I am With You Whenever You Go

Hello there! All of my new blogs are posted on my website 👇 below! Just give this link a click. Thanks for the love and support 

 https://angelicalynnlove.com/2023/07/02/i-am-with-you-wherever-you-go/ 

Here's to 30!

 Hey everyone! I'm going to turn 🛞 30 in a few days. I decided to reflect on my life some and how God has blessed me over the years. Click this link to check out my blog post on the new website :) 

http://angelicalynnlove.com/2023/03/29/heres-to-30/

Also be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on my upcoming book when a Christian Meets Chronic illlness. Love y'all ❤️

So Thankful

A lot of chaos has been going on in my life recently (well actually most of 2022). I could choose to dwell on the negative trials and tribulations that come with living in a sinful world, but I won’t because that would discount all of the good God has been doing in my life. As a believer I know that God is bigger than anything I or anyone else could face in this world, and that he is our hope. I know that he is working out everything for our good according to his promise in Jeremiah 29. I almost lost sight of my purpose and God’s goodness recently when the devil used a cruel person to attack me, but I am so grateful that God didn’t let that happen. When I began to question my worth and purpose on this earth, when I began to believe the lies told that my worth is tied to what career I have in this world, God caught me. When I began to spiral into a depressive episode, with awful self thoughts, he sent people my way to intercede and pray. When I started to feel desperate for ways to make more money because of a temporary situation, God reminded me that he will provide. And I know he will because he already has come through every single time I needed him this year from financially to emotionally as I helped my husband as he struggled with his own depression. Not only did he help me in my times of need, he blessed me with a lot of new friendships both in person and online, as well as countless small joys each day.


My day was going okay this past Monday, aside from having to stay home because of a migraine, until I received a phone call from my private student loan lender. I was currently trying to work out a revised payment plan for two months because of my husband having unexpected surgery that required two weeks of bed rest, as well as me finally getting back to full time work after a few sessions of migraine Botox shots. When we spoke, I assumed he would be understanding and compassionate, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. He was upset at the amount of money I make per hour for someone with a Master’s degree, and couldn’t fathom why I wasn’t putting in applications daily for a new job. When I explained how my job lets me take care of my sister, and allows me flexibility to work around my migraines and seizures, he said that I wasn’t trying hard enough. Fine I figured, he is entitled to his opinion and hasn’t walked a day in my shoes, so he would never understand. I was handling the phone call with a grain of salt until he told me that my college career and student loans was a waste of time because I was making a below average salary…mind you I make over $20 an hour which is good in a post covid era. He ended the call by assuring me that he would do all he could to help, but that I should consider what he said. As soon as I hung up I began bawling because it hurt so much to hear that I wasted my life and money. I have always believed college was a huge blessing because of what I learned, the opportunities I will always have, the friends I made, and most importantly, it is where I found my soulmate. I have always had huge aspirations of having a dream career, but developing chronic illness put that on hold for a while. In the meantime I have began writing my first book and looking into starting my own small business, but that guy had no idea because he just looked at the dollar amount I make. He didn’t care that I take care of my loved one with Autism, or that I am bed bound a lot of days. All that mattered was that I have a successful career, even if it meant working two full time jobs (his other suggestion).


I tried my hardest to believe Robbie, my husband, when he told me that guy was out of line, and that God had a plan, but I was shattered. I called my best friend K to vent and to hear what she had to say, and because K always looks out for me. K of course was very understanding, loving, and angry that someone hurt me so badly. She also gave me some good advice and helped stop the panic attack I was having. I am so thankful for both her and Robbie, as well as my other close friends. Later someone got shot in our condo complex, which is usually very safe. It was apparent that the enemy was at work because the devil comes to kill, steal, and destroy. Thankfully the person shot is okay, but the devil wanted him gone. The devil wanted to steal my joy and destroy the good plans God has for my future. But it didn’t work. God is bigger.


The next day when I was at work God spoke his truth to me. He told me that I belong to him and that I am one of his. He reminded me that no one can snatch me of our his hands, and that he has a bigger purpose for me than what the world calls “purpose”. How did I know that was God speaking? Because it was a strong yet gentle voice, and because God only ever tells us things that align with his Word; The Bible. What he told me can be found in John 10:28-29, and I haven’t read the book of John in a long time, so it wasn’t muscle memory that brought those words up. It was God! After hearing those words and thanking him, I felt a special peace that instantly calmed my soul and I began to remember who I am. I began to believe the people who messaged me the night before saying that they were praying over me and that I am more than a paycheck. I began to believe my friend that told me my story is just beginning and that she believes God will both use me and allow my degrees to be used. But most importantly, I began to remember that God is my provider and that he has something bigger for me than anything the world could offer. I began to get excited about my book I am writing to encourage others with chronic illnesses, and I continued planning for my small business. I also began to rest in his truth, and looked back on all the good he had done for me this past year alone.


I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 3 John 10:28-29


I recently got to talk with an actress I like named Annika Noelle. We talked about our dogs and cats, and it was really cool. I also follow her on Instagram, and saw that she was doing a daily gratitude post, which inspired me to blog about what I am thankful for. I am so thankful for having owned a lovely condo for over four years now. I am thankful for the wonderful friends I have made in the community, either at the pool or when walking my dogs. A few have become good friends of mine, which I know didn’t happen by “chance”. I am thankful for my beautiful dog "children" and a loving, supportive husband. I am thankful for my wonderful family and friends. I am thankful that I was able to take up gardening this year, which led to a beautiful little oasis in my backyard. I am thankful for all the beautiful warm and hot days, as well as the beautiful fall foliage and leaves. I am thankful for the pool I get to share with my fellow condo community, where I shared many fun laughs and chats this past summer. I am thankful that I have made great friends online, such as my bestie Angela, whom I met five years ago in a Christian blogging group, and my friends that I have made all because of a silly soap opera. I am thankful that when we hit a lot of financial hiccups this year, God made a way through. I am thankful that my husband has found a compassionate therapist that he loves. I am thankful God protected my dogs and I from a vicious loose dog two weeks ago. A woman and her husband saw us walking before we reached the dog and led us to their garage to drive us safely home. I now have another friend whom I plan to hangout with soon. I am thankful for God’s safety he provides over my loved ones and I. I am thankful that I got back every overdraft fee I had received this year, which was an asinine amount. I am thankful that God has gifted me with a love for people, and with the talent of writing. Contrary to what that man said, I am very thankful for both my college degrees. And last but most importantly, I am thankful that God is not done with me yet and that he will use me to further his kingdom. He wants me (and you) to seek first his kingdom, and the rest will be added to us. He will provide for us and give us the desires of our hearts. He will provide lasting friendships, love, precious gifts like children and/ or animals, jobs, satisfaction and fulfillment, and every other need we have.


But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

When I look at all God has done for me just this year alone, it really puts things into perspective. My life is not my own, and if I seek him in everything, he will guide my path. The same is true for anyone who calls upon the name of Jesus. God desires that each and everyone of us be saved. If you haven’t already, all you have to do is ask Jesus to forgive you for your sins and unbelief, and ask him to be your Lord and Savior. Once you pray AND believe in your heart that Jesus is your Lord, he will take care of the rest. Trust me when there is nothing like God’s way. I hope you all have a wonderful thanksgiving. Be sure to spend some time thinking about all the blessings you have, and don’t forget to give God thanks and all the glory. Love you all <3

A Lesson From My Dogs on the Fruits of the Spirit

Coco, Mae, Mikki and I in Tennessee 

 God is amazing; there is none like him. Everything that God has created points to him, showing his majestic power and glory. In Psalm 19, God reveals to us that the universe, sky, and heaven itself testify God’s existence, craftsmanship, and infinite glory. In fact, it isn’t just the sky and heavens that show us his glory, but all of creation. I have been blessed with several dogs over the years, and they have given me such joy and unfailing love. Not only have my dogs been faithful companions, with some have assisted with my medical conditions, they also share some of God’s character. Recently during a migraine, I laid in bed thinking about all the good traits that each of my dogs personality had, and it dawned on me that each of my dogs have demonstrated Fruits of the Holy Spirit. I understand that the Holy Spirit does not live in dogs like He does in us believers because dogs are not made in the image of God. However, it makes perfect sense that God would give his animals different aspects of his personality because he is God and he declared all of creation “good” like he is good. 

The heavens declare the glory of God;  the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words;  no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. Psalm 19:1-4 NIV

 In the book of Galatians, God shares that there are nine fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. When we exhibit these fruits, it is the Holy Spirit at work within us because we cannot be Holy on our own due to sin. We are always learning throughout life and the Christian walk to surrender ourselves to Jesus and let him work in us instead of us doing things on our own. Animals do not have a sinful nature and they don’t have the Holy Spirit living inside of them. However, they are created by God who is also The Holy Spirit and Jesus, and because they were created by a perfect and loving creator, animals have characteristics of God himself. I believe he made animals with similarities to his character because he is a good God, and to reveal his character to us. I also believe that they can teach us how God wants us to live our lives, since they reflect their creator. Each of my dogs are special with their own personalities and  ways they have been a blessing to me, and each have taught me many life lessons. I have had quite a few dogs now and each of them have one fruit in particular that embodies their personality. When I look at how each of them are so unique, each with their own personality, soul, and characteristics of God, I feel overjoyed with how good God is to bless me with such wonderful companions. I hope you find this a blessing too as you read on to see which of my dogs are like each fruit. 

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things. Galatians 5:22-23 CSB NIV

Milky Way aka Mikki

*~Joy~*

One of my heart dogs, Milky Way, is always overflowing with joy. When I thought I couldn’t love a dog as much as my first dog, and other heart dog, Luke, God proved me wrong. When I think of a perfect dog, Mikki is what comes to mind. Mikki is always content even if she doesn’t feel good, or if we can’t do much that day because I am sick with a migraine. Every morning when I wake up, Mikki gives me kisses and then dances as I get dressed and let them out. When she is playing fetch with me she is so happy. When she is alerting me to a migraine, or just sitting on her favorite pillow on the couch, she does it with joy. Her happiness is much deeper than just happiness because no matter the circumstance, she is content and knows that everything will be okay. A few years ago Mikki was sick a lot with bouts of pancreatitis, which is very excruciating. Despite being so sick, she still would manage to wag her tail and come over to me to kiss me. She loves to please me and she takes such great care of her other dog siblings. She loves being my service dog and she loves this life God has given her.

 Of all my dogs, Mikki is the one who always has joy. The funny thing is out of all of the dogs I’ve had, Mikki is the one who brings me the most joy. I love all of my dogs dearly, but there is something about her (and Luke too) that is extra special. We just have a special connection that is God given. I believe God blessed me with her because he knew I needed a special best friend, especially after losing Luke so young. I also believe she is a gift to give us joy because God loves to bless his children with good things. As Christians, we are to be joyful in every circumstance because God has blessed us with so many things, and we have hope that our future will only get better because of eternity. However, because life is hard, we often lose sight of our hope in Christ and we let our current seasons in life take our joy away. If we cling to Jesus and remember he is our provider and that he only has good for us, we begin to become filled with joy that withstands the test of time.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NIV

Mae Mae

*~Peace~*

Mabel aka Mae Mae loves to jump into our laps whenever we are stressed or sad, and as soon as she lays there, a strong feeling of peace overcomes us. Mae Mae is a very gentle dog that loves to be the peacemaker of the household, making sure that none of the other dogs are upset or causing any harm to each other. Mae Mae is content not being the leader of the pack, or even next in line. She doesn’t desire anymore than she already has and is truly at peace. Mae Mae doesn’t worry about what is going to happen tomorrow and she trusts that we are always going to take care of her and love her. In return, she wants us to remember that she loves us too and that more importantly, our heavenly father loves us and desires for us to have peace. God doesn’t want us to be at enmity with anyone, especially a christian brother or sister, nor does he want us to worry about life’s stressors and uncertainties. I believe he gave us Mae Mae as a special gift to show us his peace, and that her being a peaceful animal is her purpose in life.

I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, LORD, make me live in safety.  Psalm 4:8 CSB

Marina aka Mimi

*~Patience~*

My late dog Marina, lovingly called Mimi, was the most patient dog I’ve ever had. Mimi always let her sisters Mikki and Mae Mae have their way with her. She let them always have any toy and would play very gently with them. Mimi was also very patient when Maui wasn’t neutered yet and would constantly chase her around. She never got upset or snapped, she just would let him have his fun for a bit, before retreating to a cozy place on the couch. Mimi also had a secondary fruit of the spirit that she showed just as much as forbearance, and I will talk more about that later one. I miss my very sweet and patient girl. Out of all my dogs, she was one of the sweetest. I hate that I only had her a short few months, but I believe she was a gift to show us how patient God is with us, and I believe I will see her again in both heaven and the new earth. God desires for us to be patient with everyone we come in contact with, whether they are pleasant or not. He wants us to be patient with both our fellow brothers and sisters, as well as non-believers. Mimi was very good at showing us what patience should look like in our lives. 

A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 2 Timothy 2: 24-25 NLT

Becca

*~Self-Control~*

Self control is another fruit that most of my dogs have demonstrated at one point or another. Nevertheless, Becca (my first dog that unfortunately I only knew for one day) showed me just how God designed self control. I only had Becca in my possession for a few hours the day that I got her, yet she and I had such a strong bond and connection the moment I hugged her. She was a chihuahua feist mix and was about 20 pounds at 6 months, a little bit bigger than all of her younger dog siblings that have followed. I still remember like yesterday the ride to the vet to pick her up and finalize the adoption, the surreal feeling of seeing her face to face, having her run up to me, and finally having a precious dog to call my own. She had beautiful brown fur and such a sweet face, and she looked like she smiled when I hugged her on the way home. My former best friend dropped us off at my parents house once we got back into town, and I introduced her to my parents and the cats. The cats ran up to her, but she didn’t move; she just let them examine her patiently. After meeting my parents, my mom took us to my grandma’s house so that she could meet my grandparents and the rest of the family. Looking back now, I realize that it is a lot for a puppy to meet so many people the first day they come home, but despite that she enjoyed every minute of it.

 Becca showed immense self control on the leash as we walked past squirrels and cars when we walked around my grandma’s neighborhood. I was so surprised that a puppy could ignore distractions so well. Even inside of a few other homes we visited that day, she showed self control off the leash. Becca only wanted to be around me and she wasn’t concerned with getting into all the exciting sights and smells. She was even yelled at for getting near the trash when greeting someone, and instead of freaking out, she simply backed away and came back to my side. She really was an amazing dog and I am tearing up writing this because if you’ve read other blogs of mine, you know that day was the only day I would share with her because she was harmed by someone I trusted dearly for 11 years of my life, someone I thought was like family to me. Becca did not deserve her life to come to such a tragic ending, and the only thing that brings me comfort is knowing she is with Jesus now and that we will be united again. I’ll never understand why things had to happen the way they did, but what I do know is that she taught me that a dog is what I needed in my life because they have a special type of love, the closest type of love we can find to God the fathers love for us. She also showed me that self control doesn’t mean hating not being able to do certain things. Rather, self control means being content with what we are supposed to do and not caring about things that don’t concern us. Having self control means being satisfied and pleased with the boundaries God has given us. 

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. Titus 2:11-12 NIV

Coco is the chocolate one. She doesn't pose for many pics

*~Kindness~*

Almost every dog I’ve ever cared for has been kind to both my husband and I, as well as everyone else. However, when I think of someone extending kindness to each and every person they encounter, the way Christ would want us to, Coco is who comes to mind. Coconut aka Coco is the last dog we added to our pack back during the summer of the start of the pandemic. She is both the latest addition as well as the oldest dog of the pack as she is a retired breeding dog. Coco didn’t have the best start to her life; she was passed around from multiple breeders and bred back to back. On top of that, the first person who bred her debarked her, so her bark is very squeaky and small. As a result of her less than ideal life, Coco also has intense generalized doggy anxiety and OCD/ picca. Despite her anxiety and how she was treated by humans, Coco has a special kindness that radiates from her heart that she shows everyone she meets. Coco loves to give kisses to everyone she sees and she will gladly hop into their lap if they let her. When we travel, Coco says hi to everyone and she is fond of children just like her sister Mae Mae. This past summer while we were in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Coco gave a hug to a young girl who approached the stroller while we were eating outside of a restaurant. Usually, Coco only reserves hugs for her daddy and I, but she must have felt a special connection to the sweet young girl and didn’t want to let her go when her parents told her they had to keep walking. I was filled with joy watching her bond with that girl and I felt that God was using Coco right then to show that girl kindness and fill her with joy. 

All of my dogs are friendly to people (except Petra, who sometimes is standoffish at first), but none of them love people and even other dogs the way Coco does. The only people she doesn’t show kindness to are my parents' cats haha. The Lord desires for us to show kindness to everyone we encounter regardless of socioeconomic status, race, gender, personality, looks, etc. Jesus desires that none shall perish and that all would accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. One way to share the gospel and the love of Jesus is to treat others with kindness. We also are called to treat our brothers and sisters in Christ with love and kindness as well. Coco reminds us daily that we are to show kindness even when we have been wronged because everyone needs the love of Jesus. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 NIV Coco is a special gift that shows God's unfailing kindness toward us, and she even has one of the illnesses I struggle with, so we can relate to each other in a special way. 

Petra

*~Goodness~*

Once again, all of my dogs show goodness, but this one in particular goes to Petra. Petra is a chiweenie, the baby of our pack, that we rescued in summer 2019. Petra originally had pneumonia before I adopted her from running around the streets in California as a puppy. When I met her, she had been transported all the way to my home state, and was one of five dogs up for adoption that I could choose from. We spent time with each dog, but my heart was already set on Petra from the moment I saw her picture, and she confirmed she was the one by being the only dog to come up to me on their own, while gently licking my foot. Robbie was interested in a chihuahua puppy at first, but when I went to pick up the puppy he had been playing with, she attacked me, which was a huge no for us. Robbie then spent time with Petra and the rest is history. The rescue thought Petra was a two year old dog, but we quickly realized she was a young puppy as she was still growing quickly. Just a week after bringing her home I was crazy enough to bring her along to our first trip to Tennessee for our 3 year wedding anniversary and I was worried I would be in over my head, but she did phenomenal. She loved the cabin and hiking with us. She did have a little bit of separation anxiety at night, but she quickly calmed down since she had Maui to share her bed with. Petra was quite mischievous as a puppy, and still is to this day. She is very much still a puppy in that she loves to play bite and wrestle with you any chance she gets, but she no longer tries to constantly get into things. For a puppy, she was pretty easy just like Mikki. She knew where to potty right away and she only had one or two accidents. She also learned quickly the rules of the house.

 Petra is such a good gift from God because she knows how to  lift my spirits whenever I am having a bad day from my chronic illnesses, or am stressed about finances. She knows when to be a wild child, but she actually is also a natural alerter to my migraines and anxiety as well. I needed Petra desperately when I first began having migraines daily and felt depressed and stuck in life. Petra always shows God’s goodness to me everyday by being just what I need to make me smile and laugh. Besides being a fun companion, Petra is my loyal protector too. Once a year later I was almost attacked by a pit bull mix dragging their owner down the street. I was going to protect my dogs from it, but Petra lunged back at it and got in front of me. Thankfully, someone was able to tackle the dog and we were all safe. But, Petra earned a special place in my heart that day for knowing she would even give her life for me, just like Jesus gave his life for us. God is a good God and he chooses to show us his goodness everyday. The gift of Petra, is one of countless times God has shown how good he is to me.  

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 NIV

Luke Bryan as a puppy

Luke Bryan

*~Faithfulness~*

I rescued Luke Bryan, my first dog, when I was about to enter my senior year of college. Luke was your typical puppy in that he loved to chew on things like my underwear or laptop cord when I wasn’t looking, he loved playing, and going on adventures by the river and on campus. I knew from the moment I met him that he was going to be a special dog, but I didn’t realize how much I would grow to need him. Luke was my trick dog and he learned quickly to dance, walk on his hind legs, growl on command, bark on command, roll over, and many other things. He was a charming sweet dog that loved everyone, but I was his favorite person, followed by my dad and Robbie. While senior year was one of my favorite years of college because of my classes, my roommates, my then boyfriend now husband Robbie, my job, and the extracurriculars I was in, Luke is what made my year all the more special. Luke was there for me for the high moments such as me developing a close friendship with one of my roommates and excelling at my last Journalism classes. He was there when Robbie and I would spend time together watching movies or going on hikes. He and I walked together every morning to start my day off right, shared lunch together in between classes and work, and played each evening. Luke also was there for me when depression and anxiety first began to rear their ugly heads and I felt as if no one could understand me. Luke made sure I was comforted and felt safe when my ex began stalking me and threatening my safety. Luke was constantly by my side, and that was only the beginning of his faithfulness.

The following year I was starting grad school and planning a wedding. Everything was going great except my anxiety was so bad that I was having panic attacks multiple times a day. After speaking with a therapist, it was recommended that I see if Luke had the temperament to be my service dog, or if I needed to save money to get one through a program. I wasn’t sure that he had what it took because he started out as a shy, anxious puppy himself, but I was wrong. Luke faithfully learned everything I needed him to learn from alerting to anxious behaviors, to assisting mid panic attack. Luke loved learning how to be my service dog and he blessed me with the ability to get my life back. Within just a few months of training he could go anywhere with me and did great in public. He could walk off leash on a busy campus, stay put from 100 feet away, and lived to please me. Luke was faithful just like God is with us because no matter what Luke was there for me and his love and commitment to my well being never waivered. I was beyond heartbroken when I found out he was dying of kidney disease December 2017, just two weeks after my uncle passed. Until the moment he passed, Luke remained a faithful service dog and companion. At that point he had helped me through almost all of grad school, first year and a half of marriage, and helped welcome Mikki as next in command. I know for sure that Luke was sent to show me God’s faithfulness, and to show me how we are to be faithful to God and whatever mission he has for us in this life. I will forever miss Luke, but I know he and I will be reunited again one day. And I can’t even fathom losing Mikki one day because she is just as special to me.

The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are established for ever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness. Psalm 111 :7-8 NIV

Leia the 2nd

*~Gentleness~*

When I think of someone who models the way God wants us to be gentle, three dogs come to mind: Mikki, Mimi, and Leia (my first pomeranian). Mikki is one of the most gentle souls I have been blessed to know. Mikki is the leader of the dogs, yet despite being in that role she is so gentle with how she handles each of them. When one needs correcting, she very gently nips at them or growls, followed by giving them kisses to let them know that she still loves them. Mikki also grooms each of the dogs multiple times a day, and will comfort Coco if she is having an anxious day. When it comes to humans, Mikki is gentle with how she approaches people. She carefully climbs onto you if she wants affection and she would never growl or bite anyone. Even when she gets excited playing sometimes, her bites have no pressure to them. Mimi was also a very gentle good natured dog. Mimi too would never hurt anyone and she was very calm with how she approached people. She loved to cuddle and she loves to play too, but she made sure to always be careful not to accidentally get you with her teeth when giving you a toy or taking it from you. Mimi let her sisters run the show and she never fought back for anything. Leia did not play with toys, but she would gently ask to be placed in your lap. Leia was a very happy go lucky dog, but she was afraid of Luke and that is why we couldn’t keep her. The time I had her though was special and it was her sweet and gentle disposition that made me want another pomeranian. God brought Leia into my life because without her, I would have never gotten Mikki as she came from the same person. She was only meant to be in my life for a season, but she also led me to a friend who needed her more than I did, and gave me an opportunity to share the love of Jesus with this new friend.

God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. Matthew 5:5 NLT

Maui

* ~Love~ *

All of my dogs do a wonderful job of loving me unconditionally just like God himself does and I think this is the best thing about dogs; they truly show us what agape love looks like. Sometimes it can be hard to remember that God loves us when hardships come our way or when we sin and we feel God could never forgive us. But when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, every sin is wiped clean. Every sin past, present, and future, and God’s love never stops. Our dogs will always love us no matter what and I can’t think of a better species to demonstrate God’s unfailing love. Of Course all animals can love us, and I have been loved dearly by cats in my life too, but for me there is something extra special about a dog's love. 

My girls show their love to me each in their own way. Mikki is my sidekick and is always ready to alert me to my health conditions. She loves to be on my lap or in my arms constantly and she gives me kisses all throughout the day. Petra can be a bit more shy with her affection, but she shows it in the little kisses she sneaks in when we’re cuddling, her play bites, and the fact that she was willing to die for me when we were almost attacked by another dog a few years ago. She was willing to die for me without a second thought because of her love for me, just like Jesus died for our sins because of his love for us. By the way, I made sure Petra was protected despite her eagerness to protect me that time. Coco shows her love by giving me big hugs when she jumps into my lap and a never ending supply of kisses until I gently let her know I’ve had my fill for the time being haha. She also is another one of mine who loves to be held like a baby, and I’m beginning to think it is a Pomeranian thing because those two are my biggest cuddlers. Mae Mae shows love by coming over to lay in my lap when I watch TV, and to lick my face whenever I am sad. Daddy is her favorite, and she shows him love by making sure he laughs on his hardest days by jumping on his face and licking him. She also wags her entire body until he picks her up. 

Luke showed his love in how he never left my side, not even for a minute, and his loyalty to helping me with my health conditions. Leia the first showed her love to be my being obedient and submitting to me, despite her territorial aggression she had when anyone else came near my husband. She was really gentle with me, and loved to walk calmly on the leash with me and to be petted. Leia the second showed her love with kisses and always wanting to howl to make us laugh. Maui showed love by laying next to me when he wasn’t playing with the other dogs. Mimi showed love by her gentle disposition and how she loved to rub her body against me like a cat while giving kisses. Mimi was a very timid dog, but she let me know I was her world. Becca showed her love to me by instantly being attached to me, listening so well, and wanting to sit by my side. I really hate what happened to Becca, but I know she is with the Lord waiting to see me again one day. 

All of my dogs have shown me unconditional love every single day. They do anything to get me to smile and they make sure that I am never alone. They are affectionate no matter how I look, what mistakes I have made, or how much money I have. They are selfless and loyal. They are faithful and kind. They are good. Dogs really imitate God’s nature and his love for us. I really believe that is why God designed dogs. He wanted to show us his love in a way that man cannot. Dogs love deeper than humans and God has given us a lot of things to demonstrate his love for us, such as marriage. However, unlike marriage, which ends after we pass, I believe dogs are forever. I believe that they go to Heaven and then will live in eternity on the new earth with us because they play such a huge role in our lives, and because they are a good creation of God’s.  Also, God always planned for us to live with animals since before the fall of man. When everything is made perfect and new again, our dogs will be there by our side to experience life the way God intended forevermore. 

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 NIV

Nothing can ever separate us from His love

Hello everyone, I hope you all are having a wonderful Christmas time. It has been longer than usual since my last blog, and I am sorry for that. A lot has been going on since then, which I will fill you in on in a second. Plus, I have been struggling a little with being faithful to God, but I have learned just how patient and loving he is during this time. So this blog will talk about that and also how God blesses us in the big and small things. I also have an exciting goal for 2022 and Lord willing, it will be a great accomplishment and a way to bless others. I am going to be working on a devotional that is based around the chronic illness experiences that myself and many others go through. My hope is that my devotional will be able to let people know that they are not alone when they have periods of suffering, confusion, and uncertainty. I also want them to be able to find joy despite it, like I have been able to. Since I haven’t been able to use my Master’s degree in Org Communication like I wanted to, with covid and finding out I am immunocompromised, I have decided to put a traditional office job on hold. In the meantime, I will pursue my dream of becoming an author and will put both of my college degrees and talents there. I would love to have your love, encouragement, and support throughout my journey.


After getting Shingles at the end of April, and then seeing a rheumatologist in July because of a positive ANA result, we discovered that I have RNP protein in my blood, which does not exist in people with healthy immune systems. I was happy to finally have an answer to why I was having so much joint pain and swelling, as well as nerve pain. The nerve pain has been accredited to Fibromyalgia, and my rheumatologist believed that Sjogrens is the rheumatic condition that I have because I also have extremely dry mouth, dry eyes, dry throat, dry skin and no diabetes (thank God because a few years ago I was prediabetic, but that is no longer the case!) We began treatment in August on hydroxychloroquine and just like he said my symptoms would slowly get better over several months because it is a slow acting medication. It was really hard to even walk more than a few steps at a time this past summer. I remember being on my anniversary trip with my husband and the dogs and having to take breaks, not because of being out of shape or out of breath, but because my hip joints and lower back would hurt so bad and my back would spasm. I was sad that I may not be able to enjoy any of the activities I used to because even my favorite outdoor summer pastime, swimming, was hard to do. However, I knew God is sovereign and had a purpose, and I knew that getting answers meant one step closer to getting to a better place, so I patiently waited for results. Two months passed and not much improvement; however this past end of October I began being able to take 45 minute walks with the dogs without having to use essential oils, lidocaine creams, and everything else to be able to function. And a month later I decided to get into one of my favorite music albums and attempted to dance, and I was able to dance until I was out of breath and not from pain. It was a miracle! I hadn’t been able to twirl, leap, spin, shake my hips, or any of that for over a year. I was so overjoyed my eyes filled with tears and I had to scream it off the mountain tops to everyone I knew. God is faithful and I was able to do something I enjoyed again.

                                        

It is very much a touch and go thing still. Some days I have normal range of motion and good energy, while some days I am in so much pain I can barely move. But I am having more good days than bad. Currently my migraines are worse, which is an ongoing battle but I am trusting the most High God for guidance and help with those too. I have a new rheumatologist because my current one is moving to another state, but I really like my new one. She has ordered some specialty tests to see if it is possible I have Lupus. It is scary to think I might have that, but I am going to continue putting my faith in God, not matter what. He never stops loving us, no matter what we do, and when we are his children he works everyone out for our good. I have not been the best Christ follower recently and I will openly admit that because too many people think that Christianity is about being a perfect follower of Christ, or that it means we sin no more. Rather, Christianity is about accepting Jesus’ gift of salvation and acknowledging he is the son of God and that we are broken and need forgiveness. We then look to Jesus to guide us and live through us. We can’t be “good” on our own. And we often times stray despite having everything we could ever need in Christ because we still have our fleshly sinful desires.

 I haven’t been reading the Word of God much and not spending much time with him daily, and I ashamed to say that but I also want to be authentic. I have gotten distracted with other things and have put things above Him. But when I do that, I always feel an emptiness because nothing can fulfill us like Jesus can. I was afraid he was going to punish me for not being obedient like I should be, but instead Jesus has been patient and sent love my way. He has gently guided me back to him by lightly putting it on my heart to pray and to spend time with him. He has shown me that he still loves me just as much as he did when I was created, and that he is always eagerly awaiting for me to look to him. This is the same for unbelievers. Jesus patiently and gently waits for them to realize he is real and that they need him as their savior. Jesus isn’t angrily looking at us for every wrong move we make. He mourns when people choose to not accept him and he mourns when believers put other things before him. But he will always lead us back to him because nothing can ever take us out from his hand once we accept Jesus. We are promised eternal life in Heaven and the Holy Spirit in our hearts the moment we accept Christ. And then we are called to share God’s truth and love with the world so that people are saved from hell. God doesn’t just want us to accept him and then forget. He wants to bless us and give us fulfilling lives too, while we faithfully rely on him for all of our needs.

My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.I and the Father are one.” John 10:28-30 NIV 

Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”)  No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39 NIV

A relationship with Christ is a journey and we will never be perfect until we reach Heaven one day. We sometimes are fully relying on him, and sometimes we choose sin. But no matter what our eternity is secured and that is the biggest gift and hope on this entire earth. I really want everyone reading this to accept Jesus as their Lord and savior so that we can be in Heaven together and so that you can have the best life that Jesus has for you. I believe that everything that happens to us is not by chance, but by God’s perfect design. And I have some more amazing things to share with you that show how God has each aspect of our lives perfectly planned according to his will! Some of my biggest blessings have come in the most unexpected places and forms. For instance, some of them live in my home, while some of them live across the world! And without God I wouldn’t have them. 2021 has been a little hard, but I want to share with you the blessings God has given me this year to show his love.

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Romans 10:9-10 NIV

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV


My husband is one of the biggest blessings God has ever given me. He is patient, funny, and kind, and he is my biggest supporter when it comes to my health. He understands how some days I can’t work, and he takes me to each appointment since I cannot drive due to epilepsy. He has stayed by my side even though when I met him I was perfectly healthy. He believes in our vows, in sickness and in health, and I am forever grateful for that. My dogs each are blessings that God strategically placed in my life. Mikki has been my service dog and my dream/ heart dog. She literally knows me so well and has saved my life before when I had a sleep seizure and my breathing stopped. She is always eager to please and she can alert to migraines, low blood sugar (a migraine trigger), and she assists with panic attacks. She is a sweet dog that is very nurturing to her dog siblings as well. Her favorite place to be is in my arms. She keeps her eye on me to make sure I am okay and safe, much like God does. She watches over me, just like God watches over all of us. Coco was added to our family August 2020, and has struggled with dog anxiety and pica, until recently getting her special medication for it. Now she can enjoy life more and she too has as special place in my heart, just like all my dogs do. Coco likes to remind me to relax and she gives hugs, like literal human hugs where she wraps her arms around my torso and back. I am thankful I have her to cuddle with and watch TV with. Mae Mae is also a cuddle bug and she too can naturally alert when a migraine is about to happen. She keeps to herself more than the others, but she can sense the slightest change in my mood and will do anything to make me smile. Petra is my wildchild and forever a puppy. She reminds me that God wants us to have fun in this life too and to take time to just be silly. She also is very protective of me on walks, making sure to bark if anyone suddenly appears or approaches. She warns me of possible danger just like the Holy Spirit does.


I have longed for some more friends after 2020 because I found out some people weren’t who I thought they were. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a few besties, and they know who they are if they are reading this. But I wanted more friends and thought it would be cool to meet some people from different backgrounds and walks of life. Well, God provided that in the most surprising way; twitter. Twitter has been a double edged sword for me because I have also had a stalker on there and some bullies, but I wouldn’t change becoming active on twitter for anything in the world because of what I have been blessed with. Much like I met someone who is like a sister to me on a Christian blogging group four years ago, I have met a few ladies who are now some of my besties. We originally just talked about a soap opera, Bold and Beautiful and our favorite characters. But as time went on, we began to get to know each other and we have a ton in common. We are all going to plan to meet up sometime too. We have enjoyed endless nights of phone calls, texting, etc. One of them is multiracial like me and from Africa. Another one only lives a state away. And one lives all the way in Sweden! I am not sure how I am going to get Sweden or get her here, but we will find a way one of these days. Mimi is the newest close friend to me. We both are very loyal, bubbly gals who enjoy each others company. Seriously, she is very sweet, just like my other girls Alex and Tesha. I may have finally found the best friend I have been looking for, but perhaps in the form of three more besties haha. I know a year ago I was dying to have a #1 best friend because it seems all of my closest friends have one friend that is their favorite. Well maybe I am not meant to have one closest friend, but several. Or perhaps my#1 bestie and vice versa is one of these ladies. They have helped me through an insane 2021 and I have done my best to make them smile and laugh each day. Now I don’t know what I would do without them. I am so thankful God has blessed me with these wonderful women and I look forward to creating many memories with them in 2022. And for my OG besties, I look forward to many hangouts and for covid’s butt to be kicked.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 NIV

I hope that I am always able to encourage you all and that you see God’s love in me. If you aren’t already saved, I hope and pray you will ask Jesus into your heart soon. It is very simple to do and once you do you are forever in God’s family. God bless you all and may you have a blessed, safe Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year.

Hope in these weary days

                               

                                        My mom and I on Mother's day my freshman year of college. Just wanted to share :) 

Hello everyone. Sorry it’s been a minute; my health has been a bit crazy as I have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, and am navigating that. I’ve also been getting to know some new friends, which has been wonderful. A lot of current events have been weighing on my heart lately, as many of them point to the times we are living in, and are giving me a sense of urgency for sharing the love and truth of Jesus with you while I am still here to do so. Today I want to share and encourage you about how you can be certain that your future will be bright and full of God’s never ending love, joy, and blessings both on this earth and in the afterlife. I want to share how you can be certain that you are going to Heaven and that even now you can have God leading your steps, planning good for your life. There is only one way to Heaven and that is through accepting Christ Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and this gift is available to all of us. I want to share some of my testimony with you, as well as God’s Truths and let you know what is yet to come. I know many of you are well aware that our world is getting worse and worse. Natural disasters are ramping up, pestilence is taking over the world (Covid19), and violence is continually growing more and more prominent. This is very discouraging even for us believers because while we know this won’t last forever, we hate to see all of the suffering going on in this broken world. Christ followers after all are still human, and thus still feel the weight of this world on our shoulders, the sorrows, and we still even make mistakes because God is perfect, not us. What simply sets us apart is that we have decided to accept Jesus and want to show the world how that has changed our lives and how it can change yours too. More than anything, I want everyone I meet, especially those I have gotten to know well, to know the love of Jesus and to know they are going to Heaven one day just like I am.

In Matthew 24, Jesus speaks of what times will be like when his return is near. As each day goes by, especially since 2020, I find myself seeing these words become more and more of our reality.

And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. Matthew 24:4-8 ESV

Currently, we have a lot of people who claim to be God himself or have a special message that only God has told them. Think about certain religions, televangelists, and anyone who has some sort of fame. Some Hollywood stars and politicians claim themselves to be God. New age beliefs say that we all are “God” and that we have his powers. But that is false because to be God we would need to be perfect, omnipotent, and loving always. We did not create ourselves, and we are flawed, which means we are human beings. Some televangelists say that God has given them a special message that if you give them your money, God will make you wealthy. They don’t even teach anything out of the Bible, other than doctrine of good feelings and also manipulation. They use their power to get rich off of you, which is not Godly. That is greed and awful manipulation. A true Christ following pastor wants to reach the lost with God’s Truth, sharing how we all are broken and in need of a savior. A true pastor and leader is selfless and does not strive to be overly wealthy because they know God will provide for them and that being wealthy is a hedonistic desire. There is nothing wrong with being wealthy if the Lord has blessed one that way. But trust me, deceiving people is not blessed by God and those are the false prophets God mentions in his Word. They will not inherit the kingdom of God and will be punished for leading many astray. As time goes one, we see more and more of these false prophets appearing, and sadly many follow them blindly.

As for wars and rumors of wars, we have had so much war over the last 50 years or more. However, there are more threats of nuclear wars happening, and there is an increase of mentions of possible war. Scripture tells us that the end of times won’t be a peaceful time, and we aren’t in a peaceful time currently. We have terrorists of many forms and hateful groups even within our own country who have made threats of civil war. Earthquakes continue to increase in magnitude and occurrence, and we have been battling pestilence since right before 2020. We have many nations who are against each other and ready to war. Think about Afghanistan right now and how terror groups are sadly harming their own people. Or how tensions continue to rise between countries. As Matthew 24 notes, this is just the beginning and that is true because eventually God’s people will be taken out of this earth before the tribulation period. And in the Tribulation period there will be way worse things than what is going on now. I want all to be saved right now before the tribulation because it is a horrible thing to go through, and because we don’t know when our last breath will be. A few verses later in Matthew we learn about an increase in lawlessness and people becoming heartless, and how the gospel will continue to fill the entire earth, which I want to do out of love for all of you. I will post those verses of Matthew below, and then I want to share some of my specific testimony and how you can be certain of your future.

And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:11-14 ESV

                                              

                                                                        My service dog and best friend Mikki


I accepted Jesus as my Lord and savior when I was around 8 years old, after getting in trouble with some children at the playground and realizing just how much I messed up. It was at that moment that I knew I could not keep up with the perfectionist/ perfect behavior that I wanted to, and I knew God was real after being taught about Him from my parents. I heard God tell me that He loved me and He would forgive me, and that is when I said yes to Jesus being my Lord. At the time I felt so shameful for the things I had said to the other kids when we had a fight, and I thought that I was unlovable. Yet, God drew near to me and let me know he was there and wanted me to know him and experience his love. It was an incredible experience that I want everyone else to experience because throughout my life I have continued to hear God lavish his love upon me. He loves you all too. When I was a little younger I would sing songs about Jesus and talk about how much I loved Him, but it was when I was a little older that I realized I needed him. We can accept Christ at any age, and everyone’s story is different. Just because I wasn’t someone who was living a very sinful life before being saved, doesn’t mean my story is any less valid and vice versa. Also contrary to what many non believers think, becoming a Christ follower does not mean that we QUIT sinning. Rather, we have the strength from Christ to say no to our temptations. But until we die and go to Heaven, we struggle with our sinful desires. What changes us is Christ living in us and us allowing him to do so. Christians are no better than a non believer, we simply have acknowledged that we are broken and we need Jesus to save us. We make the same mistakes as non believers and sometimes repeatedly commit a sin, but we don’t fear hell anymore because Jesus paid that price on the cross. Once saved, a believers calling is to share the gospel with whoever the Lord puts in their path because we love all people and wish for all to be saved, just like Jesus does. I’m going to be honest that I struggle a lot with living a Christ centered life. A lot of times I get off track, I fall into temptation, or I don’t spend enough time in God’s Word. However, I am grateful that as his child, I can ask for forgiveness and get back up again.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Romans 3:23-24 ESV

For God so loved the world,[a] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. John 3:16-17 ESV

Later on my first year of college was when I decided to pursue God more regularly and understand more of the relationship we have with Jesus once saved. When I was younger, I still didn’t grasp the importance of spending time one on one with God and in the Bible, and I was afraid to share the gospel with others over fear of what they would think of me. That all changed spring quarter of my freshman year of college. During spring break I was invited to go on a mission trip to Panama City Beach, Florida, to witness to other spring breakers. The first day on the beach I was really nervous, but I knew people needed to hear the truth and that mattered more than my temporary social anxiety. I was paired with another freshman girl and a sophomore named Tyler, and we prayed and then began walking up the shore. Tyler asked if we felt the Holy Spirit leading us to anyone, and while the other girl did not, I felt drawn to a young woman sitting by herself on the beach. Little did I know this was a divine appointment set up by God until we got to talking with her. She was very friendly and happy that we had stopped by to talk with her and she had knew about God, but didn’t have a relationship with Jesus. We all began telling her about ourselves and breaking the ice when I discussed my little sister having Autism, and then I found out she had a brother with Autism. As time went on God gave me the words to say and I could feel Him at work in her heart, and in ours. That was the start of a beautiful week and many more spring breaks of going to share the gospel. But it didn’t end there, for I still have a longing for the lost today and a pull towards those who need to know about the love of Jesus.

                                   

                                                       Three friends I made my first time on the mission trip in FL

Two years later, I met my now husband at the college library where we were both working. When I first met him I knew something was special about him, and I felt God letting me know it was okay to get to know him, for I was afraid of dating an emotionally abusive prior relationship. First Robbie and I would just talk about my computer science class and how he was majoring in that, and how he wanted to help me with that class because I was struggling (and I am usually a straight A student haha). We also talked about our favorite animals, music, and all the typical things you say when getting to know someone. Then the topic of Jesus came up, actually by him. He wanted to know what my beliefs were. So I shared that I was a Christian and that Jesus was my Lord and Savior. I then asked him what he believed and he said he really liked Jesus, but he didn’t have a religion. Many actually would have wanted to me walk away right then because he wasn’t a Christian. But I didn’t because I knew God was at work and Robbie was placed in my life right at the moment and for a reason. So we began going on dates and he would stay up with me until 3 am in the living room of the house I lived in helping me with my computer science projects. My other housemates were awestruck at how patient he was with me and how much time he dedicated to making sure I passed that class. All the while whenever I got the chance I would talk about the things that give me joy and how God has blessed me. One night he said that he noticed I had God’s favor and said that he wanted that for himself too. And I told him that he could if he accepted Jesus as his Savior. A few months later he decided to join me on the spring break mission trip and the first night he was there he prayed with a leader for Jesus to be his Savior. I never knew how beautiful my love story would be; that God would use me, a girl next door type, to help someone become a child of his.

                                          

                                        One of the first pictures of my husband and I back when we were dating


I am a firm believer that everyone we come across in this life is for a reason, especially those that we begin to develop friendships and/ or relationships with. I don’t even know why I wanted to take the computer science class in the first place, but I know it was part of God’s plan, just like him putting it on my heart to work at the library my junior year, which is where I met my soulmate and has been my favorite job I’ve ever had for many reasons. I have made friends in all places and even online and I know that is also part of God’s plan. One of my new good friends that I hope ends up being a friend for life recently said that she hopes what she does is enough for her to be saved. I want to share with you the amazing news that there is a way we can be certain that we are saved and our eternal destination is secured. Nothing we do can ever be enough to save us because we are sinners. Don’t lose hope though because Jesus came into this world and died on the cross so that he paid our debt and we can be free of our sinful nature by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

So how does one become saved? Do we need to get our act together? Do we need to know all the answers to many questions we have? Thankfully no. God accepts us just as we are and where we are at. There will always be questions both non believers and believers alike have, and some we can find the answer to, while others we won’t know until eternal paradise. But if you have a little faith, just enough to desire to know God and his son Jesus to be your Savior, then that is all you need. God draws near to us and opens our hearts so that we will accept him. He desires all to be saved and is actually working day and night to show you who He is and to develop a personal relationship with you. If you find yourself thinking about God, eternity, and having curiosity questions God is already at work. He is patiently waiting for you to make the decision to follow Jesus. I believe if you are reading this you are being drawn to God and he is eagerly awaiting the moment you accept Jesus, and I believe you will. All it takes is admitting that we are broken and in need of Jesus as our savior, and asking him to forgive us for our sins. If you want to be sure that you are going to Heaven and you are ready, just go ahead and tell Jesus that you believe He is Lord of all, that you want him to be your savior, and ask if he could forgive you of your sins. If you believe that in your heart when you pray it, congrats you are now a child of the most high king! Everything else will fall into place as Jesus will continue to work on your heart throughout the rest of your life. And the amazingness begins now! We don’t just have to look forward to Heaven; we can look forward to now. Because God has a perfect plan for your life and desires to lavish you with love now and guide each step of your life <3.

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 NIV

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 NIV

This life can be really hard at times, and until Jesus returns this world is broken because of the curse of sin. While it can be easy to lose heart at times, as believers we know we have a hope that is certain and that God keeps his promises. He promises that there will be a day when there are no more tears or sorrows, and we will live in perfection with Him. He also promises to never leave our side and that he has a good plan for our lives both now and eternal. God promises to provide our needs and desires, and I can say first hand he has done this in my life. More than once, I have almost faced death. In my other blogs I talk more in detail, but there has been more than one instance where I could have been crushed in a car accident. But each time God intervened. The one time if he wouldn’t have dispatched an angel I wouldn’t be here writing this right now. My mom and I, along with my late dog Luke were in the car on the way back from me graduating college with all of my belongings. Someone ran a light as we were turning and I knew for sure we were going to be crushed because they were speeding at least 70 miles per hour. I screamed out the name of Jesus and pushed my dog onto the floor, expecting to be crushed. Yet we were fine. We felt a huge force move our car over and the other car flew past, just barely missing us. People had already jumped out of their cars expecting to need to help us and were just as amazed as we were. God intervened because it wasn’t our time yet. A few years later I had a seizure in my sleep and I stopped breathing. My service dog Mikki woke my husband up and began nudging me so that I would start breathing again. She was on top of me making sure I was okay. When my husband and I were first married he had been laid off and it was really hard to make ends meet, so I was working two jobs. But God provided a way for us to have food in addition to me working, and he eventually gave Robbie a temporary job until he found a full time job in his field. When my first dog died, God already had another special dog lined up that would take care of my heart, and my health as my next service dog. Even in really hard times now financially, or health wise, or even the desire for companionship, God has made a way. I know he won’t stop now and I know he wants to do the same for you!

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[b] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:3-4 NIV

Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 ESV

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 NIV

Some may believe that because of science there isn’t a God. Nonetheless, science actually proves God’s existence. The magnitude of the universe, and even our galaxy the Milky Way (what my dog Mikki is named after), demonstrates that there is a creator. The precision of our bodies, how perfectly the earth is placed in the universe, where just a little bit further away or closer would result in it being inhabitable, also declare God’s glory. The love animals show us, the fact that we desire to gain more knowledge and love each other again point to God. We are made in God’s image. God is real and God loves you. He made you for a reason and he wants to get to know you. But he doesn’t force this; we have to make the decision for ourselves. All other religions put an emphasis on dogma or rituals being what saves us, and if you have been in one of those and feel as if they were empty, you'd be correct because Jesus is the only way and we can’t save ourselves on our own. I hope and pray this has encouraged you and that I have gained (or soon will gain) another sister/ and or brother in Christ. God bless you <3.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NIV