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Giving Thanks When Nothing Seems Right
Giving thanks when nothing seems right is the challenge we all face this Thanksgiving. Deep in the throes of the COVID-19 surge, we must choose to forego some traditions but our hearts are free. Giving Thanks When Nothing Seems Right A 2MefromHim...
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Giving Thanks in Times of Trial—But God
Giving thanks can be difficult when trials pile up one on another. 2020 has tested people around the world in ways no one ever imagined due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Giving Thanks in Times of Trial—But God 2MefromHim Devotionals Consider it pure joy,...
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In the Solitude, Jesus Makes Himself Known
In the solitude, Jesus makes Himself known to the deepest parts of my heart and spirit. I cannot hear Him in the crowded busyness of daily life. 2MefromHim Devotionals In the Solitude, Jesus Makes Himself Known After he had dismissed them, he went up...
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Children are a Heritage and Blessing from God: Champion Them
Children are a heritage and blessing. However, our society tends to view this gift of God as precious only if it suits convenience. 2MefromHim Devotionals Children are a Heritage and Blessing from God: Champion Them Children are a heritage from the...
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God’s Golden Splendor and Awesome Majesty
God’s golden splendor is on display for all to see when autumn dresses the trees in glorious color. With the changing of the seasons from summer to autumn, God reveals His awesome power through the times of the year set in motion during Creation. God’s...
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A Dwelling Place of Peace and Rest in Uncertain Times
I have a dwelling place of peace and rest in a world that often seems inside out and filled with uncertainty. A Dwelling Place of Peace and Rest A 2MefromHim Devotional Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Psalm 90:1 I...
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For the Battle is Not Yours, but God’s
“For the battle is not yours, but God’s.” I need to hear those words. It calms my heart to know that all the raging battles of COVID, racial injustice, and politics belong to God. Rather than feeling powerless, I need to remember the source of all power.
For the Battle is Not Yours, but God’s
2MefromHim Devotionals
For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you. 2 Chronicles 20:12
“For the battle is not yours, but God’s.” I need to hear those words. It calms my heart to know that all the raging battles of COVID, racial injustice, and politics belong to God. Rather than feeling powerless, I need to remember the source of all power.
For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you. 2 Chronicles 20:12 #power #COVID #Godisgood Click To TweetFor the Battle is Real
Jehoshaphat and Judah faced a vast army of enemies, much as we face a disease and those who would put an end to America as we know it. We can learn from their response. Verse 4 of 2 Chronicles 20 tells us that people came from every town in Judah to seek the Lord.
What miracles would God do in response to a people united in their commitment to honor and worship Him—to handle problems His way? Jehoshaphat prayed to God from the temple in Jerusalem saying, “‘We will cry out to you in our distress, and you will hear us and save us.’” He is able to rescue us from our enemies.
The people of Judah, men, women, and children, stood before the temple and called on God to save them. In the same way, we must unite to seek God’s help in winning the battles that rage in our country and our world. There is hope for revival and renewal. God offers healing and help to become a light to hearts that are filled with darkness.
What miracles would God do in response to a people united in their commitment to honor and worship Him—to handle problems His way? #victory #Godislove #hope Click To TweetFor the Battle is Not Ours
We live in the midst of people without hope, regardless of race or socioeconomic status. Jehoshaphat’s call to Israel is the message to every Christian. “‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.’”
Jehoshaphat exhorted Israel by fasting and bowing with his face to the ground, “‘Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld … Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.’” When the people sang and praised God, He set ambushes and defeated their enemies. God honors our faith with victory.
God honors our faith with victory. #trust #fatih #victory Click To TweetThe Victory is the Lord’s
In times of trouble, Christians are called to enlarge our faith and believe God for wisdom, power, and victory. He is able to rescue us.
© Norma Gail Holtman, July 12, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
The Ground Cries Out at the Shame of Men’s Hatred
The ground cries out at the shame of men’s hatred for their brothers. Since Cain killed Abel, men turn away from their loving Creator. When men hate, bitter roots grow around and around their souls, cutting off the flow of God’s love.
The Ground Cries Out at the Shame of Men’s Hatred
2MefromHim Devotionals
See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. Hebrews 12:15
The ground cries out at the shame of men’s hatred for their brothers. Since Cain killed Abel, men turn away from their loving Creator. When men hate, bitter roots grow around and around their souls, cutting off the flow of God’s love.
Like stones thrown into a sea of blood, man’s animosity and anger spiral in ever-widening circles through the centuries, drowning out all hope. Pain will curse the hearts of men as long as the sin of Cain turns brother against brother in hatred.
See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. Hebrews 12:15 #devotional #anger #hate Click To TweetGod Weeps for His World
Cain’s jealousy raged when God accepted his brother Abel’s offering but rejected his. It was not a matter of Cain’s offering being inferior but his heart attitude. He brought “some fruits” while Abel brought the best, “fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flocks.”
God warned Cain about his unbridled anger: “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:6) But Cain ignored God’s offer of hope and lured Abel into the field where he and attacked and killed him. And the blood of Abel cried out to God from the ground for justice.
Deuteronomy 29:18 says, “Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the Lord our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison.” When man’s god becomes anything other than his Creator, it poisons his soul with hate.
When man’s god becomes anything other than his Creator, it poisons his soul with hate. #Godisgood #violence #worship Click To TweetThe Ground Cries Out for Mercy and Justice
How applicable to our day when bitter men demand what others have, rather than working to achieve the same for themselves. Above all, God’s message to Cain was for man to deal with his anger by doing what is right in the eyes of God. Hate is conquered when men submit to God and allow His love to overcome their anger.
Who understands better than God’s own Son, Jesus, the victim of an angry mob? As His enemies nailed Him to the Cross, He offered forgiveness to all who accept His sacrifice by faith through grace.
The ground cries out for mercy and justice. And Jesus beckons, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)
Respond to hate with God’s love.
Hate is conquered when men submit to God and allow His love to overcome their anger. #inspiraton #hope #Godislove Click To Tweet© Norma Gail Holtman, June 26, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
Finding Real Freedom in the Truth of God
Finding real freedom is impossible without the protection and control of God’s law. We celebrate independence this weekend at a time when our freedom is threatened by lawlessness.
Finding Real Freedom in the Truth of God
2MefromHim Devotionals
“By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just; by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth.” Proverbs 8:15, 16
Finding real freedom is impossible without the protection and control of God’s law. Proverbs reminds us that God, not elections, political parties, protestors, or presidents control our country. We celebrate independence this weekend at a time when our freedom is threatened by lawlessness.
However, the removal of God from government has also eradicated tolerance for differing ideas. We reap the consequences of a lax attitude toward freedoms that are envied by the entire world.
By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just; by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth. Pro. 8:15, 16 #freedom #Godisgood #truth Click To TweetFinding Real Freedom When Anarchy Reigns
Jesus upheld human government. When the Pharisees asked Jesus if they should pay taxes to Caesar, He said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matthew 22:15-22) In Romans 13, Paul said, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” The United States has failed to give God the obedience and honor He is due. Disrespect for our elected leaders equals disrespect for God.
Freedom must be fought for and treasured. Peaceful protest is possible in the United States of America because our Constitution grants that right. In the same way, anarchy steals freedom from everyone and grants it to no one. Paul continues, “He who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”
Anarchy steals freedom from everyone and grants it to no one. #devotional #freedom #FourthofJuly Click To TweetFinding Real Freedom Through Truth
Edmund Burke said, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” When we lack true freedom, it is due to a failure to uphold the truth of God’s word and honor Him through love for others. Jesus defined true freedom in John 8:32, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Freedom cannot be maintained without the truth of God set forth in the Bible. John Adams said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” Therefore, those who resort to violence, condone brutality, and fail to speak out against wrong will fall under God’s judgment.
This Fourth of July, consider the meaning of “one nation under God.” Set your heart right with the Author of Freedom and stand for His truth. If we fail to stand for God’s truth, all freedom will be lost.
If we fail to stand for truth, all freedom will be lost. #truth #freedom #devotional Click To Tweet© Norma Gail Holtman, June 29, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
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Some Things Never Change, and God is One
Some things never change, and God is one of them. No matter how our world changes, God stays the same.
Some Things Never Change, and God is One
2MefromHim Devotional
But you are the same, and your years have no end. Psalm 102:27
Some things never change, and God is one of them. Our entertainment is one day politically correct and the next day not. Our vocabulary changes with the latest whims. Vacations are virtual due to a pandemic. But God is faithful. His word is applicable. No matter how our world changes, God stays the same.
But you are the same, and your years have no end. Psalm 102:27 #Godisfaithful #hope #confidence Click To TweetSome Things Change
For example, until a few months ago, we traveled wherever we chose, shopped in crowded stores, attended church, concerts, voted, and visited hospitals. No one gave a thought to who touched the door handle last. But with the advent of the coronavirus, the entire world changed. Time changes things.
We have become wary of words. Television shows and movies are banned. Some areas in our cities are no longer safe. We don’t know how to express our feelings to someone of another race. Time changes things.
Some Things Never Change
Our search for stability needs to take us no further than the word of God. He assures us that though the grass withers and flowers fade, His word never changes. It is firmly fixed in the heavens. He isn’t a man that he should lie or the son of man that He should change His mind. God does not change but He can change things.
The story of Lazarus, in John 11, reveals the slower pace of Jesus’ day. By the time Jesus traveled to Bethany, Lazarus had been in the tomb four days. Martha protested Jesus’ request to move the stone because there would be a bad odor. But when Jesus called him forth, he rose from the dead. God can change things.
Likewise, in Acts, Chapter 9, Saul obtained letters to the synagogues in Damascus so that he could take Christians prisoner. However, after a confrontation with God, he became the most prolific teacher, preacher, and writer in the Bible. The man who called himself a Hebrew of Hebrews became the man who said, “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.” God can change things.
God does not change but He can change things. #change #Godisgood #anxiety Click To TweetWhen We Don’t Know How to Respond
God says: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
When changes frighten us, there is a standard. God gave us His word and it will never change. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
When the entire world seems to have tilted on its axis, God remains the same.
When the entire world seems to have tilted on its axis, God remains the same. #worldevents #security #Godisgood Click To Tweet© Norma Gail Holtman, June 17, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
Why I Read and Write Fiction – Confessions of a Bookworm
I read and write fiction because I am curious about the world. Fiction increases our awareness of the world around us and broadens our horizons beyond the confines of our daily life.
Fabulous Fridays
Why I Read and Write Fiction – Confessions of a Bookworm
I read and write fiction because I am curious about the world. Whether contemporary or historical, fiction transports the reader to another place and time. A well-written novel invites the reader to become part of the story. Fiction increases our awareness of the world around us and broadens our horizons beyond the confines of our daily life.
Fiction vs. Non-fiction
Non-fiction teaches facts. We learn about one topic in detail with little stimulus of our imagination. One problem in our world today is people’s desire to be heard above news media rhetoric. Talking heads with a set agenda tell us what to think.
A well-written novel invites the reader to become part of the story... #amwriting #amreading #fiction Click To TweetFiction, on the other hand, covers a broad range of experiences through the eyes of many different characters. One book enables us to enter the minds of a variety of people from different levels of society: rich and poor, educated and uneducated, management and employee, husband and wife. Points of view are expressed in a non-confrontational way. Readers experience what someone thinks, why they think that way, and develop empathy. Fiction opens us up to new ideas while stimulating pleasure areas in the brain.
Fiction and the Real World
For example, in my new romantic suspense, Within Golden Bands, the reader experiences the hurt and longing of a woman who craves motherhood but cannot become pregnant. I wrote from the heart about longings I experienced. My husband gave input on passages about the husband’s reactions. The story isn’t ours but we dealt with the emotions in real life.
In our world today, fearful of the COVID-19 pandemic, torn by protests over racial inequality, stress and anxiety run rampant. Fiction transports us away from the tension of non-stop news to a place where our brains can rest. Stimulating the imagination is therapeutic.
Fiction transports us to a place where our brains can rest... #anxiety #relaxation #bookworm Click To TweetWorks of fiction contain the truth about life, history, current events, and even faith. Christian fiction reveals how others might respond to personal crises, relationships, and world events from the standpoint of their faith. I watched my mother-in-law grow in her relationship to Christ through the fiction she read.
Benefits of Reading Fiction
All the best and worst of life is contained in fictional worlds. As we watch characters react to life events, we grow our minds with new possibilities. When based in fact and experience, the author’s imaginings can demonstrate scriptural truth.
Novels open our eyes to fresh perspectives by transporting us into an imaginary world... #amwriting #imagination #escape Click To TweetAll in all, fiction provides escape from stress and reveals new ways to respond to the world around us. Novels open our eyes to fresh perspectives by transporting us into an imaginary world. We escape everyday turmoil, satisfy our curiosity, expand our thinking, and rest our minds through the pages of a book.
© Copyright Norma Gail Holtman, June 16, 2020
Fiction transports the reader to another place and time... #booklover #novels #readingrocks Click To TweetAbout the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
My Times Are in Your Hands, Therefore I Trust
“My times are in your hands…” All week, these words played through my mind to the tune of an old hymn. Peace comes with the knowledge that God is in control.
My Times Are in Your Hands, Therefore I Trust
2MefromHim Devotional
My times are in your hands… Psalm 31:15
“My times are in your hands…” All week, these words played through my mind to the tune of an old hymn by William F. Lloyd. Then I discovered a sermon by Charles Spurgeon by the same title. Peace comes with the knowledge that God is in control.
My faith sustains me when the world is filled with turmoil. COVID-19 and social unrest have our world in chaos. Natural disasters, fires, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes rob struggling people of all they possess. Where does your hope reside?
My faith sustains me when the world is filled with turmoil. #faith #hope #anxiety Click To TweetOur Times Cry for Hope
Psalm 31 reveals David crying out to God, his rock, refuge, and fortress, words that produce the sense of safety, a firm foundation in times of fear and distress. Spurgeon says, “If our lives were not appointed of heaven, we should wish they were. If there were no overruling Providence, we would crave for one.” I long for Jesus’ return because of promised peace.
Psalm 139:16 tells us, “all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” I face the unknown with courage because I understand that God has a plan and purpose. Moses prayer, recorded in Psalm 90 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” True wisdom offers hope.
When the downtrodden cry out for justice and disease or disaster threaten, I am comforted by my hope in God. In the words of Job 23:10, “He knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” This time of testing for the entire world provides new opportunities to share the source of our hope with those around us. Moreover, as Christians, we can thrive despite our circumstances because we understand God is in control.
I face the unknown with courage because I understand that God has a plan and purpose. #courage #purpose #Godisincontrol Click To TweetMy Times Are in God’s Hands
Corrie Ten Boom said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” I know peace because all my days rest in the hands of a loving God. Likewise, never have Jesus’ words in John 10:27-29 resounded with such promise. “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 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.” I am safe even when the world around me spins out of control.
Do you have the certainty that your life rests in God’s hands?
I am safe even when the world around me spins out of control. #safety #control #fear Click To TweetMy Times Are in Your Hands
My times are in Thy hand;
My God, I wish them there;
My life, my friends, my soul I leave
Entirely to Thy care.
My times are in Thy hand;
Whatever they may be;
Pleasing or painful, dark or bright,
As best may seem to Thee.
My times are in Thy hand;
Why should I doubt or fear?
My Father’s hand will never cause
His child a needless tear.
My times are in Thy hand,
Jesus, the crucified!
Those hands my cruel sins had pierced
Are now my guard and guide.
My times are in Thy hand,
I’ll always trust in Thee;
And, after death, at Thy right hand
I shall forever be.
Hymn by William F. Lloyd
© Devotional by Norma Gail Holtman, June 14, 2020
My times are in your hands… Psalm 31:15 #Godislove #trust #faith Click To TweetAbout the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
Childlike Hearts Speak Truth: Love One Another
Childlike wisdom rings true in a world torn with racism, prejudice, and juxtaposed ideologies. Human-kind was created as one.
Childlike Hearts Speak Truth: Love One Another
2MefromHim Devotionals
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Childlike Hearts Speak Truth
Skipping up and down the broad sidewalk hand in hand, little girl giggles rang across the parking lot as we waited for the field trip to begin. My daughter and her friends, black, white, Native American, and Hispanic, created a rainbow of ponytails, skinned knees, and laughter.
“Maybe someone will see us and think we’re sisters and your mom is our mom.” One said.
“That couldn’t happen.” Interjected another. “Susie is black, Ann is Indian, I’m blonde, and Amy has brown hair. We can’t be sisters.”
My adopted daughter, used to families of every kind, answered, “We could be sisters. We could all be adopted.”
Childlike Wisdom Echoes God’s Plan
Her childlike wisdom rings true in a world torn with racism, prejudice, and juxtaposed ideologies. Human-kind was created as one. However, Genesis tells us that God created them male and female. Scripture doesn’t mention color. Likewise, genetics and geography show that the first people carried the genes for every skin color and were probably of a darker tone like Middle Eastern people of today. Any couple could produce children of a variety of skin tones and eye colors. We were one in the beginning.
Childlike wisdom rings true in a world torn with racism, prejudice, and juxtaposed ideologies. #wisdom #truth #Godislove Click To TweetChildlike Eyes See Similarities Not Differences
The way my children chose friends mirrors God’s lesson to Samuel, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) Though we perceive people as different due to sin, in the eyes of God, the heart is all that matters. How might our world be different if we looked at people through the eyes of our Creator?
The world pleads for the message and love of God. Unity comes through Christ alone.
The Message of Christ
Paul says it better than I: “Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts….” (Colossians 3:11-15)
Childlike Obedience to Christ
As Christians, we must serve as examples in our torn and bleeding world. The call is simple. We are to walk humbly as Christ did, treating all we meet with justice, mercy, and love. What steps will you take today?
We are to walk humbly as Christ did, treating all we meet with justice, mercy, and love. #justice #mercy #love Click To Tweet© Norma Gail Holtman, June 3, 2020
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
Out-Takes from Within Golden Bands – Kieran and Adam
Some scenes will always remain in my heart as a writer. That doesn’t mean they made it into the book. I love this scene, set at the Owl Cafe, an Albuquerque icon. It brings back the rivalry between Kieran and Bonny’s former fiancé, Adam.
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Out-Takes from Within Golden Bands – Part Two
Out-takes usually end up as backstory, but they often comprise some of the author’s favorite scenes from the book in its original form. A few scenes from Within Golden Bands will always remain in my writer’s heart. That doesn’t mean they made it into the book. I love this scene, set at the Owl Cafe, an Albuquerque icon. It brings back the rivalry between Kieran and Bonny’s former fiancé, Adam, a character the readers of Land of My Dreams will remember well.
Some of the author's favorite scenes often have to be cut out... #authorlife #amwriting #books Click To TweetOut-Takes from Within Golden Bands
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Out-Takes: At the Owl Cafe
Seated on the same side of a booth in the fifties-style Owl Café, Bonny and Kieran fed coins into the tabletop jukebox, selecting oldies while they sniffed the delightful aroma of burgers and fries. Blenders whirred in the background, mixing the famous shakes so thick they required spoons. Bonny’s stomach growled in anticipation. She leaned against Kieran, head on his shoulder, lips a tempting distance from his cheek. “What kept you busy while I was sick upstairs this morning?”
The server appeared with their hamburgers. They offered thanks with clasped hands.
“I worked on a plan to let our neighbors know about the chapel. We’ll invite everyone along Loch Garry and Loch Quoich to the farm for a ceilidh—food, music, and dancing—to introduce my wife and invite them to a Bible study. Those who show an interest will form a core group, able to help once we start worship services.” How those sky-blue eyes twinkled when he talked about the chapel. “Do you think you’ll feel up to a ceilidh before Easter? It’s almost four months away.”
Bonny swallowed a large bite of her burger. “Yum, this tastes good. I should definitely feel better by then. We can ask your parents and our friends to help, and then I don’t have to do everything. It will be nice to meet our neighbors.”
“Aye, there hasn’t been a ceilidh at Stonehaven Farm in years. Now I have the loveliest woman in Scotland as my hostess.” He reached for her milkshake and took a long drink.
“Hey, you wanted Coke. That’s mine.” She grabbed it, gulped, and closed her eyes. “Uh oh … brain freeze.”
Kieran’s big, warm hand came to rest in the middle of her back. “Bonny, you’ll never finish such a huge amount of food. A wee bird eats more than you have in the last few weeks, and now you order a huge burger with green chile and cheese. If you manage it, you’ll be sorry later.”
Bonny shoved her milkshake as far away from him as possible. “We head home in ten days, and I want my first big meal to be one I’ll remember.”
The corners of his eyes crinkled as a teasing smile spread across his lips. “You’ll remember all right. That hamburger would be too large if your appetite were at its best. This is your husband talking—the one who watches you push food around your plate three times a day.”
A behind-the-scenes glimpse at Within Golden Bands, a new romantic suspense novel... #RomSus #Christfic #backstory Click To TweetA too-familiar voice drew her eyes to a couple who seated themselves in a booth a few feet away. Adam. A well-remembered ache settled in her heart as images, good and bad, stormed through her mind. She would never forget her former fiancé arriving with a bouquet of roses and a box of Frontier Restaurant cinnamon rolls the day after her father’s funeral—inadequate consolation for breaking their engagement in favor of Vanessa, a fellow attorney in his office. His callous behavior sent her to Scotland and Kieran. Would he ever be out of her life to stay, or would the memory of the pain he inflicted always linger?
“Bonny?” Kieran’s voice jolted her back to the present.
“I don’t believe it …”
“What?”
“Look across the aisle and two booths up.”
Kieran’s face grew red. His eyes narrowed. His jaw worked as if he chewed a piece of gristle. She married him, and still he rankled at the sight of Adam Lawson. Sparring knights, she had called them, and the best man won. Adam never created the spine-tingling ecstasy the mere thought of Kieran produced.
His scowl was the perfect picture of aggravation and dislike. “I thought we might avoid him for the entire trip.”
“We frequented the same places for too long.” Bonny giggled at his irritation. “Kieran, it would be rude to walk past without a word.”
“Is there another way out?” He chomped the last of his burger as if he were grinding Adam to pieces.
Bonny placed her hand on top of his. “I doubt he wants to see us any more than we want to see him.”
“We could pretend absorption in each other to the point we miss them.”
“We won’t be rude.”
Kieran drew his hand out from under hers and settled his arm around her shoulders.
Maybe she could tease him into realizing how ridiculous his continued jealousy toward Adam was. “Hmm, now that I think about it, I want to experience the expression his face. After all the times he called you Scotsman as if it were a disease, we should make him squirm a little.”
“Rubbing it in does have appeal.” His eyes widened.
“What an un-pastor-like answer, Kieran MacDonell. I was kidding, silly.”
“I’m only human.” His smile faded. “It rubs me the wrong way to think of Adam Lawson near you. Isn’t the blonde a little young?”
“Says the man who married a woman ten years his junior.” Bonny gave his shoulder a playful nudge. “She’s his sister, Christy. A sweet girl.”
Kieran loaded the leftovers into a to-go box, picked up the bill, stood, and guided her toward the door. When Adam saw them, his eyes widened. “Come on, we can do this,” Kieran said in a gruff whisper.”
After all the times he called you Scotsman as if it were a disease, we should make him squirm a little... #WithinGoldenBands #BYNR #amediting Click To TweetA Confrontation of Rivals
She swallowed hard. “Hello, Adam. Christy.” Keep walking Bonny. Just keep walking.
“Bonny!” Christy, perky as ever, jumped up and ensnared her in a hug.
Adam nodded. “Bonny. Kieran. You look well.”
Bonny recognized his courteous I-can’t-stand-you-but-I’ll-act-nice-anyway tone all too well. Kieran’s arm tightened around her waist.
“Thanks. So do you.”
Bonny took a step forward, but Christy grabbed her hand. “How long are you here?”
No stranger to her brother’s faults, Kari had informed Bonny that Christy understood why she refused his proposal.
“Ten more days. Three weeks altogether.” Kieran pressed harder on her back, but Christy’s grip on her hand made it difficult for Bonny to comply.
“Kari showed me a beautiful photo of your farm.”
“Yes, it’s lovely.” Bonny’s stomach rumbled in protest of the hamburger. The restaurant was uncomfortably warm.
“We should go. My wife needs her rest,” Kieran said, pressing on her back again.
But the room spun, and Bonny’s vision narrowed to a dark tunnel. She reached for Kieran’s hand.
“She’s never fainted before.” The familiar voice was distant and muffled.
Someone patted her hand.
“She’s never been pregnant before.” Kieran’s voice penetrated the murky mist swirling in her head.
Her lips moved, but no sound came out. She forced her eyes open to a blur. The Owl Café. Adam and Christy.
“Bonny, love …” Kieran’s calloused fingers stroked her cheek.
“What … what happened?”
“You fainted. You’ve been out for at least five minutes.”
She attempted to push to a sitting position in the booth where she lay, but her arms collapsed. Kieran caught her and helped raise her upright.
“May I have a … a sip of water?”
Christy held the glass, and the cool liquid revived her a little.
“Congratulations, Bon.” Adam’s voice trembled. When their eyes met, he looked away. “You always wanted children.”
“When did you get married?” Christy asked.
Christy, please, I want to go home. Her one-time love for Adam had turned to pity. His familiar, chocolate-brown eyes looked sad and vacant.
“As of today, seven and a half weeks,” Kieran answered without looking up. “Shall I carry you, hen?”
“No. That won’t be necessary.”
Kieran helped her to her feet, his arm tight around her waist. “You’re sure?”
“Yes, I’m fine.”
Christy hugged her again. “Wow, congratulations. How far along are you?”
Oh, Christy, don’t do this.
“About seven and a half weeks.” Kieran’s tone held the same pride and purpose evident when he spoke of his family’s ancient heritage. His lips lifted in a smile.
Adam looked away, jaw working in a nervous twitch. His ego would suffer enough face-to-face with his rival’s victory in both their marriage and her pregnancy.
“Excuse us. I should get her home.” Kieran supported, and they headed for the door at last.
His ego would suffer enough face-to-face with his rival’s victory... #characters #WithinGoldenBands #RomSus Click To TweetComing to Terms with the Past
“Are you all right, mo chridhe?” My heart’s desire. His words and tone caressed her as he guided her to the parking lot.
“Did you see his eyes, Kieran? I’m sorry for him.” When she stepped into the Jeep, a single drop of saltwater trickled down her cheek, in spite of her effort to hold it back.
Kieran leaned in, his thumb caressing her cheek. “Surely you’re not crying about Adam?”
“He hurts, Kieran. It’s tough for a man who hates to lose to realize you not only won my love, I’m having your child.”
“I still don’t like him.” He shut her car door, walked to the driver’s side, and reached for her hand after he got in and closed the door.
“The absurd rivalry between you two should be over. You behaved the same ridiculous way when I was in the hospital, and you did your best to one-up the other.”
Jaw clenched, Kieran started the Jeep, pulled his phone out, made a music selection, and headed for the street. “Try to relax.”
She leaned back and shut her eyes. The soft, sweet strains of “The Rosebud of Allenvale” evoked vivid memories of the night he first said he loved her and their first waltz as man and wife. “Thank you.”
As Kieran focused on the traffic and merged onto I-40, Bonny stared at houses and trees for fifteen miles, while her new husband remained silent. When they exited the Interstate and headed up the winding and wooded North 14, he cleared his throat and rested his hand on the back of her neck. “I’m sorry, love. I shouldn’t have let it irritate me when Adam said you’d never fainted before. My ring is on your finger, and you carry our wee bairn. We were bound to run into him at some point. It’s better to get it over with now.”
He lowered his hand, but she caught it and held it tight. “Yes, I suppose. The kilt always weighed heavily in your favor, you know.”
“Mrs. MacDonell, you just fainted. It’s too soon to flirt.” His lips twitched as he tried to hide his smile with a gruff tone of voice.
“I’m not flirting. No matter how much you dislike him, he means nothing anymore.”
Kieran sighed. “It’s foolish, but I wish you had never loved another man but me.”
“Thank you.”
“For what?” His eyes searched hers for an instant before he looked back at the road.
“You’re the embodiment of all my dreams and the answer to my most fervent prayers. No one could hold my heart as gently as you.”
You’re the embodiment of all my dreams and the answer to my most fervent prayers... #NEWRELEASE #authorlife #Christfic Click To TweetThe soft touch of a finger on her cheek drew her eyes back to his. “We should keep your house. I love the trees, the weather, and the opportunity to be near your friends.”
“I hoped you’d decide to keep it.” Bonny kissed the back of his hand.
“It’s not the honeymoon we planned, but perhaps it’s what a honeymoon should be, to seek what God wants for our future.” His voice softened, husky with emotion.
His eagerness was reminiscent of his unexpected arrival at her door, all the way from Scotland after she refused Adam’s proposal. “Kieran MacDonell, I could not have a better husband.”
Bonny leaned back and closed her eyes. Frequent visits would be nice, but the tree-lined loch and old granite house, the home she and Kieran would make with their child had supplanted New Mexico in her heart.
What happens when favorite scenes are cut from a book? #amwriting #authorlife #backstory Click To Tweet© Copyright Norma Gail Holtman
About the author:
Norma Gail writes Fiction to Refresh Your Spirit. Her contemporary novels, Land of My Dreams, which won the 2016 Bookvana Religious Fiction Award, and Within Golden Bands (releasing May 19, 2020), explore the theme of women whose faith triumphs over trials. A women’s Bible study leader for over 21 years, her devotionals and poetry have appeared at ChristianDevotions.us, the Stitches Thru Time blog, Inspire a Fire, and in “The Secret Place.” She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Historical Writers of America, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. Norma is a former RN who lives in the mountains of New Mexico with her husband of 44 years. They have two adult children. To connect with her, you can follow her blog, or join her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon.
