During these very challenging times we need to “Affirm One Another.” Romans 12:3 makes it plain by telling us to not think of ourselves more highly than we ought. Many do well with mourning with them that mourn but often struggle with rejoicing with them that rejoice. King Saul was doing ok with David taking in Goliath until the women got their praise on , singing Saul has slain his thousands, David his ten thousands. We will never be able to affirm others if we are jealous of others being blessed and used of God. So many times people try to discredit others in some way when they are receiving more praise than us. Aaron and Miriam got in trouble with God for this. During my singing days my accompanist would do such a tremendous job of making me look and sound good; never bringing attention to himself. He was always happy to help me be honored for my accomplishments. He would even cover my mistakes and not expose them. So, as we serve in ministry, on boards and task forces in our great Church of God, let’s concentrate on “Affirming One Another” and many of our struggles will be solved!!!

O how I’m liking what I’m reading in Isaiah 49:15,16 today. Just the thought that I’m engraved on the palm of God’s hands comforts me. I’ve always enjoyed purchasing something special and taking it to the mall to have it engraved with a name, special message and the date. When these metals are engraved it is meant to be permanent, but there can be some wearing off over time and there have been times they have been lost. I don’t believe on God’s palms we can ever be scraped off or misplaced. I have even written notes on the palms of my hands to remind me of something important, only to have them washed off . We will never be forgotten and we are in the palm of His hands for all eternity!!! Always visible!!! Glory be to GOD!!!

One day I was watching a Hallmark movie and an advert came on showing the cutest little African American girl standing in front of her school waiting to be picked up. Seemingly the person was late because her expression changed to sadness, but it wasn’t long before a big smile came over her face; her dad had come for her. Much to my surprise her dad was white and he knelt down and gave her the biggest hug. It was at this point that I became tearful at the sight of him taking her by the hand and walking her to the car. My thoughts were, this is how I want to be with ABBA FATHER (daddy); His little girl waiting for Him and when He shows up He wraps in those everlasting arms; takes me by my right hand. Here is where you need to read Is 41:10,13. In these verses Daddy promises to hold our right and left hands and we are covered on each side. She is so happy skipping along holding on tight. He now takes her to a cupcake and ice cream parlor and there were many smiles exchanged between them as they enjoyed the sweets. Our Heavenly Father wants us to taste the sweetness of His love, peace, joy, grace and mercy!!! “Lord, your little African American girl (Jacqui) wants to take You by the hand and skip into Your cupcake and ice cream parlor and enjoy the pleasures at Your right hand.”