manual labor on a daily basis.

As Christians, sometimes we focus too much on programs, bible studies and the latest book craze for your prayer life or child rearing. All those things in and of themselves are  a good thing, but they shouldn't be the main thing. Our spiritual exercise should consist of reading the Holy scriptures, spending time thanking God and conversing with Him on a regular basis, and practicing our godliness in our everyday lives. Our family, friends and co-workers should see the fruit of our spiritual workouts.



Verse 7 prefaces the previous passage with the following, “…and exercise yourself rather to godliness.”

Spiritually speaking, when we exercise godliness through prayer, Bible study, and self-control, we keep our spiritual man [woman] healthy. But what good is it if we take care of the physical body, but neglect our spiritual woman and coddle our sinful nature?

The eternal value is mentioned in verse 8.  Paul makes it clear that whatever we are doing for the here and now is indeed profitable – even commendable, but that which is to come is of more value and lasting. Taking care of the spirit woman, which is incorruptible and lives forever, is far more important than maintaining a corruptible body that will slowly decay in this world.

Exercise is not my god, nor do I place my fate in its hands. Jesus is my God! Sure, I walk my dog every morning and I still go to the gym a few times a week to a Team workout class.  I make it a point to stay active, eat right, and get a good night’s sleep. But for me, keeping my spirit woman healthy and fit is a higher, God-ordained priority.


Let God speak to you about your “spiritual workout".  What type of changes could you make to minister to your spirit woman as you aim to better your physical woman?










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com


If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Motherhood - How Relevant Are We?

A mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take.    ~ Cardinal Mermillod

Do you feel as though you have no influence in your home?  Do you look around at your children and wonder if anything you’ve taught them actually permeated their minds and spirits?  The world would have you think so...
Are you even relevant to their success in a society that devalues Godly parenthood? Well, in God’s Eyes you certainly are!
There are moments I wish I could go “back in time” and change what I did or didn’t do.  There are things I should have done with my son, or times I should have taken ownership of a volatile situation or conversation.  I remember opportunities missed and instances where I just should have stood firm and said, “No!” 
We are not perfect Moms, though we strive to be.  We often wish our kids came with Owners Manuals.  I would have enjoyed a “free online Chat support” when I had a question, or perhaps a “pro-rated warranty” as they got older.  But wait - we have something even better – God’s Word and prayer! How many Moms have worn out knees and prayer journals full of petitions on behalf of their kids?  How many of us have purchased books like  The New Strong Willed Child  by James Dobson, or  The Power of a Praying Parent  by Stormie Omartin?  Let’s face it – we all need help; one way or another! So - how do our parenting skills compare to those in the Bible?
Here are two examples of motherhood in Scripture to contemplate:   Eve and Jochebed  
They are both mothers of significance. They had children that shaped the future of mankind. Both women faced loss and eventual blessing.  Here are their stories…

First -   Genesis chapters 3 and 4 introduce us to  Eve , the first mother.  Adam called her name  Eve , because she was the mother of all living humans.  She conceived and bore Cain, and said, “I have gotten a man from the Lord.”  Cain worked in the fields and tilled the earth which yielded crops, of which he presented his sacrifice to the Lord.  She then bore Abel, the son who was loving and responsible, tending the flocks in the meadows.  Able and Cain each offered sacrifices to the Lord God.  However, Able’s sacrifice was accepted, and Cain’s was not.  Cain killed Abel in a jealous rage over what appeared to be God’s favoritism.  Cain was subsequently banished by God for shedding his brother’s blood. 
What loss and devastation  Eve  must have suffered!  Do you think she blamed herself for the tragedy they were now facing?  How could she go on after losing both sons?  We can only imagine how  Eve  must have felt when she heard God’s words ringing in her ears, “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children.”  She and Adam had been cursed by God after their disobedience.  Now that sorrow and pain were evidenced in the heartbreak  Eve  experienced.  The first mother on earth mourned one son who was now dead and the other who was never to be seen again. 
Eventually Adam and  Eve  conceived Seth, whose lineage began to “call on the name of the Lord” (Gen. 5).  Do you think  Eve  did things a bit differently in regards to child rearing the second time around?  I imagine she spent more time pouring herself into his little life – teaching him about God’s Goodness and about Godly character.  She and Adam most likely recanted how his two older siblings had lived, and what happened when God’s laws weren’t adhered to.  In God’s great mercy, their third son, Seth,  would provide the pathway to mankind’s salvation over many generations, which eventually culminated in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself (Luke 3).
Second -  In Exodus 2 we are introduced to  Jochebed , the daughter of Levi, born to him in Egypt.  She was the wife of Amram and was the mother of Aaron, Miriam and Moses.  Her courage and ingenuity saved her son Moses from the wicked mandate of Pharaoh to kill every male Israelite child.  She cleverly hid him for three months, before placing him among the reeds in a water-tight basket along the Nile River.
As she watched Miriam approach Pharaoh’s daughter, she must have been relieved to hear that she would be nursing and weaning the child herself before handing him over permanently.  Those few early years were no doubt full of Godly teaching and a loving example to that little Hebrew child.  Can you imagine the pain and sacrifice she endured as she watched her young son disappear into Pharaoh’s exotic palace to be raised as an Egyptian?
 I believe  Jochebed  was an important part of Moses’ life as a young child and into the reaches of adulthood.  She no doubt had an influence on his character, integrity and love for the Lord God of Israel.   She also raised Miriam (the eldest) and their brother Aaron, who appeared with Moses in front of the great Pharaoh of Egypt prior to releasing the children of Israel.  Were her children perfect?  No way.  They all displayed major character flaws.  All were reprimanded and punished by God for their disobedience.  However, all three witnessed God’s Sovereign power, deliverance and blessing in their lives and in their future destinies.


The whole of the matter is this:  Mothers have  great influence over their children.
God’s Word is very clear on what we can do.  The book of Proverbs is rich in advice and practical wisdom.  Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”  We must teach by example and pray for their spiritual growth.  We are to “watch over the ways of our household, and not remain idle” – but stay balanced as we lead our children into adulthood one step at a time.  May we look to our Heavenly Father for His guidance and strength.











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

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Empty Grave - Open Heart

Imagine visiting your local cemetery and suddenly you discover the grave you’re approaching is not only unearthed – but the coffin is wide open and empty!

What would you think? I imagine the first thing you would do is call security – and start the search for a missing body!

Something strange and wonderful happened outside Jerusalem at a small burial site in the Judean countryside over 2000 years ago. A tomb which was sealed the previous night was now wide open, with no one taking credit for the monumental task. Let me explain…

By definition, a grave is a place for the interment of the dead; a tomb, a sepulcher. In Jesus’ day, it was often merely a natural cave or grotto, or an artificial tomb hewn out of rock. Many times graves were flagged with flat stones as markers to warn passers-by that they should not come in contact with the dead, thereby defiling themselves ceremonially, even if it was unwittingly done. Once the body was laid inside, the tomb was sealed with a large stone – most likely weighing hundreds of pounds, and taking at least two strong men to place it at the mouth of the cave. This was done to prevent animals from desecrating the body or thieves from removing sacred items. Unsealing the tomb without being noticed would be difficult at best. One person alone could not move the stone without help from some other source.

Resurrection morning occurred on the first day of the week and Luke 24:1-12 tells us it was “very early”. The women who had been with Joseph, a council member who had secretly become a disciple of Jesus, entered the tomb with the prepared spices for the body of Jesus. They discovered that the Lord’s body was not there – and as they stood perplexed – two men in shining garments appeared before them. The women, fearful and bowing down in reverence were told, “He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’” Verse 8 then says, “And they remembered His words.”

These women had witnessed Jesus’ body being placed inside the grave by Joseph and Nicodemus, who also came with the burial preparations, including a large amount of myrrh, aloes, spices and linen to wrap and prepare the Lord’s body, as was the custom of the Jews (John 19:38-42). We know that when Joseph of Arimathea offered to lay the body of Jesus in his own tomb carved out of the rocky hillside, he most likely considered that he would need another tomb for his own interment. Little did he know that he would again be using that very tomb for himself! Jesus would merely be borrowing the sepulcher for three days – never again to be laid to rest, but to arise victorious and defeat death once and for all. What was so special about this grave?

When the women approached the tomb, they had but one concern: how would they roll away the large stone that blocked the entrance into the cave? But as they looked up – the stone had already been moved, and upon entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side. And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him.”

There was no need for the stone – 
Christ simply stepped into heaven and left earth’s grip…
Charles Wesley penned this stirring hymn which is sung in many churches on Easter morning:

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!
Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!Where, O death is now thy sting? Alleluia!Once He died, our souls to save, Alleluia!Where’s thy victory, boasting grave? Alleluia!
Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!Fought the fight, the battle won. Alleluia!Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!
Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!














Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

MISSION POSSIBLE - Resource for those in a Spiritually Uneven Marriage

“For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy…For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband whether you will save your wife?”   
(I Corinthians 7:14, 16)

Living in an unequally-yoked marriage is a challenge at best...  It is a real-life dilemma that requires great patience, understanding, and perseverance.

MISSION POSSIBLE   was written to encourage and enlighten women (and men) who are living in  a spiritually uneven marriage. The book is in an easy-to-read format with Bible study questions at the end of each chapter for enrichment and personal reflection.


I wanted to re-introduce this valuable resource to those who might not have heard about it before. I am determined to continue to spread the word to women who need help and hope in this vital area of ministry. Below is an intro to my book   MISSION POSSIBLE.


Women, are you in an unequally-yoked marriage?  Are you tired of attending church alone? Do you yearn for a relationship with your husband that’s spiritually satisfying?  You can influence your home for Christ even within a spiritually mismatched marriage.
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to stand in the gap for your mate’s soul. This small book is a powerful tool for any woman who is married to a man who does not share her passion for Jesus. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Everyone has at least ONE friend who needs this book! In Mission Possible you will:
-- Discover how to believe with radical faith for your spouse’s salvation.-- Learn the secret to “staying the course” while you wait for your promise.-- Find out why many women don’t like to share their “secret sorrow”. -- Overcome your own fears and doubts about your husband’s future with God.-- Join other women in the knowledge that God has a perfect plan of unity for you    and your spouse.




MISSION POSSIBLE   was awarded the 2010 Gold Seal Best Book in the Christian Non-Fiction category on Readers Favorite. 
You can purchase MISSION POSSIBLE on Amazon (paperback and Kindle) or on  Smashwords as an e-book in a variety of formats for popular e-Readers.






I have also had my Website completely revamped and redesigned for optimal viewing on all devices including desktops, tablets and mobile devices.  Please check it out and share with others who need hope and help in their spiritually mismatched marriage. 

Visit  Godmissionpossible   or  Spirituallyunevenmarriage    to view the website.  

I especially love the  Social Media Wall .  Let me know what you think!









Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Triple Threat - Trials, Troubles and Tribulation

James 1:2-4   is familiar to most of us as the passage on “testing our faith". 
 This is what James had to say: “My brethren, count [consider] it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect [mature] and complete, lacking nothing.”

In order for us to become mature in our faith, we must  remain under  the testing. It is in this position that we come forth [as gold] as described by Job in chapter 23. 

Many times we question God’s sovereignty as we verbalize the familiar:  “Why is this happening to me?”  “I don’t need this!”  “Not now, God!” or “I just can’t take anymore!”  

But isn’t that just human nature? Who hasn’t cried out to God in pain and utter disbelief?



Webster’s Dictionary defines the three “T’s” this way:
Trial – a test of faith, patience, or stamina by suffering or tribulation; a source of vexation (irritation) or annoyance.

Trouble – to agitate mentally or spiritually; to disturb.

Tribulation – distress or suffering as a result of oppression or persecution.

I Peter 1:7-9  says, “…Though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ… receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.”   

Two brief character studies in God’s Word gives us a glimpse of suffering while under  trials, troubles and tribulation:
Job ~ Everyone has heard of Job. Even non-believers know that to go through a “Job experience” is to endure an awful trial or trouble. We often hear the expression: “He has the patience of Job!” 

Remember the passage in James 1 (above)? There is a process we must go through as we are tested. Sometimes we hear comments like, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”  Job 1:1 tells us, “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil.” 
Job exemplifies the enormity of undeserved calamity in his testimony. Not only did Job loose his children, servants, livestock, and livelihood, but he was struck with painful boils and suffered the shame associated with his  trials & tribulations . However, he never let Satan provoke him to curse God, although he cursed the day he was born. He conducted himself like a man under affliction, yet maintained his dignity in his grief. Job questioned God and received a private lesson in humility and in God's sovereignty. Eventually, God restored all that Job had lost, increasing his earthly holdings – including his lineage. For Job, the latter was greater than the former.
Paul ~ Saul (Paul) was dramatically converted by the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus as he was carrying letters of destruction for those who were of the Way [followers of Jesus] to put them to death in Jerusalem. When  Jesus  selected Ananias to minister to Paul after his vision, He said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”  

After that time many attempts were made to kill Paul by the Jews (Acts 10:23), the Hellenists (Acts 10:29), and with Barnabas in Antioch where they were threatened, persecuted and expelled. II Corinthians 11 enumerates for us Paul’s many  trials and troubles  including being stoned, beaten, shipwrecked, lashed, and left for dead. There was sharp contention between him and Barnabas while on their missionary journeys that split up the pair, resulting in Paul and Silas teaming up to minister to the Gentiles. 

At the end of his life, while in prison, Paul addresses Timothy in his two epistles. As he encouraged the young pastor, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and mission, while acknowledging that all forsook him, save the Lord Jesus. Paul endured the constant pressure of a lifetime of  trials, troubles, & tribulations , and yet he saw God’s purpose and sovereignty in all of it. Paul’s victory was this: “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (II Timothy 4:17). 

In the end, we come forth:  precious, valuable and exquisite – a true treasure of God, for His Glory!
 
A  diamond  must fall under the chisel in order to become a precious stone, and  gold  is never refined unless it remains in the fire.  
God never leaves the metal in the crucible longer than what is necessary for the burning away of the dross.  He will do the same on our behalf.“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:13-14)






Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.