Category Archives: Spiritual Growth

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Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Writing and Ministry Together, Week 5 by Patti Greene

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Welcome to my NEW Blog Series: Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Writing and Ministry Together, Week 5

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 1 – Our Connection and Story greenepastures.org/two-paths-one-savior-week-1/

Week 2 – Early Life and Faith greenepastures.org/two-paths-one-savior-conversations-with-glory-early-life-and-faithweek-2/

Week 3 – Journey and Calling Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Journey and Calling, Week 3 by Patti Greene | Greene Pastures by Patti Londa Greene

Week 4 – Singleness and Ministry https://greenepastures.org/singleness-and-ministry/

Week 5 – Writing and Ministry Together – THIS WEEK

6 – Reflection and Encouragement – Be Encouraged: You’re Not Walking Alone

Week 7 – Friendship and Connection – Enjoy Christ-Centered Friendships

Flowers – Thinkstock

Writing and Ministry Together

Q. What inspires your writing the most?

A. What inspires my writing the most is the word of God. I love the word of God. I can spend forever in it. I never get enough of it. That’s the key thing that inspires my writing, because I take it in, I meditate on it, and I think about how to apply it in my life.

The second thing that inspires my writing is my walk with God. As I take in His word and walk it out, it becomes an adventure. My writing comes from the things I learn and the things I draw from walking with Him. I’m practicing His word and watching it work in my life, and I’m also walking with the people God brings into my life and seeing how His word works in their lives.

Those are the things that inspire my writing.

Word of God

Q. How does Scripture and personal experience shape your voice as a writer?

A. My writing is primarily shaped by the word of God and my experience of walking with God. Most of what I write comes from what I draw from Scripture—what I learn as I sit with the Holy Spirit and He opens my eyes to the word. He connects the Scriptures to my walk and to my experiences.

One thing I work hard on is not making my experience a standard for anyone else, because I know that’s not how God works. I also know that God uses His word to shape our walk, so I am learning from the word of God, and I am learning to walk the word of God, talk the word of God, and share that word by the way I live.

The people God brings into my life get to witness how the word of God works and produces fruit in the lives of those who believe. The word of God is the primary motivation for my writing, and aligning my walk with His truth helps confirm how His word works.

Fruit Basket
Fruit Basket

Q. What message do you feel God is asking you to share in this season?

A. Considering the season I am in and what God is doing in my life right now, I’m learning to see Him as the God who rescues people from troubles that they cannot get themselves out of, who redeems them from the ravages of the situations they’ve lived through, and who restores what was lost in the fire of affliction. These are the three messages God is working in my life currently, and I am seeing them and experiencing them.

I’m experiencing God rescue me. I’m experiencing God redeem me. And I’m sitting in the place where I am watching and seeing how God is doing this work of restoration in my own life. That’s what God is doing right now, and that’s the message—because, like my writing, I speak from my walk with God unless He specifically directs me to speak into something else. Most of the time, I draw from how He is revealing Himself as I walk in His word in my life and in my circumstances.

So right now, I am experiencing God as the One who rescues, the One who redeems, and the One who restores.

Q. How do you hope your writing will minister to others?

A. I am hopeful that my writing will minister to those who want to see God walking with them through their day‑to‑day experiences. I want it to reach those who long to encounter God in the places and ways I have encountered His power—to deliver, to help, to teach, to enlighten, and to heal.

I drink from the well of God through His word and through my life experiences, and I share what He has taught me and is still teaching me. I hope that people who are going through similar situations will find hope and encouragement through my writing and preaching, knowing they are not alone. When God says, “I will deliver,” He is fully able to do exactly that.

If people can see that He has done it in my life, maybe it will help them believe and hold on in those difficult and dark moments, knowing that God honors His word—not just to me, but to everyone who believes and waits for Him.

Praising God

FACT by Patti

During the years I’ve known Glory, one thing has never changed: the “word” is always on her mind. I’m not exaggerating. I counted how many times she answered my questions using the word “word” above. It was eighteen. Eighteen! And honestly, that didn’t surprise me at all. She LOVES God’s word—the Bible. It’s practically her native language. And her multiple books prove that. Yes, most are on Amazon.

Glory and I met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and we bonded immediately. One of the first things she shared with me was her poetry. I offered to help edit her poetry, not realizing I was about to enter a whole new world. You see, I’ve never been a big poetry person—but I didn’t tell her that. Then came the moment I sat down with her poems. Oh my. After going through a multitude—and I mean a multitude—of poems, I started to understand how Glory thinks, how she writes, and how deeply she listens to God. Somewhere between poem number twenty and poem number “I’ve lost count,” I realized she wasn’t just a good writer. She was a gifted one.

Glory and Patti, 2019

Over time, we’ve helped each other with our writing. But the funniest season was when I wrote three Bible Word Search Puzzle books. I had a program that created the puzzles using words I found in the New Testament. The problem? The program didn’t weed out bad words. Yes, you read that right. Bad words. In a Christian word search puzzle. So before publishing, I had to go through EVERY puzzle and hunt for anything inappropriate.

Naturally, I called on Glory. There aren’t too many friends one feels comfortable saying, “Hey, can you look for bad words in my book?”

At first, I asked her to look for twenty bad words. Then I narrowed it down to the worst five. That’s the kind of friend she is—she will sit with you, laugh with you, pray with you, and help you make sure your Bible puzzles don’t accidentally turn into something you’d have to repent for.

We help each other do good works, and we have fun doing it. And honestly, if you’ve ever wondered whether Christian word search authors go buggy searching for bad words—yes, we do. And Glory helped. She always helps. And her writing shows that same heart: steady, faithful, thoughtful, and full of God’s truth.

Bible Verse: “My heart is overflowing with a good theme… my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.” Psalm 45:1

Prayer: 

Dear Jesus, thank you for friends who encourage, love, and help us with our needs, whether big or small. Let us love your word so much that it is always on our mind, guiding us how to live, write, or whatever we do. Let us see You as the One who rescues,  redeems, and restores us, as we follow You in our lives. Amen.

Next Week: Reflection and Encouragement

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#WordofGod #ChristianMinistry #God #Writing #WritingBooks #WalkingWithGod #Scripture #TheWord #TwoPathsOneSavior #Inspiration #ChristianBlog #GreenePastures.org #Glory #PattiGreene #ConversationswithGlory #Nigeria

Flowers – Thinkstock

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 ISBN 978-1490893181

Anchor Me: Laying a Foundation in Prayer and Bible Study ISBN 978-1490893174

 
Christian Blog, Christian Living, Church and Ministry, Faith, Friendship, God's Will, GreenePastures.org, How to Guides, Life Issues, Missions and Evangelism, Nigeria, Obedience, Patti Greene, Prayer, Spiritual Connection, Spiritual Growth, Testimonies, Testimony, Uncategorized, Writing and Speaking

Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Singleness and Ministry, Week 4 by Patti Greene

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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 1 – Our Connection and Story: greenepastures.org/two-paths-one-savior-week-1/

Week 2 – Early Life and Faith: greenepastures.org/two-paths-one-savior-conversations-with-glory-early-life-and-faithweek-2/

Week 3 – Journey and Calling – Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory / Journey and Calling, Week 3 by Patti Greene | Greene Pastures by Patti Londa Greene

Week 4 – Singleness and Ministry – THIS 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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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 ISBN 978-1490893181

Anchor Me: Laying a Foundation in Prayer and Bible Study ISBN 978-1490893174

Bible Review, Bible Study, Concordance, Core Topics, Doctrine, Faith, God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit, GreenePastures.org, Jesus Christ, King James Version, KJV, New Testament, Note-taking Space, Old Testament, Patti Greene, Spiritual Growth, The Bible, Thomas Nelson, Topic-by-Topic Notes, Uncategorized

Bible Review: Color Code Study Bible (KJV) 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.

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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.
  1. Purple – God the Father
  2. Blue – God the Son
  3. Gold – God the Holy Spirit
  4. Red – Salvation
  5. Green – Sanctification
  6. Gray – Sin and Temptation
  7. 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.

Church and Ministry, Faith, Patti Greene, Prayer, Spiritual Growth, The Bible

A Simple Guide to Christian Terms — Christianese

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Many people use words—sometimes called “Christianese”—that can be confusing. Whether you’ve studied the Bible for years or are opening it for the first time, no question is too small. God meets each of us right where we are. My prayer is that this list will help you and others understand the terms believers often use in daily life.

Words About Faith

Sin — Anything we do that goes against God
Romans 3:23 — “For all have sinned…”

Repent — Turn to God, through Jesus
Acts 3:19 — “Repent…that your sins may be wiped out.”

Believe — Trust Jesus with your life
Acts 16:31 — “Believe in the Lord Jesus…”

Faith — Choosing to trust God even when we can’t see
2 Corinthians 5:7 — “We live by faith, not by sight.”

Saved — Made right with God
Romans 10:13 — “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Lost — Far from God; needs a new life in Jesus
Luke 19:10 — “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Gospel — The good news about Jesus
Romans 1:16 — “It is the power of God for salvation.”

Born again — Given a new life through Jesus
John 3:7 — “You must be born again.”

Justified — God forgives us and makes us right with Him
Romans 5:1 — “We have been justified through faith.”

Sanctified — God growing us to be more like Jesus
1 Thessalonians 4:3 — “This is God’s will…your sanctification.”

Redeemed — God bought us back and made us His own
Ephesians 1:7 — “In Him we have redemption…”

Words About the Church and Bible

Scripture — A verse or passage from the Bible
2 Timothy 3:16 — “All Scripture is God‑breathed.”

Covenant — A promise God makes and keeps
Jeremiah 31:33 — “I will be their God, and they will be my people.”

Disciple — A person who follows Jesus
Matthew 28:19 — “Make disciples of all nations.”

Discipleship — Learning to follow Jesus day by day
Matthew 28:20 — “Teach them to obey everything I have commanded.”

Fellowship — Spending time together in Christian friendship
Acts 2:42 — “They devoted themselves…to fellowship.”

Quiet time — Time alone with God
Psalm 46:10 — “Be still and know that I am God.”

Devotional — A short reading that helps us think about God
Psalm 119:105 — “Your word is a lamp to my feet.”

Trinity — One God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Matthew 28:19 — “In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”

Words About Spiritual Growth and Prayer

Intercede — Pray for someone else
Romans 8:34 — “Christ Jesus…intercedes for us.”

Anointed — Chosen and helped by God
Luke 4:18 — “He has anointed me…”

Calling — The work God wants you to do
Ephesians 4:1 — “Walk worthy of the calling you have received.”

Spiritual warfare — The battle between God’s truth and the enemy’s lies
Ephesians 6:11 — “Put on the full armor of God.”

Fruit of the Spirit — The good things God grows in us
Galatians 5:22–23 — “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…”

Walk with God — Live each day with God
Galatians 5:16 — “Walk by the Spirit.”

Words About Church Practices

Communion — Remembering Jesus with bread and juice, wine
Luke 22:19 — “Do this in remembrance of Me.”

Baptism — Showing on the outside what Jesus has done on the inside
Acts 2:38 — “Be baptized…in the name of Jesus Christ.”

Testimony — Your story of what God has done in your life
Acts 4:20 — “We cannot help speaking about…what we have seen and heard.”

Worship — Showing love to God with our words, songs, and lives
Psalm 100:2 — “Worship the Lord with gladness.”

Compiled by Patti Greene, January 25, 2026

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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

Feel free to share this blog by reposting or forwarding it to anyone!

Bible Study, Christian Living, God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit, GreenePastures.org, Guest Bloggers, How to Guides, Leadership, Life Issues, New Testament, Old Testament, Patti Greene, Prayer, Spiritual Growth, The Bible

That’s Not Fair by Guest Blogger Ellsworth Johnson

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That’s Not Fair!

Life isn’t fair!

One of the biggest complaints non-believers have about Christianity is how “unfair” it is that God throws people into Hell who, in the observer’s eyes, seem like “nice” people.

After all, these people aren’t murderers, adulterers, thieves, wife-beaters, drug users or any of a long list of unsavory types. Yet God sees fit to toss into the abyss anyone who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

“That’s not fair!” they exclaim.

In their eyes, that upstanding next-door neighbor, or that decent lady who teaches their son’s second-grade class at school, definitely merits a place in Glory for not finding themselves in Paul’s list of those who will not eventually make their way into heaven:

“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9–10

The trouble with this way of thinking is that the wrong standard is being applied.

As one of my pastors said recently: “God does not grade on a ‘curve’!” He demands absolute perfection… a bar we weak humans can never reach on our own, no matter how “good” we may appear to ourselves.

And besides: where does the concept of “fairness” ultimately come from, anyway? Nowhere but the mind, hand and mouth of our God, from which all truth, good and righteousness flow.

What’s “fair”:

What’s Fair?

What’s “fair” is that all sin be judged completely and immediately.

If sin was indeed handled in that way, and true justice was executed, none of us would even be here.

When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden, God would have immediately blasted them into Hell, and sent the Earth and the rest of the universe back into non-existence. Then He would have rolled up the red carpet of creation and stuffed it back into the infinite fount from which it sprang, regretting the very idea of making man and allowing him to have a free will.

Isn’t it amazing that God does not pass summary judgment on our sins, and is instead long-suffering and patient, desiring that we ultimately heed the Spirit’s conviction and come to repentance? This distinctive, called grace, separates Christianity from every other religion mankind has ever embraced.

What’s (really!) “not fair”:

Going back to the Garden: what’s not fair is that God, instead of instantly condemning sin, made a way for man to reconcile himself back to God… something which He did NOT have to do.

Further, this means of reconciliation required Jesus, His only begotten Son, whom He loved very much, to give up His place in Glory, at the Father’s right hand, to come down here and live a sinless life.

Jesus’ reward for doing this? An agonizing death by being nailed to a cross, after being whipped mercilessly all night and convicted on trumped-up charges at an illegal trial. He became sin (ironic, for one who never knew sin) long enough for the Father to pour out judgment on Him so that every human, from that day forward, has a path to redemption.

It says much of our Lord that He agreed to do this before time ever began or the universe was ever created. He knew going in that mankind was going to screw up this Creation thing and would need a way out from instant and eternal damnation.

Jesus volunteered to trade in His infinite glory to take on the limited existence of a vulnerable human, to live the life we should have lived… and die the death we should have died.

Again: Jesus, too, did not have to do this.

In yet another wildly unequal proposition, Jesus offers to exchange our sin-soaked and wretched record before God for His righteousness, so that we may not receive the penalty which our disobedience and imperfection demand.

Oh, the unfairness of it all!

And yet… literally… THANK GOD for it!

But wait… there’s MORE!

Wait, What’s More?

You know what else is not fair?

  1. That we live for one second beyond this moment, because it allows us the opportunity to sin and further offend God. Our hearts beat and our lungs draw breath, sustained by Him, despite His knowing full well that we will continue to “blow it” by veering from the path He has set for us.
  2. That we receive from Him any food, clothing, shelter or manner of provision to sustain and complement our lives. It is only because He loves us that He is ready and willing to do all these good things, which come to Him as easily as uttering the word.
  3. That sinful man, instead of acknowledging Him as creator and sustainer, denies Him and mocks His name. The sheer ingratitude of this is staggering, considering the infinite Being on the other end, who created the entire universe out of nothing, and everything in it. He brought mankind onto the scene and gave him a place of honor in the created order. His recompense for doing this? Instead of receiving glory, thanks and appreciation, He is ignored and disobeyed, while scorn and rejection are heaped upon Him.

So the next time someone accuses Christianity of being so grossly unfair, I would recommend responding with a simple two-word question.

“To whom?”

By Ellsworth Johnson

Ellsworth Johnson is a retired software engineer and high school math teacher. He came to faith in Jesus Christ in 1992, following the full, complete recovery from a brain aneurysm which should have killed him. Having lived in America’s largest cities (New York, Los Angeles, Houston), he now calls Lansing, Michigan home. Divorced, he has one son, Joshua, a junior in college, majoring in mathematics.

——————–

“I am grateful to all my guest bloggers for their reflections offered in love and sincerity. While the views expressed are the author’s own, I pray they encourage thoughtful dialogue and spiritual growth.” Patti

New Book by Patti Greene – Second Print on Amazon; Published 2025

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎979-8284335017 (Paperback); To order, type in this ISBN in the search screen on Amazon .$18.99.

Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God. Available on Amazon. Perfect for individuals of ages 12-100+ who are interested in journeying with God: Includes stand-alone chapters on the Bible, Prayer, Christian Living, Leadership, and Crises. Perfect for special occasions, Christmas Gifts, Bible study groups, book studies, raffle gifts, and more.

Unstoppable by Patti Greene

Reviews:

“This book serves as a spiritual guide for individuals seeking to deepen their faith, overcome challenges, and lead a life that honors God.”

“If you are wondering about God, how to study the Bible, build relationships, and respond to specific circumstances, this is the book.”

“Thoroughly enjoyed this book! The author has found a unique way to teach biblical truths and theological principles in a way that speaks to all stages of one’s walk with Christ.”

Feel free to forward, share, or comment on this post.

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Book Review: Alexander Maclaren Study 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 Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible  (New King James Version® – NKJV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.

********************

BLUE COVER – JUST RELEASED!

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible

Beautiful Beginnings – First Impressions

As soon as I slid the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible out of its boxed sleeve, its beauty drew me in. It felt warm and welcoming—the kind of Bible that seems to say, “Pick me up.” While I don’t usually compare Bibles to furniture, this one reminds me of something comparable to the elegance of Ethan Allen furniture: elegant, eye-catching, and a little more expensive than most.

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible – Cover

Beauty in the Basics – Basic Facts

  • Translation: New King James Version®
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
  • ISBN: 978-1-4003-3595-4
  • Font: NKJV Comfort Print®
  • Typeset: Modeled after Scottish Roman type (1808–1813)
  • Extras: Blue satin ribbon and thumb indexing
  • Copyright: 2025

Elegant Exterior – Spine & Front Cover Decor

The sky blue “leathersoft” cover features graceful gold accents on the spine, front, and back. A script “M” for Maclaren appears on the spine, along with the Bible’s title and NKJV imprint. Both covers display a matching floral pattern that continues onto the page edges when closed. This edition feels especially fitting for women—a thoughtful gift for someone dear.

Treasures Within – Contents and Interior Design

The front pages offer a preface to the NKJV, a list of Bible books, abbreviations, and an introduction to Alexander Maclaren, known as “the Prince of Expositors.” In the back pages, you’ll find a bibliography, a four-page index of features (Christ connections, life applications, and outlines), seven maps, and a 388-page concordance. Yes, you heard me right – 388 pages! Wow.

The 388-page Concordance

Inside, the layout is both practical and beautiful. Blue boxes highlight Scripture with a cross symbol, while decorative frames hold life applications. “Triumphant Prayers” appear throughout. The two-column format includes reference verses between columns and footnotes at the bottom of select pages. The blue satin ribbon adds a graceful touch.

Radiant Purpose – What Makes This Bible Special

This Bible stands out for its look, feel, and thoughtful design. One feature I haven’t seen elsewhere is how it includes highlights of Christ in both the Old and New Testaments—a meaningful detail that deepens its impact.

The Alexander Maclaren’s Study Bible – Interior

Designed for Hearts – Who Is This Bible Written For

This Bible would bless a wide range of readers—from seekers, new believers, to seasoned followers. Its gentle tone and thoughtful features make it an excellent companion for anyone seeking deeper faith. But, due to the cover, I would say, especially for women! There are previously published works for men, as well.

Unique Beauty – What Sets This Bible Apart

This Bible makes me smile. It feels like it’s whispering, “Lift me up and read me.” I can visualize it on coffee tables and office desks, luring folks to pick it up to read it. The seven maps in the back are clear and easy to follow, especially Paul’s journey to Rome, which many Bibles leave out. The color coordination from cover to content is stunning. The concordance is thorough, and the biography of Alexander Maclaren adds depth. When I first opened it, I wondered, “Who exactly is Maclaren?” After reading about his life and ministry, I now want to explore his sermons. FYI, Maclaren was elected president of the Baptist Union in 1875 and “preached with a power that rivaled Charles Spurgeon.”

The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible

Graceful Adjustments – If I Could Tweak

If I could adjust a few things, I’d widen the margins to give note-takers more space. I’d also redesign the sleeve to reflect better the Bible’s beauty—right now, it doesn’t do it justice. In a bookstore, I might overlook it and miss out. Lastly, I’d shrink the cover design slightly to allow room for personal imprints, which isn’t possible with this design.

Lasting Impressions – Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, this Bible is worth considering. It’s a study Bible, so it’s a bit heavier—but it’s full of treasures. I’ll definitely be using the concordance often. I absolutely love this Bible and wholeheartedly recommend it—for a friend or for yourself.

“The gospel is not speculation but fact. It is truth, because it is the record of a person who is the Truth.” ~ Alexander MacLaren

Source: TOP 25 QUOTES BY ALEXANDER MACLAREN (of 121) | A-Z Quotes

Leathersoft is trademarked. TM.

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Book Review: The Prayer 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 Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received The Prayer Bible (New International Version-NIV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.

Reviewing The Prayer Bible

I always get excited when I receive a new Bible to review. I love flipping through the pages, wondering what treasures I’ll find inside. I always pray that each Bible I read will bless others and help them grow closer to God.

First Impressions

When I opened the blue-sleeved box and saw The Prayer Bible, I said aloud, “Oh, I love it!” The color and feel are wonderful. Mine has a brownish-burgundy two-tone cover with a soft vine design on the front. It feels gentle and a little feminine, but not too much. However, I looked it up and found out it also comes in a sleek Gray/Black cover in the NIV® version. It’s also light enough to carry easily. The title, The Prayer Bible, is printed in shiny silver on the front and spine. It’s beautiful.

The Prayer Bible – Cover and Sleeve

One of the first things I noticed was how this Bible includes short sections called “Praying the Scripture.” Each one has a Bible verse and a brief prayer idea. For example, in John 14, it says:

“As Jesus continued teaching during the Last Supper, he assured the 12 of his peace. He promised the heavenly home that he was about to prepare for them, confirming that he is the only way to it. Sensing their anxiety, he also promised a kind of peace that only he could provide.”

“When you are anxious, call on Jesus. Don’t just ask for peace—ask him for His peace.”

I love that! These little prayers are on most pages, and they often end with a question or something to think about. There’s also space in the margins for notes, which is excellent if you like to write while you read.

The Prayer Bible – Praying Scripture

Quick Facts:

• This Bible has 1,636 pages.
• It’s published by Thomas Nelson.
• It uses the NIV (New International Version).
• ISBN: 9781400345410; Library of Congress: 2024946600.

It includes extras like:

• A 365-day reading plan with checkboxes
• A list of prayers from the Bible
• A Guide to Scripture engagement vs. Bible study
• Tips for spiritual growth
• A table of weights and measures
• Abbreviations and formatting notes, and
• A section called “Why Read the Bible?”

Each book of the Bible also starts with a short introduction, which helps readers understand the big picture. That’s especially helpful for pastors, teachers, or anyone wanting to dig deeper.

Layout and Design

This Bible follows the usual order—from Genesis to Revelation. It doesn’t have pictures or lengthy explanations, which some people might prefer. It does have helpful, short footnotes and references on many pages. The text is printed in one column instead of two, which makes it feel fresh and easy to follow.

What I Loved

• The flexible leathersoft cover feels great in your hands.
• The “Praying the Scripture” sections help you connect with God while reading.
• The words of Jesus are printed in red, which makes them stand out.

The Prayer Bible – List of Prayers in the Bible

Things to Consider

Everyone looks for different things in a Bible. I always suggest seeing and holding a Bible before buying it. For me, the print size is okay now—thanks to cataract surgery—but it might be a little small for some readers.

Also, this is not a Study Bible. It lacks maps, charts, commentary notes, and a comprehensive topical index. Even a small index would be helpful.

Why I Recommend It

I recommend any Bible that shares the truth of Jesus Christ. I want everyone to read God’s Word and let the Holy Spirit speak to their hearts. The “Praying the Scripture” feature is a beautiful way to connect Bible verses with your personal prayers.

Who Should Read It?

This Bible is for everyone—believers, seekers, and even those who aren’t sure what they believe. Whether you’re a student, teacher, politician, someone facing illness, or someone feeling anxious, the Bible has something for you. God’s Word is for all people.

Final Thoughts

I liked the pages that explain the difference between Scripture engagement and Bible study. I wish this explanation were at the front of the Bible instead of the back, though. And I absolutely LOVE the list of prayers—it makes it easy to find what you need.

If you receive this Bible—whether as a gift or something you buy—my advice is simple: pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read it. God will meet you right where you are.

The Prayer Bible

Leathersoft is trademarked. TM.

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THE WAIT IS OVER! My new book, Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God is now available !

Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God by Patti Greene

AVAILABLE NOW: PB ISBN-13: 9798284335017; On Amazon!

To order, click here!

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.

———-

THE WAIT IS OVER! My new book, Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God, is now available. Ready to inspire, strengthen, and encourage you to pursue God’s path with unwavering faith.  And as proof that miracles still happen, my “desk” is finally clear–turns out writing a book creates more clutter than ever imaginable. 

But what you see below is a very messy table, with stacks of books and Bibles that filled every nook and cranny of my dining room as this book was being produced!

My work “desk” during a neat phase!

Unstoppable is officially LIVE and ready to jump off the shelves! You can grab it on Amazon or order it at your favorite local bookstore. But before I get into the wild ride that was my writing and publishing journey, let me tell you what’s inside.

This book began as a love letter to my children, a way for them to hear my voice long after I’m gone. But somewhere along the way, I realized it wasn’t just for them. It was for every believer, every seeker, every soul longing to know God more. The words are mine. Every thought, every bit of wisdom comes from a journey with the Lord. And I hope that as you read, you hear my voice—not just in ink, but in your heart. It is a book about the Bible, Prayer, Christian Living, Leadership, and Crises.

The Writing Process

Writing a book should come with a survival guide. Between editing, formatting, and proofing (more than one hundred times), I learned that endnotes and bibliographies were designed to evaluate human patience. My dining room transformed into a battlefield of books, sticky notes, and a laptop that looked like it had survived a war. In an attempt to feel like I was in control of something, I started frequenting the nail salon. If nothing else, the salon became a form of stress relief to me.

And then there were the technical nightmares—the formatting jargon no one warns you about. Acrobat, DPI, cropping, templates, first-line indents, hyperlinks, marketing strategies, and the dreaded Kindle Previewer. I wrestled with Smashwords, preorders, reflowable text, TOC (which I now believe stands for “Totally Overwhelming Chaos”), citations, quotation marks, italics, and hyphens. Every minor detail became a new mountain to climb. Somewhere between resizing eBook files and debating whether “almighty” should be capitalized or not, I pondered every life instance, from toddlerhood to now, that the Lord allowed me to until this moment. And yes, He prepared me.

What God Taught Me Through the Process

But in all the challenges, God was working on me. He taught me patience, the importance of time management (because writing at 2 a.m. is not sustainable), and the power of prayer (especially when my manuscript almost disappeared into the abyss). I learned about His glory and honor, self-control, thankfulness, and stick-to-itiveness. Quitting was never an option. The Lord reminded me that persistence matters, that gratitude changes everything, and that friends, faith, and a sound support system are essential.

The Publishing Process

Ah, publishing—the part where a writer either gets an agent or slowly realizes that the industry now requires social media influence and more friends than you have. After six months of rejections and feedback that I wasn’t quite “popular enough,” I did what any stubborn writer would do—I self-published. Again.

This final process was chaotic, exhausting, but God nudged me forward, whispering that this book mattered. And when God nudges, you listen and obey—even if you’re delirious from lack of sleep.

Conclusion

So, here it is—Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God. It’s in the wild now, floating in Amazon’s Sea of millions of books. Will it become a bestseller? Who knows. But that’s never been the point. It’s a book of faith, a book of endurance, and, frankly, a book that put me through the ringer. And I believe it’s meant for someone, maybe even you. 

So, go ahead and grab a copy. Not just because I’d love for you to buy it,  but because I believe God has a purpose for everyone’s life, and it was written to help people live a godly life and “go the distance,” until God calls them home.

For ages 12 and above!

Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God, Paperback ISBN-13,  9798284335017

Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God, Hardcover ISBN-1,  9798284456651

It’s on Kindle too!

Feel free to share, forward, or comment as desired.

God bless you. Patti

Bible Verse: Ecclesiastes 11:5

To order, click here. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Coming Soon! Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God—A Wild Ride Through Writing “Unstoppable” by Patti Greene

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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.

To order, click here.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Writing a Book

Writing a book is not for the faint of heart. It is an emotionally draining, physically taxing, and spiritually stretching experience. If you ever find yourself thinking, “Hey, I should write a book,” stop. Breathe. Brace yourself. And grab some chocolate because you’re going to need it. 

 

Through this process, I’ve cried, moaned, and yelled at my computer. I possibly aged about 10 years in the span of a few years, but miraculously, I finished writing my eighth book! Do I feel accomplished? Sure. Do I feel like a semi-truck has run over me? Also, SURE!

 

God’s (Sometimes Hilarious) Guidance 

From the beginning, I wanted to keep God’s Word close to my heart and follow the leading of the Spirit as I plodded along. And plod I did. This book was initially meant for my kids’ eyes only—a heartfelt collection of wisdom they could cherish long after I’m gone. Somewhere between draft number one and edit number 117, it transformed into something bigger, meant for anyone looking to deepen their faith and go the distance with God. 

Throughout this journey, I had some hilarious conversations with God: 

– “Lord, don’t ever have me do anything like this again.”

– “What if I find a typo after publishing?” 

– “Wait… you want me to change the title AGAIN?” 

– “Lord, you want me to start each chapter with a dead guy’s quote?” 

 

To which God graciously replied (in the way only He can): 

– “Remember, it’s for My honor and glory.”

– “Don’t expect perfection—you’re human.”

– “Yes, you’re creative, so have fun matching titles and subtitles.”

– “Yup, because they will have less chance of a moral failure.”

 

So I pressed on, fueled by faith, prayer, and an alarming amount of caffeine.

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

FYI—Unstoppable is something deeply personal—not just a story, but a legacy. It was written with my tone and words, shaped by the people and places that mean so much to me. I started writing it before AI was even a thing, and while I consulted it a few times for organization and suggestions, I wanted every word to be mine. More than anything, I wanted my kids to hear my voice when they read it so that even when I’m gone, a part of me will always be with them.

 

Writing is a wild journey, but it’s always worth it when done for His glory. Thank you for your support, prayers, and patience. With that, I’m off to sip some tea and hopefully not write another book. 

 

The Publishing Process—Otherwise Known as The Dark Process

If writing a book wasn’t hard enough, publishing it was monstrous. I initially tried to get an agent, thinking, “This is the way!” Six months of rejections later, I realized that I didn’t have enough friends, I was not an influencer, and traditional publishing wasn’t in my future. 

 

So, I did what any stubborn, slightly sleep-deprived writer would do—self-publish. Again. 

 

This meant 100+ edits (yes, in the hundreds), wrangling with formatting, citations, page numbers, and all the other things that make a writer question their life choices. Somewhere in this madness, my dining room transformed into a literal war zone—papers everywhere, sticky notes plastered on every available surface, and a laptop that looked like it had just returned from battle. 

 

About To Pack Up!

I spent a lot of time at the manicurist’s shop for stress relief.  Newly painted nails made me feel better. Go figure! Maybe the pink, blue, or purple nails were an emotional boost for me, but whatever, it helped me.

 

But then came my biggest battle yet: the three-hole punch incident. A seemingly harmless office tool turned into a vengeful beast, sinking its metal teeth into my thumb in pure malice. For a brief, terrifying moment, I truly believed I had just given myself an unintentional body piercing. A nice, round hole right through my finger—a new, avant-garde look in literary injuries. I braced myself for the worst, mentally preparing to explain to my family why I needed stitches due to an attack from my own supplies. 

 

Fortunately, I escaped with my finger intact—but not my dignity. I now approach the three-hole punch with great caution, side-eyeing it like it might strike again at any moment.

Yes, I Pondered!

I understand how some authors churn out books like it’s a buffet line—one scoop after another, no sweat. Especially the famous ones. Pastors-turned-authors, for instance, barely lift a pen! They hand off a stack of sermons, mumble something about “a few chapter ideas,” and—voila!—a whole book appears like magic. Meanwhile, I’m over here squinting at style guides, wondering who decided that footnotes should be an extreme sport. And don’t even get me started on getting the little dots in the Table of Contents to behave and connect to the correct page number. But honestly? Figuring it out myself makes the finished product feel like a victory lap, not just another book on the shelf.

 

The Cover Saga—A Journey Through Technology and Tears

As if everything else wasn’t chaotic enough, then came “the book cover.” There were endless possibilities, new technology to learn, and a steep learning curve that I was utterly unprepared for. My husband (who deserves a medal) for enduring this process with me agreed that I am a slow and inefficient learner, technologically speaking. Heck, I can’t even figure out a TV remote.

 

And he’s right. Formatting? Confusing. Image resolutions like DPI? A foreign language. Then, there was the magic art of making a cover look professional without wanting to pay someone else to do it. But, as the Lord always does, He took me step by step, preparing me and leading me through each frustrating cover. 

 

Marketing and Advertising: The Thing I’d Rather Not Do

Marketing this book is not my favorite thing. In fact, I’d rather organize my sock drawer by color and season. But I believe in this book. It will reach the people who need it.  So, if you see me posting more about this book than usual, I am not trying to be an influencer. I am just trying to be obedient, and have folks learn more about the Bible, Prayer, Christian Living, Leadership, and how to handle Crises. 

 

Two More Things . . . 

First, for those who have prayed for me during this ministry, I want to say . . .

Second, if you ever want me to speak at your church, I may be able to. I cannot guarantee how polished my delivery will be (remember, I fought a three-hole punch and lost), but I promise honesty, laughter, and a deep love for God’s Word.

 

Upon the official release of this book, which will be very soon, I envision myself relaxing in a lawn chair on a beach, but it will most likely be sitting in a chair in Phoenix, watching the grandkids swim. Then, years later, I’ll pick up the book, read it as if someone else wrote it, and won’t care about any lingering typos. That’s the dream.

COMING SOON! Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God

So, what did I read while I was nearing the end of the book? A nice, simple fiction book about LOBOTOMIES! And it was so refreshing!

 

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Bible Verses: 

Commit your works to the LORD,  and your thoughts will be established. Proverbs 16:3 NKJV

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23-24 NKJV

Prayer:

Please help me understand the path You desire for my life. Please help me to listen, respond, prepare, and be prayerful as I wait for opportunities to serve You. Lord, thank You for clear instructions on how You desire to use me in the future, wherever and whenever that may be.   Amen.