tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90426095157761314742024-03-23T05:15:49.005-05:00šVoice of the DovešLet's go higher, ever increasing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comBlogger366125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-41850948271173146922024-03-18T10:15:00.001-05:002024-03-18T10:45:13.596-05:00GOD IS NOT MY BUTLER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjrTDxJSeM-n8FnIdAmV7h9iq4IEIwjQScJjGgGYzPNfVxKuqqiRnrZSa5whCFLRBBM1CHw9o8ZDzLaUNIMK2gAxUeJ-CE7TVQF1ul65CgX-Ytf1AqEH309IIQ9DkGiDEGYBXcpDwnDZbQC3gP8ZbhtZfoH8HDfksWG_GZTvk6LNjcVAIUx8MKPlUBeVr/s1000/Butler-with-a-silver-tray_kindlephoto-60938437.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="1000" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjrTDxJSeM-n8FnIdAmV7h9iq4IEIwjQScJjGgGYzPNfVxKuqqiRnrZSa5whCFLRBBM1CHw9o8ZDzLaUNIMK2gAxUeJ-CE7TVQF1ul65CgX-Ytf1AqEH309IIQ9DkGiDEGYBXcpDwnDZbQC3gP8ZbhtZfoH8HDfksWG_GZTvk6LNjcVAIUx8MKPlUBeVr/w400-h284/Butler-with-a-silver-tray_kindlephoto-60938437.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">God is not my butler, serving up answers to my prayers on a
silver platter. Neither is He my errand boy, to go over here and there to see
about something or someone.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">We donāt make demands on God, but we pour out our hearts and
souls to Him. May we never forget it is a throne of grace to which we come and
submit our petitions to obtain mercy and find grace to help in our times of
need (Heb. 4:16).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Weāre not in the driverās seat, Jesus is at the wheel. What
man shall teach God how to govern the world? God alone is the possessor of
absolute power and absolute wisdom.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">When we talk to God, we shouldnāt demand what we want, but
we humbly and confidently ask Him for our requests. We ask that His will be
done, and that He may align our desires with His will. Because He hears our
prayers, <i>He will give us a definite answer.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>God is Majesty, Dominion, and Power</b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i>Hebrews 8:1-2 (NKJV) Now this is the main point of the
things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right
hand of the <b>throne of the Majesty in the heavens</b>, a Minister of the
sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>These, and all blessings, we humbly ask and pray in Jesusā mighty
name, Amen.</b></span></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-14421235618941893632024-03-14T11:11:00.001-05:002024-03-14T11:11:36.292-05:00MY INDEPENDENT SPIRIT<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBilzS4GK3CM3EBi_R8pvPgRXtShrqvObEfOm1Wbc4mtR5gycqOzrPnZRw4a4X2L6y15r0l51zqNXeZxRA6SdCnsiwdW8SQjHE3-ixnLVFZCd8bXDshvotsDOU57Wh_BdYuOHLY-XUwUp1IN9nHd7UA101zJCE5Bn7rBgZuVIwFT6XdfoWwCGJdGKFWwWh/s900/blogtwimport141028-god-dependence.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="900" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBilzS4GK3CM3EBi_R8pvPgRXtShrqvObEfOm1Wbc4mtR5gycqOzrPnZRw4a4X2L6y15r0l51zqNXeZxRA6SdCnsiwdW8SQjHE3-ixnLVFZCd8bXDshvotsDOU57Wh_BdYuOHLY-XUwUp1IN9nHd7UA101zJCE5Bn7rBgZuVIwFT6XdfoWwCGJdGKFWwWh/s320/blogtwimport141028-god-dependence.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Grow In God-Dependence</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-family: georgia;">For some time now, God has been dealing
with me about my independent spirit. I never-ever want to feel like I'm being a
burden on anyone, so I generally won't ask for favors, I just try to figure out
a way to do things myself... but the Lord wants us totally dependent on Him. My
independence has been sabotaging our relationship because it hinders God from
leading me His way, because I'm busily doing things my own way, so I don't have
to be a burden on Him.</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">
I was watching one of my favorite Bible teachers this morning, and she read the
passage in Deuteronomy 8 about the Lord leading the children of Israel through
the wilderness to humble them, and teach them to totally depend on Him. That's
why they got a <b>daily provision</b> of manna, and yesterday's manna went bad. When they tried to keep leftovers, the manna bred worms and gave off a bad stench.</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">
In this season of my life, my wilderness experiences has taught me to lay down
my independent spirit and let God be in charge as my caregiver, my provider,
and the GPS giving me directions. He wants us living totally dependent on Him.
We're not getting on His nerves, and we're not a burden on Him. It's His
preference.</span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i>
Jeremiah 17:5-8 (NIV) This is what the LORD says: "Cursed is the one who
trusts in man (or self), who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart
turns away from the LORD. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands;
they will not see prosperity when it comes. They will dwell in the parched
places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. But blessed is the one
who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree
planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear
when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of
drought and never fails to bear fruit."</i></span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-49464970405784165872024-03-11T16:07:00.000-05:002024-03-11T16:07:55.146-05:00BODY LANGUAGE<div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoG1P1nbzEH04Q5ZZZrkNh8L4FhonDtXaDpNxjAIN1hid0s7UQ176CCdq-aZg4ZDcQU_qMBJLxx5htwVmce8bbm2P-efF_ATZnTP0vPPwdWcArK0nHD3ThTYvjK61YinAJioBYw1bTtVH_Oo562NMx9snTTya2Ox10gis_4fEFjSE3qacrR-iosjk4pvg/s246/image-0f33307d-1a9e-475b-8839-78fc73b6f20e_kindlephoto-6252641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="239" data-original-width="246" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoG1P1nbzEH04Q5ZZZrkNh8L4FhonDtXaDpNxjAIN1hid0s7UQ176CCdq-aZg4ZDcQU_qMBJLxx5htwVmce8bbm2P-efF_ATZnTP0vPPwdWcArK0nHD3ThTYvjK61YinAJioBYw1bTtVH_Oo562NMx9snTTya2Ox10gis_4fEFjSE3qacrR-iosjk4pvg/w320-h311/image-0f33307d-1a9e-475b-8839-78fc73b6f20e_kindlephoto-6252641.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was September 28, 2022, and I was on a job interview. I
thought it was going well, but right in the middle of our meeting, the
interviewer abruptly terminated the interview and escorted me out of his office,
making a comment that let me know I had irritated him in some way. I had no
idea what it couldāve been. Frankly, I thought the interview was going well.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Two months later, I saw that he was still running the post
for the position, so I mailed him my resume again. He called me immediately
upon receiving it and we set up a meeting for that same afternoon. He did not
remember my name from the first interview as we spoke on the phone, but as soon
as he walked into the lobby where I was waiting and saw my face, I could tell
that he remembered me. He said, āIāll be back in 15 minutes.ā But he didnāt come
back. I sent him an email apologizing for whatever it was I had done to offend
him, but he never responded.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Today, the Lord revealed to me that the reason the interviewer
dismissed our meeting was because of my <b>body language</b>. He was reading
negativity through my body language, and that makes perfect sense because he
was doing most of the talking, and I was just noticing how junky his desk was.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Proverbs 16:30 in The Voice Translation says, āBody language
can expose a personās intentions.ā It screwed up my job interview, and thereās
no telling how many other things Iāve sabotaged while someone was reading my
thoughts through my body language.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The apostle Paulās advice is to meditate on good thoughts.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;">Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) Finally, brethren, whatever things
are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things
are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if
there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthyā¦ meditate on these
things.</span></i></p></div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-68661419614165735102024-03-10T19:47:00.001-05:002024-03-14T19:49:02.166-05:00SEEING THE WORD AS A TOOL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA7ntjmAmv1AO-njq1OA1BU_CQswlRrpZr4y5UIjSJaChw3VeVXnq-6qLPjUVhZuDf_iNiUvWGyoFWD0iU5TGvPI5C-oisx9Yler01eKDt-tHgp6jGbdHC-kBRol3ulIPztXj_TVRrGMmX_2MdRb5jTZIcu7Z0SXiwHzcd-4TYeYNcuAOal1mhqok3a6I/s1600/7573530-Josiah-Bancroft-Quote-I-suppose-books-are-like-a-surgeon-s-scalpel.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYA7ntjmAmv1AO-njq1OA1BU_CQswlRrpZr4y5UIjSJaChw3VeVXnq-6qLPjUVhZuDf_iNiUvWGyoFWD0iU5TGvPI5C-oisx9Yler01eKDt-tHgp6jGbdHC-kBRol3ulIPztXj_TVRrGMmX_2MdRb5jTZIcu7Z0SXiwHzcd-4TYeYNcuAOal1mhqok3a6I/w400-h225/7573530-Josiah-Bancroft-Quote-I-suppose-books-are-like-a-surgeon-s-scalpel.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">A scalpel in the hands of a skilled surgeon can save a life, but in the hands of a fool can kill. So it is also with the word of God. Hebrews 4:12 says it is sharper than any two-edged sword. This incredible "cutting" power of Scripture is therefore a tool to separate our very thoughts into good and evil.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">To share God's word is a great responsibility because the way we present it, and live it, will encourage people either to accept it or reject it. Whether we speak from a pulpit, teach a class, or share with friends, we are entrusted with accurately communicating and living out Godās Word. As we share Godās Word with friends and neighbors, they will look for its effectiveness in our lives. Unless it has changed us, why should they think it can change them?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Be diligent to present yourself approved of God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Greek phrase translated āable to teachā occurs in the New Testament in 1 Timothy 3:2 and 2 Timothy 2:24. It simply means to be able to explain Godās Word with skill. That is the ability to utilize His tool effectively like that surgeon with his scalpel does, saving precious lives. The emphasis is not only on having the knowledge of Scripture, but also on the ability to communicate it effectively.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Pacifico;">Go in peace.</span></i></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>To God be the glory.</b></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-50073033907510302072024-03-09T09:24:00.002-06:002024-03-09T09:24:57.855-06:00BY HIS STRIPES I AM HEALED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEixPC-Y29uZFYnJCOwLE9DWsSi-X0-kDjpAtWo1zs5tmjOhoao9Wt5J84FjZYyMCJ-JaKWgsuIrQDwyUMN_-UgG6yBjlDtI02zlEOqHII92pftC5jbGqfvyP_i5Qynwfg_84uTFzYqikjMO3GVdQRUCa_FJcozd8_ONpcDV02terz3m8hSXnFgrXvQAJ/s1587/3cbea99bedb4dcb011b1df04e486ed61.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1587" data-original-width="1271" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEixPC-Y29uZFYnJCOwLE9DWsSi-X0-kDjpAtWo1zs5tmjOhoao9Wt5J84FjZYyMCJ-JaKWgsuIrQDwyUMN_-UgG6yBjlDtI02zlEOqHII92pftC5jbGqfvyP_i5Qynwfg_84uTFzYqikjMO3GVdQRUCa_FJcozd8_ONpcDV02terz3m8hSXnFgrXvQAJ/s320/3cbea99bedb4dcb011b1df04e486ed61.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In the Fall of last year, I began believing God for a
decrease in medications that I take everyday for <i>Type II Diabetes</i> and <i>High
Blood Pressure</i>. Side effects from the meds were adding more issues to the
sicknesses. Then when I went to my doctorās appointment in November, she
actually gave me prescriptions. My cholesterol was really high and my blood
sugar was high too. So instead of 1 tablet daily for diabetes, now I take 2.
Instead of meds decreasing, they actually increased, and my blood sugar is
still running high even with the increase.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">This left me scratching my head about my faith to believe
for the direct opposite of whatās actually happening.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I never got the cholesterol prescription filled. I
discovered that eating lemons can decrease cholesterol, so I started a daily
regimen and my doctor agreed to see if that works.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Early this week, I remembered a song from way back in the
day by John P. Kee that says, āIām healed in Jesusā name. No more sickness. No
more pain. By His stripes we shall all proclaim that I am healed in Jesusā
name.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>To God be ALL the glory. He is my healer.</b> I am
believing God that I am completely healed of ALL sickness and disease.
Diabetesā¦ high blood pressureā¦ high cholesterolā¦ constant ringing in my earsā¦
pain in my back, and swelling in my feet. The yoke is destroyed, and I am free.
David killed his giant, and Iām going to kill mine.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The prophet Isaiah said, āHe was wounded for our
transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our
peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.ā</span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-43867336255462977762024-03-04T03:48:00.002-06:002024-03-04T10:41:21.294-06:00UNINTENTIONAL SIN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Last Wednesday I received Leviticus 5:17 as the <i>Verse of the Day</i> in my email. It says, "If anyone sins and does what is forbidden in any of the Lord's commands, even though they don't know it, they are guilty and will be held responsible."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnZ6uL6zQ05Mq4TATjkm2011XijcZvnl8ird4nd3bIq98NekrxZ16RfsVflYWO3jCQeNFFGXU8Z9vOHNnDTdw3eMlC7azMJwa3dHyuP2afEEet7QuSVC-6SnyYUl7e3LgECiOY3qzyvlkTLzC6bO31BFok_t2FsGwti_Np_R27dc2Z-8Na-Gj_XAcHKsf/s1376/leviticus-5-17-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1376" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnZ6uL6zQ05Mq4TATjkm2011XijcZvnl8ird4nd3bIq98NekrxZ16RfsVflYWO3jCQeNFFGXU8Z9vOHNnDTdw3eMlC7azMJwa3dHyuP2afEEet7QuSVC-6SnyYUl7e3LgECiOY3qzyvlkTLzC6bO31BFok_t2FsGwti_Np_R27dc2Z-8Na-Gj_XAcHKsf/w400-h209/leviticus-5-17-2.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">NIV Translation - DailyVerses.net</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br />I became somewhat offended by the fact that someone would be punished for something they didn't even know was wrong. That bothered me for a couple of days. Then yesterday, another verse came through my Facebook feed that says, "God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ."</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXtqh_4F9iwEjlP1eLIdf2tjiFP4s1-UvXsyiv1zWDu8YTUaWeHJmvOA1RJL74VCZy6aps0pW68w3kW5fSXo7vpNJQAGP_OCU_OTQzChZQhtu_up7d_SAjQ45eYOz8TDahu92Pqmqc_bRsghTvbY6ZHCPh5Y0f4ynpSYdNq4oXWTuAi_Q6IDQPe69acAs/s720/FB_IMG_1709470350416.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXtqh_4F9iwEjlP1eLIdf2tjiFP4s1-UvXsyiv1zWDu8YTUaWeHJmvOA1RJL74VCZy6aps0pW68w3kW5fSXo7vpNJQAGP_OCU_OTQzChZQhtu_up7d_SAjQ45eYOz8TDahu92Pqmqc_bRsghTvbY6ZHCPh5Y0f4ynpSYdNq4oXWTuAi_Q6IDQPe69acAs/s320/FB_IMG_1709470350416.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">King James Bible's Facebook Page</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;">That took a load off. I said, "Oh, God is not looking for a reason to be angry with us. The whole reason Jesus came in the first place was to save us from God's wrath."</span><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gppya_WuwTRS8NNOt_uNGyk8S4kcl4f1X5b7jDr1-dxm-tw3XAZCBFsMclG6YyhCAnlBkat2S0UHl6-gO7Km7hdiapOAwU-rgIewx6RDkDErF3n0-QTdLkDXHjQi5Hpef7577ugUCXSsAq3IC7nIZnGr5SXnkkX5DARi9ARulLPw6IGrEqXPQ7UM8Pbv/s1134/Jerem%2029.11%20NIV.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1134" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gppya_WuwTRS8NNOt_uNGyk8S4kcl4f1X5b7jDr1-dxm-tw3XAZCBFsMclG6YyhCAnlBkat2S0UHl6-gO7Km7hdiapOAwU-rgIewx6RDkDErF3n0-QTdLkDXHjQi5Hpef7577ugUCXSsAq3IC7nIZnGr5SXnkkX5DARi9ARulLPw6IGrEqXPQ7UM8Pbv/s320/Jerem%2029.11%20NIV.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Because of Adam's sin, we are born with God's wrath abiding on us, but thanks to Jesus that wrath has been taken away, and the love of God has been poured out in our hearts, with the presence of the Holy Spirit who was given to those who believe.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div></div></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-40995302344016806882024-03-01T10:58:00.001-06:002024-03-14T20:07:58.604-05:00A WORD FROM THE LORD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_bsF37aM89YAO8HhRoWrSI8RK35lbYncocGOrWQq_gk_V5WGStjmvGTrYykdnngUOPuk_i11fs1zOCMhw6xA1qcQiO2vzNfu04JEGIPE-3wkGhVqVUfMSdhu0owa4XAAW_NSX4suVfNSoKEgKaaq6yMi9LzXyASa_C6gkZETKZvCOhUi7_2oQO9uKi0y/s450/219251_JPG_by_ClipartOfcom.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="450" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_bsF37aM89YAO8HhRoWrSI8RK35lbYncocGOrWQq_gk_V5WGStjmvGTrYykdnngUOPuk_i11fs1zOCMhw6xA1qcQiO2vzNfu04JEGIPE-3wkGhVqVUfMSdhu0owa4XAAW_NSX4suVfNSoKEgKaaq6yMi9LzXyASa_C6gkZETKZvCOhUi7_2oQO9uKi0y/w400-h130/219251_JPG_by_ClipartOfcom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: times;"><i>I can count on one hand, the times that the Lord has spoken to me one-on-one. It has been very few. He usually speaks through Scripture, or a sermon, or Bible study, or a conversation with another Christian.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: times;"><i>But I had one occasion on January 8, 2022, early one morning as I sat in the living room, the Lord spoke to me as I wrote it down. I had said to the Lord, "I donāt want to be afraid of what You
will ask me to do. I have struggled with this fear for a long time. Afraid to
say, 'Here am I send me.' Please help me with this. Help me have faith. Help me
to finish well. In Jesusā name, Amen." Here was the Lord's response...</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0.25in;"><span face=""Arial Narrow",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Daughter, I know you are
concerned about whether you will be able to complete what I might ask you to
do. I want you to remember the Tug of War vision I gave you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It does not have to be hard.
When I am on your side, you have all My power available to you. They will be
the ones struggling on the other side of the rope. You will be the one pulling the rope. It is a test of
strength, and I am your strength. If I am for you, I am more than the world
against you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Thank you for watching the
Michael Todd sermon yesterday. I know your heart, and can see your heartās
concerns long before you pray, and I know why youāre asking for those
petitions.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Like Job, you also eschew, shun,
and hate evil. Many of your prayers are the result of those concerns. Elijah
was one man, and he prayed boldly and I answered him. Always feel free to
commit your prayers and concerns to Me. I know you donāt regard Me as your
Butler. Together we can effect significant change.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I know the plans I have for
you. Continue to seek Me, I am <b>gently </b>guiding you into your destiny.
Continue doing what you are doing. Everything will work out. I will make sure
of that.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I need to show you how Iām
able to provide for you. Let your hand go
limp in My hand so I can take the lead and do for you what I want without your
assistance.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">You have a habit of telling
Me how to work out your prayer concerns, but thatās not necessary. Submit your
prayers boldly at My throne of grace then <b>stand assured</b> that I received them.
If what you committed to Me is not in My will. I will work it out some other
way. But Iām not ignoring your prayers. Sometimes by the time you pray about
something I am already working on it behind the scenes. It may seem like
nothing is happening, but that is where your patience is needed, to trust that
I care enough about you to see to your every need and concern.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">You are My beloved child and
nothing gets by Me that concerns you. Let that get rooted and grounded in your
soul so when youāre tempted to believe the lie, that I have abandoned you, you
will still <b>stand assured</b> that I, the Good Shepherd, am watching over you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ephesians
6:13 (NLT) Therefore, put on every piece of Godās armor so you will be able to
resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be
standing firm.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">You have heard it said to
whom much is given, much is required. I do not want you to be overwhelmed about
the journey. I am with you. There is no need to get panicked. Continue doing
what youāre doing for now. Seek me. Stay in My presence. Stay focused so you
may hear my instructions.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Donāt forget I am good, and
you are dearly loved. I will get you to the other side.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Pacifico; font-size: large;">Daddy</span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-42832530018660281322024-02-28T09:53:00.000-06:002024-02-28T09:53:02.398-06:00YOUR MOST HOLY FAITH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohERLU_geUIFk1yuFwSoe9AGchVi-1LRP-W2SIcdna_D0SZNa86O6a-yxy0ZfCxvC2ld96bWNU4y_btAyjADfWi5ubnAWzMaIec14DxmO6bKxkgcCQG6egv81GGKAooy6A-_RhAs_vLS_iL9WbRQTBYLbFmK5x5_9xI3upoEncV9lgwQldyUVmUl1OOt_/s1540/Jude%201-20%20Build%20Yourselves%20Up%20In%20Your%20Most%20Holy%20Faith%20beige.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="1540" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohERLU_geUIFk1yuFwSoe9AGchVi-1LRP-W2SIcdna_D0SZNa86O6a-yxy0ZfCxvC2ld96bWNU4y_btAyjADfWi5ubnAWzMaIec14DxmO6bKxkgcCQG6egv81GGKAooy6A-_RhAs_vLS_iL9WbRQTBYLbFmK5x5_9xI3upoEncV9lgwQldyUVmUl1OOt_/w320-h240/Jude%201-20%20Build%20Yourselves%20Up%20In%20Your%20Most%20Holy%20Faith%20beige.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The story is told of a guy who purchased a fake ticket from
a scalper, to attend a basketball game. When he gave it to the ticket agent at
the gate, the agent spotted it immediately and said to the guy, āWhen youāve
handled as many tickets as I have, you can easily spot the fake ones.ā</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I was studying the Sunday School lesson and ran across the
20<sup>th</sup> verse of Jude that says to build yourselves up on your āmost
holy faithā. I scratched my head in
confusion. I asked the Lord if faith has rankings so that it can reach a most
holy point. His response to me was, āYou must handle the real thing enough,
that you can easily spot what is fake.ā</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jude was warning the believers to beware of scoffers in the
church, by saying that if we stay in the presence of God enough, we will be
able to detect what is God, and what is not.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-85970240652969751232024-02-27T11:31:00.001-06:002024-02-27T11:40:29.855-06:00LORD, PLEASE HELP US<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWKjTulKSMSUICj-PcfrgRbLyyVAxyKfwdjMbNMOEF1YH0ypAQFe1hy07gb6NISiO93P4JBf7h3eZM-As_1swQTz_lTvqW43EfHKxpxz37wm6sya502ffxMcWMZl9peQiyPPdoIqYKW0UfGxeTpqXKxh3IfSvzsgmMNufJXIDG9_Z7tXhUXF-JLp_qj4n/s225/Fight%20on%20Our%20Knees.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="215" data-original-width="225" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWKjTulKSMSUICj-PcfrgRbLyyVAxyKfwdjMbNMOEF1YH0ypAQFe1hy07gb6NISiO93P4JBf7h3eZM-As_1swQTz_lTvqW43EfHKxpxz37wm6sya502ffxMcWMZl9peQiyPPdoIqYKW0UfGxeTpqXKxh3IfSvzsgmMNufJXIDG9_Z7tXhUXF-JLp_qj4n/w320-h306/Fight%20on%20Our%20Knees.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Heavenly Father,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hallowed be Your
holy name, for You are holy. I was watching the news this morning and thinking
about how evil this world has become. We know that heaven and earth all belong
to You, and all thatās in it belongs to You. You hold the keys. What You open
no one can shut and what You shut no one can open. What the Holy Spirit binds on
earth is also bound in heaven. What He looses on earth is also loosed in
heaven. Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Father, help us
with this torrent of evilness flowing throughout the worldā¦ in America, Israel,
Ukraine, Russia, China, Mexico, and all around the world. People are fleeing
out of their countries because of evil. Please help us O God. It is Yours and
You have the power to fix it. I know it is Your will.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The mass killings have
gotten out of control. People in leadership positions are using their authority for
evil. We need Your help. In America, I pray for the White House administration,
Congress, the Supreme Court, each state government official, each city
government official, police officers, and military soldiers. Please help us O
God. We need You in this hour.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In 1 Samuel, the
Bible says that Hannah prayed and You <b>remembered</b> her. You opened her
womb and she bore a son named Samuel who became a powerful man of God.
Therefore, I ask that You <b>remember</b> us earthlings, as well as Your church
(the body of Christ). We live on this planet that <u>all</u> belong to You.
Please help us O God. Let the news anchors report the glorious deliverances
that will come by Your hands.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>Remember</b> the Israeli / Hamas war.š<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>Remember</b> the Ukraine / Russia war.š<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>Remember</b> NATO and the alliances they agreed upon.š<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>Remember</b> the upcoming elections we have this year.š<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Let justice prevail in every area, because You love justice
(Isa. 61:8).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>Your word to me was:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>āFear not, for I am with you;</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>be not
dismayed, for I am your God.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>I will strengthen you,</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>Yes, I will help you,</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>I
will uphold you with My righteous right hand.ā</b></span></div></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEftxx7tZ809IHAGUKIy7_LrFVqi-itWQt4kyj93bOvebvnnz75aKmwsPv3Z4CU9LoRBFx3azdhRfCtSQ3DMLiqXP_aQfX0g2xYfa1tvhpPkonTGJJEiY8lARtDaLHzMxCub6f_0nyCNeCUw712otwxUfbrR8PY6LBhbmLowrtkxg-jVClmnvhTRNqao2B/s1600/border%20image2-742898.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="1600" height="36" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEftxx7tZ809IHAGUKIy7_LrFVqi-itWQt4kyj93bOvebvnnz75aKmwsPv3Z4CU9LoRBFx3azdhRfCtSQ3DMLiqXP_aQfX0g2xYfa1tvhpPkonTGJJEiY8lARtDaLHzMxCub6f_0nyCNeCUw712otwxUfbrR8PY6LBhbmLowrtkxg-jVClmnvhTRNqao2B/w124-h36/border%20image2-742898.jpg" width="124" /></span></a></p><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>Lord, heaven is Your throne,</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>and the earth is Your
footstool.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>All of it is the work of Your hands</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia;"><b>that You may be glorified.</b></span></div></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jesus said, āBe of good cheer, I have overcome the world.ā <b>Remember</b> us, O God.š</span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-37544124242695312692024-02-25T15:42:00.001-06:002024-02-25T15:55:57.084-06:00LIKE FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was October 26, 2021. I decided I would take a break from
ministry and put away all my books, study, and writing material for a while and
work on a jigsaw puzzle and read my <i>Football for Dummies</i> book.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zrG7cMuQJ9_X0rP8lwQgytsIysAJf1SCwyVcneTBcqvZE_zcgdqY0WmiVvqlBuSyA1qxyquOOgHbEbK9RQKTtuTqZi-2CVKDAFfHfeRqZujEsTY5a1QWz8w_WmN3YgnQ3_tpHpKtF2KbgRAuK2x_9z9l_Jc_XWFssDOga37Zh_KVOJplA9amMFh5x30T/s2048/2024-02-25_14-37-51_846_kindlephoto-251682615.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1723" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zrG7cMuQJ9_X0rP8lwQgytsIysAJf1SCwyVcneTBcqvZE_zcgdqY0WmiVvqlBuSyA1qxyquOOgHbEbK9RQKTtuTqZi-2CVKDAFfHfeRqZujEsTY5a1QWz8w_WmN3YgnQ3_tpHpKtF2KbgRAuK2x_9z9l_Jc_XWFssDOga37Zh_KVOJplA9amMFh5x30T/w168-h200/2024-02-25_14-37-51_846_kindlephoto-251682615.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Less than 24 hours later, I had already published one
blogpost (<i>When Life Gives You Lemons</i>), and was working feverishly on a
second (<i>Trials and Tribulations</i>).</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Iām reminded of the prophet Jeremiah who had decided to shut
down his ministry because of the persecution and sorrow he was experiencing as
a result. As the days passed, he could not endure the agony building inside as
he tried to remain silent. It was like burning fire shut up in his bones and he
became more weary of holding back, than he was from being persecuted. So, he
preached in spite of it.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2786" data-original-width="3212" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GTkHpU1UJh6PArco_Wi6gKfOQokc6vVb4zMErtvUz0O946UlixpHM9U7wENrq3DZv9G_RZCHFKEslHQmZkNN8fiLS_pT5IYnVDXRmLd05X_bXqN1wnwK9fIuEUvQkmNgJS2wjlKN7zDiagcOXkkEuYPWVtsoCzYfmLzHQ0mGoFRRraobmB-FWO0olBbi/s320/pexels-scott-webb-2824173_kindlephoto-252281457.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Berean Standard Bible</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GTkHpU1UJh6PArco_Wi6gKfOQokc6vVb4zMErtvUz0O946UlixpHM9U7wENrq3DZv9G_RZCHFKEslHQmZkNN8fiLS_pT5IYnVDXRmLd05X_bXqN1wnwK9fIuEUvQkmNgJS2wjlKN7zDiagcOXkkEuYPWVtsoCzYfmLzHQ0mGoFRRraobmB-FWO0olBbi/s3212/pexels-scott-webb-2824173_kindlephoto-252281457.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The apostle Paul said, āI canāt stop preaching even if I
wanted to, because I am so compelled. Woe to me if I donāt preach the gospel.ā
(1 Cor. 9:16)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>God does not change His mind about our gifts and
callings.</b> He said to Jeremiah, āBefore you were formed in the womb I knew
you. Before you were born I sanctified you, and ordained you as a prophet to
the nations.ā (Jer. 1:5)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">So thenā¦ how could it <b>not</b> burn like fire in his
bones?</span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>To God be the glory.<br /></b>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-68285446876943494622024-02-17T15:58:00.000-06:002024-02-17T15:58:14.533-06:00BECOMING NEIGHBORLY<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdakRfGiPtxuEt_kKpgzTTabPR87Zu7rpEiuKz_pDferZgwiAirt3Ixe_dHzwD_Sug-bJeWG0h1V5zWrv5_XGjeFJJDu8VVS8aYrcnw0rbwCM27Awmy7bBGTMdZKqxOlFNgqpYs5TVwuaEWK3r_uvvuyUYvuNLQzDC6riKLXBRmTDi78FyCYdRsw6BMXG/s800/55d9154d0d007b89127b23c9.w800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdakRfGiPtxuEt_kKpgzTTabPR87Zu7rpEiuKz_pDferZgwiAirt3Ixe_dHzwD_Sug-bJeWG0h1V5zWrv5_XGjeFJJDu8VVS8aYrcnw0rbwCM27Awmy7bBGTMdZKqxOlFNgqpYs5TVwuaEWK3r_uvvuyUYvuNLQzDC6riKLXBRmTDi78FyCYdRsw6BMXG/s320/55d9154d0d007b89127b23c9.w800.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>When I was about 7 years old, my dad told me to sit on the front
porch and keep an eye on my baby brother while he played in the yard. He was a
toddler and had only been walking for a very short time.</div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">It was a beautiful day and I was enjoying being out there in
it. Our next-door neighbor, Ms. Rose, came outside and called me over to the
fence. As we talked, I turned my back to my baby brother and he wandered out
into the street. Ms. Rose didnāt say a word! She just kept me distracted. Thank
God we lived on a quiet street.</p><p class="MsoNormal">My dad came to the door and saw my baby brother walking in
the street, and called us both into the house and gave me a spanking for not
watching him.</p><p class="MsoNormal">A couple of days ago, I had an aha moment. I rarely ever
talk to my neighbors, Iāll wave at them and keep walking but I wonāt go over
and talk to them. The aha moment was that Ms. Rose caused that. Talking to her
got me a spanking, so I stay away from it. I felt that talking to neighbors was
not worth it, so all they get is a wave.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Today I shrug that off! I will become more neighborly. I
forgive Ms. Rose for her part in it, and I forgive my dad for spanking me. I
pray that God will continue to mend my brokenness so I become a better person
in all areas, and a more friendly neighbor to boot.</p><div style="text-align: left;"><b>To God be the glory.</b><br />Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove<br /></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-53488720723480127482024-02-03T09:06:00.002-06:002024-02-03T09:08:50.300-06:00BECAUSE YE ASK NOT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJBDtVZ8GNQhdfHZIaTCVCbdD5oKqnn4FKaejjRfIdzBDJYGpSBfSsionPex4yL7oLNjWxi7aoYTB7gZyeZLT3QPKwemmWNG04B5ov7wR3TK8f-e-Qi4Yg666dg98SeVRzoIRvOZ5P2s3_yKSSZoLO645QuIgwUhINcDSdUC6wJC6zB5ihfcvCA4-lRJE/s1200/Screenshot_20231123-070933_kindlephoto-72819961.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: georgia; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1200" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJBDtVZ8GNQhdfHZIaTCVCbdD5oKqnn4FKaejjRfIdzBDJYGpSBfSsionPex4yL7oLNjWxi7aoYTB7gZyeZLT3QPKwemmWNG04B5ov7wR3TK8f-e-Qi4Yg666dg98SeVRzoIRvOZ5P2s3_yKSSZoLO645QuIgwUhINcDSdUC6wJC6zB5ihfcvCA4-lRJE/w320-h285/Screenshot_20231123-070933_kindlephoto-72819961.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As I was getting out of bed this
morning I said to myself, āI am convinced that there is nothing I desire that
my Daddy wonāt do for me.ā</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jesus said, āIf you, being evil,
know how to give good gifts to your children, how <b>much more</b> will your Heavenly
Father give good things to His children who ask Him.ā You do not have, because
you do not ask.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I think itās that I have not felt
worthy to ask my Heavenly Father for what I truly desire. But suddenly, this morning,
I woke up with a different perspective. Jesus said if His word abides in us, we
can ask for what we desire and it shall be done (John 15:7)ā¦ because the word
of God changes us. Weāre not going to be desiring stuff to fulfill lustful
pleasures, we will ask according to the will of God and Heāll do it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">His storehouses are full to the
brim. Just ask and believe that there is nothing you desire that Heavenly
Father wonāt do for you. Donāt ask for things that fulfill lustful pleasures.
Seek those things which are above. Set your mind on things above, not on things
on the earth and see wonāt our Heavenly Father blow your mind.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><i>Ephesians 3:20-21 (AMP) Now to Him who is able
to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare
ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams],
according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the
church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen.</i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wNpKkiaox0eTcw9KbiTBjbAvli3N2pszDEp3a33LhkvGh2gjzbcCFxRlzqO1ACAtJQDed7VNQadUw0CqfiIdxr4893j8SXIsXrAC65LRSYgrTGkce_F6KSMJ5Kn4gBO5VYlsAzkZRHmN6HtDxcsA61oTwjNLk-yHZ8KIkF10AiO6SV_dv-k6GZ2fS3gp/s6000/pexels-daniel-absi-952670_kindlephoto-24509739.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wNpKkiaox0eTcw9KbiTBjbAvli3N2pszDEp3a33LhkvGh2gjzbcCFxRlzqO1ACAtJQDed7VNQadUw0CqfiIdxr4893j8SXIsXrAC65LRSYgrTGkce_F6KSMJ5Kn4gBO5VYlsAzkZRHmN6HtDxcsA61oTwjNLk-yHZ8KIkF10AiO6SV_dv-k6GZ2fS3gp/s320/pexels-daniel-absi-952670_kindlephoto-24509739.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-17743833302849062152024-02-01T09:30:00.000-06:002024-02-01T09:30:12.802-06:00IS GOD WELL PLEASED WITH ME<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheTAXK7iKYFMef3bif0OZwpqFvFvKfBiDsausIJCOwuGLHf90YmfYYtdk3KGI0J-MTqGw5HXi6dN1yZG5Cc7HgRZIzGlszxiB-qab4ALCn8oIj_aq_QPu0Il7lHIq8QGvR6L6JoFioBcie9Rvc7C7q5VypwYDgedKP1k0edOvlXQMEdZCsxfPCuBdswcF/s528/well%20pleased.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="528" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheTAXK7iKYFMef3bif0OZwpqFvFvKfBiDsausIJCOwuGLHf90YmfYYtdk3KGI0J-MTqGw5HXi6dN1yZG5Cc7HgRZIzGlszxiB-qab4ALCn8oIj_aq_QPu0Il7lHIq8QGvR6L6JoFioBcie9Rvc7C7q5VypwYDgedKP1k0edOvlXQMEdZCsxfPCuBdswcF/s320/well%20pleased.webp" width="320" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">There was a period when Jesus came to be baptized by John the Baptist, and when He came up out of the water, the voice of our Heavenly Father was heard saying, <b>āThis is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.ā</b> There has been situations occurring over the last three months that has led me to doubt that the Lord is well pleased with me. I found myself back tracking my thoughts trying to figure out where Iāve gotten off track, and why God was discontented. Again and again, I kept producing nothing. My confusion continued.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Yesterday, I stumbled upon a preacher sermonizing on the loveless church of Revelation 2:1-7 where Jesus is admonishing them that they had left their first love. They were to remember from where they had fallen and repent. Once again I racked my brain trying to figure out where Iāve gotten off track and left my first love. Why is my God not well pleased with me?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Later, while sitting in the living room, I looked up, and saw light reflected on the ceiling. The sun had gone behind the house and was shining through the kitchen window. It hit a picture of me sitting amongst a bunch of family photos on the entertainment center. No oneās picture was lit up except mine. Thereās about thirty photos sitting on those shelves. The light on the glass reflected on the ceiling and caught my attention.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I suddenly remembered the priestly blessing in the sixth chapter of Numbers that says, <b>āMay God make His face shine upon you.ā</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">āOh my God,ā I said to myself. āHe is smiling on me.ā</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I began to pray, <i>āHeavenly Father, I have become the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. I am by no means perfect, but He is my righteousness. Let me obtain Your mercy and find Your grace for all my weaknesses. Let Your lovingkindness and Your truth continually preserve me throughout my life. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strengthā¦ and I want to live a life that is well pleasing to You.ā</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I realize now that the enemy was attacking me. He is called the <b>accuser of the brethren</b> in Rev. 12:10. He tried to come between me and my Heavenly Father by convincing me that God is not well pleased with me. The word of truth says that no weapon formed against us shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against us, in judgment the Lord will condemn (Isa.54:17). No weapon will prosper!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I took a snapshot of the sun shining on my photo, so that Iāll always have it to remember God smiling on meā¦ letting me know that He is well pleased.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWjhDMb3o8o16KkacDUEiAA5Oz79PFILRA_f29mqqfFL8CpwHBm2ThRc12_bzXDXBqFCKNqoxdtAo4BLL7uhpzV-od2sYuMQAiqitVpsvhP878SOrtFAswbsPn1cxLu338qJlx1eAxWhHtPlK62MaB0vKWRMHX8oRxx8Yl361gH-ZMDYR3FfsHJ1uCCN5/s286/daughter%20of%20the%20king.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="176" data-original-width="286" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWjhDMb3o8o16KkacDUEiAA5Oz79PFILRA_f29mqqfFL8CpwHBm2ThRc12_bzXDXBqFCKNqoxdtAo4BLL7uhpzV-od2sYuMQAiqitVpsvhP878SOrtFAswbsPn1cxLu338qJlx1eAxWhHtPlK62MaB0vKWRMHX8oRxx8Yl361gH-ZMDYR3FfsHJ1uCCN5/s1600/daughter%20of%20the%20king.png" width="286" /></a></div><br /></div><div><div><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">Matthew 9:22 (NKJV) Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, "Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well."</span></i></div></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-17165027669012326572024-01-06T13:57:00.005-06:002024-01-20T08:25:00.331-06:00WHY GOD PERMITS EVIL<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="1201" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ51r2IAtTfTseTHC0RCdfKhF-7QtlWJC9zNlESqynCFWNLBNnJd7YD-92J2avaCEYI8jdXHdTVi9bOFE3Te7k6mgrryz7mH-nlGckkZk17Etc6r74cbgz4BvGkDIk4r_ophxdIwwUtq2ToUmB36Jn6_9QaXls637RulQsBjrapd5rINGtiIYuGBKPB_3L/s320/Tip%20of%20the%20Iceberg.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">The Tip Of The Iceberg</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I have often wondered why that
serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan was permitted to come to the Garden
of Eden to cunningly deceive. Or, one may also wonder why the tree of the
knowledge of good </span><u style="font-family: georgia;">and evil</u><span style="font-family: georgia;"> was put in the garden in the first place.</span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Adam and Eve lived in the age of
innocence and knew nothing of evil until Adam ate the forbidden fruit and both
their eyes were opened.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">At the beginning of Jobās trials,
Satan came before the Lord and the Lord asked him. āWhere have you come from?ā
Satan replied, āFrom going back and forth on the earth, and walking up and down
in it.ā In the same way that he deceived Eve in the garden, he does this around
the world. The apostle Peter warned us to be careful of our adversary the devil
who walks about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. The thief does
not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">But God had made a hedge around
Job, and his household, and all he owned so that Satan was not able to touch
him. Job was surrounded by Godās protection until He lifted the hedge and
permitted Satan to attack Job, with the restriction that Satan could not take
Jobās life.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The accuser of the brethren said
that if God permitted this attack on Job, that he would curse God to His face.
But Job did not, proving that his love for God was genuine. At the end of Jobās
trials, God restored the hedge and Jobās losses, giving him twice as much as he
had before, and a long life to enjoy them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>God has given all of mankind
freedom to choose good or to choose evil.</b> We all have a conscience and the
ability to choose which path we are going to take. God is not interested in
robots and prisoners. He wants genuine love in His relationship with mankind, therefore, we're given the ability to make choices.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>We humans are free moral agents
with our own choice to be in a relationship with God, or not.</b> Even the angels
had a choice. This is why a third of heavenās angels were cast out because
they chose rebellion.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">We experience wickedness in this
world because of the choices people make. The deceiver beguiles, and people
fall into temptation to commit sexual immorality, murder, selfish ambition, idolatry,
drunkenness, lying, stealing, oppression, and all kinds of other human atrocities,
indignities, and tragedies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In the movie, The Shack, Heavenly
Father (whom they called PaPa) is having a conversation with Mack Phillips who
lost his little girl to sexual molestation and a cruel murder. Mack is angry
with God because He permitted this horrible thing. God said to Mack that He
does not plan these tragedies but He does use them to bring good out of them,
if and when they occur.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Mack asked PaPa where He was while
his little girl endured this murderous tragedy. PaPa replied, āMack when all
you can see is your pain then you lose sight of Me.ā</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Mack reminded PaPa that even Jesus
cried out from the cross, āMy God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?ā PaPa
replied, āMack, you misunderstand <b>the mystery</b>.ā PaPa showed Mack His hands that
also bore the nail prints from the cross, and said, āDonāt ever think that what
My Son chose to do, didnāt cost us both dearly. We were there together. I never
left Him. I never left you, and I never left your little girl.ā</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">So, this brings me full circle back
to my original question of why God permitted that old serpent to come into
the Garden of Eden and deceive Eve in the first place. Why was he given autonomy to screw this thing up? Or why will God permit
him to be released from the bottomless pit after the thousand-year millennial
reign of Christ? Satan will be permitted to go north, south, east, and west to
deceive the nations once again. The Lordās response to me wasā¦</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>āWhat you know of the evil world you inhabit is only the
tip of the iceberg. Submerged 90% beneath the surface of the visible world, are
mysteries too vast for you to comprehend. If you could only see how close I am
to you and how constantly I work on your behalf, you would never again doubt
that I am wonderfully caring for you. This is why you must live by faith, not
merely by sight, touch, taste, hear, and smellā¦ trusting in My mysterious,
majestic presence, trusting in My goodness, trusting in My mercy, grace, and
lovingkindness.ā</b></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">God cannot completely restrain evil without violating our <b>free
will to choose</b>, and eliminating the possibility of a real relationship with Him
anchored in genuine love, not robotic obedience. Therefore, evil remains in our world, for now. However, He does give His angels charge over us to safely
keep us from hurt, harm, and danger.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">To prove the love of those that survive the millennial reign,
God will permit Satan to be released back into the world to test the hearts of
mankind, like gold is tested. As Job declared, āWhen He has tested me, I shall
come forth as gold.ā Also, in the same way that Abraham was tested when he was
told to sacrifice his son Isaac, as a burnt offering. Before Abraham could slay
Isaac, God said, "Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him;
for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your
only son, from Me." Abrahamās love for God was proven to be genuine, even
to himself.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Evil runs rampant in this world because the heart of mankind
is inherently evil. In the days of Noah, the Bible says that the wickedness of
man was great on the earth and that everything they thought or imagined was
consistently and totally evil. It got so bad that it grieved the Lord that He
had made man so He destroyed everything and everyone, except Noah and his
family and started over.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The psalmist David said that we are born in sin and shaped
in iniquity. The apostle Paul in the sixth chapter of Romans labeled us as
slaves of sin, until we come to Christ and are freed from this captivity. He
cried out, āO wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of
death? I thank God ā through Jesus Christ our Lord!ā That was the whole reason
for the cross of Calvaryā¦ to turn our captivity to sin around and free us from
its grip. Therefore, if the Son of God makes you free, you are free indeed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>The bottom line is, our knowledge right now is partial and
incomplete, and even gifts of prophecy reveal only part of the whole picture
(not the complete submerged iceberg). But when the time of perfection comes at
the end of this age, these partial things will be completely known. Right now,
we see only the tip of the iceberg, but on that day, we will see everything
with perfect clarity.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! But when the time of perfection comes (Jesus' return), these partial things will become useless. Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. (1 Corinthians 13:9-10, 12 NLT)</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Whatever tragedies you have faced or may be
facing at this time, please know that God loves you and He is with you even in
your darkest hour. In that movie, The Shack, God said to Mack, āI want to heal
that wound thatās growing in your heart and creating a gulf between you and
Me.ā Sometimes our misunderstanding can create a separation in our relationship
with the Lord, but He is here to heal the wounds in our souls and restore us
completely. <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Go in peace.</b></span></span></p><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-23526273576328077052024-01-02T08:21:00.000-06:002024-01-02T08:21:14.447-06:00I WENT OFF ON A COWORKER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was May 17, 2019. Part of my job was to relieve the
receptionist so she could take her breaks. She accused me of deleting a file
off of her computer because she could not locate it. I went off on this
coworker, loudly and angrily. I was not having a bad day, nor was this the
first conflict I had faced as her backup.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Later in the day, we talked it out. I told her that as a
devout Christian I would not intentionally, nor unintentionally sabotage even
someone I hated, and certainly not someone that I like and respected as
her. She had the IT department locate her lost file, and we let bygones be bygones.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I do not feel bad about going off on this
coworker. I think she had it coming. My anger was justified and well placed.
<b>Anger is not a sin.</b> It is how we deal with our anger that can be critical. Donāt
seek vengeance. Be the peacemaker.</span></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotDPWh3zo5drKnfQLjPH3Sb06GlzI91qWkaXH4beWYs9bVhAw5ZzVi5m0OpRZoCKeTCVjaHnkd0j4K2abOHpotOeK-Zu3leHYR_hEi9yCaXjA-SF6Aeh5nNHC708OMQl1pcjrMLCzfXjpWAsDsgc533YiiaBnpWJNgXulKCxgh1arg0rN1KWioT6fCSSb/s1376/ephesians-4-26-27.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1376" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotDPWh3zo5drKnfQLjPH3Sb06GlzI91qWkaXH4beWYs9bVhAw5ZzVi5m0OpRZoCKeTCVjaHnkd0j4K2abOHpotOeK-Zu3leHYR_hEi9yCaXjA-SF6Aeh5nNHC708OMQl1pcjrMLCzfXjpWAsDsgc533YiiaBnpWJNgXulKCxgh1arg0rN1KWioT6fCSSb/w400-h209/ephesians-4-26-27.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-70148239127480896462023-12-28T09:20:00.000-06:002023-12-28T09:20:10.146-06:00THE FIGHT IS ON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXdz87lKGMGiyNYr9ARFgfJvCAZM02gjqlNTbPAsK0lQ1xHDQI5z_nfONk8B_7sQF_Nge2cLhBbOhmoWv8asS1eKdybU0jGAD3B9by1Rd9dSZxpvKYAOYH5CL0C_QxcOWB4xWuLdGVwMhXmxRsAHUagnlRvjZrHliZLwGffOVpiuKEokQ5yyjSV9Kh3aL/s1128/20220723_091406_kindlephoto-357696574.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="1128" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXdz87lKGMGiyNYr9ARFgfJvCAZM02gjqlNTbPAsK0lQ1xHDQI5z_nfONk8B_7sQF_Nge2cLhBbOhmoWv8asS1eKdybU0jGAD3B9by1Rd9dSZxpvKYAOYH5CL0C_QxcOWB4xWuLdGVwMhXmxRsAHUagnlRvjZrHliZLwGffOVpiuKEokQ5yyjSV9Kh3aL/s320/20220723_091406_kindlephoto-357696574.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I was on my morning walk (7/23/22)... as I was about to pass this house, a ferocious dog behind a fence started barking at me, and leaping up and down trying to jump over the fence. He barked so viciously at me as I was approaching that it made me stop and consider going in the street to pass by. I decided to stay on the sidewalk and kept moving briskly past him.<div><br /></div><div>On my way back, remembering the dog, I did decide to walk in the street by the curb. That same dog that barked at me so viciously as I was going, had gotten out of the fence and came charging at me. I raised my little one pound weights and told that dog to <b>"Come on!!!"</b> He turned and ran away. Then he came at me a second time, barking ferociously. I got louder, <b>"Come on!!!"</b> In that moment, all fear left me and I was prepared to beat the snot out of that dog with my weights. He turned and ran away again, this time he was looking for a way to get back inside that fence. I was somewhat surprised myself by my reaction to the dog... inviting him to a fight, instead of running away screaming.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>To God be the glory.</b><div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</div></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-32945432081133284392023-12-24T07:19:00.003-06:002024-01-20T09:20:06.413-06:00HEAVENLY MINDED<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxSoGzwuLxLzmsGv3sFsk3M1D0gtjDQVBNZFI00SJVYzklUhaag0CeR31QTylBtU6mRuyTn17RUt5dCMj3H68ipmcqONAliGhBo7nj6UfuqnxBzhfGJ5x_C0z81cdQ1XmxXmUgb4UZVgUcZvgwXuo7P5ineJkaMiK_mWvYr0LT9JzeQVRT_qmlo9NBw/s1200/oliverwendellholmessr1-2x.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxSoGzwuLxLzmsGv3sFsk3M1D0gtjDQVBNZFI00SJVYzklUhaag0CeR31QTylBtU6mRuyTn17RUt5dCMj3H68ipmcqONAliGhBo7nj6UfuqnxBzhfGJ5x_C0z81cdQ1XmxXmUgb4UZVgUcZvgwXuo7P5ineJkaMiK_mWvYr0LT9JzeQVRT_qmlo9NBw/s320/oliverwendellholmessr1-2x.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I STRONGLY DISagree.</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "Some people are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good." I disagree. I think some people are so carnal minded that they are no heavenly good.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">Romans 8:6 (NKJV) To be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Can a true Christian be carnal? In answering this question, letās first define the term ācarnal.ā The word ācarnalā is translated from the Greek word sarkikos, which literally means āfleshlyā - as opposed to spiritually. The key thing to understand about carnality is that a Christian can be carnal for a period of time, but a true Christian will not remain carnal for a lifetime. We are being transformed into the image of Christ, that means we should be steadily decreasing in carnality and increasing in spirituality.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">Romans 8:7 NKJV Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.</span> <i>(That's what it means to walk in darkness. The unbeliever does not have the Holy Spirit in them to help them live righteously.)</i></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Colossians 3:2 NKJV Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.</b></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">Luke 12:34 NKJV For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div>The question is not whether a person who claims to be a Christian, but lives carnally, has lost his salvation, but the question is whether that person was ever truly saved in the first place (1 John 2:19).</div><div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">1 John 2:19 NKJV They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus will say to them on judgment day, <span style="color: #134f5c;">"I never knew you. Depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!" (Matt.7:23)</span></div><div><br /></div><div>God disciplines His loved ones when we are stubborn to conform to His ways.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;">Hebrews 12:5-6 NKJV And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the LORD loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives."</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div>It is not possible for a person to come to faith in Christ Jesus and then proceed to live the rest of their lives in a completely carnal manner, without any evidence of being a born again Christian. It's not possible! A tree is known by the fruit it bears.</div><div><br /></div><div>We <b>need</b> to become more heavenly minded.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once again...</div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Romans 8:6 (NKJV) To be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.</b></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Go in peace.</span></div><div><br /></div><b><i>To God be the glory.</i></b><div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-3537385353813567952023-11-01T09:48:00.001-05:002023-11-01T09:48:36.420-05:00TRUE CHRISTIAN CHARACTER<div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlo5R1Mt3b260yoW3MisBGCa0oaUl0YH6CLOYqLtpp-9yd7RH423FS5UICeLq9n85CdadnjC_YGU2MpCpjU8-hXMnIpWsbSzaypYVgvKPKxXBIP-zc7XHQ6PJLV4b65dMYqc6OLsjgxlNHnYkri-HUNPvqDEGGSmOBe0rtjjas03WSUVQEYbAFSOFA3wmY/s378/Potter%20and%20Clay.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="378" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlo5R1Mt3b260yoW3MisBGCa0oaUl0YH6CLOYqLtpp-9yd7RH423FS5UICeLq9n85CdadnjC_YGU2MpCpjU8-hXMnIpWsbSzaypYVgvKPKxXBIP-zc7XHQ6PJLV4b65dMYqc6OLsjgxlNHnYkri-HUNPvqDEGGSmOBe0rtjjas03WSUVQEYbAFSOFA3wmY/s320/Potter%20and%20Clay.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;">What
differentiates a Christianās life from that of a non-Christian? Our ability to
overcome the struggle against sin. My former pastor who's gone to heaven used
to call that struggle "the can't help its". A true Christian will
always repent and return to God, and will always resist the struggle against "the can't help its". The Bible gives no support to the idea that a person
who perpetually and unrepentantly engage in sin can possibly be a Christian
believer. The apostle Paul paints a picture in 1 Corinthians of those who identifies themselves as unrighteous and not redeemed by Christ.<br /></span><p></p>
<span style="font-family: georgia;">1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (NKJV) Do you not know that the unrighteous will not
inherit the kingdom of God? Don't be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor
idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor
covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the
kingdom of God. And such were some of you. <b>BUT</b> you were washed, <b>BUT</b> you were
sanctified, <b>BUT</b> you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the
Spirit of our God.<br />
<br />
Christians come out of all kinds of different backgrounds, including those Paul
listed in the previous paragraph. <b>BUT</b> when we come to Christ, we are washed,
sanctified, and justified by the Holy Spirit in the name of the Lord Jesus. The
Holy Spirit comes and lives in us and brings with Him the fruit of the Spirit, and the power to overcome sin. He can deliver us from "the can't help its".<br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NKJV) No temptation has overtaken you except such as is
common to man; <b>BUT</b> God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond
what you are able, <b>BUT</b> with the temptation will also make the way of escape,
that you may be able to bear it.<br />
<br />
A few years after the Lord saved me (in early 2000s), I was sitting in my home
office and the Lord spoke to me and said, "I am the great artist of your
soul. You are My workmanship, <b>BUT</b> you keep ruining My work." I was
reminded of that passage in the book of Jeremiah where he talks about the
Potter and the clay. Jeremiah said that the vessel the Potter was making did not turn
out as he had hoped so he crushed it into a lump of clay again, and started over.
The lump of clay that's writing this blogpost, had to come into agreement with
the Potter and great artist of my soul and let Him mold me into the vessel He had purposed me for.<br />
<br />
Joshua said in Joshua 24:15 ,"Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... <b>BUT</b> as for me and my
house, we will serve the LORD."</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><b><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></i></b><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-62705302649451453832023-10-29T09:40:00.000-05:002023-10-29T09:40:08.879-05:00WHEN SOMEONE ANNOYS YOU<div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6A8mGmsJReui4MRgcF9rtH099Rl8Jkj54PyiwMOB_lYlhymGOQRwAUo8soe5O115GdXJVv5sb53tV9wRWfPQWu05HeMvROidKBQrmMnLtJRO9MdbZF5bP9nwxTjGTEUZo1V8JAdjYRn8RBm0s3AL3yO_AgzQSGY5ePN6TgWaM1rUHL_JXm9_RB1WFNTg/s1515/annoying%20people.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="1515" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6A8mGmsJReui4MRgcF9rtH099Rl8Jkj54PyiwMOB_lYlhymGOQRwAUo8soe5O115GdXJVv5sb53tV9wRWfPQWu05HeMvROidKBQrmMnLtJRO9MdbZF5bP9nwxTjGTEUZo1V8JAdjYRn8RBm0s3AL3yO_AgzQSGY5ePN6TgWaM1rUHL_JXm9_RB1WFNTg/s320/annoying%20people.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I used to
work in Downtown Dallas and I was asked to come in an hour early to work on a
project. I was walking to the building from the parking lot. It was still dark outside
and traffic was light, so I decided to jaywalk in the middle of the block
instead of crossing at the corner as I usually did. I was walking with a spring
in my step and singing out loud that last song that was playing on my car radio.
As I stepped up onto the curb, the front of my sandal caught on the curb and
caused me to body slam downward onto the concrete pavement. OUCH!</span><p></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Humiliated, I jumped back up
and dusted myself off, grabbed my purse and continued down the sidewalk. I
arrived ten minutes early and had time to fix coffee and meet my teammates at
the assigned time, but no one showed up. I was the only one that came in for
the project. Imagine my dismay and my disappointment.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had not been given any
specifics for the project, which were to be outlined that same morning, so I
dived in using my own best judgments as I proceeded. An hour and twenty minutes
later, my teammates rambled in after I had progressed well into the project.
The person that had the lead on the project began to walk back most of my
progress by changing the decisions I had made.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This had been one of āthoseā
mornings. I had fallen victim to the concrete pavement and to annoying and untrustworthy
teammates. Now, Iām having to retrace my steps at no fault of my own. Iāll be
honest, I was visibly disturbed, but I kept my mouth shut.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTUrW0eFuwN4BadNW1i6AyjGlNwiyuIrvjTxPU1yxZxPIiwfdLJAup_i_NqlCc2ZuytYXhkrILN9qP_AnNNh8FT68Xdh3nlguBTbVuipPKhbtcJD8DtFU_kl4LaW28E-WloGHik4eWjMsIzPYWJgqNMiW0LjhokSm8U-EHdrYbb41_Iyy-OKKh8tbCS29/s326/keeping%20my%20mouth%20shut.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="326" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTUrW0eFuwN4BadNW1i6AyjGlNwiyuIrvjTxPU1yxZxPIiwfdLJAup_i_NqlCc2ZuytYXhkrILN9qP_AnNNh8FT68Xdh3nlguBTbVuipPKhbtcJD8DtFU_kl4LaW28E-WloGHik4eWjMsIzPYWJgqNMiW0LjhokSm8U-EHdrYbb41_Iyy-OKKh8tbCS29/s320/keeping%20my%20mouth%20shut.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">She had no way of knowing
that I was having a bad morning prior to her intrusion, and the part she had
played in it by being an hour and twenty minutes late.</span></p><p></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I am one of those people
that try to choose my battles wisely. I think if I had said anything, instead
of keeping my mouth shut, it may not have come out the way I intended.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Later in the day, after Iād
recovered, I did let her know that I was having a Murphyās Law kind of morning,
and the reasons I totally disagreed with her changes. I was able to forgive all
the team members that left me high and dry there before the crack of dawn.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I pride myself on being an
employee with integrity and have very little patience for those whose apathy
effects my ability to do my job well. But there are so many personality types
in the workplace, and no two are alike. It is imperative that we learn to watch
our step with others who may not think, nor act just like us.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>So, how should we respond
when dealing with annoying people?</b> The psalmist that wrote Psalm 121 said it
best. āI will lift up my eyes to the hills... From whence comes my help? My help
comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. The LORD is my keeper; the LORD
is the shade at my right hand. The LORD shall preserve my going out and my
coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.ā<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">It is my opinion, that the
wise thing to do is to get to know those who labor among us, using wisdom and
counsel from the LORD in our dealings with them for the good of allā¦ because we
cannot change everybody. The lesson I learned in dealing with that particular
coworker, was if I was going to be involved in a project with her, it was
necessary to get all the information I needed up front, then I would not have
to depend on her input to complete it.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>To God be the glory.</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-24220435132899782422023-10-25T17:55:00.001-05:002023-10-26T08:44:56.794-05:00LORD HELP ME WITH PEOPLE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpw0HcsKb9nnFbvXvLrOAcARVhjoTKTZ9NoSyJ4HFbH10LNE3eCaKF9DkgFNQVaF1Re8CJ1uq5jqPMjEj2mi056_3F9CbUg7fBI_WX47HUqYjoxAE5xheqqZGStu2S7MsbH7z-fZaAKgHzK1tB4Yv0bKD3z8pBvZa2PWMZyvMFLdaIjEdq3l-y3LGmNAq/s1500/signs-you-are-an-introvert-2795427-logo-4040f89ea6dc4cbc8111276c04696d2b.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpw0HcsKb9nnFbvXvLrOAcARVhjoTKTZ9NoSyJ4HFbH10LNE3eCaKF9DkgFNQVaF1Re8CJ1uq5jqPMjEj2mi056_3F9CbUg7fBI_WX47HUqYjoxAE5xheqqZGStu2S7MsbH7z-fZaAKgHzK1tB4Yv0bKD3z8pBvZa2PWMZyvMFLdaIjEdq3l-y3LGmNAq/w400-h266/signs-you-are-an-introvert-2795427-logo-4040f89ea6dc4cbc8111276c04696d2b.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><div>An introvert is an individual who often feels more comfortable and energized in <b>solitary</b> or low-stimulus environments. They tend to prefer deep, one-on-one interactions over large group settings, and often seeks balance with moments of <b>solitude</b> following social engagements.</div><div><br /></div><div>Those with the <b>introvert personality trait</b> are often introspective and realistic about their own flaws, and critical about the flaws of others. They tend to gravitate toward a small number of solid friendships rather than surrounding themselves with a bunch of acquaintances. They tend to enjoy creative aspects of self-expression such as art, writing, and music.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prayer, meditation, and waiting upon God often require long periods of stillness to be effective. Introverts are often better at meditation, studying, and writing because it complements their natural tendencies. God created us with varying strengths and <b>personality types</b>. He can use anyone who submits to Him, and He is often most glorified through our weaknesses because His strength is made perfect in our weakness.</div><div><br /></div><div>When introverts have totally submitted their lives to the lordship of Jesus Christ, they can be mighty prayer warriors, mentors, and teachers. Spirit-filled introverts use their God-given nature for the glory of God and relish long, fruitful times of worship, soul-searching, and Bible study.</div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>There are a few things that can hinder an introvertās service to God. When their natural tendencies of introversion are threatened, introverts often withdraw from people. They may refuse to engage with others as instructed in Scripture. This kind of solitude limits them spiritually.</b> Introspection can also lead to a critical spirit. A healthy self-image is one in which we see ourselves as God does: no better and no worse. We are to see ourselves as āGodās handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good worksā (Ephesians 2:10).</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Whether introverted or extroverted, Christians need to remember that their temperaments are gifts from God to be used for His glory.</div><div><br /></div><div>Excerpt from: </div><div><a href="https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-introvert.html" target="_blank">https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-introvert.html</a><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6_8d-W_lorY" width="320" youtube-src-id="6_8d-W_lorY"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RraGP_lsdYc" width="320" youtube-src-id="RraGP_lsdYc"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Libre Baskerville; font-size: medium;"><i>I sincerely want to foster good, healthy relationships with
fellow Christiansā¦ so I break agreement with the idea that my introvert
personality type causes me to withdraw from people. I come into agreement with
the word of God that says, āHe who loves a fellow believer is living in the
light and does not cause others to stumble.ā (1 John 2:10)</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Libre Baskerville; font-size: medium;"><i>Let brotherly love continue. (Hebrews 13:1)</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Libre Baskerville; font-size: medium;"><i>Those who love God must also love their fellow believers. (1
John 4:21)</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">PLEASE PRAY FOR ME. š</span></b></div><div> </div></div><div><b>To God be the glory.</b></div><div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-61565359079739874242023-10-24T14:10:00.003-05:002023-10-25T07:12:23.591-05:00MY SIN AND GOD'S GRACE<div><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 0.25in;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlxQjrQnDO4bXXwujPnbzlx5D7hxzOfm5KfEHBPj8naaM51LqjJc2FE5aJEvxh1reCliOXsePEB_MPc6F_Ar6ABGVLYwwKY07gsGnJCwPoTdVfzR81e-3YO0kg1fADo96i5_9cfiBzE-ubaz5Gj4_enLw31W2fVCxx4cXM_eVvjG7hlQeqGSJBlZdhFkQ/s314/Sin%20or%20Grace.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="161" data-original-width="314" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlxQjrQnDO4bXXwujPnbzlx5D7hxzOfm5KfEHBPj8naaM51LqjJc2FE5aJEvxh1reCliOXsePEB_MPc6F_Ar6ABGVLYwwKY07gsGnJCwPoTdVfzR81e-3YO0kg1fADo96i5_9cfiBzE-ubaz5Gj4_enLw31W2fVCxx4cXM_eVvjG7hlQeqGSJBlZdhFkQ/s1600/Sin%20or%20Grace.jpg" width="314" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #212121; font-family: georgia;">The same
year that I came to Christ (1999) was the same year that I married my first
husband. We were together 8 years when we split up. We were legally separated,
but not divorced.</span></div><div><span style="color: #212121; font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #212121; font-family: georgia;">Two years after we split up, I was re-acquainted with a former boyfriend from 20 years earlier. Then I moved in with him and we shacked up for 3Ā½ years. During that 3Ā½ years, I did not work for 17 months. We struggled financially, so I was not able to afford a divorce.</span><span style="color: #212121;"> But </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">I kept praying to God about this predicament, that He would bless me with the resources to resolve it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Thankfully, my
relationship with the Lord was not strained. The Lord never left me. He did not
seem to be unhappy with me at all. But I prayed about it continually because I
did not want to be living in sin. To add insult to injury, my then common-law
husband was not even in church.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">So, let's add this all up. I was legally
married to one man and still going by his last nameā¦ shacking up with another
man who was not even in churchā¦ and, I was teaching Sunday School at my church most of that time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>Now that's messy!</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Throughout all that time, and in all my praying... I continued to feel the presence of the Lord. He anointed my teaching
and elevated my studies. He told me to accept His grace for His grace was sufficient to cover my frailties.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">My
first husband graciously paid for our divorce himself, and my common-law husband
and I went to the courthouse and got legally married. And we have been a
happily married couple since 2014.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Think what you may about my shameful actions, but you
cannot take away my experiences with God. He loved me through it all, and never
dismissed me, nor turned His back on me, even though I was caught up in blatant sin for an extended period of time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">In conclusion, God's gift to mankind is His
love. And His love never fails. Prophecies may fail, tongues will cease,
knowledge will vanish away... but God's love will never, ever fail.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b>To God be the glory.</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-11587464798477680702023-10-16T11:05:00.000-05:002023-10-16T11:05:07.842-05:00THE WAY OF GRACE<div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntkzgyyHprTvBMf21KU1Mx8vpfXR9gyy22UgqkBQFT8S1gD-5V58kt83QyY-tUJpdzI5TzUKxnOk4E3nhXmlHIYOMAnTpuqfO1suCSj6Ml_6nWArCITJMGZnExQXeZj9ezgmCBpXDO6aLpfGi8CXvy3wSUHUSzLfMhs8UPQmKEHSmYjaVAfoKH3H-TGFy/s560/The%20Narrow%20Way.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntkzgyyHprTvBMf21KU1Mx8vpfXR9gyy22UgqkBQFT8S1gD-5V58kt83QyY-tUJpdzI5TzUKxnOk4E3nhXmlHIYOMAnTpuqfO1suCSj6Ml_6nWArCITJMGZnExQXeZj9ezgmCBpXDO6aLpfGi8CXvy3wSUHUSzLfMhs8UPQmKEHSmYjaVAfoKH3H-TGFy/w320-h180/The%20Narrow%20Way.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I saw a commercial of a man and his wife driving down the
road following the GPS (Global Positioning System) on their way to someoneās
wedding. The wife stated that she did not want to be late, so the husband
veered off the road that GPS was directing them on, and took a fork in the road
that led to a quicker way. He said that the GPS coordinates did not know that
back road. He knew the back roads (the narrow path) that GPS did not use.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The wide gate is the entrance that engages other world religions,
while the narrow gate is faith in Jesus that leads to eternal life when we pass
away. Jesus is the Savior (or narrow way) that leads to life after death. The
road is difficult (strait, narrow, hard, and small) because many will find it
hard to believe that Jesus is the only entrance to life after death. They
continue down the broad path and miss heaven completely.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Many people would rather create their own religions and
design their own gods. So, it was in sorrow (not discrimination), that Jesus declared
that the road to eternal life is narrowā¦ and unfortunately, only a few find it.
Their GPS coordinates is leading them down the broad path instead of the narrow
way.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><b>Related Scriptures</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">John 8:32 NKJV And you shall know the truth, and the truth
shall make you free."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">John 10:7 NKJV Then Jesus said to them again, "Most
assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">John 10:9 NKJV I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he
will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">John 14:6 NKJV Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the
truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Acts 4:12 NKJV Nor is there salvation in any other, for
there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be
saved."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Romans 5:1-2 NKJV Therefore, having been justified by faith,
we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have
access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the
glory of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ephesians 2:18 NKJV For through Him we both have access by
one Spirit to the Father.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia;">1 Timothy 2:5 NKJV For there is one God and one
Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.</span></p></div><div><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">To God be the glory.</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-8732985507249679002023-09-26T15:01:00.001-05:002023-10-03T09:35:57.763-05:00MY SONG OF DELIVERANCE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZ3DM15xr0V1UQ7tqE8AcaQQf5EmhA41ixOPtk7VLNdOD_X0PDmWz4985J2m8W98QIX-8bE6Fw-Sz_DT6tKL8FkM6JAcq8kQPH2pODkpca3wegBeW3So0yfsvrQ1Q38gzAa1WLA3WHh59ZAUFfb2PMJKzGg2_KE7vo_bg-tHBNbqaF9FBX_yROJu3Sjur/s769/Screenshot_20230926-084748_kindlephoto-210636631.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="769" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZ3DM15xr0V1UQ7tqE8AcaQQf5EmhA41ixOPtk7VLNdOD_X0PDmWz4985J2m8W98QIX-8bE6Fw-Sz_DT6tKL8FkM6JAcq8kQPH2pODkpca3wegBeW3So0yfsvrQ1Q38gzAa1WLA3WHh59ZAUFfb2PMJKzGg2_KE7vo_bg-tHBNbqaF9FBX_yROJu3Sjur/w200-h173/Screenshot_20230926-084748_kindlephoto-210636631.png" width="200" /></a></p><div style="text-align: left;">When Moses and the Children of Israel crossed the Red Sea,</div><div style="text-align: left;">they broke into songs of deliverance glorifying God. (Exodus 15)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I also wrote a Song of Deliverance. Wanna see it? Here it is!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>My Song of Deliverance</u></b></div></b><p></p><p></p></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">It feels good to be</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Healthy and wealthy</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Healthy and wealthy<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Healthy and wealthy<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">It feels good to be</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Healthy and wealthy<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">And living in the<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Presence of God.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">I will sing to the Lord</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">I will praise Him today<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">He has brought me deliverance<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">And took oppression away.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Thanks be to God</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">For the battle is won</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">His name is Christ Jesus</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">Through Him it was done.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">To God be the glory.</b><br style="text-align: center;" /><span style="text-align: center;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove<br /></span></p></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-50506151681790307412023-09-23T04:05:00.001-05:002023-09-23T04:05:56.295-05:00SPEAK TO THE MOUNTAIN<div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">In the name of Jesus I speak to the mountain of mess in my life and command it to be removed from here to someplace else. In its place I welcome righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Then rain on that the abundant living that Christ Jesus came to provide for us, for we are seated together with Him in the heavenly places far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world but also in the world to come. Amen.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPPdtalCHv5q_ZamG5dulMYdr78i8wo3-52Z0-0J6uC2viQ8C14GI3R1m7LsS3Nso2V5D82__LZjWDVD1eS9VERpiE1vpZsoZSPeQa5zJVJUsv7YQ5zR_HUHUNqgKozZOj_vEg1a6aaBMyFjbCmwwq9K6A3hU7A0X2svFDtWOQE9LL1Go3Pa9xCyGtrkf/s900/MountainMajestyMatthew17-20Web-1_kindlephoto-64367077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="708" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPPdtalCHv5q_ZamG5dulMYdr78i8wo3-52Z0-0J6uC2viQ8C14GI3R1m7LsS3Nso2V5D82__LZjWDVD1eS9VERpiE1vpZsoZSPeQa5zJVJUsv7YQ5zR_HUHUNqgKozZOj_vEg1a6aaBMyFjbCmwwq9K6A3hU7A0X2svFDtWOQE9LL1Go3Pa9xCyGtrkf/w315-h400/MountainMajestyMatthew17-20Web-1_kindlephoto-64367077.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>To God be the glory.</b></span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9042609515776131474.post-13572904959167222212023-09-14T15:09:00.000-05:002023-09-14T15:09:42.244-05:00ACTING ON YOUR PRAYERS<div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDt1YZHuQ8OkpmgkbWktAzwxTLw__t-eRIWrjIHX-TqPGx6jfnagxOqUwl0XRwPj-_oeGLTH_88YhZ1fY4Xx4wSeVoiQsw-8uQshEIpfzBm7oO1gBG0_PyKJRQRCltJuNUEfK3xvApkLhJ4qdFuhYh6dA1yuKYxYENpZSmg-2J-HM6V_jTWq1A3yIYJk2Z/s439/Elijah%20Praying%20For%20Rain.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="307" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDt1YZHuQ8OkpmgkbWktAzwxTLw__t-eRIWrjIHX-TqPGx6jfnagxOqUwl0XRwPj-_oeGLTH_88YhZ1fY4Xx4wSeVoiQsw-8uQshEIpfzBm7oO1gBG0_PyKJRQRCltJuNUEfK3xvApkLhJ4qdFuhYh6dA1yuKYxYENpZSmg-2J-HM6V_jTWq1A3yIYJk2Z/s320/Elijah%20Praying%20For%20Rain.png" width="224" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">When Elijah was praying for the 3Ā½ year drought to end, he
went to the top of Mount Carmel and bowed down to the ground with his face
between his knees. He prayed for rain, then sent his servant to go look toward
the sea for any sign of rain. The servant returned and said, āThereās nothing.ā
Elijah kept praying and sent the servant back again, and he returned with the
same news. They repeated this errand seven times. Then on the seventh time, the
servant returned and said, āThere is a cloud, as small as a manās hand, rising
out of the sea!ā The sky became black with clouds and wind, and there was a
heavy downpour.</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">To be proactive means taking initiative or acting in
anticipation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Elijah proactively prayed when he acted in faith
and anticipation, by having his servant continue to look for signs of rain. He
prayed with persistence until his servant saw a small cloud rising up into the
sky. He then acted on that knowledge notifying King Ahab that the drought had
ended.</span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>To God be the glory.<br /></b>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dove</span></div></div>Dee Richardson, Voice of the Dovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463113299170850161noreply@blogger.com