The Journal of Ruth

Psalm 44 Here in this world where we live or lives, terrible things may happen.  Even to Christians.  We are not immune to circumstances.  We may experience troubling personal circumstances that drag us down. We can feel empty of God's presence, bewildered, distressed, depressed and abandoned by God over these circumstances.  We are human.  Don't be afraid to face these circumstances even though you feel empty and alone. The secret to getting through these times is reliance on God.  Remember that His convent never fails. Remember what God has done for you in the past and hold on tightly to that. Write down the times that you have experienced God's love so when the tough times come into your life, you are prepared for the battle. Take them to heart, be encouraged, your circumstances will improve, and you will come out of it with stronger faith in God. Be blessed.

1 Kings 12:1-24 We make decisions everyday and sometimes we ask for advice. Then we have to make another decision whether or not to follow that advice. We need advice about following advice. Advice is only helpful if it is consistent with God's standards.  So seek advice from someone who is a mature, faithful Christian. Evaluate the advice - is it realistic, workable, and in line with biblical principles.  And of course, the best advice comes from the Lord and His Word.  Always pray and consult God about your decisions.  He will help you make the right decisions and keep you from going wrong and following poor advice. Be blessed!

1 Kings 11:38 NlT " If you listen to what I tell you and follow my ways and do whatever I consider to be right, and if you obey my decrees and commands as my servant David did, then I will always be with you." Why do we make this so difficult and complicated?  Following God is not that hard. Read the Bible, learn God's ways and commands, accept that Jesus made a way for you to be forgiven of your sins,  love all people, have compassion, be a moral person.  God will bless you for just trusting His ways and will be with you ALL the time.

Grow In The Right Direction Read 1Kings 11:1-13 A little sin can be the first step in turning away from God. It is the sins we excuse and pretend are ok that cause the most trouble. The Lord is interested in our attitudes and our actions. Are temptations creeping into your life?  Pray to grow in the right direction.

The typical New Year's resolution, to start exercising and working out to transform the flabby body into a physically fit one. You join a gym or start an exercise routine.  And it is hard.  The muscles are weak and the body is sore.  But if we keep at it regularly, the muscles become stronger and the workout becomes easier.  Our bodies become fit. The same principle applies to our spiritual life.  Are you spiritually fit or flabby? When we neglect spending time with God, being just lazy or prioritizing other things, we become spiritually out of shape.  At first the spiritual workout is hard, time consuming, and seems impossible.  But the more we stretch our spiritual muscles, the easier and more fulfilling it gets.  Set a goal to be spiritually fit this year.  Read a study bible, go to a bible study group, listen to Christian music and teachers, increase your quiet time, read a Christian leader's biography, sing praises to Jesus, and pray fo...

Bible study this morning (yes I am awake at 5 am on a Saturday). God is speaking to me this morning about friends. My study bible said that loneliness is everywhere and that we all need friends who will stick close, listen, care, and offer help when needed in good times and in bad. We lead such busy lives that we don't hang out with friends as much any more. We all need true friends not just acquaintances. If you are feeling lonely and need a friend, first Jesus is your best friend and you can turn to him anytime and second reach out, there are friends waiting to hear from you. Reach out to me. Maybe I will start a true friends facebook group,