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Different Story Same Glory

Friday evening around 5:45 pm February 8, 2019, hurrying to attend the Gather: Joy Women’s Retreat; Eden Prairie, Minnesota being held at the Church I attend weekly. Driving home from work the weather had began to turn extremely cold, wind blowing, bumper to bumper traffic, I just wanted to get out of traffic for about twenty minutes, enough time to change clothes and feed my cat Milo. What usually took about fifteen minutes to drive home from work, took me about forty five minutes that day.

Pulling into a parking stall of my apartment complex, before I could get out of my car, I notice my neighbor struggling to get the hood of his Jeep open, stepping out of my vehicle, I begin walking towards the door of the apartment building, I noticed he had a pair of jumper cables attached to another vehicle, I said hello, walking right past him, rushing to get into the building out of the cold. I entered into my apartment hallway putting the key into the door, home at last; twenty minutes tops, was my thought process as to in and out of my apartment, walking in the door, Immediately gathering my bag along with my Bible and note book, which I had placed side by side the night before, rushing to get back to my vehicle, I had left running with the spare key in my purse. Sitting down for five minutes to take a long and much needed breath, after I had fed Milo and changed out of my work attire, I decided to head out; back into the cold. Leaving my apartment, locking the door behind me, I headed down the stairwell.

As I begin walking out the door of the building my thoughts, Poor guy it’s cold out I wonder if he will ever get that car started. I really do not know my neighbors, we speak hello and goodbyes, that’s about the extent of our conversations. Walking to my car, my neighbor said to me “Excuse me neighbor, I live across from you, could you help me out with a jump, my wife is trying to get to work and the hood of my car will not open it’s too cold.” As I am walking towards my vehicle, intentionally; purposely not making eye contact. I stated no I’m sorry, I’m on my way to church, I’m running a little behind. I’m sure if you knock on one of our other neighbors doors they could possibly help you out. His words to me, “It wont take but a couple of seconds to start her vehicle.” I stated again, sorry I have to go.

Entering into my vehicle I had sat for a moment and thought to myself, You are living a Christian life, that wasn’t Christian like; the voice in my head said; girl you better help that man!! As I put my car in gear, pulling up next to both vehicles, popping my hood from the inside of my vehicle, stepping out of my car with my heel boots on to help this man. My neighbor was right, it took less than 5 minutes of my time to start the other vehicle. He thanked me and said “God bless you my sister; my family and I are Christians, we too attend church regularly. I could tell this man wasn’t from the United States, not that it mattered, he had a strong accent, I smiled and stated I’m sorry for not acting according to his word. I told him God Bless you as well sir.

Turning out of the apartment complex parking lot, on my way to the Retreat, looking over at the car clock 6:15 p.m. While driving, I thought about how selfish I had acted, trying to get out of helping my neighbor, lending a hand to someone in need. I was glad that I had helped my neighbor in the desperate time that he really needed help. This leads me to the Bible verse about loving thy neighbor, I’m going to start my story out with the verse the Lord has put on my heart about loving your neighbors as you love yourself. I put myself in that situation, Yes I would have wanted my neighbor helping me out if my car wouldn’t have started. I have to admit, I have been in situations like that in the past.

(37) “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (38) This is the first and great commandment. (39) And the second is like unto it, (40) Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Matthew 22: 37 – 40 KJV

Arriving at the Retreat, excited about the nights service. I gathered my belongings from my car proceeded to enter into door #2. signing in, retrieving my name tag, stopping for a cup of coffee, waving at a couple of the ladies, I usually see during Sunday morning church service, I took my seat at the front of the Retreat as I usually did during church service. I have never been a back of the room person, I’m one that likes to be upfront where all the action is, taking notes.

Praise and Worship had begun, I immediately felt the Lord’s presence all around me, my heart felt warm as if I were being hugged, as I lifted my hands up high, thanking the Lord, allowing me to help my neighbor. Praying to God for forgiveness due to my ungodly actions in the beginning of the situation I had encountered. I begin to cry as if I had been a disobedient child in the beginning of the car situation. I could not believe I had begin asking God for forgiveness, I have never done that before, meaning not wanting to help someone, then to turn around and ask God to forgive me; yes in my past I had become a very selfish woman without a doubt, when it came to strangers asking for help. The Lord was working through me that night restoring me. My salvation and redemption means the world to me. I repented and moved on.

The first night, the Retreat started at 7:00 p.m. the Pastors wife begin speaking about two fellow sisters within the Retreat, that I had attended women’s Bible study group with in the past year, both ladies are recovering from cancer, I knew the first sister was getting over chemotherapy, the second sister who I had met also through a Bible study group as well as attending the teen moms volunteer group at the church.

To my surprise, I had noticed the second sister that night, at the beginning of the Retreat, thinking to myself, she had lost a little weight, I had no idea she too had been battling cancer, what sweet kind and loving ladies indeed, always helping out wherever they could with the young moms support group, as well as small leadership discussion groups. The women looked Phenomenal holding each others hands as to each others support system among themselves.

While the pastors wife spoke, I sat back asking God what had just happened to these ladies, sisters in Christ serving the Lord, married with children? Being I had not been involved within the same Bible studies the two ladies now attend, I attend a different study group within the church, I had to step back in order to step up, healing from my own story, this is why I have decided to call this blog a Different Story Same Glory, everyone has a story of some kind, however we all still come out with the same glory when we let go and let God. What I had seen within these two sisters in Christ. Tears rolled down my eyes when the Pastors wife had stated this. I noticed strength and determination portraying soft and gentle spirits within these ladies eyes only God could provide.

The Retreat get’s very interesting. Before I go on, I just want to thank our Heavenly Father, allowing me to reside in the presence of many anointing women at the Retreat that weekend. Completely letting go of my past, I learned this; by standing on the word daily, it is of importance within your walk with God. No matter what you are going through, if God can take you to it, he will pull you through it. I’ve written this quote in the past. It’s something that I live by on a daily basis. I tell others I’m still a work in progress we all are, it was truly when I let go at 100 % one day and truly gave myself to God, I begin to feel him doing a work in me, The Lord knows I needed plenty of his work!!

That night, the speaker touched on trials and tribulations which is the area, I had struggled with in my past, such as trusting God whole heartily, putting your strength and trust in him, setting your mind on him not of this Earth, which most of us have done that weren’t truly aware of God. The Lord is our rock. Never knowing how to pray the right prayer in regards to protection, not knowing the right prayer to pray over my now adult children. Praying to the Lord asking for his shield in regards to myself as well others with the coat of his armor, is what I took from her sermon. The speakers last statement made a valid point, “Put your trust in God, get to know him. “You can not trust someone you do not know.” This verse caught my attention. I love the book of Psalms, it’s full of great teachings.

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”

Psalm 28 : 7

Getting close to 9:00 pm the first nights Retreat had come to an end, after discussing the next days itinerary which would consist of Biblical workshops, the ladies luncheon at noon. Saturday morning February 9, 2019 the Retreat would start at 9:00 a.m. ending at 4:00 p.m. the social gathering would be starting after tonight’s service. The Coffee shop gathering would entail within the church.

After the service, the ladies headed to the upstairs Coffee shop that had been nicely orchestrated, very inviting, cheerful, colorful. I hung out for a while, converting among the crowd of ladies, enjoying the snacks and coffee provided by the Retreat. I had decided to head home. While driving back home, I began thinking about everything I had endured throughout my life to get me to this point of redemption, I thanked the Lord, hit the Gospel music station button on my car stereo, proceeding home.

Saturday morning arriving at the Retreat on time, service started at 9:00 am. Listening once more to the first speaker touching on what had just happened to me the night before as to my selfish actions, setting my eye on the Lord. I seriously thought she had been speaking directly to me. Obedience to Gods works. Perfect timing right! Taking matters into your own hands, becoming of a new creation acting in a new creation way. I’m going to post this scripture she referenced to being that this is exactly how we as Christians should be living, after reading this scripture goosebumps arose on my arms.

Made Alive in Christ

(2) “As for you were dead in your transgressions and sins. in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following it’s desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – It is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith- this is not from yourselves, it is a gift from God- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Ephesians 2 : 10 NIV

Before we broke into our group workshops to listen to the other speakers whose names were on the itinerary, this one particular woman approached me as we broke out for a quick ten minute break, stating to me “I noticed you crying a bit last night” as to say, what’s your story. I looked at her and begin to open up a bit, keep in mind, I had never met her before, as she approaches me she began adjusting a microphone headset, clueless as to whom I had been converting with, this well put together suburban like woman had a smile as bright as the sun on her face, my thoughts were what had this individual had to talk about. My judgement of her was very deceiving as to my thoughts. I learned the true meaning of the saying Never judge a book by it’s cover, pick it up and read it first.

I was in for a big surprise in regards to this woman that seemed to have it all, what I mean by seeming to have it all, it didn’t appear that she had ever gone through a hardship in her life, well put together, business like, I began to put the name together with my first workshop leaders name, I had come to realize I had just been speaking to the group leader that I was getting ready to listen to as she told her story within her workshop.

I had informed her about my loss, my last words to her as she stepped on the stage were, if she had ever lost anyone so dear and close to her heart? She hugged me, informing me she was about to begin the workshop, stating she would talk to me after the the workshop.

Starting out with a prayer, this woman started out by stating her life’s accomplishments, her great upbringing, being raised within a great family background. A group fitness instructor, married with two sons, jumping right into how she over came her husbands alcohol addiction, with the help of Christ Jesus and prayer, stating how she had almost lost everything, tears immediately gathering into her eyes, nose running, she continued to tell her story, she’s been married for 20 years to the same man, explaining how she stood by her husband as he overcame his addiction, that was just the beginning of her story it gets darker, the speaker had mentioned she was a stay at home mother, being that she home schooled her sons, gave her an opportunity to babysit one of her dear friends infant daughter, one particular day she had laid the infant down for a nap, entering back into the room to check on the child, a couple of hours later, finding the infant girl lifeless.

Having to call the child’s parents to advise them that the child whom they had left in her care wasn’t breathing, explaining to the police what had happened, with no excuse, she definitely had to find an understanding as to the storms that were placed in her life. Different Story Same Glory. The parents of the child had forgiving hearts, making sure she understood they did not blame her as to their infant daughters death, the speaker introduced the word Sovereignty connecting the word to trials in life, I had to look up the meaning, being I’m not used to seeing the word.

What I had gotten out of the meaning is that God having authority over a situational circumstance, all things being out of our hands, not our will but his will, he was in control when the infant passed away as well as my son.

God is in control of all things, He may choose to let certain events happen according to natural laws, past, present and future, nothing happens out of his knowledge and control. All things are either caused by him or allowed by him for his own purpose through his perfect will and timing.

In conclusion; to my Different Story Same Glory post, what I had learned from the Retreat was that this story seemed to have stuck out, more than the other stories I had heard, we all have different stories, most have been through tough times in life, none better than the other, some darker than others, all having significance because they reflect the Father & Author of existence to our life, however if we stay obedient to his word, we are all sure to have the same glories through prayer and worship. #savedbyhisgrace72

“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”

Revelation 4 : 11

It’s not our will but the will of God
My Milo

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    Body Soul and Spirit

    Tuesday January 30, 2019 I awoke to Evangelist Joyce Meyers speaking from within the television, I had fallen asleep with the tv on the night before, while rubbing my eyes reaching for my glasses, these three words caught my attention Body, Soul and Spirit, so I ran with it. I’m going to put what I took from Joyce Meyers sermon that morning and write them into my own words, as to how I perceived her message. First I would like to pray and ask the Lord to give me a verse to add to my story. This is what the Lord has given my heart to write, I pray this brings comfort to someones unanswered question as to death amongst us here on earth.

    “But we do not want you to be uninformed brothers / sisters about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive. who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.”

    Thessalonians 4 : 3 – 17 ESV

     Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

    Ecclesiastes 12:7 KJV

    Understanding why the Lord had awaken me early that morning so that I may have an understanding to the question I found myself constantly asking the Lord.

    Why death Lord?

    I have always been one that’s been afraid of dying, my thoughts; Where would I go? Will my loved ones miss me? Will my sins be forgiven as I arrive at heavens gates? In the past; these questions continuously played a part as to my life’s anxieties in regards to understanding the Body Soul and Spirit pertaining to death.

    As I begin losing individuals earlier within my life, I had come to the understanding in regards to why our loved ones would leave us once they fell into this deep stage of sleep we call death; sometimes it’s by choice; other times natural causes, often due to situational circumstances meaning; by the hands of someone else, most times; complications stemming from a chronic illness.

    The one question that has stuck out in my head time and time again Is this; Do we have a Body, Soul and Spirit? Or do we have a Body, Soul/Spirit?

    As a young child, the question constantly entered into my mind, whenever I would attend funerals. I would sit and wonder why the individual had looked so peacefully asleep. I guess I never really paid attention to the pastor during the church sermons, as a child or an adult. It’s pretty obvious I had much learning to do or I would have known the answer to my own question along time ago.

    A week ago; one afternoon while talking among a group of women from work, out of curiosity, I had asked several of the women within the group, ages ranging from early twenties to early fifties this perplex question. How many think of the human anatomy meaning the human body as one, two or three divisions? The body being one; the soul being two, the spirit being three, however the other question I had was; the body being one, the soul/spirit being two, combined together as one.

    My reasoning for asking the question from the different age group was that I wanted to get the opinion from a Millennial point of view as well as a Generation X group right down to the Baby Boomer. However I could not ask the Generation Z group there weren’t any around. The ladies had no idea I was asking for the purpose of this up and coming post, however I had later informed the women, I would be writing about their opinions. I asked if that was ok, stating that I would be leaving their names out of this post of course.

    I’ll start with the youngest of the group the Millennial, the answer that I had received was that there was a Body, Spirit and Soul, she left it at that, no explanation. The next group Generation X one lady answered that there were two divisions to the Body one division was the Body the next division the Soul & Spirit were combined as one, no further comments. The Baby Boomer answered there were three divisions to the body her exact words were “The body was made up of a trilogy” meaning of three; referencing her answer to the Holy Bible as I sat in silence, I became more engaged as to her defining the answer she had just provided. The Baby Boomer stated that man was created in the image of God. I sat back in my chair as she proceeded. Stating that “God Is a tripartite meaning the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit” she stated yes there are three parts to man, Body, Soul and Spirit. I had asked the Baby Boomer where could I find that information? Her answer ” The Apostle Paul.”

    “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely, and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete. without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

    1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB

    I have to admit I started this post January 30, 2019 however I felt that I needed to research a bit further, making sure I would be providing the the reader you; the best information possible. I went home and did a little digging myself. Eager to know a bit more into the Body, Soul and Spirit. I had come across many articles in reference to my search, I had become intrigued by this photo, thought I would share.

    God blesses our earthly lives, these same earthly lives are secondary to him. God’s primarily concerned about the bigger issues of eternity and our spiritual state.

    In the Bible it states that the soul and spirit are the primary immaterial of humanity, the body is the physical container that holds them together while living here on earth.

    Body (Greek word for “SOMA”)

    The entire physical structure of the of the human anatomy – The physical part of one person.

    Presenting your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, that would be acceptable according to God’s word. Engaging in spiritual worship/ warfare, not allowing the world to conform your mind, body and soul. Therefore if you are living in a world of sin, transformation and the renewing of the mind may prove that the Will of God is acceptable, perfect and good in the eyes of the Lord by walking within the newness of the Lord’s grace.

    “For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.”

    1 Corinthians 6 : 20 KJV

    Soul (Greek “Psyche”)

    Genensis 2 :7 States that “Man was created as a living soul.”

    The soul consists of the mind and the state of conscience, which I had no idea. The soul and spirit are mysteriously tied together that make up what the scripture calls the heart. I am truly enjoying the information that I am receiving from the Bible. I never knew how much information the Bible held inside, clueless indeed, as to his Word.

    Sprit (Greek “Pneuma”)

    The Flesh, body of all mankind connecting to the Holy Spirit.

    There is separation between Soul and Spirit, the two has division of both joints and marrow and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12 NASB). It is only through God that we are able to bring the Soul and Spirit to separation; he does this by piercing our heart.

    As humans here on earth we have souls and eternal spirits the Lord has gathered into a body form. If any man shall be of the flesh may he have eternal life through the grace of God.

    For you have formed my inward parts: You wove me into my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully made; Wonderful are your works, and my soul knows it very well.

    PSALMS 139 13 : 14 KJV

    #savedbyhisgrace72

    Mind Body Spirit Connection

    A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

    Before I begin my post, I would like to define the phrase “A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing.” Reminding myself of this often helps me get through life’s most challenging moments.

    The meaning originates from the King James Version of the Bible Matthew 7:15 “Be aware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”

    This phrase also stands for friendships within the work place as well as family, Individuals pretending to like you in front of your face, talking about you behind your back. I call it pure gossip. Working in Corporate America, coming from a dysfunctional family, you see this quite often.

    They may seem as if their intentions are of innocent intent, however their ulterior motives are camouflaged sometimes going undetected.

    A individual that appears kind to you while conversing may be the same individual undercutting your character to others when you aren’t around, I consider a wolf in disguise.

    Knowing how to spot a potential Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing isn’t that difficult to do. More times than none it’s challenging, especially if you have been close to the individual for a while or someone that you may have just been introduced to, the signs are present. Pay close attention to ones actions, conversations as well as body language. If your gut tells you that a wolf is amongst the group of sheep take heed your gut is almost 99.9 % accurate.

    I’m not by any means telling others to become leary of everyone they encounter as to being judgemental or jaded, just know when Wolves are near or present. Protecting yourself through praise, worship and spiritual warfare will continually build separation from you and the Wolf. I’m sure we all want to give one the benefit of the doubt but not everyone is for you. My encouragement to others, be wise in any situation.

    As a born again Christian I sometimes have to remind myself, that I am a changed woman when negative situations arise, remembering I can not and will not reflect back to my old ways as to dealing with situational circumstances, when I feel that I have been wronged or talked about. I have to remember that the battle is not mine it’s the Lords and leave it at that.

    Walking in Christ is the best change I could have ever given myself. Knowing when to step back and walk away ranging from negative conversations within the workplace to negative phone calls in regards to other individuals. Sooo when I do get the phone call; I always remind the other person on the other end; How about if we pray for them instead of talking about them. Most christians would agree, some non believing individuals might not be where I am as to spirituality, will quickly dismiss our phone call and hang up. Try it, It works.

    As we keep the Bible near pressing to get to know God on a real and truthful level, we must remember to set our minds on protecting and guarding our surroundings, meditating on the Word, not the falseness of the flesh. Eventually we become trained as to spotting this Wolf in Sheep’s clothing.

    6 Signs Of a Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

    • Wolves Gossip
    • Wolves are argumentative
    • Wolves are always right
    • Wolves are unwilling to admit their wrongs
    • Wolves never apologize or admit their faults or ask for forgiveness
    • Wolves are proud individuals

    These are just a few signs to look for. I’m sure there are many more out there. However I will still pray for the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing we all fall short of his glory.

    #savedbyhisgrace72

    “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

    ROMANS 3: 23 – 24 NIV

    
	
    

	

    

			
				

    
			
    
			
    Out of the Darkness Into the Light
    		
    	
	
    
		

    Darkness can not Drive out Darkness only Light can Do that!!
    




    Many times more than none; we as born again Christians seem to run into that place of  darkness and conviction from within, stemming from past or present bad parenting skills to relationship darkness past or present, which may lead some down the road to destruction. I find that It is extremely important factor; for the sake of parenting, as your child grows, childhood development can be influenced by not only what the parent does in life, but how they do it. Poor parenting can be passed down from generation to generation. Some call it a generational curse, I would agree. savedbyhisgrace72
    




    




    Statistics show the more adverse childhood experiences a person had, the more likely their children were to been troubled too. According to “Poor parenting can be passed from generation to generation study.com” NBC NEWS. “CONN”
    




    “If a child feels loved and supported, regardless of what discipline is used, that can be a game- changer.”  NBC  “CONN”
    




    I have a great story to tell in regards to what I have just written above, however you will have to wait until next year August 31, 2020 to read about  The 46th Mile Road to Redemption  How I Conquered the Roads less traveled. How I gained my self assurance, finding faith within my own strength, with the help of Christ Jesus. I had become confident within my abilities to overcome any obstacle and lifes situational circumstances. I knew I was born of uniqueness never utilizing my abilities to rise to occasion until I had to face life head on through challenging changes within my life. I knew in order to deliver my entire self, I had to determine what was needed to guide myself towards the right direction. 
    




     I had never realized how afraid of being in the dark I had become even as an adult, in all reality my life was full of darkness from the beginning. My thoughts; How could I be afraid of the dark when the lights were turned off I walked in darkness most of my life, I had become resilient to this darkness. 
    




    Having the ability to bounce back from life’s setbacks has made me the woman I am today. There were mountains that I had to climb, battles that I had to fight, If I would have never tried, how could I expect to overcome this fear of the flight. If you should ever be at the point in your life where you end up down for the count, remember you do not have to stay down, pick yourself up and continue on. I call it action orientated, The get up and fight spirit. 
    




    As a result I had become conditioned to the risks of extreme pressures the devil kept throwing my way, It was through much failure within my life that I discovered my limitations of what I could and could not do, realizing “Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.” – Maya Angelou
    




    One might ask how they could possibly become more resilient to life’s set backs.
    




    • Prayer, seeking God, understanding the situation.
    




    • Becoming more self conscious within your thought process/ State of mind.
    • Determine what approach to take when a life situational circumstance arises. 
    • Becoming mindful not to fall into the devils entrapment of depression/ self resentment. there is life after the circumstance in any situation.
    • Just know the Lord has his hands on you at all times.
    




    Savedbyhisgrace72
    




    




    • The 46th Mile Road to Redemption
    




    




    




      
	
      

	

      

			
				

      
			
      
			
      Lord This is Your Day
      		
      	
	
      
		

      As the Sun Rises
      




      After my women’s Wednesday night bible study group  I attend weekly, I entered into my place plopped down on the couch immediately reaching for my devotional reading material.“Lord I Give You This Day” I came across a couple of paragraphs that stuck out to me, I would love to share with you all. The Author of the book Kay Authur; writes amazing devotionals. I have held unto this daily devotional book for many years, never utilizing the devotionals until I became a born again christian August 14, 2017. I pray this reaches someone that might be in need of spiritual guidance.  Savedbyhisgrace72
      




      




      “Are you considering compromise in some area of your Life? Perhaps you have already lowered your standards, when it comes to where  you surf on the internet, the conversations you have with friends, Lord is  more than a word; it indicates a relationship. The Lordship of God means his  total possesion of us and our submission to him as Lord and Master.” 
      




      – Kay Authur
      




      Kay Authur, also speaks about spending time with God being made clean of your sins, washing the sins away, spending time interseeding with the Lord through praise and worship, standing in the holy shower (In his Word) scrubbing yourself from head to toe, washing your soul within the Bible. Giving yourself to Jesus Christ our Saviour. There is a scripture that I like to read Ephesians 6: 10 – 17, in regards to the whole armour of God. Being protected from the world. Letting this scripture convict you of any sin clinging from your past or present life. 
      




      




      “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 
      Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
      For we wrestle not against the flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
      Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
      Stand therefore, having your lions grit about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
      And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
      Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 
      And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
      EPHESIANS 6 : 10 – 17
      




      Allowing the Word of God to purify your heart, mind, body and soul. When we spend time in confession of our sins and repentance of our souls, we become transformed, your life will be of a sweet smell within the nostrils of God.
      




      I can honestly say, I look forward to my weekly women’s Bible study group.  I have a yearning desire to want to know God on a deeper more personal level as to my salvation and redemption. I’m not trying to change the world I’m changing Miriam Howe, I’m just the messanger. Every test and trial there is a revelation, he will set you free. God will heal and deliver what is promised to us that is eternel life and salvation, once you trust him and receive his healing you will receive his abundance of grace.
      




      Savedbyhisgrace72
      




      As I ilft my hands to you Lord, Deliver me from my Transgressions
      




      




      




      




      




      
	
      

	

      

			
				

      
			
      
			
      Steps to Sowing a Seed
      		
      	
	
      
		

      10 Steps to Sowing your Seed within Christ
      




      The Ideal location would be a familiar place that you know your seed would surely grow if taken care of properly,  For example Find a Church home, a pastor that will keep you coming back into the congregation, seeking  out  gods direction as to spiritual growth from within. A Pastor that will keep your heart yearning for more of the spoken word, seeking not your will  but the Lords will, displaying obedience walking in faith not by sight.
      




      




      1. Let there be light, seeds need an ample amount of light to thrive off daily.  Scriptures / daily devotionals
      




      




      D“He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” 
      2 Corinthians 9 : 10
      




      2. Pick the best seed to work with. The Holy Bible 
      




      




      3. Prepare the soil, crop your garden, Gather up your thoughts pertaining to where you want to go within this growth process with the planting season. Spiritual preparation / praise and worship
      




      




      4. Sow the seeds begin the planting process of sowing your seed by giving, tithes and offerings, the growth process.
      




      




      5. As the seed begins to grow, you must remember to properly water the garden fertilize the soil. Stay focused in the word, nourish your soil by continually abiding in the gospel, through teachings, learning within the scriptures. If you are unsure of what you are reading seek guidance. Wateringing the soil contributes to proper growth within Christ.
      Bible studies are the best- #savedbyhisgrace72
      




      




      “Greater is he that is in me; than he is of the world..”
      1 John 4 :4 NKJV
      




      6. Become involved within your church groups such as  teen & young adults ministries, women & men biblical teachings studies, volunteer within your church. reach out to the communities in need of spiritual guidance. Feed the soil, fertilize, tend to the garden. 
      




      




      7. Growth Begins; Spiritual desires as to wanting to become Christ like, just like the seed being planted, developing the desire to grow, due to proper nourishment that had constantly been given to the soil. Nurturing your spirit, walking within the light according to his word.
      




      




      8.   The sprouting begins to take place; you start to see the changes from within your own character. Like the seed; the birth of a new beginning. Your actions become more subtle. you have a certain calmness about life. Individuals will notice a change not only on the inside but the outside as well.
      




      • savedbyhisgrace72
      • Evolving
      • Redemption
      




      




      “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked for whatever a man sows, that he may also reap.”
      Galatians 6: 7  NKLV
      




      




      9. As the sprouting  continues, you begin to see leaves forming; buds beginning to form the shape of a flower, keep watering, nourishing  your spirit while engaging within the scriptures of both the old and new testaments. of the bible. You will soon begin to have a different outlook in reference to  the old you, your thought process becomes more fixed on living a righteous christ like way, just like the photo below, we as individuals go though what I call growth seasons. When we decide that we want to sow a seed as to life’s changes, once we sow a seed; our lifes made brand new; Dead to the world, New to Christ. We also go through a birthing process; we as gods children become dependent on him just like a new born is dependent upon his mother, once we give our life back over to our heavenly father, however we are all gods children.
      




      




      10. Congratulations, the flower has bloomed according to his word.  Keep in mind It’s up to you to continue to water and nurture the seed as to next seasons harvest. 
      #savedbyhisgrace72
      




      
	
      

	

      

			
				

      
			
      
			
      A New Creation
      		
      	
	
      
		

      In the mean time, while sitting within the Cafe area, waiting for the 10:40 am service to start, I encountered a beautiful situation I’ll never forget January 06, 2019. Eden Prairie MN 
      In the right place at the right time. While I sat there wearing my diamond butterfly ring I had just purchased the day before, along with my beautiful  butterfly crystal bracelet my good friend Tamara had gifted me with Christmas day. As I sat with my sister in Christ Jenelle.
      




      




      




       “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”     2 Corinthians 5 17
      




      Arising early Sunday morning 8:00 am to be exact, I poured myself a cup of coffee that had just been brewed, being that my coffee maker was on a timer I had sat the night before, so that I could have a fresh cup before leaving out the door to attend Sunday morning worship. Hurrying about my place, getting dressed; I had thought about the butterfly ring I had just purchased Saturday afternoon, the day before.  I wanted to wear the ring with the butterfly bracelet I had received as a Christmas gift by one of my good friends Tamara.
      




       Gathering my bible and purse, out the door I went. Arriving at church thirty minutes before second service would begin, my plans were to get coffee and eat later, being that I had plans for brunch with another sister in Christ after church, I opted out of breakfast. Entering into the building stopping by the table to obtain more coffee that was usually served by the  church members, slowly walking through the crowd to see if I had recognized anyone, straight ahead I see one of my church sisters Jenelle, sitting against the window finishing up her breakfast which consisted of an omelette, potatoes and coffee, she had purchased from the Cafe.   
      




      While we sat at the table within the Cafe of our Church, Jenelle and I began to engage in conversation as to our up and coming plans for the following Thursday. As we began the conversation between the two of us, I noticed a family to the left of me, an older lady with a walker, a middle aged woman along with her three children a boy and two girls. I immediately excused myself from the conversation I was having with Jenelle. Being the extrovert that I am; I always speak first; I said hello to the family. I noticed the smaller child of the three children holding a uncolored photo of Jesus and a purple card which seemed interesting, now mind you I had no Idea what the child had within that purple little folded card that looked like it was made in Sunday school, I spoke to the little girl, she immediately looked at her mother to get the ok as if she was asking “Mom is it OK if I say hello back” her mother nodded. I asked the little girl what was on the card she immediately gave the uncolored picture of Jesus to the older lady with the walker, which later turned out to be her grandmother. 
      




      While handing her grandmother the uncolored picture of Jesus, she approached me walking nearer she began by showing me the front of the purple card which had a caterpillar on the front. I read the front of the card, It read; “When you ask Jesus to be your Savior, You are a new creation, Just like a Caterpillar” tears begin to fill within my eyes, I had been praying the final two weeks in December, that the lord would make me out to feel brand for the upcoming 2019 year, the little girl opened up the card, to my surprise there on the inside of the card was a butterfly the child  had colored with the bible verse from 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new Creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”  I lost it I began to cry, to my surprise the older lady with the cane begin to cry as well. I could see tears gathering up in her eyes as I began to tell my story. I asked the family to please forgive me, stating that I had lost someone so dear and close to my heart  August 17, 2017. 
      




      I informed the family after I lost this special person in my life, butterflies had began to appear around me wherever I went last fall. Informing the family that I had developed a liking to butterflies. The child’s mother had whispered something in the child’s ear, I could not hear, within no time the mother spoke out stating to her smaller child of the three, how god blessed me through her card sharing; stating the lord had used her caterpillar picture and butterfly to provide me with this message. 
      




      The woman informed her child that “god wanted me to see that card today, stating god had used her child to deliver that message.” The family hugged me. The music started to play, church service was about to begin. 
      




      I apologized to Jenelle, as to my crying; her words to me were “just let it out Miriam! Let it out!” Jenelle stated “no need to apologize you  have just received  something from god very therapeutic.” 
      




      The church that I attend has a huge congregation, You can easily get lost from within the crowd.  I took my seat in church across from Jenelle in our usual spots. I looked to my left; again the family was seated a couple of rows in front of Jenell. I waited for church to end so that I could ask if I could take a photo of the caterpillar and the butterfly card.  Immediately after service I rushed up to the mother and her family thanking them for the memorable  unforgettable moment. 
      




      I informed the mother I had began a blog site that my site had only been up since December 30th of 2018 the46thmileroadtoredemption.com I wanted to post this amazing story and use the photos to tell my story, the mothers words were “I tried to get her to give you the card we spotted you during praise and worship service, but as a 5 year old she wasn’t having it.”   I stated that it was quite alright I just needed a photo for my phone, I had my phone all ready to snap away at the card. 
      




      As you can see that is the mothers hand holding the picture as I took the photo. 
      




       Thank You Michelle for allowing your daughter along with you entire family to share my moment, I hope and pray you are reading this post.
      




      God Bless you and your family – Love Miriam
      




      As I journey on throughout life, I am now truly aware of the butterflies representation which have been following me around since August 17, 2017 a new creature in life, a new beginning. I had no idea behind the following. 
      




      God will use individuals that you have never met before even small children, to get your attention as to what he wants to convey to the worn, weary and the weak. By his stripes I am healed. #savedbyhisgrace72