by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
I received the following prayer as an e-mail. I receive lot of forwarded e-mails that I rarely take the time to read, because they seem more gossip than substance. This particular e-mail (regardless of whether it is an actual occurrence or not) hit a chord with me.
Prayer given in Kansas at The opening session of their Senate It seems Prayer still upsets some People. When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open The new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual genealities, but this is what they heard:
Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask Your forgiveness and to seek your direction and Guidance. We know Your Word says, ‘Woe to those Who call evil good,’ but that is exactly what we Have done.
We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed Our values.
We have exploited the poor and called it — The lottery.
We have rewarded laziness and called it — Welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it — Choice.
We have shot abortionists and called it — Justifiable.
We have neglected to discipline our Children and called it — Building self esteem..
We have abused power and called it — Politics.
We have coveted our neighbor’s possessions And called it — Ambition.
We have polluted the air with profanity and Pornography and called it — Freedom of expression.
We have ridiculed the time-honored values Of our forefathers and called it — Enlightenment.
Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts Today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free
Amen!
The response was immediate. A number of Legislators walked out during the prayer in Protest. In 6 short weeks, Central Christian Church, where Rev. Wright is pastor, logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls Responding negatively. The church is now receiving International requests for copies of this prayer From India , Africa and Korea
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on His radio program, ‘The Rest of the Story,’ and Received a larger response to this program than any Other he has ever aired.
With the Lord’s help, may this prayer sweep Over our nation and wholeheartedly become our Desire so that we again can be called ‘one nation Under God.’
If possible, please pass this prayer on to Your friends. ‘If you don’t stand for something, You will fall for everything.’
by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
Today, my heart is heavy. I need to vent a bit.
All around, I am seeing an increasing trend toward “turning away” from God, and Godly Living. There is little doubt that people are afraid, and are losing hope. As things get more chaotic and difficult, it seems that individuals are beginning to look more-and-more to government and charities to help – rather than turning to God.
As offerings suffer during a difficult economy, many Churches are beginning to alter their message – apparently to “appeal” to a larger group of people. Many Pastors are no longer bold in their pulpits for fear of being released from their call. (Note to those Pastors… Your Call is from God, and you should be operating in obedience to His authority alone!) The feel-good gospel shared in many “super churches” is distorting true humble and obedient Faith in God, and replacing it with hollow faith in a persons self-righteous pride. Be warned, that faith is temporal and will not sustain.
For 25 years, it was my joy and blessing to serve with the YMCA. When I started, the Mission of the National office was impressive to me: “Putting Christian Principles into practice through programs that build a healthy, body, mind and spirit for all”. Over the years, the YMCA national leadership has slowly turned away from the Christian Principles the organization was founded on. The mission statement today is nothing more than a hollow, watered-down, feel-good, message to help a community. Certainly, service is good – but the Judeo/Christian Principles that birthed the YMCA seem to have been forgotten. The justification is… there is a need to appeal to a larger, more diverse, population. I take issue, and say that the message of Scripture is available to EVERY person – regardless of their diverse background. The Word is stable, and continues to be current and up-to-date. God has NOT changed – we just don’t recognize Him the same, because we have turned away from Him. (more…)
by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
As I have shared often I believe there is an increasing urgency to get prepared. With every passing day I am more convinced with the increasingly intense need to prepare – and every day my family is busy with preparing.
The comments that will be expressed here will seem to be somewhat contradictory. I assure you there is not a contradiction, but the confusion will lie in the interpretation.
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of speaking with two of my dearest friends – specifically about the topic of preparation. I hear from people all the time about their concerns and even fears with things that are going on, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to get a perspective from two people I know have a strong faith in God.
Their responses were very interesting, and were really a confirmation with what God has impressed to me. The more interesting part for me is that the opinions they expressed, appear to be opposite answers to the same question. The reality is, the answers were both consistent with what God has shown me about the need to prepare.
There is no question about the need to prepare for things that are ahead. In fact, I believe there are significant challenges ahead for the USA that will cause great grief for those who are not adequately prepared. One of my friends shared a warning (that God had impressed on him) about a coming drought and violent hurricanes that are ahead. He obviously believes people need to prepare, and wanted my help in sharing the warning.
His warning was a confirmation of what Yah had impressed to me. I also believe there are going to be turbulent times that will shake the earth. Floods, mudslides, drought and quakes will impact lives, and cause chaos and suffering. We must be prepared.
When I asked the other friend for his opinion about the times, he simply said “Rest in Him, and do not focus too much on turmoil and chaos the are coming”.
While this seems to be a contradiction to the message of preparation, it really is not. In fact, from what Yah has shown me – this IS the essence of the preparation call. Our focus should be on He who calms the storm, and less emphasis on the boat that is being tossed in the wind.
Our Messiah said…
“Martha, Martha, you worry and fret about so many things and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part and it shall not be taken from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)
Right now, it is important to prepare your cupboards and store provisions – especially if drought is coming. The need to prepare and store food, water and provisions is obvious – and is not an alarmist reaction. It is being prudent to the warnings.
BUT… the more important part of preparation, is to Prepare as the Bride. Spend time at the feet of the Messiah and feast on His provision. Draw closer to Him and rest in His peace. Let your preparations be guided in Faith – and the knowledge that God is in control, and not you.
by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Preparation, Sharing
I’ve shared on this blog, that I believe we are headed for great difficulties. It is important that we prepare for the chaos that will impact our lives.
Many who are now engaged in the “Prepper” movement, are pushing action based on fear. That fear is significantly adding to the problems, and creating all sorts of conspiracies. It seems that everywhere you go now, you can hear someone speaking about some outlandish conspiracy theory. The worst part is, the conspiracies and fear grow exponentially. The fear captures many people, destroys hope, and ultimately becomes bondage. Society becomes unstable, which obviously, will create more need for preparation.
So, with difficulties surrounding us from every side what can we do? I mean, there are wars and rumors of wars, famines, and earthquakes in various places – and that’s just the beginning. It seems that all over the planet, you hear of devastation. For many people there seems to be nowhere to turn.
I’ve often thought about the scenarios that we face, and wonder to myself : Where can I go to be safe? I’ve thought about underground, heading into seclusion, and even other Countries. The reality is, there is potential difficulty with any place you go.
Some who are reading this article will be frustrated with my ultimate resolution, but it’s the only safe place that I can offer with absolute certainty. The only place that I know of where you can have safe refuge, is in God. He will never leave us or forsake us.
“It is better to trust and take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Psalm 118:8
God is your refuge. He is the only one who knows the answer to your present difficulties and fears. Take refuge in Him and the answer will quickly come on how you should prepare.
In the refuge of the Lord, the enemy cannot touch you, taunt you, or discourage you. You are safe under the shadow of His wings. Find the secret place every day. There you can find rest for your soul and strength to overcome the trials of these difficult days.
Psalm 112:7, “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings, his heart is firmly fixed.”
by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Sharing
Overcoming Adversity During Difficult Times – How David Conquered Goliath
In a time when life’s pressures and uncertainties seem to weigh heavier than ever, there is something we can gain from studying how David overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to defeat Goliath. Taking to heart the lesson of David’s courage bolstered by faith in God can prepare us to conquer our own modern-day giants. In this article, we’ll explore the story of David and Goliath and see how the lessons therein can be an invaluable tool in our lives today.
The story of David and Goliath is well known, but today it has more resonance than ever before. After all, we can all relate to the fear of facing daunting obstacles and times of adversity which might seem to be too much to bear. In 1 Samuel 17, we learn that Israel was in a desperate situation as the Philistine champion Goliath had come to confront the nation. With his intimidating stature, fearsome armor and pronounced challenge, the entire nation was terrified and succumbed to fear and hopelessness.
It was not until David confidently stepped forward that the nation was able to find hope. As David proclaimed, “for the battle is the Lord’s” and went out in faith, he displayed that no matter how great a giant may seem, no challenge or obstacle is too great if we are rooted and grounded in our faith in God (2 Timothy 1:7). With one small stone, he mustered strength and was rewarded with victory.
Although we may not be facing physical giants like David did, life’s many challenges can sometimes be just as daunting. However, we can take his example as a sign that even in the face of insurmountable odds, God can provide us the strength to overcome and succeed. By trusting in God and relying on him, no problem is too large. Furthermore, with His help, we can find the courage to stand up to our modern-day giants, whatever they may be.
Ultimately, if we take courage and trust in the Lord during times of adversity, we can find hope that no challenge can be too great and no obstacle impossible to overcome. Let us draw strength and courage from David’s example and experience the hope and victory that comes with relying on God. As it is written in Psalm 46:1, God is our “refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
by Joseph | Apr 11, 2026 | Sharing
Life’s journey often takes us through trials and tribulations that test our faith and resilience. These difficult moments can feel overwhelming, but the Bible assures us that God is with us, providing strength and comfort. Just as an oyster transforms a grain of sand into a beautiful pearl, God uses our hardships to create something beautiful within us. Let’s explore how God sustains us during our trials and leads us to a place of renewal and beauty.
God’s Promise of Strength
One of the most reassuring promises in the Bible is that God provides strength to His people. In Isaiah 40:29-31, we read:
“He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.”
This passage reminds us that our strength is not dependent on our own abilities but on God’s infinite power. When we feel weak and exhausted, we can rely on God to renew our strength. By waiting on the Lord and trusting in His timing, we find the endurance to persevere through our challenges.
Comfort in God’s Presence
God’s presence is a source of immense comfort during difficult times. The psalmist beautifully expresses this in Psalm 23:4:
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
The imagery of walking through the darkest valley resonates with anyone who has faced trials. Yet, the assurance that God is with us, guiding and protecting us, dispels fear. His presence brings peace and comfort, even in the most trying circumstances.
The Refining Process
Our trials serve a greater purpose in God’s plan. Just as an oyster endures irritation to produce a pearl, we undergo a refining process that brings forth spiritual growth and beauty. James 1:2-4 encourages us to view our trials from this perspective:
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
James challenges us to embrace our trials with joy, understanding that they are shaping us into more complete and mature believers. This refining process strengthens our faith and character, preparing us for greater things in God’s kingdom.
Hope and Renewal
God’s ultimate goal is to bring us to a place of hope and renewal. He doesn’t leave us in our broken state but transforms us through His grace. In 1 Peter 5:10, we find this promise:
“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
Our suffering is temporary, and God’s grace is eternal. He personally involves Himself in our restoration, ensuring that we emerge stronger and more firmly rooted in His love. This promise fills us with hope, knowing that our trials are not the end but a pathway to a renewed and strengthened life.
God’s Faithfulness
Throughout Scripture, we see countless examples of God’s faithfulness in the lives of His people. Consider the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and enduring years of hardship, Joseph remained faithful to God. In the end, God elevated him to a position of great authority in Egypt, using Joseph to save many lives during a severe famine. Joseph’s words to his brothers in Genesis 50:20 reflect his understanding of God’s providence:
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.”
Joseph’s story illustrates how God can turn even the most painful experiences into something good and purposeful. His faithfulness to Joseph is a testament to His faithfulness to us. No matter what we face, we can trust that God is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28).
The Beauty of God’s Transformation
God’s transformative power is not limited to ancient stories; it is active in our lives today. When we surrender our struggles to Him, He can create something beautiful out of our pain. The Apostle Paul experienced this firsthand and shared his insight in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10:
“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Paul understood that his weaknesses and trials were opportunities for God’s power to be displayed. Our struggles allow God’s grace to shine through, revealing His strength in our lives. This transformation is like the creation of a pearl—a process that turns irritation into beauty.
A Prayer for Strength and Renewal
Let us conclude with a prayer, seeking God’s strength and comfort in our trials and trusting in His transformative power:
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts that are often weary and burdened by the trials of life. We thank You for Your promise to give strength to the weary and to increase the power of those who lack might. Help us to wait on You, trusting that You will renew our strength and enable us to soar on wings like eagles.
Lord, we find comfort in Your presence, knowing that even in the darkest valleys, You are with us. Your rod and staff guide and protect us, bringing us peace in the midst of our struggles.
We acknowledge that our trials serve a purpose in Your divine plan. As an oyster transforms a grain of sand into a beautiful pearl, we ask that You use our hardships to refine and shape us into more complete and mature believers. Grant us the endurance to persevere with joy, knowing that our faith is being strengthened.
Father, we hold on to the hope of Your promise that after we have suffered for a little while, You, the God of all grace, will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish us. We trust in Your faithfulness, believing that You are working all things for our good.
Transform our pain into beauty, Lord. Let Your grace shine through our weaknesses, revealing Your strength and power. We surrender our struggles to You, confident that You are creating something beautiful within us.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
May this message remind you of God’s unwavering presence, His strength that sustains you, and His grace that transforms your trials into a testimony of His love and faithfulness.
