Shiloh Rose Archive

Someone Is at The Door

July 14, 2026

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭ESV‬‬

These are the words of Jesus to all of us. Can you hear the door? How many times have you heard him at your door and was afraid to open it? Maybe you avoided answering, because you anticipated judgement or the feelings of shame to come? Whatever your reason I’m not pointing fingers, I too have looked through the peephole and decided to creep away from the door!

What is this door analogy and why is it in the Bible? The door represents our heart. If Jesus is an active participant in creation, why does he not have a key? I mean he created us right?

“Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.””
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Jesus was always there all throughout the story of creation, but his identity only revealed later. The prophesied Messiah is at your door!

I heard it like this morning in my devotional: Jesus is a true gentleman, he does not force himself upon us. If his relationship with us was forced it would make for some awkward interactions! Now don’t think that he passively pursues us, because he definitely shows his desire for our heart. He keeps on knocking at that door. It’s a steady, patient and persistent knock.

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK! ✊🏼

Now for a minute imagine you are totally caught off guard by the knocking. You hear it and you sort of start to panic. Should I answer it? I’m not really dressed right, I’m too busy, I should have cleaned up first, etc. What has been the reason you avoided answering the door? I can tell you mine, because I didn’t want to surrender what I was desperately clinging to. To follow Jesus truthfully means we die to self! Yep I said it, you MUST DIE!

How can this loving guy, expect me to die? Why would he want that from me? Who will take my place when I die? The answer HE WILL. Jesus will come to live inside and through you. This will result in a brand new life, that looks very different from your current one. It means you willingly lay aside burdens, regret, bitterness, unforgiveness, excuses, and take on a new identity.

You may ask why do I need to die and change anyway? What’s wrong with me now? Our famous line: “I am a good person.” We are all “good persons” until we are not! The right situation can bring ugliness out of all of us! There are things that we agree with and Jesus says, to rethink that! For example, if someone killed somebody you love then immediately have an enemy and you want revenge or you hate them. Hey, I get it and sometimes it’s offenses much less than murder that makes us feel those same emotions!

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK! ✊🏼

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Oh BOY! Jesus I think the door may stay shut! You don’t know what they did to me! Did you see how they treated me? After all I’ve done for them? Nope! I can’t answer right now, I have to handle this on my own! How many times have we tried to get even? We cast our disapproval like we made the laws! Again I am not judging, because I still struggle to understand the ways of Jesus. He asks so much of us mere mortals. However that’s the key! When we accept Jesus and die to our old nature we become immortal!

Therefore if we are immortal, this life is but a short while compared to eternity! We can suffer through it, in order to receive a crown in glory.

“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭ESV‬‬

The beauty of all that Jesus asks of us is that we gain so much more! We die to our old nature and sinful ways and take up his ways. We partake in suffering to prove to the darkness that it has no claim over us! We are made new the shame, guilt, and fear has no power over us! As a result of our new life, and then we go share what we have been given. We invite others to the table. Jesus says that if we open the door, he will come in and share a meal with us. Why would he say that? Your kitchen table is sacred. It’s shared many victories and losses. At that table you have loved your family and friends deeply. You have shared delicious meals and stories.

The image of Jesus saying he is coming over for dinner should be less daunting. However we still get nervous when we think of it. What will I wear? What will we have for this dinner? Jesus desires a close relationship with you and a seat at your table. He wants to be just like the members of your family, a welcomed guest into your day to day life. All he asks of that you allow him to come in. You don’t need the good tablecloth, or the new dishes. All you need is a willing heart and open mind.

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK ✊🏼

Friend, go get the door. You won’t regret it! He will ask you for more than you think you can handle, but will be there every step of the way. His Holy Spirit and the Holy Word will change your life. It’s time to eat, invite others to the feast. If you are like me I’m tired of eating the same old garbage, I want something new!

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭34‬:‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

All rights reserved. ShilohRose77©️
The Power Of Truth

July 12, 2026
“Above all, don’t lie to yourself. The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to a point that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect he ceases to love.”
― Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

In our world today, we see a great deception that says that evil is good. We see it at every turn, mothers send their children to have fun with friends and they never return home! The very perpetrators make excuses and avoid accountability for their own sakes, while a person is dead! I know many of you have heard about the Nolan Wells case. I did not write this blog to focus on this particular matter, but it makes a point. We have learned as a society to avoid the truth.

“Doom to you who call evil good and good evil, Who put darkness in place of light and light in place of darkness, Who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭5‬:‭20‬ ‭MSG‬‬

LIES WE TELL OURSELVES:
1. “It’s not my problem.“
2. “I don’t have to eat healthy or workout, I can just get surgery or take weight loss drugs.“
3. “ I don’t need anyone.“
4. “I can live in sin and call Jesus my Lord.“
5. “If I had more money I would be happier.”
6. “I will rest when I am dead.”
7. “Only God can judge me.”
8. “I love everyone.”
9. “I don’t need to learn anything new.”
10. “You are only as young as you feel.”
THE TRUTH WE NEED TO TELL OURSELVES:
1. It may not be my problem, but I can see what I can do to be of assistance.
2. I can tackle my poor eating habits and workout regularly to avoid harmful effects of medications and surgeries. (I realize there are certain cases that are extreme)
3. In fact you do need people, you were created for connection. When God made Adam he realized that it wasn’t good for Adam to be alone. God himself is not alone!
4. When we choose Jesus we must learn to denounce sin and turn from them to pursue righteousness.
5. Money has ability to bring temporary joy, but our happiness cannot be dependent upon it. Money can be an idol.
6. Rest is a necessity for reflection, growth and health. we must incorporate rest in our hustle.
7. God may be the only supreme judge, but we are called to correct one another in love.
8. We find ourselves believing this and yet our actions speak very differently. Love is a powerful word and should be taken more seriously.
9. We should always be ready to learn new things and be open to change. It keeps us full of faith and vision for the future.
10. Youth fades, no matter what we do to try and stop it. We must not fear it so much. We must expect to feel it sometimes and that’s a blessing to have lived a long life!
I wrote all these to keep myself accountable and to inspire you as well. Sometimes we all just need a quick reminder. The world has a lot of deception and we need to focus on reality. I know how easy it can be to fade into the background and never challenge what the world calls normal. We must stop inadvertently agreeing to the evils of this world! This list is pretty simple, but what is going on around us will take great courage. It is a matter of speaking up and showing up!

The truth brings liberty and freedom. The more we hide the more bound we become. I am on a mission to live free. I want to live a new life. I want to die to my old ways and evolve. The greatest thing about a new day, is that it’s a new opportunity to become better than you were yesterday! It’s never too late to take a different approach, adopt a new mindset. We all have been the problem in one time or two. Let’s move past the fact that we are fallible and start embracing the truth that we can still change.

“In a time of universal deceit — telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” — George Orwell

Happy Reading & God Bless! All rights reserved! ShilohRose77©️
I Don’t Walk Like I Used To

July 2, 2026

Photo by Tanguy Sauvin on Pexels.com

The weeks seem to be flying by, and I find myself checking the date TWICE! The journey to becoming the woman I want to be is definitely on the road less traveled! I prayed and prayed for direction then through surrender to God’s will, I knew what I had to do. It has been six weeks since I knew God confirmed that he wanted me to move back to my home state. At first, I was in a way relieved because I had not been back home since Christmas and that’s been the longest stretch away in my life! On the other hand, I had found community, friends, and was getting used to it there in Ohio. However, once God gives instructions, he has a way of making you uncomfortable until you obey the instructions. The week before I officially made up my mind that I was moving back I was so emotional, and homesick.

The longing for home so heavy on my heart that I knew part of me had already left. I like to think it was the future me. The woman I am becoming, beckoning me to come and join her on the other side of the unknown. I did not expect the fear that came, but it hit me like a ton of bricks! What am I going home to? My house is empty, my whole life packed into my van and I am completely trusting God! The weight of a heavy marriage and heartbreak still raw in my chest. I know I deserve better, and yet there is still a deep-set hope. I know it’s probably foolish but that is what makes it hard to be a follower of Christ. We are full of hope, forgiveness and mercy. It can be quite exhausting! In anger, I still want it all to be over and yet my compassionate heart hopes that he will choose to heal and be a better man.

Now don’t get me wrong, I am not making some feeble excuses for his behavior at all! One thing this healing journey has taught me is there is a definite need for boundaries to protect oneself. We can be forgiving, compassionate, and kind but we must guard our hearts. I have learned that I can create firm boundaries and show up for myself. I know what I deserve, and I will continue to stay rooted in Jesus and allow him to lead. I can pray for those who have hurt me and wish them the best. The Bible makes it clear that we have to learn to discern the motives and intentions of the people we interact with.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life (Proverbs 4:23 ESV).

1 John 4:1 instructs believers: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

The enemy of our souls loves when we walk out of God’s plan and purpose for our lives. That is the place that he can get us back in bondage. The Spirit of God bring us freedom. I am proud to say that I am growing so much! I have consistently been in the word of God and prayer for 130 days! I have never been so rooted in the word of God, and I definitely can feel its impact. I have learned to tell God about my plans for each day. I am learning to truly walk with him and what that entails. I continually ask God to lead me, protect me and show me the way. I am excited about my future even though I am afraid at the same time! It’s amazing what God can do with a surrendered heart and life!

However, I must admit that I know there is much work to be done in me still. I keep hearing a phrase in my heart, “Tear it down and rebuild it better.” That is exactly what I am helping the Lord to do. I have to face myself each day and ask myself hard questions. Is this aligned with who I am becoming? Does this honor God? Friends it is a lot of trial and error for sure! I still find myself thinking in old patterns and wanting to handle things in the same old ways. I have to go before God many times with tears in my eyes and ask for his help. My prayer is that he will show himself as my father in a deeper way.

The move back home was stressful as any moving experience. It felt very uncomfortable and I am still struggling with the shock of being back. I left one way and came back another way! I am not the same woman that I was at Christmas. I have been through intense grief, healing and restoration all at once! The work is not done but it has progressed. I notice I do not cry as much as I did before, and I am learning to lean into the fear. I have had to realize that fear is not the absence of faith, but it can hinder our faith. There are some fears that are irrational and for me, some are downright stubborn procrastination!

I frustratedly have asked God why he sent me back home? I thought foolishly that it would be easier, but I realized that its indeed another test! My favorite tv pastor, Charles Stanley, always said, “Obey God and leave the consequences up to him.” I have always been in the driver’s seat thinking that I was following, but most of the time I was still clinging to my own way. I am striving like never before to trust the process! I truly desire to see what obedience will lead to if I truly walk the unknown path. I have been praying a lot for external circumstances to change and yet God is saying, you have all you need internally. I can tell you I did not want to hear this! Maturing in Christ has great rewards but it really is an act of faith!

Can I be honest? I totally have been seeking high and low for a miracle. However, God gently has nudged me to understand that the miracle has already been performed on that old rugged cross! On Sunday, the pastor preached about “picking up our sick bed and walk!” This sermon based on a Bible story of a man that was paralyzed for thirty-eight years. He openly complained that he wanted healing yet had no help. He was confined to a bed and had to be carried to the place of healing waters but was unable to actually get in the water. Jesus simply told the man: ⁸Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” ⁹And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked. (John 5:8-9 ESV). I knew God had yet again told me what to do! Get up, keep going, do not get stuck, don’t quit.

I believe fully in miracles but in this season, I had to learn to lean into what is already inside. To take hold of the freedom that has already been given to me! The mission now is to go and help someone else get up! In prayer one day the Holy Spirit said to me in my heart, “The water is for forgiveness, but our hands are for mission.” I knew like the man in the story, it was a call to action. It was encouragement that my sins have been forgiven, now GO! To live like I have been set free! It’s funny how old mindsets and patterns can keep us chained. Lord, I love you, because you are so patient with me! He desires for all of us to take hold of what has already been done in Jesus’s shed blood. He paid for you sins past, present and future!

Can I encourage you? It’s really that simple, but we have a true enemy who constantly berates us with lies that we have messed up too much, it’s too late, or we are unworthy. He is the father of LIES! Tell him where to GO! If he can make you think less of yourself and others, he will always win against us! That’s why it is so important to stay in God’s word and stay close to the brotherhood of believers! I am not preaching at you; I am just telling you what I have learned on the journey. I am still learning and growing. While I was worrying he was cool, calm and collected! He wasn’t bothered by my lack of understanding.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

That is exactly why we are to trust the unseen God, into the unknown because he knows what he is doing! There is a timing for everything. The fear pushed me into a new mindset, the failures gave me purpose, and the pain forged a new woman. If God is leading you into the wilderness, the fire, or the darkness allow him! He will use every inch of it to create something beautiful in you! I don’t walk like I used to; I walk with a deeper sense of direction that comes beyond me! I have a journey ahead and I at times my steps may be shaky. I choose to pick up my sick bed and walk! In the Bible story he told the man to take it with him! He no longer needed it, but it was a testament to what he had overcome through God! It was a reminder that God still heals and does miracles! Friends whatever you are carrying, you don’t have to carry it alone, but you must do your part!

Photo by Sergio Fdez on Pexels.com

Happy Reading & God bless! All rights reserved.

ShilohRose77©
Guided Footsteps

June 16, 2026

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way;”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬ ‭ESV‬‬

What is the guiding force in your life?

How do you know if you are on the right road to your desired outcome?

Many of us right now have a calendar full of meetings, family gatherings, trips, and a full To-Do-List.

Have you scheduled time with God? Is he a priority in your week?

I can be the first to raise my hand and say that many times I was far too busy to sit with God! I would rush through my days and spent very little time in solitude or quiet reflection. Until now when the bottom fell out! I had to learn to not rush my time with God. I have always been a person of prayer, but my posture wasn’t in the right place. I had to learn that when I surrender my plans to God’s they ALWAYS turn out far better! We all make many plans and some times they go well and sometimes they don’t.

The reason that so often our plans do not work out is because we may have the wrong timing, priorities, or insight. We have limited vision, we cannot often see what is awaiting around the corner so to speak. We make decisions and hope for the best, while God sees from beginning to end. If you knew all the answers you would not need God. He desires that we entrust our plans to him. It builds relationship and intimacy, each time we lean into his promptings.

It takes humility to ask God for help and guidance. We are often always in a hurry and rush ahead and then get disappointed. I have done this more times than I would like to think about! As I get older, I see in hindsight all the ways I moved too quickly. However, do not be discouraged God is a Good Shepherd, he knows we will get off course and wander. He leads us back gently and sometimes forcefully. The Bible is clear about the course correct that God will put us on.

“If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.””
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭6‬ ‭ESV‬‬
If you are a parent then you can see God’s heart in these verses. We discipline our children, not to hurt them, but to lead them to what is best. Now imagine if you knew how very detail of your child’s life would pan out! Of course you would try to intervene and help them get back on the right path! You could spot the heartache coming from a mile away! Like us God the Father wants to shield us from the pain of sinful consequences. Many times as parents we know all too well from our own experiences where our children’s choices will lead.

Do you remember your child’s first day of school? How excited they were and all nerves. Then you too were feeling emotional as you walked them into the building, not wanting to leave your most treasured possession, in the hands of strangers. You packed their bags, got them dressed, gave them warm affectionate hugs and kisses and sent them off. I can imagine God is the same over us, a doting Father preparing us for our first day. We have no idea the destiny that awaits but HE does!

I implore you to turn your heart to him, repent of sins, and walk in his ways. It will be a choice that despite hardships, will far exceed your expectations! None of us are exempt from pain, disappointments, or suffering but that is what makes the journey worthwhile. If you don’t have children, think about your own parents and how they felt about all of your firsts in life. God wants a close relationship with you. He is not a distant being in the sky, he is a loving Father.

The other night I dreamed of a Father’s love. In my life I haven’t always had a close relationship with my own Daddy. It often made me afraid to trust God’s lead. If that is something you may have, I ask that you give it him a chance. In the dream I was cautious, guarded, and afraid. I felt the desire for closeness but I knew it meant I had to come in closer. I knew it meant I had to let the walls come down. In the dream this Father didn’t look like my own. This man was tall, thin, very intelligent, handsome, and kind, gentle, and one distinct feature: He was deaf. I thought this was so unusual.

It was as if he revealed it to me. It was like my distance had made our relationship one sided. I remember feeling I wanted his love. I laid down next to him and cuddled up to him and felt a great sense of love and comfort. He showed me his high tech hearing aids and I was surprised. Friends, I told you all this to say: Maybe you haven’t gotten to know God because you fear some unknown part of him. I can admit that for so long I did. The greatest love we can ever know and so often we fear him because of what we do not understand about him.

Maybe he was deaf in my dream because I felt like my many prayers were unheard? Or perhaps he just doesn’t communicate the way that I expect and therefore I miss him all together!

As you think about your next decisions on your journey, I urge you to sit before God with your plans in hand. Pray over them, ask for his guidance.

There is none like YOU Lord! (My photo)

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

Follow HIS lead. (My Photo)

Let God tear down and build you up better.

Happy Reading & God Bless! All rights reserved. ShilohRose77©️
Destined to Be

May 28, 2026

“Every man has his own destiny: the only imperative is to follow it, accept it, no matter where it leads him.” -Henry Miller

The road to new life.

Do you believe in destiny?

I used to struggle with this concept because I believe in God, but I know he gives us freewill. Do you believe that we are led to do certain things at certain times, for a higher purpose? We choose our day to day and yet there are divine appointments for all of us. To be at the right place at the right time. Lately when I am feeling down, I turn on this old show from the 1990s called “It’s A Miracle.” This show is full of stories about all kinds of different miracles.

This show has been very encouraging to keep faith in all circumstances. In many of the stories, people describe an overwhelming feeling to go to a certain place. One man shared that he couldn’t sleep for weeks and he kept being led to this pier close to his home. He would go day after day and couldn’t understand what was compelling him to go there. Then one day he saw a man fishing on the pier and he felt an urge to talk to the stranger. The two men struck up a conversation and became friends quickly. They agreed to meet and go fishing and he learned during their talks, that the guy he met had kidney failure.

The man that felt led to the pier due to a strange restlessness said that the feeling left him soon after he met his new friend. This friend was joyous despite health issues and need for dialysis each week. He was in need of a kidney very soon. The doctors had yet to find anyone that would be a good match. Then a thought came to the guy and he went home and told his wife that he felt he should do the testing to see if he could be a possible match for the donor surgery. His wife became upset and thought it was a crazy thing to do for a complete stranger!

The next day after their disagreement, she was behind a van that had a special bumper sticker it read: “Kidney Donors Save Lives.” That was all she needed to see and she immediately told her husband to go through with the testing. It turned out that he was indeed a perfect match for his new friend even though he was white and his friend was black! The surgery went great and the two men were bonded forever for one simple act of obedience.

“An individual’s destiny is an overarching thing, a shape or a pattern that runs through their whole life, and it can only be seen in retrospect.” -Helen Macdonald

Today in prayer, I asked God for my purpose. Then in quiet reflection I heard an odd phrase, randomly. My mind was bouncing around, but that was calm and quiet. I quickly wrote it down and pondered its meaning. It felt like a call to action. It was a comforting phrase, but it was also a divine mission. I admit I wasn’t expecting that at all. Then I felt led to a song, from a particular artist named CeCe Winans. The lyrics just came to mind and I began to sing.

Then the song led me to a memory when I actually met her at my old church many years ago. I grabbed my phone and found the photo and listened to the video of a song she sang that day, so long ago. This song was a different but so very beautiful. I cannot fathom everything but I think I know what I have to do.

Have you ever felt a calling or a destiny moment? Have you ever been compelled to go to a certain place?

Lord, I hear you please allow me to be at the right place.

Where the Lord leads, he provides! We are never walking alone, but it may be lonely on the path to destiny. Not everyone understands your calling or dreams. Do it afraid, accept the challenge friends!

You never know who you may meet in the process or whose life you could save! God has his angels, but we too can be a divine blessing to others!
Just My Ten Cents

May 19, 2026

Was it a calling card from heaven or mere coincidence?

Because sometimes we all need a sign.

Yesterday was a good day, but yet again there was a tense conversation with my husband. My heart heavy with heart break and unfulfilled dreams.

However each day I will myself to find joy in something! I defiantly listed things I was grateful for, as I walked frustratedly through the rose garden. I drove there on a whim because I was full of anger, I so badly want this season over with! And yet, God is growing me up! He’s teaching me to cool my jets, slow down, and think clearly.

Absolutely gorgeous

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬

As I stormed to my car, I didn’t want to pray. I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me over and over. I relented and prayed. I vented a bit to God, and then I heard a small voice say in my heart: “Go to the rose garden.” I definitely wasn’t planning on going there. I decided to obey because I knew nature would help. Nature has been my refuge in this hard place. No one can understand in depth the way I feel but God alone.

The rose garden was busy and that irritated me more. I don’t have a poker face so I’m sure I looked ticked off. I tried my best to avoid people on the paths through the hundreds of roses. When I am hurting or angry I isolate. It’s a coping mechanism from childhood trauma. I learned very early that I had to protect and take care of numero uno!

Again God is breaking that habit too. I’m talking to people more and more. I’m being vulnerable a lot and it’s exhausting. I am proud of who I am becoming though. I feel the changes throughout my entire being. My mind being renewed daily. In fact YOU CAN teach an old dog new tricks! It won’t be easy though!

After I rambled off my mental list of things I’m grateful for I felt calmer. The more I moved my legs I felt better. I intentionally walked slower than usual. Demanding that my mind and body come into submission. Anger has a way of fueling your physical body. I want so badly to be justified in my plight! My mind screams, “I have been wronged!” Meanwhile my heart burns with intensity of the emotion.

When the storm within began to pass, I felt better. I had rode the waves and not drowned! Lately I have longed to see an old friend. I’m not even sure why exactly, but I told myself it’s because she knew me in my purest form. She bought me my typewriter and she made me feel safe. I was ten years old when I met Diane. I didn’t even know her last name, but after some Googling I found her.

Unfortunately I already knew she had passed away. I never got to say goodbye. She never got to see me become a woman. She was my granny’s neighbor, but I felt a bit guilty. So lately I’ve asked God to let me see her or something. I want a sign from only her! I don’t even know why, I really don’t believe in that. This season has made me question a lot of things and challenged me a lot.

As I walked around I said this beautiful garden would be a place she would have loved. I whispered my prayers for Diane in my heart. This prayer feels too foolish to say aloud. It was pretty hot yesterday so after walking a while, I found a bench. A family walks up to me and asks if I can take their picture. I do it politely and I decide to get away from them quickly. The entire time I’m willing myself not to cry.

I think to myself I cannot cry here, it’s a public place. However my eyes filled many times throughout the visit. Thank God for sunglasses! I finally found a bench in the back area that’s under some shade trees. I sit down relieved and just look at the beauty around me. The smell of roses all around. Many people associate angels with roses. Roses are said to have high vibrations.

The garden did not disappoint!

I sit watching birds and the trees sway in the warm breeze. Then as I quickly brushed away tears, I happen to glimpse something shiny under the bench. I realized it’s a dime, sitting heads up. It wasn’t the sign I wanted by far. However when I picked it up and examined it, the year on the coin shocked me! This coin was shiny, clean and looked new and yet the year was 1998! How would a coin from twenty-seven years ago look brand new?

I met Diane in 1998! That was the summer I spent many afternoons with her. I was so happy when I found her picture! I read her obituary and learned new things about my sweet friend. The photo was a younger one of her, but undeniably it was her! I saved it to my phone. I don’t know if I looked at her photo before I found the dime or after.

I want someone to give me guidance and immediate answers to what’s my next move. Im in a limbo of sorts, a ballroom dance of the unknown and I’m unskilled in this dance! My heart and mind torn with love and war! No one wins either way. Which way to turn? In the depth of my being, I know all this is not unbeknownst to God. Why should I worry, when I serve a God who is beyond time and space? Where are you Diane?

It’s all so foolish and I apologized to God for it. He knows my feelings, I can hide them from many but not him. I know I’m divinely protected, love immeasurably but my heart still hurts. Thank you Lord for dimes from heaven! This too shall pass!

“Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.”
‭‭Job‬ ‭13‬:‭15‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Happy Reading & God Bless! ShilohRose77©️
Garment of Praise

May 17, 2026

What’s the oldest things you’re wearing today?

Today, I’m wearing the garment of praise! I’ve been a worshipper of Jesus a long time, my robe is worn, tattered, and well loved in. Like my Bible it’s got miles on it!

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“to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Worship in nature

There are many things to worry about in each of our lives. We have to actively choose to set aside fear, worry, doubt, depression, and anxiety. A garment covers and protects our bodies from the elements. When we choose to put on the garment of praise we are clothing ourselves in hope, faith, and trust. Remember God knows what we need.

Many times the voices around us can become negative and we begin to tune in. We start complaining more or feeling frustrated often. We must remain in good spirits! I am the first to raise my hand that I can let worry talk me out of blessings! However the more I fill my mind with the word of God, and worship; the less time I have to entertain those things. Don’t beat yourself up if you get off track, just gently pivot.

The word repentance, means to turn away from sin and go back to God’s way. One way of God, is to be filled with supernatural joy. Joy that’s not about fame, riches, status, health, etc. This joy comes from being content. We put on the garment of praise, even when it’s hard to utter one grateful word! Right now my leg has a cramp, I could complain. It hurts but I choose to reframe, my leg is sore from exercising and it will yield results later.

Maybe you have a deep emotional wound, health issue or financial burden. I understand the frustration we all have problems. However I’m encouraging you gently to take a step back and gain perspective. Tell yourself, “ I am well capable of handling this problem, and I choose to remain positive.” At first it feels silly to be positive when we are angry, sad, frustrated or hurt. Put on your garment anyway!

There is an old song we used to sing at church that says, “Late in the midnight hour, God’s gonna turn it around!” This song is an upbeat anthem that our problems won’t last forever! We choose to believe that God CAN and WILL show up if we remain in faith! Remember midnight is the darkest part of night, that’s why it’s significant. Just when it looks like day will never break, and I’m talking about in our problems! Sometimes it does get worse before it gets better.

In the Bible, two men were imprisoned for sharing the gospel. They had been beat up and thrown in prison. Paul was what we call a frequent flyer! He spent time in jail often for being a follower of Jesus. On this particular night, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns late into the night. Mind you, these men were just stripped of their garments and beaten with rods!

Their clothes removed, their bodies battered, tired and exhausted from preaching and traveling. How could they have mustered up the energy to SING AND PRAY? This is the supernatural power of praise! They put on the garment of praise and it caused a great miracle to occur! Now I have been in a lot of situations, but not like this! And yet like these men I’ve had to praise from a place of knowing who God is beyond my feelings!

Have you ever had to keep a smile to keep from crying? How many times have you told someone at the store you were fine when asked the question we all hate, “How are you doing?” That question at the wrong time feels almost intrusive! It seems to come up on days that aren’t going so good! And what do we say? “IM FINE/GOOD HOW ARE YOU?” Our sweet, little, hospitable hearts don’t usually want to say what we actually feel! “NO! Susan, I am NOT fine, I’m having a terrible day, please go away!”

All joking aside friends, I’ve been there! I know you have too. Paul and Silas did not feel good, they were hurting. They choose to lift their own spirits by singing and praying. They did what God asks all of us to do. Be content in all circumstances. Content, not fake or lying about your feelings. We just take a stance of peace. I choose to put on the garment of praise. Some may say an attitude of gratitude.

So what happened to Paul and Silas?

What they thought was just a comfort for their weary hearts, blessed an entire prison.

Worship changes atmospheres! Joy is contagious. (Image: Google Gemini)

“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭16‬:‭25‬-‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Put on your garment of praise, you never know what doors it may open in your own life! Remember God is never late, he’s always right on time!

Happy Reading & God bless!

All rights reserved. ShilohRose77©️
Forgive Truly & Deeply

May 14, 2026

Taken by me a few years ago.

I have been through some unimaginable trauma and abuse. It went on for so long that it caused my worldview to be shaped by it. I learned how to medicate, mask and suppress my pain. It was a deep set rage. It would rear its ugly head whenever I felt the walls closing in. I heard once that “Anger is just love with nowhere to go.”

If someone got too close, I pushed back. The many times I let my guard down and thought I was safe, often something would happen. The person would hurt me in some form whether intentionally or unintentionally. This would trigger my guard and defenses up. I would react in anger or I would shut down. I think many times it was such a quick reaction I didn’t even notice it. Or at times I would tally up the offenses in my heart. Yesterday I heard in my heart, “You are acting like a skittish dog.”

We had an abused dog once, he was so scared. He didn’t want to be touched or played with. He would keep his distance. I remember trying to throw a ball at him and it accidentally hit him and that was it! He went and hid from me. He looked wounded and hurt! I’m thinking, but I didn’t mean to hit you! I wished I could tell him, but like me he wouldn’t have listened. He had decided the world was unsafe. He decided love was too risky.

Through this season of my life God has allowed everything around me to become silent. The silence so loud it made me listen to things I didn’t want to hear. I had become like the people that hurt me. I was closed off from truly letting my true self be seen. I am very tender hearted by nature but anger has a way of taking that and making it a weakness. I started to pretend to not care.

For many years I couldn’t talk about the abuse I went through. I was so angry that I stuffed it deep down. I hope that I would never have to sit with it. Until the little girl inside demanded to be heard. She needed healing that she never found. I started to listen, to feel and to allow it in. I began to grieve the pain. I watched as the flashbacks would come, some terrifying.

God does some of his best work in the dark seasons of life. I felt punished, but I realized it has been necessary. Today in prayer something shifted! I felt it throughout my entire being. The feelings so intense it shook me to my core. I never experienced anything like that, but instead of running I welcomed it in.

Afterwards I was so exhausted I could hardly make it to my bed. I tried to eat and immediately became ill. I felt a sense of victory although my body felt death. I knew I had made a breakthrough. I felt an odd peace. It’s really hard for me to do these posts. However the more I open up my world, the bigger it becomes.

Healing is nothing like I thought it would be. I didn’t realize what it would cost. However, yesterday I read the story of the stoning of Stephen. A man in the Bible, who was full of God’s spirit and spoke the truth! He told people what they didn’t want to hear. They were so angry that they gnashed their teeth at him and yelled insults. Then they took him and stoned him to death. His dying words were words of forgiveness!

“And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭7‬:‭59‬-‭60‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Now when I read this my first response was anger! I thought about all the injustices in my life and the lives of those I love! It struck a nerve in me. How could he be the one to die? He was the one doing the right thing! He deserves to die a horrific death after he obeyed God’s Will? I admit I don’t think I could have done it! Then it hit me, this is what God wants me to understand!

The justice that we seek may never come on this side of eternity! However hear me out, that does not mean that the person or persons got away with the actions committed! I have been in this space lately. I want justice I beg for it, cry for it and the longer I have the more hurt I became. I asked God why so many times. The simple answer is that God wants to allow it to change us ultimately!

Now if you have ever been hurt or wronged maybe you feel like me! Maybe you knew what happened was unfair and you would like to see them get their share! Friend, I can tell you for certain God wants you to let it go. He wants you to take the high road and not let the darkness of others steal your light. We illuminate what is dark in them not by punishments or get back. We shine a light on their darkness by remaining kind, tender, loving and true to ourselves!

I know, I know it all sounds so cliche! It sounds like a cruel joke! You mean I am the one that needs to change? I asked God the same thing with a dramatic groan and eye roll with it! You really mean this I am to love others like I love myself? How is this possible? Through the Spirit of the living God! Before Stephen the martyr died, he was operating in the Spirit. He was doing God’s Will despite the hate he received.

Before he said his final words, he saw a vision of the heavens opening up. The moment of death and pain awaited him. Yet before he saw death, he saw his next destination. He saw where he was headed! If we can get a little bit of perspective on our journey we can see that where we are headed is more important. The next step requires us to let go of all the things holding us down.

“Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.””
‭‭Acts‬ ‭7‬:‭54‬-‭56‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Vengeance belongs to the rightful judge. God promises to pay each of us accordingly to our sins. For those who accept the blood of Jesus as payment, will not bear their sins. They will be pardoned. What a horrible day for those who chose not to take part in this radical forgiveness! I cannot rightly assess anyone because my worldview has been altered. That’s why God said do not judge.

So today, as I am recovering from the prayer of a lifetime. I realize that it’s my job to release the hostages. I must look ahead at what’s more important. I hope you will join me in forgiving and letting go any weights you may have been carrying. It’s too heavy, and slowing you down to get to your next destination.

I know somebody prayed for me! I know someone loved me when I was hard to love. And I know Jesus paid it all for me to be free. I choose his way. I surrender. I chose to put away bitterness, resentment, and unforgiveness. Won’t you join me in singing the song of freedom?

““Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.””
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Happy Reading & God bless!

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ShilohRose77©️
Radiance of Hope

May 12, 2026

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Yesterday evening I took a walk through a trail in the woods at my local park. It was after seven, and the woods were pretty dark and quiet. The sounds of squirrels rustling in the leaves and the song of the birds were all I could hear. I haven’t been on this trail much and I was amazed at how wooded this area is compared to the other path I walk. I was praying and looking around at all the sights. It’s a beautiful area, that makes you feel like you are far from the city. The silence gives nature the full stage.

I was pondering things I have read, heard, and seen throughout my day. Nature always seems to reflect what I am pondering on back to me. It’s funny how light has a way of piercing through the trees and reminding me that I am not in the darkness completely. No matter how wooded the area is the light still made it way through. That’s how I felt. I knew that although some seasons of life can feel heavy, dark, wooded that the light still cannot be erased.

The purpose of light is to make what is unseen visible. To bring what is void and formless to order. When you bear the light wherever you are, you illuminate the world around you. Sometimes we make someone feel seen who feels unseen or forgotten. We can shine a light on the evil deeds of this world by using our voice. We can be a light of generosity to those around us. We all know someone like this, who just makes the atmosphere change with their presence. Friends is your light on today?

The darkness that we perceive in our lives can be in different forms. It could be ignorance of not knowing God or not understanding spiritual truths. Then there is darkness that comes from evil forces, negativity, external opposition, uncertainties, emotional pain, etc. Anything that causes a lack of clarity can feel like darkness. The way to find the light again for me, has always been to turn to my faith in Jesus.

““You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Jesus is the Light of The World, and when we follow him we too become the light. You do not have to walk with the darkness of life alone! No matter what circumstances that you find yourself in, God has a plan for you! He wants to come alongside of you and walk it out with you. Maybe you have fallen in sin, temptation, or maybe you are ignorant of the things of God. That’s okay, because we all have to start somewhere! I would rather see a person get saved at 99 than never to experience the abundant life that Jesus has for us!

As a gentle reminder, Jesus is not a genie, and he doesn’t say that life will be perfect or without suffering. When we take part in suffering with HIS spirit inside of us and that’s what makes it easier. He promises to help us bear the weight of suffering. He also redeems our suffering for eternal glory. We use what we go through to help others, grow in character, and draw closer to God. Whatever darkness may be on your path, let it be for a greater good!

“And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭ESV‬‬

As I was turning around to head out of the wooded trail last night, I noticed once I walked up the small hill and out of the darkness; there was light! The light in the picture doesn’t do it justice it was radiating through the trees, full of beauty and warmth. It felt like hope rising in my heart that after a period of darkness the light must return. The light inside of me cannot be diminished by this heavy and dark season of life. As long as I stay connected to the source of light. When we get to heaven, we will see the light of glory, so bright that we will not even need the sun!

Whenever you feel discouraged by the darkness around us, remember that God has appointed all the seasons of our lives. They must change and trouble doesn’t last forever!

Happy Reading & God Bless!

All rights reserved and all photos are mine.

ShilohRose77©️
Ten Years Ago I received a miracle!

May 12, 2026

A Mother’s Prayer