There are many days that my life is overly busy, becomes like a parade, at times a circus, and I feel like I am the lead clown. There are purposeful, passionate, engaged, meaningful moments that I am thankful for, and then there are times where I don’t think right and my mind is nothing but chaos, unable to focus on what is right in front of me. In those moments, I am continually reminded that God’s presence is not measured by my feelings but by His unchanging promises. I have family and friends that love me, a rewarding ministry, and a sense of direction that compels me to get up each morning and step out in faith, but also battle depression, anxiety, and loneliness, that at times are overwhelming that lead me down a road to get absolutely nothing done, where sometimes I spend my day doom scrolling, causing brain rot. Even when I feel unproductive, I know the Lord has not abandoned the work He began in me. I feel that I am rich in the spiritual realm, building up treasure in heaven, while suffering hardship that is beyond measure here on earth. The refining fire is never comfortable, but I trust that God wastes none of our suffering. I used to strive to be happy; more recently, I strive for the joy of the Lord in whatever situation I’m in. My desire is to know what God wants me to do and then be obedient to that calling whether I want to do it or not. Obedience is often costly, but it is always worth more than temporary comfort. My heart is to put every aspect of my life at God’s disposal. I pray about what is written in *John 15:8 My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit, and prove yourselves to be My [true] disciples.* Every day is another opportunity to abide in Christ and allow Him to produce fruit that only He can bring forth. My joy does not come from doing my will but from being fruitful, fulfilling the purpose that Jesus has before me in being His “[true] disciple.” I like what Charles Spurgeon said, “When your will is God’s will, you will have your will.” Not everything I do comes easy because the warfare is all around me, but one thing I can say for sure is that with God on my side, I will accomplish all that He has for me to do no matter who comes against me, for He is Sovereign and I am surrendered to Him. If any part of this resonates with you, know that you are not walking this journey alone, because we all need the grace, strength, and mercy of Jesus every single day. Let us encourage one another to remain faithful, to keep our eyes fixed on Christ, and to refuse to give up, even when the battle feels relentless. I ask that you would pray for me as I will pray for you, that together we would endure with unwavering faith until the Lord has finished His work in each of us. May we all be found faithful, bearing much fruit for His glory, standing firm in His truth, and proclaiming His goodness until the day we see Him face to face. May God’s grace be upon all who read these words, and may peace be multiplied over your lives as we live our lives at God’s disposal.

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.