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As we move closer to Christmas, I wanted to share something special with you. My new book, Luke 2: The Christmas Story, is ALMOST ready. It’s been a long road — much longer than I ever expected — but the Lord has been faithful through every step. I’ll let you know as soon as it’s available on Amazon.
This little Christmas devotional/journal/nonfiction book grew out of a desire for people to return to the heart of the season—the birth of Jesus. It walks through Luke 2 with Scripture, reflection, and quiet space to write your thoughts, praises, and prayers. My hope is that it will bless you, your family, or someone you love during December.
It’s a funny story how this book came about, especially since after my last one I said I would never write another book. But God has His own way of nudging us forward. One day I’ll share the whole story.
For now, I just wanted to show you the cover, let you know it’s coming soon, and keep you posted. Thank you for your encouragement and prayers — they truly mean so much.
God bless y’all.
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Welcome to my NEW Blog Series: Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Friendship and Connection, Week 7 – Final Post of 7/7
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About the Series: This new series shares the story of my friendship with Glory. She is Nigerian, and I am from the United States, yet God tied our hearts together in a beautiful way. We met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and her love for Jesus was clear from the very first day.
Glory later moved to Canada, and during a recent visit, I interviewed her about her life and faith. I’ll be sharing one topic each week:
Week 7 – Friendship and Connection: greenepastures.org/friendship-and-connection
Q. What does our friendship mean to you personally and spiritually?
A. Personally and spiritually, our friendship means a lot to me because I see it as a gift from God that came at a time I needed it — even before I realized how much I needed it to get through the season I was facing. I’m very thankful to God for our relationship. I am encouraged. I am blessed. It has been such a gift to know that I have you in my life, and that I get to share my walk, my challenges, my fears — and share in yours.
It’s encouraging to know you have someone who truly knows you and whom you truly know. Someone who sees beyond what everyone else sees on social media. Someone who understands where you’re coming from and what you’re dealing with. Someone whose heart for God you trust so deeply that when they speak into your life, your guard is down and you receive it because you know their heart toward God is pure.
There is nothing like a relationship orchestrated by God. You can trust their heart for God and their heart for you because you know there are no selfish interests — they truly care. You can afford to be “naked and unashamed” concerning your life and your journey with this person. That is rare. It’s not something you find every day. It is a gift from God, and whoever finds such a friendship should value and honor it.
And ours is unique because it’s not just friendship — it’s also the mother‑daughter, mentor‑mentee element. It is a unique gift many people do not have and most likely need, because we all need connections that give us opportunities to serve and be served, to mentor and be mentored, to pour into others and be refilled.
I know I’ve lived through seasons when I didn’t think I needed friends. I was happy to be alone. I was okay being alone because I felt friendship was such a burden — until I learned that God didn’t create us to do life alone. We know God is always present with us, and sometimes He makes His presence known through connections and relationships — a physical voice that reminds us of what God has spoken concerning us, of what He is doing in our lives that we may not be able to see because of what we’re going through.
Most importantly, we need God. And we need God‑ordained connections and relationships — that’s how He created us. I’m so grateful that I got to share that with you, and that we will have fun doing it.
Q. How has God used our relationship in your life?
A. God has used our relationship to bless me, encourage me, and hold me together through the years. I do not feel like I must do life alone because I have this precious connection that ministers to me not just spiritually but also physically. We talk about the things I’m dealing with, and you add them to your prayer list. I know I can always reach out.
I look forward to our girl trips because they are always such a fun time — a chance to wind down, enjoy life, and enjoy the gifts God has given us. I also look forward to my birthday and Christmas gifts every year.
Being a very private person, it has been a blessing that in the absence of my biological mum, I have a solid friend and mother that I trust. Every woman needs a gift and a blessing like that — not a million followers, but trusted friends.
If you don’t have that, pray and ask God. That’s one of the things I learned as I went from a season of not having friends to a season where God began to plant people in my life — that’s how we met. God brought her into my life at the right time, and that connection has stayed solid for years.
I would encourage anyone who doesn’t have relationships like this to ask God. He made us for connection. He made us for relationship. He made us for community. Ask God to bring the right people into your life, and He will. And I pray you will be discerning enough to recognize those people when God brings them, so you do not turn them away because of past hurt.
Just posing in San Antonio!
Q. What do you think makes a Christ-centered friendship different from other friendships?
A. What makes a Christ‑centered relationship or friendship different is that Jesus is at the center — not you, not me. It’s all about Jesus. That’s what keeps our relationship different, alive, and deeply relatable despite our differences.
We share one common truth that never changes — Jesus. We share the word of God that remains the same. And that truth is stronger than biology. The blood of Jesus brings us together and keeps us together, and that is one of the things that keeps our friendship strong.
Having Jesus as the foundation means we can sit together and talk about what we have in Him forever and never get tired because we are excited about the word of God. We share common values. We love the word of God. We love our walk with God. We have so much to talk about and so much to share.
And even when we are going through difficult times, we can rely on each other. We can support each other. We can pray for one another, knowing nobody will take advantage of the other. Nobody is looking for what they can get. We are here for one another — to sharpen, support, and encourage each other.
That is friendship. And it is beautiful.
Just chatting at the Calgary Zoo
FACT by Patti
First, I want to express my deep gratefulness for the chance to interview my sweet Glory. My prayer is that through this series, you have learned more about connection, faith, your journey and calling, singleness, ministry, writing, reflection, encouragement, and friendship. I wanted people to see what it looks like to live life depending on the Lord. It isn’t always easy, and it isn’t always smooth, but we have a God who loves us, hears our prayers, and stays close while we wait for His answers and His gentle nudges.
Glory is not my only friend. God has blessed me with some close anointed friends over the years, and several have already gone home to be with Him. We are never too old to make new friends, even though it may feel harder as we age. My mother, who passed at age 94, used to tell me to always have younger friends because people come and go, and you will still need friendship when you are older. She was right.
Friendships do not just appear. They take time. We must choose to be present, to share our lives, and to open our hearts. Deep godly friendships grow when we make space for them — the kind of friendship where you can share your struggles and never fear that your secrets will be repeated. Jesus spent time with His disciples, and we should take time for our friends, even when we feel shy or unsure.
Many times, the first or second time you meet someone, you sense that this is a friendship worth pursuing. My advice is simple: follow the Spirit’s leading and see where God takes it. He knows exactly who belongs in your life.
Thank you again, Glory, for being part of “my interview.” My questions may not have been perfect, but my prayer is that between the two of us, someone has been encouraged to move closer to the presence of God — and closer to the people He has placed in their life. I hope this series helps others desire and seek out the kind of godly friendships that strengthen the heart and draw us nearer to Jesus. And Glory, I’m privileged to be called your “Mum.”
Bible Verse:
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. — Proverbs 27:1
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the friendships You have given me. I am truly grateful for every person You have placed in my life. As I seek fellowship with others, please lead me to people who can encourage me, pray with me, and walk with me in ministry. Help me be an encouragement to them as well.
Bless our time together. Guide us into the kind of friendships that fit the seasons You know about in each of our lives. Give me wisdom. Give me discernment. Help me live a life of faith in everything I do.
Thank You again for Your love, Your guidance, and the gift of godly friends. Amen.
For my Nigerian Friends, Life is a journey!
No Wahala
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Welcome to my NEW Blog Series: Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory /Reflection & Encouragement, Week 6
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About the Series: This new series shares the story of my friendship with Glory. She is Nigerian, and I am from the United States, yet God tied our hearts together in a beautiful way. We met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and her love for Jesus was clear from the very first day.
Glory later moved to Canada, and during a recent visit, I interviewed her about her life and faith. I’ll be sharing one topic each week:
Q. What is one truth about Jesus that is carrying you right now?
A. One truth about Jesus that is carrying me right now, and has carried me for a very long time, is that God is faithful. If He has said it, He will do it. He might take His sweet time, and He may not do it when we want it or how we want it, but if God has promised, He will do it because He is faithful. I have experienced God’s faithfulness in my lifetime time and time again. I see His faithfulness in the lives of the people He brings my way. We need to rest in the knowledge that no matter what comes or goes, God is faithful — so wait for Him. Trust Him. Continue to walk in obedience. I know that He is faithful and will do just as He has promised, because I have seen Him do it for me and for others.
Q. What encouragement would you give to women who feel alone in their calling?
A. The encouragement I would share with women who feel alone in their calling is that you are not alone. God is our ever‑present help. You need to come into that place where God is your friend — your best friend. God is real. God is true. God is nearby. He is not somewhere out there trying to help you get through life. He is right here with us every step of the way, and He is our best friend. One of the things God taught me recently is that He is my mentor. God is everything to us, and He can be everything to you. I work with and mentor a lot of people — single, married, older, and younger — and one thing I have seen consistently is that even when you are married, even when you have children, even when you are surrounded and swamped with people, you still need God. There is a space in our lives that only God can fill. No spouse, parent, child, sibling, friend, job, career, or amount of money can fill God’s space in our hearts and lives.If we allow God to fill that space for us and truly be everything to us, that keeps us stable in the storms and challenges of life. You don’t feel so alone, even if people on the outside think you are alone. You have joy and peace because that is where God has called you for now. Sometimes it’s just for a season. Sometimes it’s just for a while. And even if it is for a lifetime, God is more than enough for every one of us to serve Him as He has called us.
If you’re serving God alone, know that you are not alone. God is our ever‑present help — not just in times of need, but through every season of life. He is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. If you can hold onto Him and learn to live in the reality of God being your ever‑present friend, it takes away the brunt of loneliness. So many people are married and lonely. Loneliness is not about having people around you. Some people live amid crowds and are still lonely. We live in a world that can be very isolating.
So if you can learn to find that space where Jesus is real and true and close to you, He will help you find contentment in your calling — whatever that may be. He helps us enjoy people when they’re around and be at peace when they are not, because He is always there with us and for us. I pray that you will discover the reality of His ever‑abiding presence and thoroughly enjoy it.
Q. What prayer or blessing would you speak over those listening to your story?
A. The prayer and blessing I would speak over the people who will be listening or reading is that you would experience God on a moment‑by‑moment basis, because God’s presence is more than enough for us. When we have God, we have peace. And when we have peace, we have joy. We are far more stable in a very unstable world. To have God is to have everything, because He is the only One who is consistent in a world that is constantly shifting.My prayer for you in this season is that you do not limit yourself because of the circumstances you find yourself in. That is something I have learned — not to limit myself. God has called me to people who are young and old, single and married, all trying to find meaning in a world that constantly throws meaningless things at us.No matter where you find yourself, my prayer is that you will experience the reality of the presence and the power of God in whatever situation you are going through right now. That you will experience God as your Rescuer — the One who snatches you out of situations you cannot help yourself through or escape. That you will experience God as your Redeemer — the One who not only saves you from trouble but also goes ahead to right the wrongs you have been dealt. And that you will experience God as your Restorer — the One who not only makes things right but also makes up for every loss you may have experienced through the years as a result of what you’ve been through.
God can do all of that, and I pray that you will experience Him doing all of that for you and with you, in Jesus’ name, amen.
FACT by Patti
Glory and Patti, 2019
I know Glory to be a very faithful woman. I believe the Lord shaped her through her upbringing, her salvation, her Bible reading, her prayer life, and her dependence on the Holy Spirit. But I have also seen her go through seasons when she wondered what God was doing. That makes her just like the rest of us. None of us stay strong every day. We are human, and we face sadness, loneliness, and moments when we ask God why He answers some prayers and seems silent on others.
In those times, the Lord gently reminds us that His time is not our time. When we carry desires in our hearts and we wait for God to move, He uses that waiting to grow patience. And patience grows endurance. God never wastes a season. He always knows what is best for His children. Some believers learn this early, and others learn it slowly, step by step.
What I have seen in Glory’s life is not perfection, but a beautiful pattern: she lifts herself up quickly, turns her heart back toward the Lord, and gets back on track. I don’t know how long it took her to learn that kind of trust, but I see it clearly now. Her faith may bend, but it does not break. And even in her questions, she keeps choosing God. That is a quiet testimony all by itself.
Bible Verse:
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him. — Lamentations 3:25
Prayer:
Dear Lord, please help me to live constantly in Your presence. As I encounter situations and circumstances, give me the faith to know You are in control. Thank you for being by my side when I am lonely. May I continue to trust in Your faithfulness to me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Next Week: Friendship & Connection
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Two Hearts
A younger woman (whom I have known for a while) came to me with one of life’s biggest questions: “How do you know who to marry? “
As an older woman, Scripture calls me to guide — so I shared the simple truth God put on my heart. (She has approved my sharing to help others who may have the same question).
The Question
Dear Miss. Patti (Dear‑Abby Style),
I’m in my mid‑30s, and I’ve never dated before. Lately I’ve been thinking about what it would be like to have someone by my side, but I’m also nervous. My mother went through painful experiences with men, and I don’t want to repeat her story.
How do you know when a man is truly ‘the one’? How did you know your husband was the right person for you? I would really appreciate your wisdom.
No Name
My Response
1. Shared Faith
Your question is a wonderful one, and I’m glad you asked. The very first thing to look for is that he is a born‑again believer who truly follows Jesus. Not just in words, but in the way he lives.
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” — 2 Corinthians 6:14
Watch how he treats people — waitresses, coworkers, his parents. A man who honors others will honor you.
2. Character & Respect
Pay attention to his everyday behavior.
• Does he speak kindly?
• Does he show patience?
• Does he respect your boundaries?
• Does he listen to you?
• Does he treat you like someone valuable?
Avoid anyone who yells, belittles, pressures, or shows signs of anger or a need for control.
“Love is patient and kind… it does not insist on its own way.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4–5
3. Purity & Clear Thinking
Avoid premarital sex. It clouds judgment, creates emotional confusion, and can hide red flags. Purity protects your heart and helps you see clearly.
“Flee from sexual immorality.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18
A man who honors God with his body will honor God with his marriage.
4. Shared Life Direction
Ask yourself:
• Are we spiritually compatible?
• Can we talk openly and trust each other?
• Do we laugh together?
• Is he responsible with work or finances?
• Does he want children?
• Would I be stepping into a family he already has?
Marriage is partnership — not just romance.
5. Family & Community Insight
Introduce him to people who love you and know you well.
Ask for honest feedback.
Sometimes others see things we miss.
6. Commitment Before God
Marriage is a covenant before the Lord.
Yes, you vow to love each other, but you also promise God to walk through life together ‘til death do you part. Hard seasons will come, and you need a man who will stand with you, not run away.
“What God has joined together, let no man separate.” — Mark 10:9
This does not mean you have to stay with someone who is abusive or unfaithful. But it does mean choosing someone steady, faithful, and committed.
7. My Own Story
You asked how I knew my husband was right for me. We met at church, and both of us were ready to commit ourselves to marriage — not just emotionally, but spiritually. He was kind to me from the very beginning. We talked openly, shared our hearts, and learned to trust each other.
One of the first signs of his sincerity was his visit to me in the hospital early in our relationship. That told me he truly cared. He treated my mother with respect and tenderness, and that meant a lot to me.
Our backgrounds, education, and upbringings were very different — but Jesus was at the center for both of us. That has held us together for 47 years.
We never believed there was only one possible person in the world we could have married. Instead, we believed marriage was a covenant before God — a commitment to honor, cherish, and walk with one another for the rest of our lives. And by God’s grace, that is what we have done and continue to do.
“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” — Psalm 127:1
“Love never fails.” — 1 Corinthians 13:8
8. Final Thoughts
After 47 years of marriage, the biggest indicators I’ve seen are these:
Does he love the Lord?
Does he truly love you?
Does he respect you?
Do you love him?
What does his past tell you about his patterns?
Pray over these things. Search the Bible. God will guide you along the way!
Bible Verse:
Show me your ways, Lord. Teach me your truth. Guide me because you are the God who saves me.
—Psalm 24:4-5
Prayer:
O holy God, you know my heart. You know the many questions that swirl around in my mind. Please help me know and feel You working in my life, answering my many questions, and leading me along the path You want me to be on, with or without a spouse. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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Books by Patti Greene
Coming Soon:Luke 2: The Christmas Story: Discover the Birth of Jesus in Scripture
Unstoppable: Go the Distance with GodISBN: 979-8284335017
Answer Me: Developing a Heart for Prayer ISBN 978-1512760453
Bible Word Search Puzzles: The Gospels ISBN 979-8218070465
Bible Word Search Puzzles: Acts and Epistles ISBN 979-8218092696
Bible Word Search Puzzles: Epistles and Revelation ISBN 979-8363612046
Christian Caregiving: Practical Advice for a Happy Ending ISBN 978-0692115381
Awaken Me: A Devotional Prayer Journal ISBN 978-1490893181
Anchor Me: Laying a Foundation in Prayer and Bible Study ISBN 978-1490893174
Welcome to my NEW Blog Series: Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Singleness and Ministry, Week 4
God knows more than me
If you are receiving this blog via email, clicking the post title will show the best version.
About the Series: This new series shares the story of my friendship with Glory. She is Nigerian, and I am from the United States, yet God tied our hearts together in a beautiful way. We met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and her love for Jesus was clear from the very first day.
Glory later moved to Canada, and during a recent visit, I interviewed her about her life and faith. I’ll be sharing one topic each week:
Week 5 – Writing and Ministry Together – Be Inspired
6 – Reflection and Encouragement – Be Encouraged: You’re Not Walking Alone
Week 7 – Friendship and Connection – Enjoy Christ-Centered Friendships
Flower on Bamboo
GLORY: Singleness and Ministry, Week 4
Q. What has it been like serving the Lord as a single woman?
A. Serving the Lord as a single woman has been an adventure, especially in a world where people expect you to get married at a certain time. You grow up thinking you will do what everyone else does — get married, have children, and serve God as a family.
But I have learned that our paths are all different. The most important thing is to see where God is leading you, how He is leading you, and to be content walking that path with Him.
It helps not to compare yourself with others, but to trust that God knows what is best for you. God will give you what is yours in His timing. That kind of contentment has helped me serve the Lord with all that I am and all that I have.
Q. What joys have you discovered in this season?
A. What I have discovered in this season of serving God as a single woman is that God is enough. God is more than enough for us. The Word of God is always true, and if God says He is enough for us, then we don’t need anything extra. He is more than enough.
The real challenge is learning to take that truth, sit with it, walk with it, and be at peace with it — that God is enough for us. That doesn’t mean it’s wrong to be married. It doesn’t mean marriage is better or worse. It simply means God has a different path for each of us, and His timing for each of us is different.
Whatever season of life we find ourselves in, and whatever situation we face — whether married or single — the Word of God says that God is enough. Truly, truly, God is enough. His Word is true, and I’ve learned to enjoy God being enough for me.
Q. What challenges do you face, and how has God met you in them?
A. The challenges I have experienced serving God as a single woman come mostly from living in a society that assumes people should follow a certain path at certain times in their lives — like a woman should be married at a certain age, have children, and raise a family. When life doesn’t happen that way, it can look like something is incomplete or missing. But, like I said, God’s path for each of us is different.
The biggest challenge I’ve had to face is learning to keep my peace and my joy, no matter what I think people may be thinking, how they may interpret my situation, or what assumptions they may make. I’ve also had to learn how to continue serving God fully — in the exact place He has called me — using the room He provides for me, without letting myself be limited by the expectations people place on those who aren’t where they think they should be.
We live in a society where people think you should be married, you should have this or that, and if you don’t, they believe it limits you. Some even think being a woman limits you in ministry. But I have learned that we are all children of God, and God does not discriminate. God calls us according to His will and His purpose for our lives.
So I’ve learned, in the face of all those limitations, not to limit myself — because the limitations people put on me only hold power if I allow them to. I am the one who chooses whether those limitations hold me down. And I’ve learned that God puts no limit on me. So I do my best not to limit myself or allow assumptions, presumptions, or societal expectations to hinder my work and my service to God.
Glory, Pretending to Speak, Baylor University
Q. How do you stay encouraged when you’re doing ministry “alone” on the outside but never alone with Him?
A. How I stay encouraged during ministry alone is because I know that even though I am alone physically, I am not alone. I have never been alone, because His presence is so real and so true to me that I do not feel alone. I know that God is my ever‑present help, not just because the Bible says it, but because I know it and I experience it. I experience it day by day. God is my best friend. We talk all the time; we do things together. It’s not a phantom, and it’s not an idea. It is my real reality, so I do not feel alone.
I also encourage myself by remembering that it is better to be where God has called you than to be somewhere you placed yourself. Wherever God calls you, He gives you grace to stay there. But when we take ourselves to places God has not called us, we struggle. I have seen people enter relationships because they felt time was passing or because they simply wanted to be married. I have walked with people in those situations. I’ve seen them struggle and deal with things God was actually trying to protect them from. Seeing that has strengthened my determination to walk with God rather than walk outside His will and purpose for me.
So I have come to the conclusion that it is better to walk in obedience with God, be single, and keep my peace than to step outside His will, His timing, or His provision and end up struggling for the rest of my life just to meet a norm or fulfill a desire. Of course I want to get married. Of course I would love that. But I know His times and seasons are in His hands, so I am content to be where He has called me for now, until God opens the next door.
I have learned to find my peace and my joy in simply enjoying Him, enjoying what He calls me to do, and enjoying the people He brings into my life.
FACT by Patti
For 13 years, I’ve been Glory’s friend. I don’t know every detail of how she handled being single for so long—only what she has shared with me in confidence and what God has allowed me to see as her friend. I do know this: Glory has always wanted to be married. She hoped to share ministry with someone, and I understand that desire myself. I’ve seen her excitement when she thought marriage might happen, and I’ve also seen the sadness when it didn’t. I’ve seen her longing for children, and how that door never opened.
But underneath all those unfulfilled desires, I saw something stronger. I saw a woman of faith who wanted God’s will more than her own. I honestly wish I had the same courage she has shown. Sometimes we struggle because we want our desires met, but they don’t match God’s plan. In Glory, I see a woman who follows God first.
Even when contentment rises and falls, her love for Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit always bring her back to what is true—her earthly reality and her eternal blessings. Her life reminds me that contentment isn’t about getting everything we want. It’s about trusting the One who knows what is best.
Bible verse for contentment through hard times: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” — 1 Timothy 6:6
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, You see every woman who carries the same hopes Glory has carried. You know the ups and downs of wanting marriage, and watching it not happen. Please give these ladies Your perspective. Some are content without marriage or children, and some are not. Lead each one to a church family and into a deep walk with You. Help them love the life You have given them, and trust Your timing in all things. Amen.
Next Week: Writing and Ministry (Together)
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Welcome to my NEW Blog Series Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory
If you are receiving this blog via email, clicking the post title will show the best version.
OUR CONNECTION AND STORY, Week 1
This new series shares the story of my friendship with Glory. She is Nigerian, and I am from the United States, yet God tied our hearts together in a beautiful way. We met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and her love for Jesus was clear from the very first day.
Glory later moved to Canada, and during a recent visit, I interviewed her about her life and faith. I’ll be sharing one topic each week:
• Week 1 – Our Connection and Story
• Week 2 – Early Life and Faith
• Week 3 – Journey and Calling
• Week 4 – Singleness and Ministry
• Week 5 – Writing and Ministry Together
• Week 6 – Reflection and Encouragement
• Week 7 – Friendship and Connection
Over time, our bond grew so sweet that she now calls me “Mum.” I pray her words bless your heart as much as hers have blessed mine.
How do you think the Lord knit our hearts together back in Lagos?
I think it was at that Bible study after the introduction. They mentioned you had written a book, and being an author, I was curious and wanted to chat about your writing.
What stood out to you in those first conversations that made our bond feel so natural?
I think there was a spiritual connection. Sometimes, when I meet people, I can sense that God has something in store for this person in the long term. I may not be able to tell exactly what it is. I think I felt that with you the first time we connected. As we talked, your love for God and His Word became obvious, and both influenced our writing. Our works were mostly linked to the word of God and to experiences from our walk with God.
How would you describe the “mum-daughter” friendship God gave us?
I see the mum-daughter friendship God gave us as a very precious and special gift because it came at a time when I didn’t realize I needed that. I had just lost my mum, wasn’t talking about it, and was actually pushing away any idea of additional relationships as far as I was concerned; I had enough friends and didn’t need more. I wasn’t looking for another mother, but the way God worked it out was unique, so the least I could do was just enjoy the experience of the relationship.
What does spiritual connection mean to you, and how do you recognize it when it happens?
I see spiritual connection as a gift from God. As I said earlier, there are people you meet, and you can sense there’s a deeper connection, not just a physical or emotional thing. It’s a deep knowing. I have sensed that a number of times, and each of those relationships God has allowed to thrive, and like the Bible says, we sharpen each other like iron – that’s how I see spiritual connections. It’s God’s gift to us, and it’s not hard for me to recognize because I’ve noticed that’s how God works with me. Whenever I sense that connection with someone, I keep my heart open to how God makes it work out, because I typically don’t have to make it happen, nor does the other person. God works it out for us as we trust and obey Him. He provides opportunities, opens doors for connections, and allows the relationship to go where and how it needs to. We just fall in line, walking in obedience as He perfects what He started.
Fact:
Our friendship began by being at the right place at the right time, which was totally a God thing, because at the time, Lagos’ population was 22 million.
Lagos, Nigeria Market
Bible Verse:
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. Proverbs 17:17
Next Week: Follow the Journey
Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Early Life and Faith, Week 2
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#Friendship #Nigeria #Lagos #SpiritualConnection
Books by Patti Greene
Coming Soon:Luke 2: The Christmas Story: Discover the Birth of Jesus in Scripture
Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God
ISBN: 979-8284335017
Answer Me: Developing a Heart for Prayer
ISBN 978-1512760453
Bible Word Search Puzzles: The Gospels
ISBN 979-8218070465
Bible Word Search Puzzles: Acts and Epistles
ISBN 979-8218092696
Bible Word Search Puzzles: Epistles and Revelation
ISBN 979-8363612046
Christian Caregiving: Practical Advice for a Happy Ending
ISBN 978-0692115381
Awaken Me: A Devotional Prayer Journal by Patti Greene
ISBN 978-1490893181
Anchor Me: Laying a Foundation in Prayer and Bible Study
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
———-
Personal Review: KJV Color Code Study Bible by Patti Greene
I recently received the King James Version Color Code Study Bible and want to share my appreciation and main observations.
KJV Color Code Study Bible. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2026.
ISBN: 9781400350988
First Impressions: Lovely At First Look
When this almost 2,000-page leather soft, red-letter Bible arrived, I thought, “What a beautiful Bible.” The rich purple cover with its elegant indentation makes it feel special—an excellent, memorable gift. Its design appeals to gift-givers, collectors, and anyone who values thoughtful presentation. This is a Bible worth treasuring or sharing. The white satin ribbon marker is beautiful and practical.
Color Code Study Bible Features
Depth and Richness: Great for Learning More
I was impressed by the substantial commentary, notes, and archaeological insights, which are clearly for those desiring more than a casual understanding of God’s Word. One of my favorite features is how charts are placed throughout the Bible. This makes a noticeable difference when studying, keeping the reader engaged without always having to flip pages to find answers.
Visual Impact: Very Well Designed
The visual elements are excellent. Over 270 photos provide context and richness. Thomas Nelson excelled here.
Color Code Study Bible Map
Study Tools: Extremely Useful
As a Bible teacher, I appreciated these study helps:
Book introductions and summaries
“How to study” guidance for each book
Footnotes that clarify meaning and context
Topic-based articles (obedience, suffering, God’s will, and more)
The way additional insight is woven directly into the text—such as explanations of locations or historical references—is incredibly helpful and meaningful.
Nothing better than reading the Bible while in a massage chair!
Organization: Designed With the Reader in Mind
The layout and structure make this Bible easy to navigate:
A helpful table of contents
A topical index with page numbers
Cut-out tabs for quickly locating books (thumb-indexing)
A Scripture index highlighted with colors to link to major topics in the Bible. They consist of the following.
Purple – God the Father
Blue – God the Son
Gold – God the Holy Spirit
Red – Salvation
Green – Sanctification
Gray – Sin and Temptation
Orange – Last things
Color Code Study Bible
These features show purposeful planning and a desire to truly serve the reader.
Practical Use: Perfect For Those Who “Engage” With Their Bible
I also appreciate the wider 1.25” margins, which allow for making notes—something I value personally and as a teacher. The inclusion of character profiles, prayers, a concordance, and a weights-and-measures section adds even more depth.
Color Coding: A Creative Idea with Some Challenges
I want to share my thoughts on the color-coding system, as this was of particular interest to me.
My husband is colorblind, specifically with red, green, and brown tones, so I evaluated the color-coding system from that perspective. While color-coding is creative and has potential, in practice, several colors—particularly red (which looks pink), gold (which looks yellow), green, and orange—are difficult to distinguish for those with color vision problems. The colors often blend or appear muted due to their similar tones and low contrast. This reduces the intended usefulness for colorblind readers.
Various Kinds of Colorblindness by color-blindness.com
A Suggestion from Personal Experience
Based on what works well for my husband, using stronger, higher-contrast colors would greatly improve accessibility. Bold tones are much easier to distinguish than soft pastels; however, this might not be advisable because dark colors may show through on the pages. But these colors would work for many colorblind folks.
Dark blue
Deep purple
Black
Bold tones (rather than soft pastels) tend to be much easier to distinguish.
How I See It as A Teacher
As a Bible teacher for ladies ages 40-90, I try to be mindful of the needs of those I teach, including those with visual challenges and those in an aging population. Because of this, I would likely not use or recommend this Bible as a primary teaching resource in a group setting. Relying on subtle color distinctions could make it difficult for some to fully engage. However, I would absolutely recommend it to individuals with strong eyesight who enjoy a visual, color-based approach to study. For them, this Bible can be a very enriching resource for study.
Color Code Study Bible Scripture Links Per Color
Additional Considerations
A couple of smaller points I wanted to note:
The print, while described as large, felt somewhat small to me.
The Bible is a bit heavy, which may be a consideration for some users.
A New King James Version of this Bible with the same study notes would be very welcome, as many younger Bible readers prefer versions other than the King James Version.
Closing Thoughts
The Color Code Study Bible is engaging and meaningful, but it is not for everyone.
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received The Sketch Book Bible (NKJV) and am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.
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Bible Review by Patti Greene The Sketch Book Bible ISBN: 9781400339471
I’ve seen it again and again — the way a child lights up when they open a new coloring book or a fresh pack of crayons. Their whole face changes. Their shoulders lift. Their eyes sparkle. It doesn’t matter if they’re three or ten. Joy is joy.
That same joy is exactly what I imagined when I opened the Sketch Book Bible (NKJV). To write this review, I stepped into the heart of a child — the kind who loves color, stories, and anything they can make their own.
And from that place, this is what I saw.
A Child’s View — Full of Wonder
It was Christmas morning. Wrapping paper was everywhere. When I opened one of the special gifts, I stopped and stared.
It wasn’t just a book.
It wasn’t just a coloring book.
It was a Bible I could color in.
My heart felt like it jumped. I wanted my crayons right away. I wanted to flip through the pages and find the stories I knew from Sunday School. I wanted to see the pictures. I wanted to color everything.
The Sketch Book Bible
When I opened the front cover, I saw my name written inside.
My name.
Inside a Bible.
It felt like this Bible was made just for me. I could color the cover, the inside pages, the edges — all of it. I could use bright colors or soft ones. I could stay in the lines or scribble if I wanted to. It didn’t matter. It was mine.
I turned to the page where Moses comes down from the mountain. I picked my brightest crayons and started coloring. I tried to stay in the lines because I wanted it to look special. When I finished, I felt proud — the kind of proud that makes you want to show everyone.
I showed my parents.
I showed my grandparents, and my Grammi even wanted to color with me!
I even wanted to take it to church and show my teacher.
And something else made me happy, too. I got to flip through the pages just like I’ve seen my parents and pastor do. I know I’m still a kid, but holding this Bible made me feel older in a good way — like I was learning to love God’s Word the way they do.
Yes, the adults who bought this Bible probably looked at all the features — the 275 illustrations, the Bible characters, the animals, the book introductions, and all the extras. But for me, the best part is simple:
I finally have a Bible I can make my own.
Thank You, Jesus.
I like being an artist.
The Sketch Book Bible
Why a Parent Would Choose This Bible
Parents love giving gifts that spark joy, creativity, and faith all at once. This Bible does exactly that.
• It helps children interact with Scripture, not just read it.
• It gives them a sense of ownership — “This is my Bible.”
• It encourages quiet focus, creativity, and learning.
• It helps them remember Bible stories because they colored them.
• It becomes a keepsake — something they’ll carry, color, and treasure as they grow.
A parent doesn’t give this Bible just to fill a shelf. They give it because they want their child to love God’s Word with their eyes, their hands, and their heart.
The Sketch Book Bible
Many children may want to keep this Bible forever. Why, one may ask?
They may want to look at how they colored as children.
They may want to show their children someday.
They may want to see what colors they liked best.
They may like to recall their favorite childhood stories, or
They may want to relive the joy experienced flipping through the pages of the Bible.
What a cool Bible! For sure.
The Sketch Book Bible
Bible Verse:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 NKJV
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received the NKJV Foundation Study Bible, and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.
***************
Bible Review by Patti Greene NKJV Foundation Study Bible Thomas Nelson ISBN: 9781400351022
1. First Impressions: A Simple and Beautiful Bible
The cover caught my eye right away. The words “Holy Bible” are printed in gold on a warm brown cover. The stitching around the edges makes it look durable and well-made. The spine says “Foundation Study Bible,” and the whole design feels classy and peaceful.
It is the kind of Bible someone could use for many years.
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
2. A Presentation Page That Feels Personal
Inside the front cover, the presentation page includes spaces for Presented to, By, Date, and Occasion. I love this. Many Bibles leave out the “occasion,” but it is a great addition. When I give a Bible as a birthday gift, Christmas gift, wedding gift, or “just because I love you” gift, I like writing the occasion down. This small detail makes the Bible feel more personal and meaningful.
3. Easy Navigation for All Readers
The Table of Contents lists the books of the Old Testament and New Testament in order. It also includes a list of abbreviations for each book. Many people—especially those new to the Bible won’t know these abbreviations, so this is very helpful.
The introduction and preface explain:
a. How the New King James Version (NKJV) was created
b. Why this translation was made
c. How the text is formatted, and
d. How the translator notes work
These pages help readers understand the purpose and style of this Bible.
4. Helpful Introductions to Each Book of the Bible
Each of the 66 books begins with a short introduction. It includes:
a. The author
b. When the book was written
c. A key verse
d. The main theme
These introductions give readers a strong starting point before they begin reading each book of the Bible.
5. Study Notes and Subheadings That Bring Clarity
Because this is a study Bible, many pages include notes at the bottom. These notes explain verses, provide references, and offer helpful background information.
The subheadings inside each chapter are also very useful. I noticed this especially while reading 1 Kings and 2 Kings. The subheadings helped me keep track of the people, places, and events. They make the stories easier to follow.
If you teach the Bible, these notes can help you prepare a lesson quickly, although that should not be one’s priority!!!
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
Wide Margins for Note‑Takers
One of my favorite features is the wide margins. I love taking notes in my Bible, and I often run out of space. These margins give plenty of room for writing thoughts and prayers, or for referencing.
For people who journal in their Bible, this is a wonderful feature.
7. Helpful Indexes for Deeper Study
This Bible includes several tools that help readers study God’s Word:
a. Notes Index by Location
This index begins in Genesis 1:1 and continues through 1 John 3:24. It helps readers follow important themes throughout the Bible.
b. Theological Notes Index by Title
This alphabetical list shows topics and the verses that go with them.
c. Concordance
The concordance is more complete than many Bibles this size. It includes words such as prayer, compassion, and covetousness.
These tools make this Bible helpful for personal study, teaching, or preparing devotionals.
8. Maps That Are Clear and Easy to Read
The back of the Bible includes colorful maps. They are bright, clear, and well‑designed. I especially like that Paul’s missionary journeys are spread across two pages. If they were squeezed onto one page, the names of the cities would be too small to read. This layout was a smart choice.
9. A Teenager’s Viewpoint
My granddaughter (almost 16) went through the Bible and shared her thoughts:
– The cover looks nice and could be used by anyone.
– There is a lot of room on the sides for notes.
– The print size is fine for me.
– I like the gold on the spine and page edges.
– It would work well for Sunday School.
– I understand why the two‑page map needed to be separated—it makes it easier to read.
– I would add my own tabs if I owned it.
– At my church, most teens use the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) because that is what my pastor uses. My friends mostly use the CSB, the New Living Translation (NLT), or the New International Version (NIV), so the New King James Version (NKJV) is less common among the teenagers I know.
Her comments reminded me that different age groups often prefer different translations, but the design of this Bible appeals to many people.
10. Final Thoughts: A Bible for Many Readers
The NKJV Foundation Study Bible (NKJV) is simple, pretty, and very useful. The study notes, wide margins, clear subheadings, and helpful indexes make it a strong choice for:
a. Long‑time Bible readers
b. Sunday School students
c. Teachers and small‑group leaders
d. Men, women, and teenagers who enjoy a clean, classic design
My only challenge is the print size. At 71 years old, it is too small for me (even after having cataract surgery). However, my granddaughter thinks it is perfect, and I believe most readers will feel the same.
Overall, this Bible is a wonderful tool for anyone who wants to grow in their understanding of God’s Word.
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
Prayer:
My heavenly Father, help me as I read Your word to understand it more clearly. Help me make time every day to seek and meditate on You. Speak to me, make me aware of others’ needs, and teach me to love them unconditionally, as you do. Thank you, Lord.
Bible Verse:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 NKJV
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