Sukkot 2025

 

Sukkot - Feast of Booths, practice for the Wedding Feast of the Lamb - Yah is our sustenance and provider of all things - community of Believers, known as The Seed of Abraham with Yahusha as our High Priest, living in community.  This is how I understand this feast unto YHVH. Exodus 23:16, Deuteronomy 16:13-17, Leviticus 23:34-43 

This was our third year to keep the Feast with other believers. Before that, we kept the feast camping in our yard. We just have no fellowship, no meeting with like hearted believers, near us. We travel to SW Missouri to keep the Feast with Ancient Path Fellowship. Over these three years we've developed lifelong relationships with people from all over, and we are so thankful. It is such a revitalizing experience, we go home refreshed, and immediately begin planning next year's trip. 

Some things were a little different this year.  Location: new location, the Ministry now owns some land,  and are getting it cleaned and cleared, building bath and laundry facilities. Plans to add a few more rv sites are on the agenda as well.  So looking forward to that since we actually stayed off site and drove to the Feast site daily. Faces: some folks we are used to seeing just weren't there.  But some new people were.  In this movement of Walking in the Way, there are several variables.  Not everyone is on the same page on every subject. But perhaps this too is a struggle bringing us to maturity,  a purifying. How we love each other in these differences is a true test of character- fruit. 

Until next year beloved family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Just a work in progress

Teresa

Copy and paste in your search bar.

https://aroodawakening.tv/feasts-studies/feast/sukkot/

https://youtu.be/3PFwYVlKAHo?si=acrKUqOURYYmGXRQ

Charl!3 K!rk is Not the Only One

Christians are martyred every single day somewhere on this Earth. We never hear their names nor their stories. We don't hear about their incredible faith and trials. Western Christianity doesn't give much attention at all to the suffering of our fellow believers.  Christians were about 2% of the Palestinian population according to a quick Google search, it was 10% in 1948. This has happened right before our very eyes, and we didn't see it. These families had been there for over 2000 years. 

According to romereports.com, 4476 Christians were martyred in 2024. There are several websites that track this data. 

How about the whole communities of Christians slaughtered in Syria right now? The msm isn't covering it.

How would you know?

https://persecution.org/2025/09/19/update-on-syria-a-new-era-or-more-of-the-same-for-syrian-christians/

Congo? 

https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/stories/100-plus-christians-slaughtered-in-drc/

Kenya?

https://persecution.org/2024/04/10/al-shabab-kills-christians-during-multiple-attacks-in-kenya/

Pakistan?

https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/08/pakistan-one-year-since-jaranwala-attack-minority-christians-await-justice/

Nigeria?

https://www.opendoors.org/en-US/persecution/countries/nigeria/

I can go on and on, there are numerous reports, year after year. Dear Disciple of Messiah, Charlie Kirk wasn't the first nor only martyr. He is the most recent famous martyr. This killing of Christians is coming to the west, Charlie won't be the last, he's your heads-up. More and more, the negative view and treatment of believers is applauded and celebrated. 

https://www.romereports.com/en/2025/02/01/4476-christians-killed-for-their-faith-in-2024/

https://www.osvnews.com/christian-persecution-on-the-rise-worldwide-new-report-says/

https://www.opendoors.org/en-US/persecution/countries/

As I watch the world news,  changes in the Middle East, I hear within my spirit, "when they say peace and safety, then sudden destruction". We are watching the birth pangs. Stand strong, hold tight, for your Redemption draws near. 

Just a servant 

Teresa

Saved From What?

Have you been saved? Have you ever asked someone that question? Has anyone asked you? Well, how about: saved from what? How would you answer that question? 

The Greek word so'zo' (Strong's #4982) meaning to deliver or protect, save and heal appears 106 times in 99 verses in the KJV. 93 times it means to save, 9 times it means to heal, 3 times it means to be whole, according to The Blue Letter Bible website. 

The Hebrew word yasha (Strong's 3467) meaning deliver, rescue, and preserve appears 205 times in the the KJV Bible. 149 times it means save, 15 times it means saviour, 13 times it means deliver, 12 times it means help, 5 times it means preserved, 3 times it means salvation, it is also translated avenging, at all, avenged, defend, rescue, safe, and victory another 8 times. Again according to The Blue Letter Bible website. 

The Greek word soterias ( Strong's #G4991) translated salvation is used to describe the act of delivering from destruction, danger, or calamity" according to Bible Hub. And yeshuah is the Hebrew word (Strong's #3444) translated salvation in the Old Testament Scriptures. It breaks down as deliverance, rescue, welfare. 

I searched with BibleGateway.com and can see that save is mainly used in reference to people being rescued from their enemies and calamity, and disease.  But we do get some other examples. For instance Psalm 39:8 save from my transgressions, Psalm 120:2 saved from slander, Proverbs 2:16 saved from being seduced, also saved from shame and disgrace,  destruction,  exile, from false prophets, saved from the Day of the Lord. But mostly from Genesis to Revelation we get the consistent message that we are being saved from separation from The Most High due to our own transgressions that would result in the death of our eternal spirit being (2 Thessalonians 2:10, 2 Timothy 1:8-10). This is referenced in Revelation 2:11, 20:6, 20:14, and 21:8. Jude 1 speaks of this eternal fire we find in Revelation.  In my books that fits being saved from destruction, calamity, and my enemies.  It fits being rescued,  healed, made whole, and victory. 

He saved me from myself.  

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

Absolution Amnesia

I want to forgive so completely that I forget. I have always heard "forgive and forget" but I kinda figured only Yah could actually do it. Until recently,  I would have said exactly that.  

I walk myself thru this process of forgiveness, always setting boundaries and keeping an arm's length,  if you know what I mean.  And, Yes! Boundaries are good when properly applied. No doubt! But setting boundaries for self protection isn't really operating in faith.  Boundaries can put a buffer between yourself and the offender's possible future offenses, true. But the boundaries should serve in loving that offender as well. It's not love to allow someone to continue in sinful behavior.  Btw, Yah didn't instruct us to protect ourselves from future offences. More on that later. 

I have learned I can, and have forgiven to the point that I forgot. I forgot what happened, and I forgot the pain. I usually view myself as one who tends to hold a grudge.  I am distrusting of people. Sometimes the boundaries I set look like grudge holding, or self protecting to me and I self evaluate. This issue of forgiving is on the forefront of my mind often. I know I must forgive if I want to be forgiven (Matt 6:14-15, Luke 6:37, Colossians 3:12-13).  So....I wanna make sure I'm not missing the mark on this.

A while back I was hurt by someone, and a short time after it happened I remembered a few things that had occurred with that same person years and years(decades) ago. I had forgotten all about it. With the recall I realized this wasn't the first time this type of thing happened with this very same person. I had actually walked away from this person several times in the past.  So, it was the same stuff different day. The walking away was me setting up boundaries,  which were good. I really needed to separate myself at that time, you know how it goes bad company corrupts good character  (1Corinthians 15:33). I couldn't go down that path with them. But did you catch the part where I said I had forgotten.  I wasn't keeping a record of wrongs. I had forgiven till I forgot.  

What is forgiveness? Think of it like this: when you are hurt in some way by another, this creates a debt. Something was taken from you, that person can't and usually won't even try to make it right, make you whole again.  But Yah can, and does. Let Him fill that void. Now, the debt is between Yah and that person. Read that sentence again. You are in a place to no longer require payment from that person. It's forgiven on your end(and paid by Yahusha). To fully understand and receive this covering from Yahusha will take faith and time. Now this is where the boundaries go, and makes a lot of sense for unrepentant offenders. In most situations you can still be in relationship with this person withholding nothing Yah teaches us to do in love and obedience.  Other, more severe situations, may require a complete cutting of ties. 

Boundaries are not simply self protection. Boundaries should help the forgiven person.  Structure. It's not love to allow a person to mistreat you, or continue in sin in any form. Forgiveness is not about facilitating sin, it isn't saying it's ok what they did. ***Abuse is never ok. Get away, big boundaries, seek help that is appropriate for the abuse you are experiencing***. 

Yahusha taught to turn the other cheek, and to forgive 70x7 times, if someone takes your coat give to them your cloak as well. (Matt 18:21-22 and 5:39-40) How do those principles apply? Well first off, you only have 2 cheeks, and two items of clothing mentioned here so on face value it seems to say we should feel secure enough to forgive immediately, nothing of earthy value is more important than being obedient in this command for forgiveness. My faith is stronger than this offence. No one should be smacking you around and taking all your stuff, both cheeks and both your outer garments seems plenty: boundaries. But if they do...forgive anyway. Forgive an endless amount of times, just as your Heavenly Father forgives you. (Luke 23:34, Colossians 2:13 and 3:13, Hebrews 8:12, Matthew 6:12, 1 John 1:9) He will make you whole. There is nothing someone can take from you that matters more than walking out this faith. 

I want to forgive to the extent that I forget. There's such peace in that. 

Charlie Kirk was assassinated today. A bright light for the Kingdom and commonsense values was extinguished. Bless his family Yah. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

But Why?

 

You know that kid, the one who always has "Why?" on the tip of their tongue? I think I might be that kid.  I realize I have a "Teresa" perspective, I'm trying to make sense of the information,  and therefore, I question much. 

I question what the teacher presents, not to be contentious,  but to gain more understanding. As a Bible student in church, I moved from sitting in front with my hand raised to sitting in the back just observing.  I was not getting answers that actually answered. With enough of that, the teacher and student become frustrated, for far different reasons.  I learned to repeat the Church doctrine, being reassured I would understand with time... Yeah, not so much. 

I could easily read my Bible, seemed pretty straightforward to me. But why didn't we as Christians do what it says? It says to do this, but we do that. But why? Sometimes the response was a Bible verse...ok. I guess I don't see what I'm supposed to.  For instance: 

Question: The Bible says the 7th day, each week, is a Holy Sabbath, set apart to Yah. So why do we not meet at church on Saturday? Why is it Sunday?

Answer: Sunday is the Lord's Day- it's the day Jesus/Yahusha resurrected. Jesus is your Sabbath rest. You are no longer required to keep a specific day as Holy. 

 Question: Ok, but where does the Bible say to do that? 

Answer: it doesn't 

Question: Why do we celebrate Christmas and not the Holy Days Yah said are His Holy Days? 

Answer: Those old testament Holy Days are only for the Jews, Christians have their own holidays. 

Question: but why? Where does the Bible say that? 

Answer: it doesn't, but not one should judge you for what days you celebrate.

Question: why do Christians eat pork when the Bible definitely says not to, it says pork is not food? ( neither is shellfish,  rodents, reptiles, birds of prey- not everything was designed to be fuel for your body) 

Answer: Jesus made all food clean. Peter's dream says we can eat anything.  You can eat anything as long as you thank God for it.

Question: Which Bible verse says Jesus changed what is not food into food? Didn't Peter himself determine that his dream was about people,  not food? I need more proof.

Answer: ummmmm, I'll get back to you.  

That's just a sample.  I could go on, and on. Many times the "church fathers" would be invoked and quoted. No offense to those guys, but really I gotta understand this on my own. Those "church fathers" aren't going to stand with me on judgement day. "It's the way we were raised" is also a common response to my questions.  Sorry that's not an acceptable answer either.  One must not rely on a rehearsed quote you don't understand,  ask questions.  

One good christian man recently remarked, "some laws didn't transfer over"...what? Look all of Yah's laws still stand, for the natural born and the foreigner (adopted/grafted-in) alike. One family of Yah, one Kingdom of Yah, one law. Because there is no temple, no Yah accepted alter, and no Levitical priesthood some of Yah's laws sit on the books, not applicable right now. Some laws are only for men, some only for women,  some only for the Levitical priests, so forth and so on. The laws are still there, they just don't all apply right now.  Just like US laws for selling raw milk don't apply to me, I don't even own a cow.  

I also must address the fact that Judiasm now and in Jesus/Yahusha’s day believe Moses was given an Oral law along with the written law Yah gave him. This is called Talmudic law.  Adding burdens on the people. Those are the "laws" the Pharisees  were hasseling Jesus/Yahusha about. He knew the Torah, He IS the Torah. Ha Satan has done a bang up job causing confusion regarding this Torah of Yah. So much adding to and taking away(Deuteronomy 4:2, Proverbs 30:6, Revelation)

I start from the premise that YHVH is the same yesterday,  today, and forever,  He never changes. The word obedience is preached from a multitude of pulpits each Sunday. Obedient to what? How about obedience to the Whole Word of Yah? Do all that you can right now. Why? Because He said "if you love me,  keep my commandments". That's why. 

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

A Birds Eye View

 

I often wonder about my place in The Kingdom of Yahuah.  Sometimes, it's a season of time that I dwell on the subject. I can be very hard on myself.  What have I accomplished? Have I made a difference? Even for one person. Have my flaws out shined my positives? I wish I could run into so-n-so that I could apologize for my really bad behavior way back in the day. My mind can run on and on. 

There are so many people who have come in and out of my life. Some for a short time, some for a while. And I wish I could say I  have no regrets, but I can't.  Really at the end of it all, being a positive for whomever crosses my path, a light, a sign pointing to Yahusha, is my goal. But it wasn't always so.  And it's during those moments where "it wasn't always so" that I have sorrow and remorse.  How I long to see Michaela again, so I can ask her forgiveness.  I want to speak with Lisa, and apologize for not doing more to help her. But I can't find them. If you're reading this and I  wronged you,  please give me a chance to seek your forgiveness.  

Once in a while Yah allows someone from the past to find me. And so far, when someone finds me, it's been to express that I left a good and helpful deposit in their life. What a beautiful gift. I rejoice in it. I'm so thankful.  And I was surprised.  Yes, I didn't think they were listening,  or watching,  but they were.  Seems like it takes a birds eye view of one's life to see where you made a difference.  

For years I was just trying to hang on, when I look back I see no "work for the Kingdom". Then Yah showed me I was developing a strong foundational faith. I may have been barely hanging on, but He had a firm grip on me. Where I see I failed my children,  Yah has brought them up to be wonderful people,  strong competent men. In spite of or because of, I may never know,  but Yah blessed them.

One day we will all get that birds eye view of how our lives, words, and deeds affected others, for good or bad. All of us will have some regretful moments. All Glory to Yah that can even use our shameful unChristlike past to further His Kingdom.

One day you will be a memory,  be a good one.

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

Why It Matters

 

My last blog post was about all the grievous sin running rampant across the earth. I wrote about revealing the sin, acknowledging it is happening, looking that horrific darkness in the face.  And now let's discuss why it matters. 

We know from Genesis and the story of Cain and Able, that the blood of the innocent who have been slain cries out to the Most High. And He hears them. These cries are for justice. We are reminded of this in the Book of Revelation when the blood of the saints who are killed for their testimony cry out for justice. "How Long Adoni?" Ezekiel 9:4 gives the example of men being marked by The Most High because they were grieved by the abominations that were occurring around them. The marked men were a righteous remnant.  I want to be marked by Yah as His own, and to be counted in the remnant of the righteous.  

Let our voices join with the cries of the slain innocent. Let our hearts be grieved over the abominations happening around us. Let our eyes be opened to the evil hiding in plain sight. Let our King come back and set things right. I do not relish to see what happens when He does come back, but I know it's necessary. 

A work in progress 

Teresa 

Come Quickly Yahusha

 

A few years ago I began praying that all the evil and corruption across the earth be revealed. Many others were praying this same thing, and lo and behold the ugliness is being laid bare, exposed. The depths of depravity of which humans are capable is hard to understand, it's hard to face. 

Over the years I've heard folks say, "oh things have to get much worse before Jesus comes back."  Upon hearing that statement, I would shake my head. It's doubtful that we, as mere humans, can get an accounting of how much evil, wickedness,  and sin is in this world, as we know, sin starts with a thought. But our Heavenly Father knows.  He is slow to send Yahusha back because he is merciful.  Just like the question presented by Abraham when Sodom was targeted for destruction by Yahuah, "What if there are 10 righteous people there? Will you spare it for 10 people?".  Me, and others like me are still fervently praying for our loved ones to come to the knowledge and acceptance of the gift of Salvation. 

There is so much I just don't understand about Yah and His ways. And normally I can easily put an unanswered question on the back burner, resting in the knowledge that Yah is in control, He has plans to benefit us, He gave His only begotten Son so that we would be redeemed back to him.  Good wins over evil. Yet when I am exposed to the information about the rampant evil and sin, well, it just sickens me. The stories of the sins committed against the innocent haunt me. So much so, that  praying for the immediate return of Yahusha is first on my lips. 

Genocide.  Human trafficking for sex, labor, and organ harvesting, believe it or not, for human sacrifice as well- humans from new born up. People from 11 years old to 60 are conscripted into the Ukraine meat grinder against their will. Our government has been behind millions of innocent deaths in our conquests around the world. Why do we accept the idea of collateral damage =deaths of the innocent civilians? In Gaza, none of them are considered civilians,  ALL are seen as enemy combatants- women, children,  elderly,  handicapped- ALL. Above that, why are we forcing our will on everyone everywhere? Each time a US dollar is used for a death, the US is responsible.  Stop funding the wars and death. How about abortion? Those numbers are astonishing. How about modern "medicine"? Yeah, there are some beneficial things, I don't deny it, but!!!!! We've been poisoned by pharma and the food industry all for a profit for the shareholders.  

I will put links to some recent videos and articles that expose deep dark sins against the innocent.  You will need to copy and paste in the search bar. It is with a heavy heart I share these videos, warning: it's horrific.  I've been stewing about this for a while,  trying to get those thoughts and visuals out of my mind. But I can't.  We cannot continue to put our heads in the sand.  We need to look at it and stand against it. Come Quickly King Yahusha.

https://youtu.be/QRjEMbHXM4Q?si=pdA-j_xe01S9TN3r

https://youtu.be/2sj0dIOeHbo?si=2uAfyJ_Yl8AmwrqD

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/08/hhs-secretary-rfk-jr-vows-end-horror-story/

https://youtu.be/aLqVUa-0KuU?si=ottY6yJDct0G0PpX

https://youtu.be/3lcLQqUapYo?si=Ga_-mKjaoLWNzSzu

https://youtu.be/axT37P_oz1k?si=FpZYG4ypvSb6eO6u

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/03/25/what-the-data-says-about-abortion-in-the-us/

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

One-Liner Verses

I have noticed how we, as Bible believing Christians, are quick with one-liner verses. We have scripture memorized, stored in our hearts, and freely throw them into conversation. Sometimes very much out of context. "he who is without sin, cast the first stone", "judge not", "don't let anyone judge you by what you eat, or drink", "I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me". Each of these phrases, and many others like them,  show up in specific stories, with specific meaning for that situation. Not to be thrown into any and every conversation. Yet it happens.

I have also noticed how, many of us, as Bible believing Christians, operate under the assumption that each word written in Scripture is directed to  us. Not true. These words were many times for specific people, under specific circumstances, with a specific purpose. Something from which we can glean understanding and deeper insight, but not direct instructions for us. But if we don't seek to understand who was the targeted audience, what were they dealing with, and what were the circumstances, then we're not getting it. Christians are really good at stringing random verses together to create their own personal doctrine. As long as you speak Christianese, rattling off verses left and right, we are seldom challenged on our understanding of said verses. You must challenge yourself. 

Just to clear up a few things: John 8 is where we find the verse "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" is not saying we shouldn't call people to account for their sinful behavior because we too have sinned. This was about a woman accused of being caught in the act of adultery,  by a group of men. It takes two to commit this particular sin, and a man wasn't brought for judgement along side her. It's clear Yahusha/Jesus was talking to those men directly. Yahusha/Jesus knelt down and wrote in the dirt when he made this proclamation to the men who brought the woman. We can only guess what he wrote, but it dispersed the men. That message was directly for those men, in that situation, and frankly we only know part of that message - the spoken part.

Matthew 7:1 is where we find "judge not lest you be judged by the same measure that you judged them" and this is not saying not to judge others. It is warning about holding others to a standard you yourself are not living. Be careful when judging others, because that's the standard on which you will be judged.  We see that in Romans 2:1.  Others times in Scripture we are told to make a righteous judgement and to judge fruit (John 7:24, 1 Corinthians 5, Deuteronomy 16:18, Matthew 7:15-20). Question: What is a Righteous judgement? Answer: Weigh the matter against the Word Of Yah. This one-liner is often used to shut folks down when they call out sin. Again taken completely out of context.

Colossians 2:16 and Romans 14 are often misunderstood to speak against the Holy Days found in the OT scriptures, and the dietary laws. On the contrary, the targeted audience here are converts from paganism to faith in Yahusha. They are turning from pagan holidays and diets to Yah's Holy Days and Yah's diet. And were being judged for walking away from pagan practices. Specifically in Romans they are discussing what days to fast, and the question of eating meats that were sacrificed to idols, not even Holy Days at all. After the sacrifice was made the meat was sold in the market, you may not know if it was sacrificed to an idol or not. This bothered the conscious of some new converts. Paul explains that it really means nothing, but if it worries the new believers then they shouldn't eat the meat. When we don't do the diligence to understand who was the targeted audience,  what was their circumstances,  who is the author,  what was the author saying, and weigh it against the OT Scriptures,  then we can easily fall victim to Peter's warning about misunderstanding Paul's teachings (2 Peter 3:15-17). 

Philippines 4:13, "I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me" doesn't cover any and all things.... If whatever you need this strength for is within the will of Yah, His purposes, then yes you will be given strength to do it, endure it, and over come it. But it doesn't apply to just anything you wish to do. 

In conclusion I'd say, memorize scriptures, use them to guide you, encourage you, teach you,  bless you, and more, but know what is truly meant and don't use them out of context or to build your own doctrine. We want to be careful not to misrepresent Yah or His Word. 

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

That Very Moment

 

Do you remember the very moment you were "saved", or made the decision for Yahusha? I have heard many folks give their testimony, powerful, emotional, detailed stories of that very moment. Not me. I remember believing from a young age, playing and making up songs to sing to Jesus. I have a memory of walking to my friend's house and singing at the top of my lungs when I noticed a grownup watching me with a big smile on her face. But I couldn't put my finger on a memory of that very moment of salvation.

I can recall moments of real repentance and returning to the path over the years. I have several memories of interactions with the presence of Yah, or the Holy Spirit. For instance, when I was pregnant with my oldest son I received a vision. I hadn't been walking closely with Jesus(Yahusha). I was going my own way, and not making the greatest decisions. But one night as I was laying down to sleep, I was suddenly in my childhood bedroom. I was above the bed looking down, I saw myself, 2nd grader, saying my prayers. I was nervous about the multiplication test the next day. I had no confidence that I could pass. So I prayed, " please help me pass the test, and I will raise my babies in church when I grow up".  The very next day I went to the local Methodist Church and enrolled in their class for new people. Methodist was my mom's church, it's what I knew. Oh, by the way, I did pass that multiplication test. I don't think Yah is about making bargains, but it seems He was holding me to that childhood pledge. 

As I have been thinking about salvation stories, and not being able to pinpoint mine, Yah once again gave me a vision. As I'm laying down to sleep, saying my prayers, I was suddenly in the First Church Of God in Cushing Oklahoma, upstairs in "children's church".  I'm in my little girl body, and I can see my feet. They are dangling from my seat on that hard wooden pew. I hear Betty Tubbs leading us in prayer, piano playing softly.  I hear myself asking Jesus into my heart.  Yah took me back there, to show me that very moment. I understood that I was being shown the innocence and sincerity of that very moment. Yah has been faithful to never leave me, nor forsake me. He has faithfully lead me along this life journey teaching me, forming me, refining me, and strengthening my faith. I'm very thankful for this recent vision. Sweet, and comforting. 

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

PHOTO: my brother and I

Sarah and Hagar

 

Yesterday I was listening to a podcast and the question was posed: in the kingdom, of the Biblical characters, with whom do you want to speak? Several people were mentioned and why, or what they would be asked. Got me to thinking. Who do I want to meet? Who has strongly influenced my faith? What questions would I ask? Immediately Hagar, then Sarah came to mind for very different reasons. They are such polar opposites yet both play powerful roles in Yah showing us who He is. 

Sarai/Sarah: We first meet Sarai  wife of Abram  in Genesis 11. Jasher gives us background of Abram's father, Terah,  being an idol maker for King Nimrod, this is important because Sarah is Terah's offspring as well. In Genesis 12 we read a story of Abram going to Egypt, but feared he would be killed and Sarai would be taken from him due to her great beauty. He claimed she was his sister. That word used for sister may be referring to a close family member, not necessarily sibling. Jasher 22:16 claims Sarai is Abram's niece. Scripture mentions her great beauty but doesn't dwell on it. Her righteous ways are emphasized. From ages and times given in Scripture we can determine Sarai was at least 40 years old, at this time, and perhaps as old as 65. Great beauty indeed. Oh, and Pharaoh piles wealth on Abram at the conclusion of this story...for her sake. Wait? What? Next, Genesis 13 Yah promises an inheritance to Abram's offspring... Hold on, Sarai is how old again? Between 40 and 65 at last count. And again in Genesis 15, Yah speaks of Abram's offspring, and how numerous they will be. Genesis 16, Sarai is barren, and so she brings out Hagar, her Egyptian maid, to further the plans for offspring. I realize in that culture, at that time, this may not have been such an off-the-rocker idea, but I don't still don't like it. If she were my friend, I'd probably advise against it. Anyhow, we all know how that panned out. When Hagar gives birth, Abram is 86 years old, making Sarai 76. Genesis 17, Abram is 99/100 years old, (Sarai 89/90), the covenant with Yah takes the next step of circumcision, with this comes the announcement that the offspring included in that covenant will come thru Sarai thus changing their names to reflect being the parents of many. Genesis 18 indicates Sarah is in menopause, past child bearing years. This is why she laughed at the thought of carrying a child. Genesis 20 finds Abraham once again being deceptive about his relationship to Sarah in order to save his life when Sarah was taken from him. What gives? She is 90 years old! Abraham explains here that Sarah is his half sister, same dad -different moms. Again she was returned along with gifts of great wealth.  These two have a long time now been considered royalty. The nomadic, herdsmen King and his Queen who covenanted with YHVH. Genesis 21 Sarah conceives. They are sexually active, 90 and 100 years of age. I'm not 90, but I do have an experienced knowledge of what menopause is like and what changes and challenges come with it. I have questions for Sarah. Many questions. Anyhow Hagar's son is 14 when Sarah's son is born. Some time after, Sarah finds issue with Ishmael and demands he and his mother be removed from the camp and the inheritance. In Genesis 23 sadly Sarah dies. She is 127 years old. Abraham secures a burial place for Sarah through purchase, even though the land was promised to him as an inheritance. Jasher 23-24 gives a detailed story about Sarah being tested by the evil one, thus leading to her death. It also tells us Sarah had an elaborate funeral ceremony, as befitting a queen. Ok was Sarah so beautiful, and freakishly so well into her elderly years because of her faith and living it out in righteous behaviors? Several years ago I read a fictional book with Sarah as the main character. In this book it says Sarah drank a "potion" that caused her to remain young, beautiful, and barren. I found the reference for this idea in Jasher 2:19-22. This seems reasonable to me since we know she was raised by a family who served Nimrod, the author of Babylonian cult practices in his time. So, yes, more questions for Sarah. I have to be in awe of her faith and steadfastness throughout her life. Her security in her place in life must have been significant. She was the one instructing not only Hagar, but all the women of their camp of a large multitude. I truly wish Scripture gave us more about Sarah. 

Hagar: Genesis 16 introduces us to Hagar. She is Sarai's Egyptian maid. The oral tradition says Hagar was the daughter of Pharoah, given to Sarah as a gift due to the powerful way Yah intervened when Sarai and Abram were in Egypt. The word wife is used when Abram takes Hagar, but we will soon see that although this elevated Hagar's station, this does not make her Sarai's equal even though she was likely a princess in her own right. Hagar conceived, and developed disdain for Sarai. Sarai felt the sting of this betrayal and was given permission from Abram to deal with Hagar as she saw fit. Sarai was harsh, pregnant Hagar ran away. The Messenger of Yahuah came to her and directed her to humble herself and return to Sarai...not Abram, Sarai. Sarai was the direct authority over Hagar in this hierarchy. The Messenger also gave Hagar a promise regarding the son she carried and his future. She called Yah, El Roi. The God who sees me. This story always breaks my heart for Hagar, and has given me such comfort. Although I didn't have her same experience, I can totally relate to the vulnerable, scared, alone woman who realizes Yah sees her, sees her pain, sees her distress...and comes with hope. I want to hug Hagar sitting by the spring desperate and alone. I love this story. Her faith must have been remarkable in order to humble herself to Sarai and receive spiritual instruction from her. Let that sink in... In Jasher 16 we learn that Sarai had been instructing Hagar in Sarai's "good ways". The way of righteous living, being a Godly wife. Remember Scripture emphasized Sarai's holiness, not her beauty. (Both Sarai and Hagar are judging Sarai's barrenness as a punishment from Yah. So maybe contention remained between them.) Abram is 85 years old, making Sarai 75 years old. When Sarah does conceive and give birth(Genesis 21), as mentioned before, Hagar's son, Ishmael, is 14 years old. Sarah saw this youngster mocking her son and called for Ishmael and Hagar to be removed from the camp and inheritance.  This grieved Abraham,  he loved Ishmael.  Again Hagar finds herself in the wilderness, afraid,  alone in her responsibility to care for her son, (who was probably 19 years old at this point,) without resources, vulnerable. As she wept, Yah heard Ishmael's voice ( was he praying?), and the Messenger of Yah called to her, and again told of Ishmael's future and gave her hope. Jubilees 19 says Hagar died before Sarah. In Jasher 25 and Jubilees 19 we learn Abraham and Hagar had other children besides Ishmael. Sure wish we knew more about Hagar. 

****Disclaimer**** In no way am I saying the information found in the extra biblical texts are facts, or scripture. I do read them to glean what might help in understanding the actual scriptures. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

https://womeninscripture.com/hagar-friend-or-foe/

Something is Askew

 

On June 13th I woke up with a gut feeling I haven't been able to dismiss. At first it was something I "felt" but couldn't see. It was in my peripheral vision. Like a word on the tip of your tongue, but you just can't recall it. It was a few hours before I was aware of Israel moving against Iran. But knowing what happened didn't dismiss that feeling of something wasn't right. 

I hear voices from all sides, yet none of those give me comfort. Today is the 17th and things are happening quite quickly.  Clearly many things are askew, but still the gut feeling persists. I sense there is a trick I must watch out for. When our focus is in one area, screwy stuff is happening elsewhere.  I know my Rock,  Yahusha, and I'm not afraid,  but I feel like I'm being cautioned. 

Feelings don't really account for much overall, they can ebb and flow as the tide, change like the wind. My foundation of understanding must be secured to the Word of Yah, my Bible. Having had these "feelings" before, I recognize a Gift of the Spirit some times called A Word of Knowledge. Along with the "feeling" I usually get an impression of a directive. Do this, don't do that sort of thing. I have found if I heed the instructions,  I get the answers I'm seeking. For instance once, years ago, I was searching for a specific item at Walmart. I was in the general area, but just couldn't find it. I "felt" strongly that I was supposed to ask the lady in front of me. There was no reason to believe that lady would know about the item I was seeking. As a matter of fact everything about her appearance suggested she would not know about the item. But I asked her anyhow.  She said, " oh that's on the next isle, I bought one last week for a friend. " The key to acting on these feelings or impressions is to make sure the instructions are within the perimeters of Yah's Word. 

Now, today is the 19th of June 2025. The deaths are still occurring all around the world. Things are hard to follow because they are happening so quickly. I have not gotten an impression to do anything except write this blog and keep myself Torah aware.  Meaning, Torah is truth, everything else is questionable. Stand firm no matter what we see or hear.  Deceptions are foretold, so we should expect them.  

Seek Him while He may be found. 

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

What Being Poor Taught Me

 

Throw back Pic from 1985

I am so glad I have had the experience of being poor. I learned to be resourceful,  creative, and self reliant. I can feed a lot on a little and make it taste good.  I learned about natural, aka alternative, medicine. We couldn't afford doctors or pharmaceuticals. I learned what is important and necessary and what is not. I learned I can survive off what I can carry in a backpack.  Most things are just extra baggage. 

I learned to be thankful for each day's provision. When I was 20 I was homeless, living out of my car at Lake Parsons near Parsons Kansas. We, Johnny Bill and I, ate all the fish we could catch and some nice folks gave us eggs. I never ate so many eggs in my whole life.  For a few years after this,  I didn't eat eggs at all.  Same with PB&J, during my first pregnancy I ate PB&J every day. Someone gave me commodity peanut butter, a huge can of it.  I didn't let it go to waste.  

I learned to appreciate every luxury down to the smallest thing we generally take for granted. Believe me, and pillow for your head is a luxury. Five dollars for gas money to get to work so I can make a few tips for gas money and food the next day.  Five dollars made the difference on whether I ate or not. I learned that money is a tool,  use it wisely, don't squander it, and don't hesitate to give it to someone who needs it more than I. Kindness to others is like a boomerang,  it comes back to you.  

I learned that cleaning toilets is good honest work and isn't beneath me. I learned servants are usually more generous than those being served. So no matter where I am in life,  treat the maid the same as the owner.  And speak to her, tell her "thank you". 

Today, I don't consider myself poor. I never miss a meal, gas tank is full, bills are paid, and there's even enough to help others, and travel a little. I do hold on to those memories and lessons.  I hope I never take for granted the life I enjoy and the blessings Yah has given me. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

Biblical Courtship

 

Several years ago, when my boys were growing up, I homeschooled them. As they grew into preteens we began to study courtship. I wanted to provide my boys with the knowledge of Yah's standard in the matters of marriage. I knew so very little when I was young and single, I could have used some help navigating relationships and commitment.  

***Disclaimer **** neither of my sons actually participated in Biblical Courtship,  but the wisdom and guidance they got from these lessons years ago definitely contribute to the successful marriages they now have. Not to mention the problems they could have avoided if they had only adhered to those lessons. 

Courtship is not like dating. Dating is like spouse shopping, but not everyone shopping are serious shoppers. Some just want to do a lot of sampling. And let's be honest,  that's what the western cultures have brought us to. Our society doesn't encourage commitment, family,  and faith. It promotes self. In Biblical Courtship young people meet each other through family social relationships, mainly "church" or like minded faith groups. Once a young man and young lady realize they are interested in one another, or perhaps just the young man has noticed a Righteous girl, the next step is to see if they are compatible.  The young man goes to his father (or Spiritual leader if dad isn't in the picture).  If his father approves, they both go to her father. If he agrees, her father goes to her. If she agrees, then step 2. 

Step 2, as a family, mom and dad most likely have taught their children what the standards are. So the fathers can meet and come to terms: expectations,  rules, boundaries,  and such for courtship.  This should be in writing,  then agreed upon by both fathers and the girl and young man. A duration of time should be set to reassess the relationship,  then go to the next level of commitment or end it cordially.  

During this first segment of time, and written in the agreement,  the couple will meet periodically,  speak on the phone occasionally,  but mostly write letters to each other.  When they meet, they are always chaperoned (No hand holding, no hugs, no kisses. This isn't your wife, she belongs to her father till he gives her in marriage) preferably in a family social setting. Phone calls are never in private. The level of supervision over written correspondence would depend on the family. But some supervision is recommended.

Step 3, next level commitment, is like engagement. The goal is to be married at the end of this time period. How long this is will depend on what is agreed upon by all. Some couples want this time shortened because they know they are all in and are falling in love. Reassess the restrictions, usually a little more freedom and privacy is allowed. BUT ABSOLUTE RESPECT AND PURITY IS PARAMOUNT. 

Step 4. Wedding.

The important thing is to vet the prospect and prospective family. Know who you're joining. Be clear about expectations and boundaries. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Yah's standards for marriage, and relationships in general, should be sought out and applied. If you are choosing someone from your faith community your odds for success are increased.

Courtship is a beautiful system. Everyone is protected and the couple are given a safe environment to dive into romantic love. The pressures of society are not noticed because of the covering of the fathers. Fathers standing guard, chaperoning, and setting the standard. Boys don't feel pressured to "try", and girls are not placed in a position to fend off. Instead anticipation for intimacy in marriage builds during a courtship, therefore making it more special, more Set Apart. 

I would love to see Biblical Courtship become the norm amongst Torah prusant believers in Yahusha. It could be a beautiful thing. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

Bless My Girls

 

Baruch atah Yahuah,  blessed are you Yahuah 

Baruch atah Yahusha,  blessed are you Yahusha 

With a glad heart I thank you.  The girls you've placed in my life are such a blessing.  Abba, keep watch over them.  These girls: my daughters by law, my granddaughters,  my bonus daughter and my bonus granddaughter, plus my "forever family" girls: Candice, Kaylen, Miyah,  Heather, Allison, and Morgan. Abba thank you for them all. 

Guide these beautiful ladies into your loving embrace, that they may know their value and walk with their heads held high, secure in you. Give them hearts that seek you. Give them ears to hear you, give them eyes to see your wonderous works.

Father place people in their lives that will point the way to you, and to encourage them. Give them discernment that they may protect themselves and their children from the deceptions of the enemy. You are so good my El. Let them know the goodness of Yah.  

 Make them faithful and fruitful like Sarah, Rachel, and Rivka. Proverbs 31 women each and every one. May they be a blessing unto you Oh Yah. 

In the mighty name of Yahusha 

Amen

Teresa, a work in progress 

Baruch Atah Yahuah

 

Baruch atah Yahuah,  blessed are you Yahuah

Baruch atah Yahusha,  blessed are you Yahusha

Let me come to you with a heart filled with gratitude.  Let all your blessings flood my mind that I may express Thanksgiving in all I say and do.  Let my fruit be beautiful and delightful in your sight.  Keep me in your embrace that I don't step to the left nor the right.  

Show me your ways and teach me to walk in them. Abba, show me my sins and lead me into repentance.  Let me always be willing to accept correction and to walk upright before you. 

I come before you to ask for my children and grandchildren.  Father draw them to Yahusha that He will bring them to you.  I ask that each and every one of them will find their name written in The Lamb's Book of Life. Not one will be left out. 

This world cries out for you, Oh Yahuah.  I ask you for the leaders, may your will be carried out. Strengthen the righteous leaders to stand strong. Let the leaders lead the people into repentance of sins. Let the corruption be exposed and corrected. Let those responsible turn from harming to helping.  Let the whole world seek your will. Stop the harming of the innocent.  Forgive us Father, we have turned a blind eye to the evils around us.  Open our eyes, let us see, and show us truth. 

Thank you for your mercies. Let me be just as merciful to others. 

In The Mighty Name of Yahusha

Amen

A work in progress 

Teresa 

Testing That Fruit

 

Good grief! You speak on fruit, and the testers come out of the woodwork! Road ragers, keyboard crusaders, pissy family members, disobedient dogs, inconveniences, you name it, the testing ensues. It seems like all your (my)buttons are being pushed at once, from every direction.  

* feet firmly planted in The Word...get some of those step by step instructions found throughout the Word. Have scripture committed to memory, you(I) will recall them as needed ...check

* listen to the guidance of The Holy Spirit... so many times we(I) hear His voice, yet don't heed the warning. Use your(my) memory of scripture to measure what you're(I'm) hearing, if it is sound, compatible with The Word, then shema ...check

* remember who you(I) represent... I have a tetragrammaton in paleo Hebrew sticker in every vehicle's rear window, therefore the way I drive is judged by a certain standard because I display His Name. I try to imagine that this tetragrammaton is tatooed on my forehead,  for the whole world to see. So every word, every deed is a reflection of the one of whom I am an ambassador. As a matter of fact, our words and deeds should be such that there's no question to whom you(I) belong.  Represent well ...check

*never give yourself(myself) permission to get in the mud, tit4tat, retaliation,  sarcasm, and the such. Sometimes the test can blindside you(me) and get you(me) to respond in the flesh. It's a good habit to withhold any and all responses to the count of ten or so. I've never regretted something I didn't say. Weigh and measure your(my) words, no impulsive responses ... check

* the more your(my) thoughts ponder The Word and communicate with Yah thru prayer and worship, the less the tests ruffle your(my) feathers. That's the peace that passes understanding.  Having peace in the midst of circumstances that seem impossible to allow peace. Only abiding in The Spirit can give you true peace like this. Self control will get you(me) so far, but the Ruach(Spirit) takes you(me) all the way. 

Growing up in the church I was often challenged with the question of "would you deny Christ in the face of persecution?" I envisioned standing before a guillotine,  of course I would choose the guillotine, I'd never deny my Savior. But the tests are seldom that obvious or dramatic.  Denying Him can be as simple as choosing the flesh over the Spirit. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

It's the Fruit Stupid*updated

 

First off, please don't be offended by the title.  It's a take off of "it's the economy Stupid". In politics,  the economy is used to evaluate the health of a country. In a relationship with Yahusha, in this Christian walk, Following the Way, your fruit is how you evaluate your spiritual health. 

 A simple google search gives this result: "fruits of the Spirit" are a list of nine qualities or virtues that the Bible says are produced in believers' lives by the Holy Spirit. These fruits, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

We can go deeper, I Corinthians 13:1-13 gives us a detailed definition of Biblical love. The Psalms are a treasure trove of wisdom concerning peace, joy, and faithfulness. The Proverbs guide us through patience, self control and many other virtues.  You can find counsel concerning good fruit throughout the canonized books and the extra biblical books. 

Knowledge of the Fruit of the Spirit and operating in these virtues are two different things. These are Fruits of the Spirit. These virtues are a result of abiding in the Holy Spirit. Allowing the Ruach (Spirit) to change you, grow you, chastise you, and heal you, will bring about this good fruit. 

Have you ever interacted with a person and then were surprised to learn they claim to be a Christian? Why do you suppose their faith wasn't apparent? Could it be that you didn't see the good fruit? Perhaps you noticed some rotten fruit? I hear people quote Scriptures all the time and turn right around and act unkind. I've been using those moments to self evaluate: I don't want to see that rotten fruit in myself.  

Take a good look at your fruit! Others are. Your good fruit can be a witness to others. Your bad fruit will also witness, just not in a way that blesses. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

https://youtu.be/cvDxIfH9zVY?si=A1VTKQ5xYB6r6FLJ

A Little Jesus

 

A few weeks ago at work a little girl gave each staff member a little Jesus figure for their operatory. "This is her ministry" reports her mom beaming with pride. It was very sweet.  The office was buzzing with chatter about the little Jesuses ( is that plural for Jesus?) for days. Since then little Jesuses were ordered for our office toy chest. You get a prize if you're a good helper,  and now a little Jesus can be yours.  

When the Jesus figures first showed up, I had a few thoughts that always occur to me when looking at a Jesus painting, how does this fit with Exodus 20:4  “You do not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of that which is in the heavens above, or which is in the earth beneath, or which is in the waters under heaven"? If we're not worshipping the image are we still in violation by just having it? Did Christianity ever have a taboo on images of heavenly things? Seems like history shows us art has tried to reflect heavenly things throughout the ages.  

When we received our shipment of Jesus figures, it was commented that they were all a little different...hmmmm funny it seems that in reality everyone has a little different perspective of Jesus, Jesus can be as varied as the number of people who worship Him.  One lady jokingly said she wanted a different Jesus...hmmm you get the Jesus you get and you don't throw a fit. Lol 

I suspect the little Jesus figures will give us some interesting moments as time goes by.  We have a very diverse clientele. Some will love the Jesuses, some will hate them, some will ignore them,  and some will have no idea. 

Here is my disclaimer for any Torah Terrorists or Doctrine Dictators out there: it's not my office,  I only work there.  I have little control over the decorations, and we are always seasonally decorated. When you work in the world, be in it and not of it.  

A work in progress 

Teresa

For The Long Haul

 

I have known Yahusha/Jesus and His Father since I was a little girl. I never hesitated, never doubted, even those years when I went my own way,  I always knew He was there.  I was aware that I put Him on the back burner, not the other way around.  I believed His promise that He'd never leave nor forsake me. 

I've been Torah pursuant for over 25 years.  I asked for truth and Yah has been faithful to deliver.  Digesting the fact that I had inherited empty traditions, half truths and lies was (and still is) a bitter pill to swallow.  Sorting thru what I thought I knew, keeping what has proven to be true and discarding falsehoods, pouring over Scriptures,  and dictionaries to get to the real deal is exhausting and rewarding.  Yah has been 100% faithful to show me. He carries me along regardless of how slowly I move. 

This brings me to what I really want to mull over. There is a younger lady I have "followed" on social media who made a statement lately about her faith walk. She was raised in what has been called "The Hebrew Roots Movement". I have identified with this movement over the years.  It seems to explain how Yah has revealed His Torah to a whole group of people.  The young lady expressed that a desire to return to the roots of her faith led to spiritual exhaustion. The many debates on calendars, names, days and doctrines were overwhelming.  Oh boy do I get that.  I've heard so much about the calendar debate that I kinda glaze over when the topic comes up and can only hear bla bla bla. 

Connecting with other Christians on social media is a challenge.  No one. I mean NO ONE seems to be on the same page.  Each has their own pet doctrine to push, and frequently forget to act Christlike. They forget that we're known by our love. Torah Terrorists and Doctrine Dictators will berate you, and make you feel like running away from it all.  Just remember,  they are not Yah. He is still faithful to bring you along.  If He wants me to know which is the right calendar,  He will show me.  If He wants me to say His name a particular way only,  He will show me.  If I am wrong about a certain doctrine He will show me,  He always has,  He always will. I am exactly where I am supposed to be in my spiritual walk. 

I'm kind of a loner, so I don't fall prey to the peer  pressure of my fellow believers to accept their pet doctrine.  If it's legit, Yah will lead me there.  At the Feast of Sukkot, we have believers of all sorts: hair covered, not covered, dresses only, anything as long as it's modest, beards, no beards, homeschool, not homeschool ect. And we don't all agree on every point of doctrine, calendar,  nor pronunciation. I hadn't noticed any tension or pressure for everyone to be just alike.  We kindly listen to each other and prayerfully consider what was said.  Perhaps we are a unique group. I know I'm thankful.  With this group love is stressed. How we treat each other is way more important.

If I'm feeling overwhelmed, or pressured, it's because my focus is off. I'm in this walk for the long haul. No Torah Terrorist, Doctrine Dictators, or anyone else can trip me up or make me doubt. He's in it for the long haul too. There's plenty I don't know or understand, but Yah is faithful and will show me what I need and guide me to walking in His ways. 

Dear Sukkot Family,  thank you for your love and acceptance.  

A work in progress 

Teresa

Holiness over Happiness

 

Years ago someone wise said to me, in my hour of need, "God is interested in your holiness, not your happiness." Hmmmmmm, I wasn't sure what to make of that at first. What kind of wisdom is that?  I was pretty unhappy, miserable even, perhaps a bit depressed. Happiness was my dream. What do you mean? I want to be happy!!! What is holiness? Being perfect?  HA! I pictured a hyper modestly dressed lady, immaculately clean home, willingly obedient children, always sweet, kind, and orderly, knelt in prayer, hymns, doves, halo, radiant glow...what does that even mean, holy? I am millions of miles away from that! Holiness!?!?!!?!! Ugh!!!

I was indeed desperate, depressed, abused, at the bottom, broken, alone, afraid, and acutely aware of my sins. I knew my life was the consequences of my choices. All I knew to do was read my Bible and pray. Psalms, yes Psalms, anything accredited to David, the one after Yah's own heart. David knows what I'm going thru, his situation was way worse, and he stayed his heart upon the promises of Yah. David loved Yah, he didn't let his sin keep him separated from Yah. David repented, accepted his consequences, and embraced his chastisement as a son of The Most High, which gave him the title: a man after Yah's own heart(1 Samuel 13:14).  

Holiness is... get this:  Being set apart from the world, special to Yah. And Yah teaches us His perfect behavior as described in the instructions for living given to us in the first five books of the modern Western Biblical canon, aka, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy(Torah). Again...what? As a Christian, I wasn't taught about holiness, really. All I got from that was "Holiness was given to me thru Jesus. He, Jesus, was obedient to God to death and He gives me His holiness when I accept Him as Savior." Huh? It makes much more sense to me when it was explained that holiness was living my life following Yah's instructions for living. How to love Him, how to love others, how to treat the earth and all living creatures. Now that satisfies my understanding. Doing things His way, not the world's way. And I've since come to see that all the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation ( and perhaps some others) are instructions for living. 

Now the best part. When you chase after happiness, you will always be chasing. Nothing ever satisfies for long. Fleshly pleasures are temporary. But, if you seek holiness, joy everlasting will overcome you. The depths of love, comfort, peace, hope, satisfaction, and overwhelming joy are unimaginable and promised to us. Our lifetimes need to be spent in the pursuit of Holiness. 

Trials in life? Trials are designed to take you to the next level of holiness. My most recent favorite quote is from Jim Stanley of Passion for Truth Ministries. He said: the trials you hate are the proving ground for your (Spiritual) promotion. OMG! Nail on the head! How will we act thru trials? Will we walk out the behaviors of Yah? Do we have the Holy Spirit with us to help us? Are we listening to the guidance of the Spirit? Again the Psalms of David to encourage us. 

The truth is Yah is more interested in our holiness than our happiness, and that's a good thing. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

Shifting Sand

 

I don't think I understood what Yahusha meant when he spoke of shifting sand till I stood on the beach ankle deep in the water at Galveston Island. (Matthew 7:24-27) As the waves came in and out the sand beneath my feet washed away. I live in Oklahoma,  you just don't get the same washing away of the sand at a lake beach. 

That feeling of sand washing away beneath my feet is a perfect description of how I have felt as Yah is  opening my eyes to all the inaccurate teachings I have received.  The holidays based in paganism, the mixed traditions, how Bible canons came to be, why some books are considered Scriptures and others not, and why politics sometimes determined the canon, and it goes on. There were moments I wondered if anything I had been taught was true. That's where you find your secure foundation: Yahusha,  him crucified and resurrected.  Everything else was viewed with new eyes, weighed and either kept or discarded. 

That sand washing away beneath my feet feeling has been reoccurring, only this time I'm learning the truth about my country. We haven't always been the good guys, as a matter of fact, we've been the bad guys.  The USA is the biggest user and purveyor of child sex trafficking,  drugs, and pornography. Our government has played both sides in most conflicts around the world,  because of our involvement more civilians die, and they are considered acceptable collateral damage.  The truth is very dark, and has been hidden quite well. But once again,  my feet must stay firmly planted on the Rock, Yahusha my Redeemer, him crucified and resurrected, that doesn't change.  

During the first Trump presidency I began to pray that all the corruption be revealed. And slowly it has. It's ugly to see, but we must in order to correct it. In the revealing, we can also see who and not just what. Lines are more clear between good and evil. Choosing good and turning this counrty around is not going to be easy, and that's why few will do the work and many will complain.  Yet, here's the hard truth. This country must confess and repent, turn from our wicked ways that our land may be healed. Will our leader speak for us? Will he confess and repent to the Creator and the world on our behalf? Yah is faithful,  seems to me if Mr. Trump would humble himself and our country in this manner, Yah would begin healing this country. 

Just my two cents, 

Still a work in progress 

Teresa

Susan, a Trans Person

 

Forty years ago I met a trans person. This was a man living as a woman. I was 20 years old and very naive. I was asked to house sit/baby sit for a husband- wife truck driving team. The husband was bringing the semi truck back to Oklahoma from a trip to Canada where he had been training a person to drive big trucks. This driver-in-training would be staying at the house with me and the children while mom and dad made a haul to Texas. 

I might have been told that the driver-in-training was a woman, I don't remember.  But I don't recall being concerned about this stranger. So mom and dad pull out for their Texas haul, leaving me with this person. By all appearances,  this person seemed like a woman. I'll call her Susan, I don't remember the actual name. Not very pretty, horrible pock marked facial skin, (things I noticed as a judgemental 20 year old), but she was nice.  We had a lot of time to talk and get to know each other.  I remember getting this "guy" vibe from her. Kinda flirty, very attentive, masculine. Boy was I confused.  At first I thought maybe this lady was a lesbian. I had never met a lesbian, but I was trying to excuse the strange vibe I was getting.  

One day we went to the track together to run a few miles.  That's when Susan took off the oversized shirt she always wore and ran ahead of me.  At that moment I saw the reality about Susan. She had a perfect male form. Wide shoulders, narrow hips, Susan didn't move like a woman, now I'm really confused. Trans people were a rarity back then. You might see one on a sensational TV program, but not in real life in central Oklahoma.  My demeanor must have changed because Susan addressed the elephant in the room that evening back at the house. I learned that Susan was a man who was married to a woman back in Canada.  He had not had any surgery yet, but was taking hormones and had some sort of hair removal proceedure. Susan just wanted to blend into society. He wanted to not draw attention to himself, just to be able to walk through life accepted as the persona he was putting out there. Frankly I think he could for the most part. He could go to a ladies room and not be noticed. This person was not demanding others say or do anything.  

Funny, the mom in the trucker duo was jealous of Susan. She demanded she go along on the trip back to Canada to return Susan to his home. I bet she figured it out during that long trip. Susan is still to this day my understanding of a legit trans person. All of the in your face demands of pronouns and bathroom rights seems to me to be something else. Attention seeking, me, me, me, screaming fits...pretty counterproductive in my opinion, but fitting in and blending onto society is not the goal with the current population of trans people.  I have wondered from time to time throughout the years about Susan. Did he get surgery? How did his wife deal with it? But I also prayed Susan be healed of what was driving him to live as a woman, and be redeemed to His creator. 

I realize this post may anger some, I'm just sharing my experience.  So please forgive me if you are offended.  That's not my goal. Just trying to figure it out just like everyone else. 

A work in progress 

Teresa

Atta Girl

 

Don't you just love those pats on the back? The little affirmations that confirm to you that you are exactly where you're supposed to be, doing what you're supposed to be doing. These things are so encouraging.  Especially since the enemy can be actively discouraging. 

I do love those moments when Yah gives me a sign that I'm on the right path, like the lady approaching me at Walmart to expess her pleasue to my boldness on social media, my son and his wife telling me they are doing their best to eat clean, my granddaughter singing praises to Yah from the backseat of the car, and so many more. But the key is to be secure in your walk when there are no affirmations, when times are difficult.  Makes me think of Job when his friends were talking to him. They were convinced Job had brought judgements against himself, the tragedies he was experiencing were proof of that. Job knew, however,  that he was living out the instructions of Yah. He was living righteously.  The tragedies were not brought on because he earned them, life has tragedies. Tragedies test us. Job was to hold fast to Yah through them.  Unfortunately Job lost sight of that and questioned Yah. This had to be such a dark place for Job. Yet Yah is faithful and restored him. 

Deuteronomy 12:1-3 directly tells us Yah will test us, test our love for Him. And how do we show we love Him? Deuteronomy 11:1, 1 John 5:3, John 14:15, and many more tell us that obedience to Yah's instructions is how we show our love for Him. His Word is a lamp unto our feet, lighting the way. Even when it seems like there is darkness all around, you have His light. Do not venture to the left or the right, follow the light, even if you're the only one.  

Job's story is an extreme example.  Most of us won't experience testing to that degree, yet we will be tested. But, if like Job, we are careful to carry out the instructions for living our loving Father gave us, then we know we're in right standing with Yah, guided by His Holy Spirit, and Yahusha is faithful to intercede for us when we fall short. Press ahead, run the race, eye on the prize...atta girl, you got this! 

A work in progress 

Teresa