-

W.I.N.G.S. – Words Worth Sharing

“Storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:19 NASB

Online books have their place in our busy world. However, there is much to be said for holding a “real” book in your hands. This is especially true if the book contains your personal stories.

When author Dorothy Davidson comes to my town, we make time for lunch and joyful chatter. But, thanks to God’s amazing grace, February 28 would turn into a celebration as well.

Author Virginia Grounds included my story in her latest book, WINGS – Hope for Widows in New Growth Seasons. I had been anxiously awaiting my print copy.

Leaving a few minutes early to meet Dorothy, I grabbed yesterday’s mail from my mailbox. How like my Father to prepare a time of celebration with friends as I quickly unwrapped my copy of WINGS.

I am quite honored to have a story in this timely work. Widowed herself, Virginia has assembled stories from women who have joined the Widow’s Club and not only survived but honored God through the grief and challenges that lie ahead. Each heart-tugging story is filled with emotion and with praise for Father’s unending love and guidance as life takes an unexpected turn.

Click here to check out Virginia’s website and learn more.

With no reservations, I highly recommend this book as a gift to those you love. Not only will it be helpful to widows, but it will also become a valuable resource to families, friends, and all who minister to widows.

A side note: I believe that God has buckets of blessings for each of you as well. Do you realize how much He loves you? Do you know that He would have sent Jesus for you alone?

I thank you for your faithful prayers. Thank you for your meaningful comments. Thank you for your treasured friendship.

Hugs,

Susie

The Time to Talk is Now

2005-6 Promise Point Baptist Church

“For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2 NKJV

This photo from twenty-five years ago appeared on my memory page today. Obviously, from the gals in red, it was a Valentine’s banquet. I’m guessing Brent McCune, decked out in his finest, honored us with special music. (His proud parents are in the back row.)

Feeling God’s clear leadership, seventeen of us had left Crossroads Baptist Church in Buffalo, MO, to begin a new ministry, and Promise Point Baptist Church was birthed.

Excitement grew as we canvassed the area sharing the Good News of Jesus while working diligently to prepare a vacant church building for Sunday services. God began blessing immediately as one of the young men we visited stood at his front door and asked Jesus into his heart.

The photo stirred happy memories for sure. I treasure each one and long to renew acquaintances and share stories. However, within the photo is another life truth that cannot be overlooked. Only five of the nine in this photo are still living. My time for reminiscing with the other four has passed. (Mr. Bill Ware’s homegoing celebration was today. In his honor I post this.)

Precious friend, this has been a wake-up call for me. I don’t know when I will draw my last breath, nor do you. The time to talk is now.

#1 Do I know, really know, those I meet each day have asked Jesus into their heart?

#2 Do I have my family relationships in order? Are there fences to mend? Stories that need to be told?

#3 Are there people I need to make a point to go see now, and not put off until a “better” day?

The list of questions is endless. I would ask you to pray… seriously pray. Ask God who you might need to talk with today.

As always, I’m praying for you and looking forward to hearing from you.

Hugs, Susie

Not My Plans for the New Year

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4 ESV

January 2025

Week One: My right hearing aid broke. Week Two: The roof leaked in the master bedroom and the front porch. Week Three: Pipes burst in the well-house as the water froze.

These were not my plans for the new year.

As I sit to chat with you, I am waiting for the plumber and the roofer. As for repairing the hearing aids, I’m not sure I want to hear what either of these guys have to say.

How has your year been so far?

“Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.” 1 Peter 5:7 TLB Click here for more verses on worry.

Despite all the difficulties of my first few weeks, I have a peace that only comes when you know, really know that you are God’s child. I have a Father in Heaven who sees my need and will answer in His time and in His way.

He has graciously enabled me to stay home. I have a cozy cottage with a fireplace, plenty of bottled water, and food. I even have popcorn and chocolates! It’s like camping out with all the perks. He has given me amazing opportunities to witness His love and grace to those I would not have met otherwise.

God has helped me, through His marvelous grace, to view each obstacle in daily life as a stepping stone. I can choose to step up and