The older I get, the more I read God’s word, the easier it is to identify all the foolish mistakes that I have made throughout my life. There are some mistakes that I have made over and over again, and each time I wonder why and how I could have let it happen. I have become uncomfortably aware that the first time it may have been a mistake, the second time and every time afterward it was definitely a choice. I often contemplate what is written in *Proverbs 26:11 Like a dog that returns to his vomit Is a fool who repeats his foolishness.* and grasp how foolish I have been time and time again. Sometimes, I go back to a thought pattern from my past and get distracted from what God would have for me in the present. When I lose focus, I go to the Scriptures and seek out verses like what is written in *Hebrews 12:2 [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].* I am not sure about anyone else, but I never want to go back to who I used to be before I met Jesus, in any way, shape, or form. There is a quote by John Newton that encourages me and I pray that it encourages you as well. “I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world, but still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am.” I have learned by experience that to overcome mistakes spiritually, I must practice self-forgiveness, trusting that if God has forgiven me because of what is written in 1 John 1:9 I need to forgive myself and not give the enemy a foothold. I need to genuinely analyze my errors as lessons and also use to help others. I will pray intentionally for wisdom and peace. I will use scripture for guidance, journal feelings, seek support from trusted mentors, and focus on gratitude, trusting God to redeem the situation for good, ultimately turning towards growth and inner peace rather than dwelling on the past. My brethren, may we stand united, whole heartily devoted to God, without compromise, making good choices and not poor mistakes with a self-awareness to break cycles that cause us to discredit the name of the Lord Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ precious and powerful name, amen. My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.