Category Archives: Devotionals

Crossing the Jordan: Embracing Change

Leaving behind St. Louis for Houston was a big decision for my husband and me. While John was sorting out the details of his new job, I faced the daunting task of breaking the news to our three kids. Jennifer, our fiery 15-year-old, had carved out a life in Missouri she adored—friends, school, and yes, a boy.

I decided to spring the news at dinner, hoping for a touch of ceremony to soften the blow. But as soon as the words left my mouth, Jennifer’s reaction was swift and fierce. Plate clattering, she bolted upstairs, leaving me to ponder the storm ahead. In our family, Jennifer’s mood set the tone, and right then, it was far from sunny.

Life, it seems, is a series of transitions, some expected, others blindsiding us like a falling tree. From grade school to college, accidents to job changes, we navigate a winding path of change. But amidst the uncertainty, we can glean wisdom from the ancient tale of crossing the Jordan River—a journey laden with principles for navigating our own transitions.

The Israelites, led by Joshua, faced their own river of uncertainty, but unlike their predecessors, they embraced faith over fear. Let’s explore the lessons they learned.

Principle 1: Trust in Wise Leadership

In the turbulent sea of advice, the Israelites anchored themselves to Joshua, a leader chosen by God Himself. Unlike Absalom, who heeded disastrous counsel, Joshua followed divine guidance, paving the way for his people’s success. In times of transition, seeking counsel from trusted mentors and aligning with Godly wisdom can steer us in the right direction.

Principle 2: Find Strength in Faith and Reflection

Before crossing the Jordan, Joshua immersed himself in meditation and prayer, drawing strength from Scripture. Like him, we find solace and clarity in quiet reflection, fortifying our spirits for the journey ahead.

Principle 3: Prepare for the Journey

Preparation is the cornerstone of successful transitions. Just as Joshua instructed the Israelites to ready themselves before crossing, we too must equip ourselves for the road ahead. Whether it’s packing provisions or nurturing spiritual resilience, readiness ensures we face change with confidence.

Principle 4: Take Courageous Action

Like the Israelites stepping into the rushing waters, we must summon the courage to act. Sometimes, as Nike advocates, we simply need to “just do it.” Trusting in God’s provision, we forge ahead, knowing that victory awaits on the other side.

In the tapestry of life, transitions weave the threads of our stories, each change a brushstroke in the masterpiece of our journey. Whether it’s a move, a career shift, or a leap of faith, each transition holds the potential for growth and discovery.

As for Jennifer, her initial resistance melted into gratitude. Looking back, she sees how that move to Houston shaped her life—a Texas college, a loving marriage, and a family of her own. Sometimes, the most unexpected transitions lead to the greatest blessings.

So, as you stand on the brink of change, remember the lessons of the Jordan. Embrace the journey, trust in divine guidance, and step forward with courage. For beyond the river lies the promise of new beginnings and undiscovered joys.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Dear heavenly Father, as I live my life depending on You, may I honor You in all I do or think. Guide me and prepare me for whatever steps and paths You have chosen for me. Please open my eyes to understanding, so I can fully comprehend the Scriptures. Thank you. Amen.

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Book Review: My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

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. Please, don’t miss the video link below – All about OSWALD CHAMBERS and a life dedicated to His Lord.

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The Complete Works of Oswald Chambers is a large book—over 1,400 pages—and it contains all of Chambers’ published writings and many of the messages he delivered during his life. The collection was compiled after his death by his wife, who had taken careful notes on almost everything he taught. Because of her work, we can read his words today.

Oswald Chambers was born in 1874 in Aberdeen, Scotland, the youngest son of a Baptist minister. When he was a teenager, his family moved to London, and he soon publicly professed his faith in Christ and joined Rye Lane Baptist Church. Over the years, he served as a pastor, a traveling speaker, and a representative of the League of Prayer. Later, he became the principal and main teacher at the Bible Training College in Clapham, London.

During his lifetime, he published only three books. He died in 1917 at the age of forty‑three and was not well known at the time. But after his death, his wife gathered the notes she had taken during their seven years of marriage and shaped them into many books. From those notes came My Utmost for His Highest, a devotional that has been translated into more than twenty‑five languages.

My Utmost for His Highest is a book of 365 daily readings. Many of the entries come from his lectures at the Bible Training College. Sometimes a single sentence can sound sharp or surprising when read alone, but when the rest of the paragraph or work is read, its meaning becomes clear.

For this blog, one sentence from each month of the devotional will be shared. These small pieces are simply what stood out along the way. They are offered to anyone curious about Oswald Chambers, his life, or the heart behind his teaching.

January: “[God] expounds things to use as we can understand them.”

February: “We show how little we love God by preferring to listen… to personal testimonies, but we do not desire that God should speak to us.”

March: “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading.”

April: “Character determines how a man interprets God’s will.”

May: “The purpose of God is not to answer our prayers, but by our prayers, we come to discern the mind of God.”

June: “If you are recognizing your Lord, you have no business with where he engineers your circumstances.”

July: “The golden rule for understanding spiritually is not intellect, but obedience.”

August: “It is the work that God does through us that counts, not what we do for Him.”

September: “God does not ask us to do the things that are easy to us naturally. He only asked us to do things we are perfectly fitted to do by His grace, and the cross will come along that line always.”

October: “It is not a question of whether God is willing to sanctify; is it my will?”

November: “God never gives us discernment in order that we may [criticize], but that we may intercede.”

December: “We are sent by God to lift up Jesus Christ, not to give wonderfully beautiful discourses.”

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Bible Verse: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

Source: Chambers, Oswald. The Complete Works of Oswald Chambers. Grand Rapids: Our Daily Bread, 2000. 738, 749, 761, 774, 783, 792, 805, 817, 827, 835, 848, 857.

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Unstoppable by Patti Greene; Available on Amazon or through Ingram Distributors

Bloops, Stress, and God’s Steady Hand

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Bloops! Before you write me off as crazy, let me explain. I blooped a lot this week. And my reason? Stress. Real, honest-to-goodness stress.

At first, I thought my bloops were manageable. They were private, and only a few people knew. Like when I sent two packages to the wrong addresses. One was a birthday gift for my grandson—I mailed it to his old house, the one he moved out of five years ago! Then I sent my recently designed Christmas cards to Lubbock instead of here. I know, I know. Bloops happen.

But when bloops go public? That’s when embarrassment sets in.

I was trying to change my Facebook profile picture. Instead of uploading the right photo, I accidentally posted a picture of my hand, one I meant to show my doctor, not the world! I deleted the pic right away, but Facebook warned me: “Deleted but may still appear elsewhere.” Oh no. Then came the text from a friend: “What is this pic?” Yikes. It’s out there somewhere.

So why all the bloops? I believe it’s stress. Last week was full of it. My mind was tired. My heart was heavy. I wasn’t thinking clearly. And when stress piles up, mistakes follow.

Stress can make us forget things. It can make us feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even clumsy. But here’s the good news: God doesn’t write us off when we bloop. He doesn’t laugh or roll His eyes, or maybe He does, but I know He meets us in our mess and offers peace.

Let’s look at what the Bible says about stress and God’s care:

1. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
God doesn’t just tolerate our stress—He invites us to hand it over.

2. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
When we’re tired and bloopy, Jesus offers rest—not shame.

3. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
He’s not just near us in calm moments. He’s right there in the chaos.

4. “The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” — Psalm 29:11
Strength and peace are gifts He gives freely, even when we feel weak.

So if you’ve blooped lately—sent something to the wrong address, posted the wrong photo, or just felt off—take heart. You’re not alone. Stress happens. But God is steady. He’s kind. And He is always ready to help us reset.

Bible Verses: Within Blog

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we all fail or make silly mistakes. Lord, thank You for forgiving us when we sin, and thank You for loving us always, even when our personalities or humor get ahead of us. You are a mighty God, and we love You for loving us no matter what. Amen.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS: Add Some of His Spirit to the Season! By Patti Greene

Dear friends,

I’m grateful for the chance to share the books the Lord has placed on my heart. Each one was written to encourage you in different seasons of life — whether through prayer journals, Bible word search puzzles, caregiving insights, or reflections on living faithfully day by day.

Patti and John (Husband) in Lagos, Nigeria, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                    

                                          My newest book . . . 

Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God, is a reminder that our walk with Him is steady and strong, even when challenges arise.

TO ENLARGE THE PHOTOS, CLICK ON EACH ONE TO READ MORE ABOUT EACH BOOK OR BOOK SET.

Unstoppable : Go the Distance with God by Patti Greene

As you prepare your Christmas gift lists this year, consider adding something that nourishes the soul. These books can be a meaningful way to bless loved ones with encouragement, joy in study, and tools to grow deeper in the Lord.

Your support allows this ministry to continue the Lord’s work.

May your season be filled with His peace and presence. Merry Christmas.

With gratitude,

2 Corinthians 9:15

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When Donkeys Speak: A Short Devotional by Patti Greene

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If you are teaching a comprehensive Bible study, add more information to align with your teaching goals.

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TITLE: When Donkeys Speak: Listening for God’s Voice

FOCUS: Numbers 22:1–35

THEME: God can speak through anything or anyone—and He wants our hearts more than our performance.

PRAYER STARTER: “Lord, open our ears and hearts today. Help us hear You—even when You speak in surprising ways.”

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ICEBREAKER:
Have you ever had a moment when something odd or unexpected made you stop and think, “Is God trying to tell me something?”
☐ Yes  ☐ No  ☐ Not sure
Briefly describe it: ___________________________________________

SCRIPTURE READING:
Read Aloud: Numbers 22:1–35
Break into three parts for clarity:
• vv.1–14: Balak’s request
• vv.15–21: Balaam’s response
• vv.22–35: The donkey speaks!

OPTIONAL VISUAL CHART:
• Map of Moab and Balaam’s route
• Character chart: Moab, Balaam, Balak, donkey, angel of the Lord.

DOUBLE-CLICK on the chart below to view it more clearly.

Numbers 22 Chart

TEACHING POINTS:
1. Backdrop: Israel camps near Moab. Balak fears them and sends messengers to hire Balaam to curse Israel. Read Deuteronomy 2:9 to find out why Balak didn’t need to worry about the Israelites harassing Moab.

2. God’s First Response (v.12): “You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.”

3. Balaam’s Wavering Heart: He says the right things but keeps entertaining the offer. His motives were not pure.  It is easy to question the motives of others—some tips for recognizing our own motives are:  1. Don’t rely on what others say about a person; 2. Don’t rely on first impressions; 3. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes; 4. Find out all the facts before judging a person’s motives; 5. Recognize when Satan is tempting us.

4. God’s Permission (v.20): God lets Balaam go—but with a warning.

5. The Angel & the Donkey (vv.22–35): The donkey sees the angel three times and tries to protect Balaam. Balaam beats the donkey, and then God opens the donkey’s mouth! In verse 38, the donkey says, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?”

6. God’s Message (vv. 31-32):Then the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the Lord standing in the way with His drawn sword in His hand; and he bowed his head and fell flat on his face. And the Angel of the Lord said to him, “Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to stand against you, because your way is perverse before Me.”

PONDER THESE QUESTIONS:
• Do you act differently at home than you do at church?
• Do you help others only to receive recognition or rewards?
• Do you reflect Christ or seek your own glory?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
• What does this story teach us about God’s patience?
• Have you ever ignored a warning or nudge from God?
• What’s one way you can listen more closely this week?

CREATIVE RESPONSE:
Journaling Prompt: “Lord, help me listen—even when the message comes from unexpected places . . .”

CLOSING PRAYER:
“Lord, thank You for speaking—even through donkeys. Help us hear You and obey with humble hearts.”

“Have You Ever Wondered?” A Five-Day Short Devotional

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We all have moments when questions are deep within us—moments when our faith feels weak, prayers feel unanswered, and our future feels uncertain. I know I have. But in those moments, God’s Word speaks. The Bible reminds us that we’re not alone and that the Lord is always working, and He loves us.

Let’s walk through five questions many of us have asked—and let the Bible answer them. Then, consider spending a devotional time over the next five days, using these thoughts and Bible verses as you talk to God.

1. Have you ever wondered how to truly grow your faith?

Faith doesn’t grow by accident—it grows through time spent in God’s Word.

“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17 (NASB)

Let your heart be fed by His truth. Open your Bible, go to church, listen to biblical sermons, and let faith rise within your spirit.

2. Have you ever felt like your prayers weren’t making a difference?

Even when God is silent, your prayers are heard.
“The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16 (NASB)

God hears us. Keep praying. Our words are not wasted—they are breakthroughs.

3. Have you ever thought about the legacy you will leave behind?

Legacy is built in the daily choice to speak of God’s goodness and His love for us.

“We will not conceal them from their children, but tell to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done.” Psalm 78:4 (NASB)

Tell your story. Share His faithfulness. Your legacy begins now.

4. Have you ever felt unqualified for what God wants you to do?

God doesn’t wait for perfection—He calls all of us with purpose and grace.

“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.” 2 Timothy 1:9 (NASB)

Jesus doesn’t save us because of what we’ve done, but because of who Christ is.

5. Have you ever stepped out in faith despite fear?

  • Faith isn’t the absence of fear—it’s trusting in God. Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

One of the prayers I pray often is “Help Me.” I need to remember that he has already said He will. How about you?

Go the Distance. The Lord is already holding you.

 

Bible Review: NKJV Personal Size Giant Print Bible by Patti Greene

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 Thomas Nelson Bible Reviewer, I received the NKJV: Personal Size Giant Print, Brown Leathersoft, Holy Bible, Red Letter, Comfort Print: New King James Version

ISBN: 9781400346325

First Impressions & External Appearance

From the moment I removed the NKJV Personal Size Giant Print Bible (Red Letter Edition) from its case, I knew I loved it. The Leathersoft cover is rich brown and has a pleasant feel, with a compact and substantial size.  The design is exquisite, with elegant gold and brown imprints, gold page gilding, and a coordinating ribbon marker that adds a refined touch.

The spine décor is especially striking, and the overall aesthetic is gender-neutral, making it a perfect choice for both men and women. I’m already looking forward to having my name engraved in gold to match the “Holy Bible” inscription on the front. This Bible is simple, attractive, and easy to hold—just the Word of God, beautifully presented.

Interior Design & Features

Opening the Bible reveals a stunning presentation page, followed by internal front and back covers adorned with a wallpaper-like design reminiscent of elegant home décor. The contents page clearly lists each book of the Old and New Testaments, and the included preface offers a helpful explanation of the New King James Version—its origins, translation philosophy, and textual sources (Hebrew for the Old Testament and Greek for the New).

The two-column layout features the Thomas Nelson NKJV typeface in a large, readable font, especially appreciated by readers around my age (70+). The red-letter text for the words of Christ is a welcome feature, and the chapter headings in all caps make navigation easy.

While this Bible doesn’t include extensive study notes or commentary, it does offer occasional footnotes that provide helpful cross-references, word meanings, or textual clarifications (e.g., Masoretic vs. Septuagint sources). I personally use a study Bible for in-depth research, but I’m thrilled to have a Bible that is primarily just the Word of God, perfect for devotional reading without distractions.

What I Love Most

– Simplicity: This Bible allows me to focus on Scripture without being pulled into study notes or references.
– Readability: The giant print is a blessing for aging eyes.
– Design: From the cover to the interior, it’s thoughtfully and beautifully crafted.
– Red Letter Edition: Always a favorite feature of mine.
– Maps: The inclusion of 8 standard maps at the back is a nice touch.

Suggestions for Improvement

The only feature I truly miss is the inclusion of a few blank pages at the back for personal notes, reflections, or to write down the names of people I meet so I don’t forget their names. As someone who enjoys journaling thoughts during devotional time, this would be a valuable addition.

Final Thoughts

This Bible is a treasure. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a beautifully designed, easy-to-read edition of the NKJV that focuses solely on Scripture. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it’s a wonderful choice for those who want to engage with God’s Word in a quiet, focused way.

Feel free to share this review with others.

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Bible Verse

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV).

A Bible Review: Note Worthy New Testament by Patti Greene

A Bible Review by Patti Greene

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.

Title: Note Worthy New Testament: Read and Journal Through the New Testament in a Year.  Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2024.

[ISBN: 978-1-4003-38-559]

As a Thomas Nelson Bible Reviewer, I received an imitation leather soft edition of the 2024 Note Worthy New Testament as a gift, and I am pleased to offer an honest review of this New King James Version Bible.

First Impressions

Upon opening this Bible, I was immediately impressed. The size, tactile quality, and font size are perfect. The layout encourages readers to complete the New Testament in a year, but it offers the flexibility to read ahead by tackling multiple sections at a time. I particularly appreciate the absence of fixed reading dates, allowing anyone to start or resume their journey through the scriptures at their convenience.

Aesthetic Appeal

Measuring 6 ½ x 8 inches, this New Testament is a joy to hold, thanks to its soft, brown leather cover. It’s a delight for those who appreciate a sensory experience when engaging with their Bible. With its high-quality construction, it appeals equally to both men and women. The Bible is flat when opened, features a beautiful brown ribbon placeholder, and showcases gold-rimmed pages that elevate its elegance.

Note Worthy New Testament

Internal Appeal

Within its 378 pages, the Bible features a well-organized structure with six daily weekly readings. Although the page margins are only ½ inch, there’s ample lined space for notetaking, journaling, and prayer requests. Each daily reading is preceded by a short phrase, for example, Week 32, Day 3, ’Be ready to obey,’ along with the corresponding scripture address (e.g., Romans 7:13-8:17). The heavy white paper is conducive to highlighting, underlining, and note-taking with pens. 

Note Worthy New Testament

Purpose of the Note Worthy New Testament

This Bible aims to draw readers closer to Jesus Christ through engagement with the Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation. It’s also an excellent challenge for those who have yet to embark on a Bible reading plan or those looking to rejuvenate their spiritual journey.

Drawbacks

Two minor drawbacks are that Jesus’s words are not printed in red, which some readers might prefer. There are many Old Testament prophecies throughout the Bible in the New Testament,  but they lack their Old Testament address for reference if desired. I believe that would be helpful for many, including me.

Valuable Information

While this Bible may not satisfy those seeking in-depth study resources—such as notes, footnotes, references, dictionaries, concordances, images, or maps—it excels in helping personal interaction with God’s word. It is an excellent choice for everyday reading and makes a beautiful gift. Its moderate size allows it to fit comfortably in a medium-sized purse or backpack. For pastors and speakers, it’s perfect for holding while preaching or ministering. A helpful introductory page also explains how to make the most of this Bible.

Spiritually, the New Testament provides guidance, comfort, and the potential for growth in various areas of life, including work, relationships, parenting, and more. I hope this Bible—like any Bible—will lead you to a deeper understanding of God’s presence.

Note Worthy New Testament

My Plan

As I prepare to teach on the New Testament soon, I plan to encourage attendees to engage with this reading plan, even if that means tripling their readings to meet our timeline.

I also recommend this Bible as a thoughtful gift for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, birthdays, and other occasions.

Final Word

I wholeheartedly recommend the Note Worthy New Testament, which will be released on October 29, 2024, and will retail for $34.99.

Feel free to share this review with others. May it encourage hearts and remind us that we’re never alone on this path. The Lord is with us.

If you like articles like this, please subscribe to my blog on the  right-hand side of this article, where it states, “SUBSCRIBE TO BLOG VIA EMAIL.” You will then be asked to confirm your subscription through an email request.

Bible Verse

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV).

Bible Word Search Puzzles by Patti Greene, available on Amazon

    

Trust the Journey

Have you ever pondered the Holy Spirit’s presence and calling in your life? Feeling lost or uncertain is easy, especially when life takes unexpected turns. But here’s what I’ve learned over the years.

Never Alone

God never abandons us. When we accept Christ, the Holy Spirit becomes our constant companion. Even in moments of doubt and desire, we’re not alone.

Testing Grounds

Sometimes, the Holy Spirit leads us to testing grounds. We stumble, but that’s okay. These trials refine us, shaping our purpose.

Silent Moments

Sometimes, we don’t feel God’s presence. Perhaps there is sin in our lives, or maybe God is testing us. But even in silence, He’s working behind the scenes.

Perseverance

Life can be tough. Criticism, misunderstandings, and unmet prayers weigh us down. Yet, we persevere. God’s timing is mysterious, but He’s always leading.

Surrender

By surrendering our desires and hopes, we invite the Holy Spirit’s touch. He trusts us with His plans, even when they diverge from our expectations.

Stay Vigilant

The enemy seeks to distract us during life’s storms, but God remains steadfast. We may not always feel Him, but He’s there.

So, my friends, let’s trust the journey—even when it’s hard. God’s purpose unfolds, and we’re part of something greater.

Feel free to share this reflection with others. May it encourage hearts and remind us that we’re never alone on this path.

God Bless,

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, Life can be rough sometimes. Allow me to trust You through all my ins and outs. Let me build into my Christian foundation the fact that You love me and will never leave me or forsake me.

Bible Verse

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Voices: The Power and Importance of Prayer

February 13, 2024-First Published in The Baptist Standard

In January, I had the privilege of discussing prayer with a group of wonderful women. During this session, I found myself pouring out my thoughts and insights, resulting in a talk that spanned about 3,000 words. In the aftermath of this talk, I felt compelled to put my reflections into a more concise form, aiming for an article of approximately 900 words. As I embarked on this endeavor, I couldn’t help but feel that as I was crossing out each word, fragments of my heart were being torn out. Nevertheless, I felt driven by a desire to share these reflections with a wider audience. It is my hope that this article will resonate with other women who yearn for deeper insights into prayer. Please feel free to share it with anyone whom you believe might benefit from its message and comment on the Baptist Standard link.

Click to read the article.

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Voices: The power and importance of prayer