Bears or Gators? Believer or Non-Believer? - Melissa Henderson

So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living thing with which the water teems and that moves about in it, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:21 NIV 

“What do you mean there are gators in the neighborhood?” 

Moving from central Virginia to South Carolina's Lowcountry brought new adventures. Learning about alligators, blue skinks, armadillos, and other creatures led to excitement but also a bit of worry. One of the most interesting parts of living in a new state was adapting to the weather and different animals. Would we prefer the bears of Virginia or the gators of the South?

As my husband and I became accustomed to the humidity and scorching heat of the Deep South, we began referring to ourselves as “South Carolinians.” We laughed as we noticed folks wearing long-sleeved shirts and coats when temperatures reached sixty degrees in the Lowcountry. In Virginia, that temperature was great for wearing summer clothes. Our bodies soon acclimated to the climate, and we found ourselves dressing like the locals.

We settled into our new community and learned that alligators were a part of everyday life. Neighbors warned us, “Stay away from the gators, and they will leave you alone.” We didn’t have to be told twice about that. In the mountains of Virginia, bears could be seen crossing highways and looking for food at campgrounds.

In every state we have visited or lived in, we learned about animals. Just as there are bears and gators, there are believers and non-believers of God’s Word. Seeing the bears and gators proves they exist. Reading and studying the Bible deepens our relationship with God. Our hope and trust are found in him.

Although we don’t physically see God yet, as we do animals, we can still know He is real. He is the Creator. His love extends to all His creations. Yes, we believe he exists and will fulfill his promises.

Determine to find comfort in God's promises.

Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages, sometimes humming them with humor. Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. She is a contributor to many publications. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, Bookbub, Youtube, Linkedin, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com.

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Philemon Promise - Cindy Evans

Welcome to Walk-on Wednesday. By Hump Day, we are struggling, but we believe a good devotion can strengthen us to finish the week strong. 

Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever. Philemon 1:15 NIV

After a painful break-up with my then-boyfriend, Mark, I felt down.

What went wrong? We'd both been Christians and had lots of fun together, making sweet memories. Although we both had hope, it hadn’t worked.

One day, still hurting from the loss, I was on the floor, crying out for comfort and looking in God’s Word. My pages fell to a passage I'd never noticed before.

My eyes opened wide as I read the following Scripture from Philemon: “Perhaps this is the reason he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back forever.”

My jaw dropped. Lord, is this a promise for me? Could it be? Was God using this season of separation to teach us something or prepare us for the future?

I felt my soul stirring and my heart overflowing. I felt the Spirit speaking. I tucked this verse in my heart, and it brought peace. I felt my brokenness healing tenderly in a way that’s hard to explain.  

Not too long after that, Mark and I got back together. Today, I write this as his wife, and I will always remember with awe and gratitude this precious time when God shared His wonderful Word with me.

What promise have you received from God? 

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Cindy Evans is a published poet living in the greater Atlanta area. Her prayer is to be a keyboard for Christ. She enjoys her work at a faith-based hospice company and also date nights with Mark (who you read about) and church activities.

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Throwback Tuesday - Claiming God’s Promises - Martin Wiles

Claiming God's Promises

I made several promises when I said “I do,” and I sincerely intend to keep them.

I promised my wife I would love her forever—“until death do us part.” I’m presently keeping this promise and intend to continue doing so. Our days together grow sweeter, and our love changes as it deepens into a more intimate relationship. I promised to love her in good times and in bad.  And we’ve had our share of both. The good times we enjoy, and the bad times draw us closer together and strengthen our bond. I also promised I’d stick by her in sickness and health. She’s experienced both, and I’m still standing by her side. Read more...

Tweetable: Are you claiming God's promises?

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