One of my favorite biographies is The Hiding Place, which chronicles the life of Corrie Ten Boom. She was a Christian during the time of the Nazi occupation in the Netherlands. She and her family were imprisoned in the Ravensbrück concentration camp after being arrested for hiding Jews in their home. Corrie’s father died shortly after arriving at camp, but she and her sister ministered to others with the hope of Jesus Christ, sharing Bible verses and hosting prayer meetings within the prison walls.
When her sister died from an illness, a friend rushed to find Corrie so that she could bid her farewell. However, when Corrie saw her sister, she was pleasantly surprised to see her looking as bright and beautiful as she had before they entered the concentration camp. Despite the lack of life in her body, there was a serene smile on her face, and she knew her sister was in the presence of Jesus. Corrie’s heart was sorrowful due to the loss of her sister, but she also rejoiced in knowing that she was with her sweet Savior.
As we consider the resurrection of Jesus, we must remember—this is the crux of our entire faith. Yes, the virgin birth of Jesus is miraculous. His life and death proved the love of His Heavenly Father for us. But foremost, His resurrection proved He was God. Everything He told the disciples and all who followed Him proved true when He walked out of the grave with a new body.
If the resurrection was not real, Corrie and her family would not have endured the persecution they did to bring hope to the Jews and their prison mates. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:19, “If we have put our hope in Christ for this life only, we should be pitied more than anyone.” Our entire lives, when surrendered to Christ, must be built on the solid foundation of the empty tomb and our resurrected Savior. There is no other way, for He Himself is “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).
The trials and heartaches of this world are enough to leave us feeling hopeless. But the resurrection of Jesus Christ infuses us with the hope of eternal life and reminds us nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:37).
Where do you find yourself today, friend? Perhaps you feel like Mary, the sister of Lazarus, who said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” (John 11:21) Maybe there are situations in your life where you can’t see God. Or perhaps you are confident in God’s presence in your life and relate to Mary Magdalene after she saw her risen Savior and declared, “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18).
Friend, the resurrected King Jesus is at the right hand of the Father, interceding for you (Romans 8:34). No matter what you face today, God has already conquered it, and He has a plan for you that is for your good and His glory.
Leave a Reply
178 thoughts on "We Rejoice in Eternal Life"
More often than not, I read Scripture too quickly & neglect to take a moment to put myself in the shoes of the people I’m reading about. I neglect to meditate, reflect, & really think about what I’m reading.
I often have to remind myself of the days in between Jesus’ death & resurrection. What were his disciples & followers feeling & thinking during this time? I imagine they felt anxious, confused, despair, despondent, & fearful.
I also have to remind myself that when they last saw Him, He was beaten, blooded, broken, bruised, & unrecognizable. Now, seeing him post-resurrection, they see Him as the ‘firstborn from the dead’ who is about to ascend back to Heaven to sit at the Father’s right hand to intercede on their behalf. What a sight to see! What were his disciples & followers feeling & thinking during this time? I imagine they felt awe-struck, hope, joy, peace, & relief.
♥️
What a wonderful reminder how the resurrection of Jesus infuses us with hope of eternal life! ❤️
Happy New Year, She’s!!
He takes our seeds of dishonor and uses them for glory. Even when they don’t make sense, He uses it! What hope and cause for rejoice. Happy new year She’s!
Amen ✝️❤
I know I’ve said it before… My fave post-resurrection account is from John… when Jesus calls Mary by name… goosebumps. Every. Time.
What a beautiful way to start 2025. The hope of Jesus and life eternal ♥️
Thanks be to God in the Highest !!! Happy New Year, sisters ♡
❤️
But God!
Happy New Year She’s!
This is how I love spending my New Year Eve with God
The purpose of the advent was death and death, resurrection and that trifecta resulted in the pure spotless sinless holy blood of Jesus being poured out and saving me! Thank you, Jesus!
God you have an amazing plan for me and it’s for my good and Your glory!!
Ah, sweet Shes!
You have blessed me with your stories, your wisdom, your sharing, your prayers…all of you. ❤️
I sat tonight and read through all the comments and tears streamed down my face. And I was reminded of all the ways God goes before us, carries us, leads us. In all the hard and uncertain times, He is there.
And when the day comes when we join Him in glory…
oh what a day of rejoicing that will be!!
This year has been overwhelming.
This year has been amazing!
Who know what next year will bring?
He knows!
How thankful I am!
Hugs to you all!
Have a blessed new year!
❤️
I pray resurrection power over my husband, over myself, over my baby, over my friend, over my momma, over my sister, over my brothers, over his grandparents, over my mother in law. Amen
Rejoice!
❤️
I want to see God’s resurrection power in my life more. I want to walk and move in that power. I pray that I can see him moving more in my life this year.
Praying that for both of us!
It’s late morning in California almost noon and a very chilling 50° weather. I’m freezing.. I had to post this! An amazing encounter! I just love Jesus, our father God, and how He has perfect strangers cross paths. OK here’s my what I experienced just few minutes ago. My daughter and I came to the coffee shop, where my son works! Best in town! After ordering and about to sit down this lovely young lady said to me, she had noticed my SRT advent study book! So of course I had to have a conversation with her! She doesn’t even live in this town and was visiting this coffee shop as it’s a favorite of hers. This is just a God thing! We talked for a few minutes and encouraged her not only read the advent study book, but to go onto the website and read the devotionals that go along with it, and then move on to reading the comments as we are a family! I expressed to her how loving all of you are and maybe I won’t meet you on this side of heaven, but someday I will. I expressed to her how encouraging and loving you all are. I didn’t give her details, but I did express the generosity of all of you, to me, a stranger, but yet a sister. I’m just so full of joy right now! And to think that my daughter and I were going to go to a different coffee shop, but we always like to come to where my son works. Even when he’s not working. God is so good! My heart is pumping with joy! Let’s pray for M as she and her family travel home. It’s a long drive from here.
❤!!! Thrilled for you to have experienced the joy of that ‘divine appointment’ and appreciate your sharing it with us. Praying for safety in travel!
I’m so excited!!
Isn’t it amazing when we GET to talk about our faith to someone that God puts in our path!! I am funny that on planes or coffee shops I often put a book in plan view that I hope they will ask about!! I WANT God to provide opportunity so much that I try to help!! lol!
My heart is happy!
Dear sisters, this morning as I was reading all these precious scriptures about being absent in body and present with the Lord I was thinking about when Jesus takes Jack home (whenever that is). Such comforting words! I shared them with Jack’s sister whose husband passed just this morning. Please pray for her and her family during this sad time. ❤️
Barb D; i love your words. Help us to be ambassadors of Hope..❤️
Lynne, praying for your sister in law as she grieves.. and I pray for you as you care for Jack.. whatever 2025 holds I pray you know the Lord holds you both and your sister in law in these coming days and the year ahead..
Take care Lynne.. continued prayers..❤️
Oh Lynn…praying right now. I’m so sorry for the loss of your sister-in-law’s husband. I’m glad she has you.
Lynne, now timely those Scriptures for you and your sister in law. Please let her know we are praying for her and the family. Praying for you and Jack as always and echoing Tina’s beautiful words of comfort. Love and hugs! ❤
Continued prayers for you Lynn! I just don’t know how you cope with the knowing…and the not yet. It must be incredibly hard!
Lynne….a lot of heavy and heartache on your plate. I’m sorry for the loss of your brother in law. May the Lord bring you strength and peace as you care for Jack and comfort surround your entire family ❤️
There is such great encouragement for our hearts when we rest on the life changing Truth of scripture and the promises of God. Hope. Victory. Peace. Strength. Without these (and so much more) our days would be empty, meaningless and hopeless. Our Jesus is who He says He is; the light of the world that shines in the darkest of days. As we look back on what was, we think we couldn’t have made it, couldn’t have survived or managed one more struggle, roadblock, setback or heartache. But, here we are, and because we are here, it is 100% certain that we have made it through. And, so all praise to our Lord that He has been with us every step of the way. He is our HOPE. Our help, our Sustainer. Our Provider. The lifter of our head. Our Comfort, Peace, Redeemer, Victory and Savior. He knows the way when there is no way. When I look ahead and it feels overwhelming, hard, uncertain, unknown I can recount all He has done, the Truth about who He is and trust that in all that is ahead whether the great, good and exciting unknown or hardest of days, He has a plan and purpose. That He knows all that I don’t, He carries, He leads and He is already there. He is our Hope, our Redeemer and our Victory. ❤️
Blessing for 2025, SRT sisters.
This is so truth filled.. thank you Wendy B..
Blessings as we walk into 2025 together by and in His grace..❤️
I love this!
Forever one of my favorite passages of Scripture is when Mary says to Jesus “Lord, if you had been here” and Jesus doesn’t respond with anger but with pointing her back to truth with grace. It always reminds me that I don’t have to approach God as someone who has everything figured out, no doubts, no anger or sorrow. He will always point me back to truth with loving grace. He is big enough to handle when I pitch a fit as a little human!
Happy New Year everyone!
Blessings as we walk into 2025 ❤️
We watched that episode on The Chosen a few nights ago—it is portrayed well and powerful!
I think a word I want to focus on for 2025 is pleasure. Not my own pleasure. God takes pleasure in His creation and that includes me. I want to focus on what pleases God and then believe that He is smiling when I smile at someone or give an encouraging word etc. we need only to look at Jesus to know what pleases God, for He said “this is my Son, in whom I am will pleased”. God is not standing over me with a stern face and folded arms, He is standing in front of my with wide open arms and a smile on His face. This is the picture I want to take into 2025. May it be so
❤️
Hope of eternal life….NOW that’s what I’m taking about! HOPE! With JESUS on our side, nothing is impossible for our God. I know we have all heard this, but its true. Even when it doesn’t go “our” way or the way we had hoped, BUT GOD…our DADDY knows best. WE weren’t promised a “pain-free-life” BUT GOD (love you Tina), gave of His SON, “our” precious JESUS to give us that HOPE even when we don’t “how” or “when” and sometimes it will be painful (trust me I know) as we read this morning OUR JESUS already conquered it for us and HE has the BEST plan for us. I trust Him even when all-around-me looks impossible. It just might not be the way we thought, and that’s OK, I know my Jesus has me (us) and always will!
Hope.. nothing is impossible with God!
Much love, Mari to you and yours, and a very God moving 2025 Happy New Year!❤️
SWEET Tina!!! Love you!!!
It is true Mari, you trust Him even when all around you looks impossible. I am blessed by our friendship. You always remind me and your faith shows daily that you know, “Jesus has you (me, us) and always will!”
Aw…. Love you Soma!! Thank you for praying with me this morning.
Sister Sojourners
What a beautiful message standing on the brink of a New Year. No matter what, He has a plan … and a purpose…for our good & His Glory. There is no blankness. No stumbling blind. We are built for, and are building, love. And no one equips us better, in these earthly bodies, but Him.
No matter what… He is has a plan.. oh GWINETH52, these are words I shall etch on my heart.. Thank you..❤️
Today, I do not know what to pray for. Holy Spirit lift my voiceless prayers to God. God knows what I need. Amen.
Lifting you Sarah M to our JESUS and praying for you right now! JESUS has you sweetie! Know that when we can’t, HE CAN! our JESUS has you!
Sarah M, no words needed.. He already knows, Jesus is the intercessor..
Lifting your heart to the Fsther God..❤️
As I live each day in chronic pain, I look forward to the day when I meet Jesus in my resurected body.
Do I feel that statement sister! It is so hard to wake up every morning with that pain still there, relentlessly wearing us down before the day starts. Then as the day goes on, so tiring. Ready to call it a day before evening comes. Just to repeat again. In my case, after 20 years, if I give to others somehow- serving, ministering, leading a chronic-pain group..it helps me tremendously to see God is working all things through His glory! Prayers for you!
OH, but yes…What a day to have a body FREE of PAIN..physical and emotional…what a hope to hold on to!!
AMEN.❤️
GM!
I CAN REJOICE in ETERNAL LIFE, no matter what situation I find myself–oh if I could remember this simple, yet profound truth! But we want life to be exciting, rewarding, and full of joy-not the sorrow, loss, and failings that ultimately come. They are hard, knock-me-backwards-off-my-feet, breath knocked out hard. But when we let God be our Shepard, Councilor, Prince of Peace, Shelter, and Comforter- We can be overcomes. Not necessarily out of the situation, but able to endure.
Here’s the thing though, we have to keep experiencing it to gain it’s amazing truth. All the greats in the Bible kept going through trials to keep building their faith and some never made it “out” as we would see as a “fairy tale ending.” Poor Moses never made it to the promise land in the way he thought, Paul ended in prison, David lost his son, all the disciple (except one) lost their lives because they lived for God! So sometimes we need to alter our expectations of this life—-BUT God, we can REJOICE because no matter what the end is known, we KNOW we are going to pass into eternity, to be in the PRESENCE of Jesus!! Wow. That is our hope, our everything. Living for the Kingdom to come! It gives us comfort when we lose loved ones, it gives us comfort through the trials and afflictions, and it gives us comfort when we feel imprisoned and stuck. Thank you Jesus for the “rope” that we know we can grab hold of, the promise that it truth. Grant us this wisdom today, Lord, in Jesus mighty name! Let our eyes stay on you through this journey! You hold our hands, and carry us. (and give us visions and dreams!)!
Hope you all have a great and safe New Years Eve however you chose to bring in the New Year!
❤
You speak truth, my sister .
This is BEAUTIFUL Rhonda! Love this. Grabbing hold of that “rope” with you. Love you sweet lady!
So beautiful, Rhonda..❤️ Happy 2025, my dear ❤️
Amen. Happy new years eve dear sister.
I was just going to message you and see where you had been!
I do rejoice in eternal life! Sometimes it is so easy to get so busy that we forget that tjj hi is earth us not our home. Reminds me of an old song.
This world is not my home
I’m just a-passing through
My treasures are laid up
Somewhere beyond the blue
The angels beckon me
From heaven’s open door
And I can’t feel at home
In this world anymore
Oh Lord, you know
I have no friend like you
If heaven’s not my home
Then Lord, what will I do?
The angels beckon me
From heaven’s open door
And I can’t feel at home
In this world anymore
I have a loving mother
Just up in Gloryland
And I don’t expect to stop
Until I shake her hand
She’s waiting now for me
In heaven’s open door
And I can’t feel at home
In this world anymore
Oh Lord, you know
I have no friend like you
If heaven’s not my home
Then Lord, what will I do?
The angels beckon me
From heaven’s open door
And I can’t feel at home
In this world anymore
Just over in Gloryland
We’ll live eternally
The saints on every hand
Are shouting victory
Their songs of sweetest praise
Drift back from heaven’s shore
And I can’t feel at home
In this world anymore
Oh Lord, you know
I have no friend like you
If heaven’s not my home
Then Lord, what will I do?
The angels beckon me
From heaven’s open door
And I can’t feel at home In this world any more
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jim Reeves
This World Is Not My Home lyrics © Sony/atv Tree Publishing
Ahh, Cheryl, this was a song from my childhood! I would often be heard singing it out of tune..
This really took me back to a young Tina and happy days..
Thank you.❤️
This verse came to mind as I read the devo:
Psalm 32:7 – For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory.
.
VICTORY is the highlight of today’s verses/devo for me. We are victorious because of Christ, our Savior, who defeated death, who was the first in every way.
.
Back to hiding place. When Jessica mentioned that book I was reminded of a song by the Maranatha singers many years ago based on Psalm 32:7. I still have that album (vinyl, of course!), so I think I will have a listen before this year is finished.
.
My word last year was STRENGTH. Boy, was that necessary when my husband and I each had health issues that put us in the hospital and sidelined us physically for a while. I haven’t chosen a word yet for 2025, but victory has been tapping in my brain for a while so….
.
Happy New Year, hugs, love, and prayers, my sisters as we close out this year and enter the next. Another word just came to me as I typed that last sentence
EXPECTATION.
Hmmm
You can hear this comforting song on Youtube (a few versions with lyrics)
You are My Hiding Place ~ Maranatha Singers
I think of the song “Victory….In Jesus, my Savior forever…” I don’t know the title, unless that is it!
I loved the book “The Hiding Place” as well, and the movie and documentary!
Yes, that is the title: “Victory in Jesus”
Same here, but I shared Victory in Jesus recently so I didn’t mention it today.
Cee Gee, I haven’t chosen a word yet..
.
BUT GOD..
Happy New Year my dear..❤️
❤
A beautiful end to 2024. I look forward to reading with you all again in 2025.
I still can’t believe it will be 2025 tomorrow!!!
Rhonda, in seven hours here! Although, Australia is already in 2025!!
.
How mad is that!❤️
Resurrected Jesus, my Lord and Savior and King, intercedes for me before Almighty God! I am so thankful for that and for the plan He has for me to bring Him glory. What a blessing to be part of His plan.
Amen! Isn’t it fun to think about—God is using ME for His glory and plan for the world!!
What a blessing indeed to be part of His-Story.
I can’t actually get my head around that..!
Happy New Year, Jennifer..❤️
“Friend, the resurrected King Jesus is at the right hand of the Father, interceding for you (Romans 8:34). No matter what you face today, God has already conquered it, and He has a plan for you that is for your good and His glory.”
Jesus is interceding for me!! Oh that I would remember this whenever trials and testings come! How can I not overcome, when the King of Kings, the Lord of all – is praying for me! May this give me strength and courage for whatever lies ahead.
——-
It also reminds me that every time I’ve failed or given in to temptation & have not walked away – it’s because I didn’t call on the name of Jesus…even in the little things – like walking away from that cookie or piece of pie that I know won’t do me any good. All I need to say is, “Jesus, please don’t let me eat that” and He will give me the strength to pass right on by!
——-
May I always remember His presence and His resurrection power.
Be blessed on this Tuesday my dear sisters and Happy New Year!!
Amen.., Sharon.!
.
Happy New Year precious friend..❤️
Amen Sharon! Lord help me to call your name Jesus when in any type of difficulties!!!
Thank you, Father, for the birth, life, death, and resurrection of your Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ! Your loving perfect plan gives us peace in this life and hope in the next. Thank you, Jesus!
❤️
My story is so similar to Tina’s.
–
I was in such shock after my son died. I knew it was coming, but there is no preparing for this kind of loss. As I was walking away from the hotel that we stayed at near the hospital, my son appeared at my side. He too had a bright smile just like he used to have. His illness caused muscle weakness and I hadn’t seen that great smile in quite awhile.
–
It was beautiful! I felt wrapped in a clear wrap as I saw my son. He too told me he was okay. “Mom I’m okay!” Exact words.
–
I’m so thankful for God’s provision and love. For His forgiveness. For our faith not being in vain. I think my word for the year will be hope. Hope in all things from God.
What a blessing! I can’t fathom the loss of an only child…it seems cruel. I don’t know that I could keep going….then we have YOU that show’s us someHOW we could do it WITH GOD. Thank you for showing us God’s glory in your testimony and strength.
❤️
Love you Traci…You came to mind early this morning and started praying for you. and love what Rhonda said. WE love you!
❤️
Traci, you are stronger with and in Christ than you know! God is so good and He takes care of His own.
Thinking of you as we approach a New Year. Prayerful the Year ahead continues to heal your hurty heart ..❤️
Love that God showed you that vision.
Hugs, Traci. ❤️
Oh, Jesus, without the eternal life I have in You, my life would have no meaning and no hope. Thank You for the opportunity to rejoice over this Good News with my SRT She’s as we bid farewell to another year. Help each of us to be Your ambassadors of hope going into the year ahead.
Amen ❤
Barb D; i love your words. Help us to be ambassadors of Hope..❤️
Thank You, Father, for Your constant reminder of love, sacrifice, grace and mercy! Thank You for being beside me throughout this year, the past 3+ years, 21 years and before. You never fail me. You never change. You are my constant. Father, I pray that I draw closer to You in 2025. May my children and those around me see You in me. May I be ever joyful and thankful each day, reflecting all that You have done and continue to do. In Jesus Name, Aman.
Happy New Year’s Eve She’s!
My word for 2025 is “Yet”. I wanted to type it out to make it concrete! Haha.
Tara, ‘Yet’ is a great word..
Blessings, my dear..❤️
From HRT today: “We are not without hope in the face of pain and death. We love and follow a risen Savior who is not only stronger than death, but He is loving enough to share his victory with us. All glory and honor and praise be to our risen Lord forever and ever.”
.
As we reflect on 2024, may we face 2025 with the confidence of God’s faithfulness to us.
.
Please continue to pray for the mama needing safe, stable housing. She is still staying in a hotel room and God keeps providing the funds for that. She is thankful, but it is stressful. THANK YOU!
Praying that things will turn around soon for this Mama and praise God that he is providing for her needs. Give us this day our daily bread. Dear Kelly, also wanted to share that my sister and my mom saw my nephew over Christmas. Long story but he is on meth and is homeless with a dog. He is somehow surviving. My sister tried to help him so many times. He has a Bible and prays and believes. My sister is looking into church programs, praying that he will go. My mother told him to find a pastor and ask for help. My sister has never joined a church. I keep praying a Godly man will take Brandon under his wing and steer him to get it together.
Praying Brndon comes to the end of himself and turn to Jesus to pull him out of the pit he is in.
Thanks for the update.
Praying for this young mama.
Kelly, holding this young mama in my prayers for things to fall into place for her and for the year ahead to be a real blessing for her..
.
I love the words also from HRT..
Much love, Kelly.❤️
These passages bring me so much hope and peace! Happy New Year!
❤️
Happy New Year, Sarah..❤️
My 20 year old grandson died this past Saturday after a 12 year battle with cancer. Sam was a devout follower of Jesus. He loved Jesus with all his heart. I can see Sam running trough a meadow, saying “look Grandma Charlotte, I can run as fast as the wind”, just like he did before he got cancer at 8 years old. He never ran again. Sam loved horses and wanted to be a cowboy. I can see him riding with Jesus. I’ve never had visions of another person in heaven like I see Sam. It’s comforting to know he’s there and that I’ll see him again someday, but my heart hurts so, so badly today. Tomorrow is his service. Please pray for our family.
Oh, Charlotte, what a battle he fought! Praying for you and your family as you navigate your loss and his gain.❤️
Oh Charlotte, I am so so sorry. Cling onto Christ to help get you through this deep time of grieving. I know the pain of watching a young loved one with an illness. It is heartbreaking, yet changes you in a way that nothing else can. It brought me to God. Made me less selfish. He will keep you lifted up when you feel that you can’t move forward. Prayers my sister.
Charlotte, our prayers are with you as you grieve through the loss of your precious grandson… the word picture you paint of his ultimate healing, his presence with Jesus, is a beautiful tribute.
I’m so sorry, Charlotte. Sam fought the good fight.
2 Timothy 4:7.
May God be of comfort to you during this difficult time. Hugs ❤️
That is heartbreaking, not just losing his life, but I can’t imagine watching a grandchild suffering with cancer for those many years, surely a blessing but great questioning and wrestling with the whys. My heart goes out to you and prayers for all the family, especially the parents.
Oh Charlotte – I am so sorry to hear of your loss. How hard that must be. Praying for you & your family and for the service tomorrow. May God be glorified through it all & may the testimony of Sam’s life shine bright. May God comfort your hearts in knowing that Sam is with the Father & completely healed. ❤️❤️
Charlotte, praying for you and your family as you mourn this loss. So thankful that God has offered a glimpse of Sam in his eternal life, smiling and riding with Jesus. May you all be comforted through these tough days.
Charlotte, I’m praying for you and all your family! We are not supposed to outlive our kids and grandkids! My heart hurts for you! Praying for God’s peace and comfort.
I am so sorry and I will be praying for you. As a fellow grandma, I know your grief must be so deep. Praying God comforts and carries you as well as your family. ❤️
I am praying for the Lord’s comfort over you and your family dear Charlotte.
Oh Charlotte…joining our SRT sisters in prayer for you and the family. So sorry to hear this but SO grateful your grandson had a grandma like YOU! Praying for your heart!
Charlotte….I am so very sorry for your loss. What a great heartbreak. May you and your family know the Lord’s great comfort, strength, hope and peace ❤️
I’m so sorry for your loss, Charlotte. I’m glad to hear that he loved Jesus. May the Lord comfort you and your family and give you deep peace.
Charlotte, dear sister, my heart goes out to you and your precious family! I am so so sorry for your loss of your grandson. I can’t imagine the heartbreak you feel! I am praying for you and your family! May God grant you His peace and comfort. ❤️
Oh Charlotte, I am so very sorry for your heartbreaking loss.. I pray for sure he is running in Heaven and that you will be united with him in Eternity..
Praying your heart knows peace tomorrow as you say your final farewell. Praying also for the family on what will be a really hard day.. Lord in your mercy hear our prayers.. ❤️
Joining with our sisters here in
sympathy and prayers for your family!
Thanks be to God. Amen and amen
❤️
What a beautiful message to end 2024 and start a new year! This morning I found myself lost in Paul’s message so I read 1 Corinthians 15 in the Message, it ends:
“Then the saying will come true:
Death swallowed by triumphant Life!
Who got the last word, oh, Death?
Oh, Death, who’s afraid of you now?
It was sin that made death so frightening and law-code guilt that gave sin its leverage, its destructive power. But now in a single victorious stroke of Life, all three—sin, guilt, death—are gone, the gift of our Master, Jesus Christ. Thank God!
58 With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don’t hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.”
Happy New Year all – what a beautiful picture of our Master’s victory!
Thank you Lori for adding 1 Corinthians 15 vs 58. I was able to volunteered on Christmas Day for my first time, in a near by town, a very big undertaking for the needy in the community which started 31 years ago. My assignment was at the craft table, 2nd shift. I was able to view almost all what was taking place from this spot, which by the way, was decided for me, before hand…But God ( thank you Tina) …Looking back, as I have been pondering all that took place that day …for almost a week now …just wondering what was it all about…vs 58 gave me my answer.. if it was just for the one young couple that came carrying a baby in each of their arms, it was worth it all. Thank you Jesus.
❤️
Happy New Year, Lori..❤️
What a way to end a year, thinking of new life, eternity with a new body that is incorruptible. This verse from I Corinthians 15:19 If we have put our hope in Christ for this life only, we should be pitied more than anyone.
So true! When I see people running after false hope in things of this world, it makes me so sad because their lives are chaotic, blowing around in the wind, uncertain. I do pity them and want them to know the ultimate hope in Jesus. Sitting here this morning so grateful for this community that daily reminds me of that hope, and grateful to God for giving us His Word to anchor our future hope in eternity. I love that our bodies will be incorruptible. How cool is that!
Thank you all for your kind comments yesterday. It is so good when sisters dwell together in unity!!
❤️
May I bask in the promise of eternal glory with Christ.
Indeed, LaRae, may we bask in the promise of eternal glory with Christ Jesus..
Amen.
❤️
Oh Father let eternity sit in my heart and build my faith and actions daily. In Jesus name, Amen
❤️
Amen!
Amen!
Amen.
Jessica’s question “where do you find yourself today?” along with the remainder of the paragraph … so many situations where I ask, or have asked, Why, Lord? Where were You, where are You?
.
A teary morning as I look back at times of questioning. No, I don’t have all the answers and things have not been wrapped up neatly with a bow on top, but what I’ve repeated to myself time after time is still true – God has a plan and He knows what’s best. Even when I’m asking (screaming even) How? How, Lord, can THIS be the best? … believing in and trusting Him each day.
–
Reminded of several songs after reading the Scriptures along with SRT & HRT devos … Midnight Cry (Gold City w/ Ivan Parker, written by Chuck & Greg Day, 1986), He Lives ( written by Alfred Henry Ackley, 1933), If You Knew Him (The Perry’s, written by Rodney Griffin, Joseph Habedank).
–
Praying for my sisters here, and wishing each of you the best in 2025.
Oh, Searching, don’t we all fall short in our questioning of life’s most painful moments? Yet, he intercedes for us and loves us still. What an amazing God we serve! ❤️ Happy New Year!
❤❤❤
Happy New Year dear Searching and thank you for all your prayers for all the ladies here and their loved ones.
Oh Searching.. feeling your questions.. as you know that journey has been mine..
.
BUT GOD..
Happy New Year dearest.. and thank you for your prayer warrior heart and continued prayers for each of us here..
Thank you..covered in love and hugs..❤️
❤️
I was once asked what was the best thing about being a Christian. I replied: I know where I’m going.
John 20:16 ‘Jesus said to her, “Mary”‘. (Vicki)
‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’ Isaiah 43:1
I know.
Thank you Father God.
So beautiful. Gives me peace.
❤️
❤️
Amen❤️
I don’t know about you, but I DO rejoice in eternal life..
.
Like Simeon in the temple, I can say, with my hand in my heart.. ‘..For my eyes have seen.. ” My heart has known, ooh, and my soul has been soothed by the vision of my beloved daughter in a beautiful meadow, I can only called Eternity!
.
Some of you know this testimony, so I am sorry to rewrite it again.., But I felt the nudge from God to retell it..
.
When Julee died, though I knew of God, having gone to a Catholic boarding school, I was not a follower or the believer I am today.. Surprise!
.
I spent months after her death going to a little local church, and sitting for hours, when I wasn’t at the graveside, ranting and raving at God, accusing and being disrespectful to Him. Not my finest hour..
.
BUT GOD..
.
He sat with this broken hearted mother, out of her mind with grief, and sorrow, and who could not see life to be in any other form than sorrow-filled.
After weeks of this tiring rant and banging of the altar, asking why, so very tired, I sat down, totally exhausted, it was then, at my lowest, rock bottom really, that God showed me where Julee was.. My beautiful girl was running through a meadow, waving at me, shouting, ” I am okay mum, and I am happy”. Torrents of tears flow freely down my cheeks as I write.. They are a mix of thankful for the reminder, and a wonder to see Julee running through the meadow with a smile so beautiful, my heart sings in joy!
.
I was a Mary in those early days of heartbreak, I knew no better.. I had no real life line to God, my trip to the church was to have it out with Him, to tell Him He was a fraud and that He broke my heart..
.
BUT GOD..
.
He only held me closer, in my sadness and brokenness. In my confusion and lost-ness.
Jesus, was my intercessor, the hero of this story, the Saviour of my story and me..
To Him be the Glory for who I am today.. Not perfect, nowhere near there, yet, but loved beyond measure by God, who gives me Hope to REJOICE in the knowledge of Eternal life..
.
BUT thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ..
.
Father God, Thank you for the restoration of my life, not as it was, but as it should be in YOU.. Forever thankful, for my Saviour, Your Son, Jesus Christ, who gives me victory each day, when the going gets tough, or when it feel like I am trudging through life, or just have no oomph to do life.. ❤
Forever thankful, Father God, Thank you for Jesus.
.
Amen.❤
.
Happy New Year’s eve, my fellow sojourners!
What a year it’s been! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for each and everyone of you..❤❤❤❤❤
Thankful for you, Tina. And thankful for the tender loving kindness of our Father. ❤
Oh, Tina, thank you for the retelling of your beautiful testimony. I think this is the version for your book ❤️
Yes!! ♥️♥️
❤️
Tina your writing blessed me this morning. I lost my daughter September 2023, suddenly to an aneurysm. A friend of mine had a vision similar to what you described, my daughter in a meadow spinning and basking in His glory. I wish I would get these visions, but I did see a picture that made me think of what she said, and she told me it was similar. So I have something to look at. I grieve, but not as one without hope. I know where she is and I will see her soon.
Happy New Year to all!
I’m so sorry for your loss, Mayra. ❤️
❤️❤️
Marya, my heart is joined with you in your heartbreak. Praying God holds your hand each day as you navigate life without your daughter..
Thankful for the vision and yes, you will see her again, in Jesus’s name..
Amen.
Much love..❤️
Beautiful testimony of God’s “hesed” unfailing love/mercy ❤️ happy new year to you!!
Thanks for sharing your story and your heart ❤️
❤️
It is a beautiful testimony, Tina, and one that should be recounted often. It is amazing how God uses our biggest sorrows to bring us closer to Him and to witness to others. Thank you for sharing your heart with us every day. You are a blessing!
Love this so much Tina, bless you xoxo
Thank you for this, Tina. I never get tired of hearing your story. You are such an encouragement to us all. God is so good!!! ❤️
Thank you so much for the telling of your story, even though it brings tears. Your testimony is such a blessing. Thank you.
Tina, I have read your story before but always love to read it again. Thank you for sharing it again as it is such an encouragement. Happy New Year to you my friend! I pray 2025 is a blessed year of miracles for you!
Thank you for sharing your story, TINA. I don’t believe I have read it before. It is beautiful.
Tina, I never tire of hearing your testimony. God is so faithful! Your story inspires me! I have a young adult daughter in prison from whom I’m estranged. The estrangement occurred about 4 months after her arrest and subsequent time in residential treatment. I was so angry with God that for two years after, I could barely attend church. I felt the church and God had failed us since she was a young child with special needs. Thankfully, God meets us in our grief, and never let’s go! My faith and peace are deeper than ever. In fact, my word for 2024 (I do this instead of a New Year’s resolution) was “Trust.” He has grown me SO much in trusting Him alone this year. May our stories of motherly grief and eternal hope give others courage and inspiration as we all march heavenward. Happy New Year!
Tina I was so blessed by your story of Julee the first time I heard it. It gave me hope that I could make it through the death of my son. It was just a matter of time. I was a mess. So thin. In such emotional pain. I cannot even describe it. It makes my chest tight to even try. We have been blessed sister, by God’s hand. Wrapping us in His love. Holding us at the most difficult time in our lives. What a Father we have!
❤️❤️
Traci.. our Father God, has us close as we journey this road..
Indeed, what a loving Father we have..Amen..
I love you, sister..❤️
❤️
Thank you Tina – for always sharing your heart and all the ways God has worked and is working on your life. You are an inspiration to us all!! ❤️❤️
Thank you, TINA, for telling your story again. As you can see from the comments, it has touch many hearts!
Thank you for sharing, Tina!❤️
What a beautiful testimony and so powerful ❤️
Happy New Year dear Tina and thank you for sharing all your experiences with us in beautiful detail. You have a wonderful gift and your journey of faith is so inspiring. God bless you!
Sweet Tina…KEEP tell us your story. It bless us and I know it bless others and I know there are “new” She’s joining us all-the-time that need to hear your story and what JESUS has done for you. LOVE you Tina!
Thank you for sharing ❤️
Thank you dear sisters for your encouraging words and heartfelt responses.. I am touched? Truly..
.
Happy New Year, my dears.. always covered in love and hugs. ..❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❤️
Amen x