by marian | Nov 26, 2017 | Blog
And I heard a voice from heaven, saying, “Write, ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on!’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “so that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them.”–Revelation 14:13 (NASB) I heard the sad news today that Dr. Leonidas Fengos, had departed for heaven on Friday, November 24, 2017. He was a powerful pastor in Greece that was highly used by God. He was a dynamic and Spirit-filled preacher with an anointed message. Brother Louis, (Αδελφο Λουη) as we called him, was a chosen servant of God who gave his whole life for the Gospel. He had a long and effective ministry and a tireless zeal to preach anywhere and everywhere. He stood without apology for God’s Word. He constantly read his Bible, studying it all day long for many hours and underlining important passages. He exemplified what it was like to live a holy life. Over the years, our family had become friends with his and his life matched his preaching. I thank God for this truly one-of- a-kind man of God. He encouraged me in so many ways in my walk with God to grow closer to Him. Over ten years ago, I decided to translate his book on Revelation from Greek to English. It took many months of tedious and careful study and it became such a blessing reading Revelation and his commentary on it. How I wish that I could be there for his funeral! I know it will be a blessing to be in the same church that he preached in countless times...
by marian | Oct 8, 2017 | Blog
I love it when I go to a conference and get to hear a brand new author–at least “new” to me. For me, this year, it was Glenys Nellist. I have to say I wasn’t sure what to expect from her session title, “Retelling God’s Story For Children,” but it was, by far, one of the best sessions I’ve ever gone to. Glenys is genuine and super funny and full of wonderful ideas and tips on writing. I just loved it when she said that we need to have an encourager in order to be a writer. She’s so right. I know this for a fact because I have one. It’s my mom. She is always, I mean always, encouraging me. She tells me that I can do it with God’s help and that He can use my gifts for His glory. Thanks, Glenys, for reminding me of that. And thanks, Mom, for always encouraging me. “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”–I Thessalonians 5:11...
by marian | Dec 25, 2016 | Devotionals
The breathless anticipation of Christmas morning keeps children from falling asleep the night before. They just can’t wait to wake up and find presents under the tree! Once they find their name on a gift, they can’t wait to open it. At last, they tear off the ribbons and wrapping and find out what’s in the box. It’s then that words fail them. A little dance or jumping in the air or uncontrollable giggles might begin to express their happiness. And yet, it is indescribable. This is the joy that characterizes Paul as he remembers God’s indescribable gift of our Savior. How thankful he is that God would give such an extravagant and beyond description gift to save mankind from their sins. This is the most generous gift of all time. It’s a gift that’s undeserved and could never be paid back. When words fail, let us pray that same prayer . . . thank you, Lord. And then may God help us find the words–and the boldness–to proclaim to the world that Jesus Christ is born. But He is not only to be celebrated for coming to earth one Christmas morn long ago, but also for being born anew in our hearts. This rebirth has made all the difference in my life and I pray it has touched yours as well. If you do not know Jesus as Savior, I pray that this Christmas becomes the merriest of Christmases for you as you invite Him into your heart. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to...
by marian | Oct 23, 2016 | Devotionals
It’s that time of year where the next three holidays are displayed all at the same in stores. Within minutes, I’ve walked by pretty pink costumes, salt and pepper turkey shakers, and then a glowing reindeer decoration. It’s like stores have turned into a three-ring circus. Nobody can seem to wait to celebrate each holiday in it’s due course and so all three must crowd the stage. What was a normal way of segueing from Halloween to Thanksgiving followed by Christmas has now morphed into this confused season where all three holidays no longer seem to have much distinction. It’s sort of like there is no longer any timeline. You basically get to pick and choose from the smorgasbord of upcoming holiday themes and decorations. And if you want all three…why not? As they say…the more the merrier! In times like these, there is an eternal source of truth that is solid and unwavering. It provides direction and meaning and purpose in a world that seems to have lost it’s footing. It gives answers to people’s questions, uncovers lies, and exposes half-baked truths. The only constant rock that is stable and secure in every storm of life is the unchanging Bible, the Holy Word of God sent to all mankind. It continually points us to a way of living that is in stark contrast to a culture that’s lost it’s way. In his first epistle to Timothy, Paul encourages us to lay aside jealousy, disagreements, assumptions, arguments, and greed and take on a new lifestyle: godliness. But not just godliness. While that may appear to be enough…we need to add one more thing. Make sure that you don’t...
by marian | Oct 9, 2016 | Blog
I was so blessed to get to attend the Breathe Writer’s Conference once again this year! The speakers and classes were amazing! One speaker called it a feast and that’s exactly how it felt! I was stuffed full of great thoughts and encouragement! I think it’s going to take me a few days to digest it all! I’d like to share the highlights over the next few days, but the one that stands out is that we need to approach our writing with the view point of a missionary. We don’t have to worry about who will accept it–or not. We are simply called to be faithful in our writing and let the Lord take care of the results! ...
