Debbie Waltz/Author

Faithful Friday: A New Way To Get To Know Karen Kingsbury with the Karen Kingsbury Podcast

By: Debbie Waltz

If you've followed this blog very long, you know, I love Christian Fiction. “Life-Changing” author, Karen Kingsbury; she’s best known for her uncanny ability to write authentic stories of faith. Using real-life scenarios as her backdrop, she doesn’t shy away from controversial topics; instead, she uses her platform of fiction to shine a light on these issues and open a platform of discussion hoping to influence readers and public figures to change their viewpoint-making a difference in today’s society.

Now she’s doing it again through a 16-episode podcast. Every week, we get to hear from the “Queen" herself about topics near and dear to her heart regarding faith, family, and books. In her premiere episode, she invites audiences into her story as she shares what brought her and her husband (Donald) together. Like most Christians, Karen grew up believing she was a “good enough” Christian-going to church on all major holidays and not smoking or drinking. But that begins to change when a mysterious young man approaches her, asking her on a date. He asked if he could bring something with him on the date, though. A Bible.

You can imagine Karen’s reaction. But this seemingly innocent request opens up a whole new perspective for her as she questions her own "faith."As things get progressively more serious, she sees how Donald is determined to "center" his life around God; she is not too sure. Finally, it all comes to a breaking point.

The Karen Kingsbury podcast can be found on iTunes, Spotify and all other major platforms.

For more information, you can go to:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-karen-kingsbury-show/id1710644895

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Music Monday: “Don’t Stop Praying” by Matthew West

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~

It’s hard to believe there’s only one week left in January. During this month, we’ve experienced our fair share of crazy weather patterns - including our first actual snow of winter. As nice as it was, I’m already over it and ready for things to get back to normal. Granted, it’s been great being able to stay nice and warm inside and use my electric fireplace, and read a good book during the storms.
However, this weather presents some challenges-especially for those in the disabled community.
1. Snow sometimes prevents us from going out (or aging parents from shoveling the driveway.)
2. Based on one’s disability, cold weather can and often makes muscles tense, making things twice as difficult for the caregiver and the disabled person.
3. Weather patterns can influence people’s moods - seasonal affective disorder, depression, etc.

If I’m honest, though, the weather isn’t the only reason I haven’t gone to church lately. I have struggled to maintain a balanced prayer life. It isn't because I believe God has stopped listening or lost my faith. I struggle with knowing what to ask for and how to respond while waiting on His timing. Thankfully, a friend of mine has invited me to be a part of the women's Bible study group- with a few accommodations. She and I will go to the study guide by ourselves on the phone and occasionally meet every other week at my house to discuss our prayer requests or what we learned.

For more of this blog, please visit debwaltz.com

Faithful Friday: Jonathan Roumie New Docuseries, “Jonathan and Jesus.”
By: Debbie Waltz
Earlier this week, I explored just a few controversial issues that paint the church as an institution in an unpleasant light in today’s society. Depending on how strong our convictions are, we can let these issues take over the church and slowly lose sight of who Jesus is. As my pastor reminded us on Sunday, there are many denominations, but there is only one church made up of those who believe in Jesus Christ and seek to walk with Him daily.

Jonathan Roumie is one such believer. In previous discussions with Dallas Jenkins, he has expressed the immense weight placed on his shoulders playing the role of Jesus In his new docuseries, “Jonathan and Jesus.” Roumie opens up about how his iconic role has changed his personal and professional life, shaping what he believes about Jesus and how he continues to move in our lives today. Roumie shares how he did voiceovers just to get by before landing the role; at one point, he even questions leaving acting when God “dropped” this opportunity into his lap.

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Faithful Friday: Kodi Lee Is Back; His Latest Release Has A New Vibe
by: Debbie Waltz
Kodi Lee makes a triumphant return as part of AGT's newest franchise: AGT Fantasy League. In this new television series, judges pick their favorites and mentor to see who is America's favorite. For those who are unfamiliar, Kodi Lee first graced the stage in Season 14 and awed them with his unique musicality and talent. Being autistic and blind, his mother was determined to find a way of unlocking his brain somehow so that he could react with the outside world and music was it. Since then, his audition video has received 300,000,000 views across the Internet. Since his audition, he has released several covers of songs via YouTube.
While Kodi usually does covers, his newest release is an original called "Change." This techno-inspired song seems to be a call to action of sorts among those in the social media realm to stop all the negativity and replace it with positivity. In a way, I think Kodi has the right idea.
I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. As part of Simon's Team on AGT: Fantasy League. The show airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDEPQK1bKqs




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Music Monday: “Day After Christmas ” by Matthew West

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~

Has anyone started experiencing the Christmas "letdown" yet? Please tell me I'm not the only one!

Symptoms of this “letdown” include, (but are not limited to):

• decreased excitement after Christmas
• decreased motivation to do daily chores or take down Christmas lights
• brain fog

As much as I enjoy Christmas, it seems to come quicker every year. It vanishes just as fast. The anticipation of wrapping and unwrapping presents is replaced with returning duplicates and exchanging them for different sizes. The magic of the season is gone, and it's back to reality. For many, this means going back to work and getting back into a daily routine.

But is the "magic" of the season really gone? I think not. During most of my Christmas posts, I've tried my best to point out the hope we have in Christ. It is a free gift available to everyone who believes in and accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior. In accepting this gift, we are adopted as God's children. No longer are we slaves to our sin, wary of facing judgment when our time comes. We recognize we are robed in His righteousness.

So what's the magic ingredient? Hope. Hope not in ourselves, but in Jesus Christ. What then should be our response? As I've alluded to in previous posts, I believe this should spur us on to doing good deeds and loving each other. Matthew 5:16 reminds us, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

In doing so, we are acting as Christ's ambassadors to a very broken world. Your neighbors and coworkers alike will notice the difference and begin asking questions. Hopefully, this will allow you to witness- having an open and honest dialogue with one another about your faith. Be ready because we never know when God will provide such an opportunity. 1 Peter 3:15 says, "But in your heart revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a reason for the hope that you have. But do this in gentleness and respect.."

To listen to Matthew’s song, it can be accessed here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8izgadZvUqY

Music Monday: “Mary’s Lullaby (Tonight you are mine.)” by Wanda West Palmer

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~
Merry Christmas, everybody. Ironically, this is the first “Music Monday” that is going to be posted on Christmas day. I pray for friends and loved ones to surround you today. May this day remind you of your blessings – never take them for granted. For those missing loved ones this year, I pray God's presence be with you in a very special way.

Amid all the good we give each other today, may we never forget the precious gift God sent to us over 2000 years ago. The birth of Jesus Christ fulfilled the Old Testament prophets' predictions. Isaiah 7:14 says, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." He continues, revealing how Jesus is from the family of Jesse in chapter 11: "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots, a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, The Spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD." (Verses 1-3 NIV)

But Jesus' birth is only half of the story. Like other children his age, his parents brought him up in the Jewish religion of his ancestors. As a boy, he grew up learning to read the Torah and understanding what the Scriptures really meant.

Although he only ministered on earth for 30 years, his followers were misled into thinking the Messiah would bring an end to oppressive leadership. Contrary to religious teachings which concentrated on the law of Moses, Jesus was more concerned about people's spiritual and physical health.

Debbie Waltz | Substack I'm a 43-year-old writer with CP striving to live a life without limits. With the help of voice recognition technology, I hope to encourage everyone (with disabilities and without) to live a life worthy of the calling God has placed upon them.

Music Monday: “Light Of The World (Sing Hallelujah)” by We the Kingdom

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~

As we approach Christmas, we may see churches using this time to reflect on the many names of God. And why not? Many of them can be found in just one verse (Isaiah 9:6, in case you were wondering). From today though, I’d like to focus on one name in particular- this idea of Jesus being called “The Light of the World.”

This theme of light is nothing new to God. In fact, the first thing he does is speak light into existence in Genesis 1. It's as if he realizes the significance the analogy of light will play in passing down the foundation of our Christian faith for generations to come. Additionally, John uses that concept throughout his chapter to compare our lives before and after our transformation of becoming a Christian. Why? I think it's because he wants to remind us we are not the same people anymore! But that's not our doing, only God's. As Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

That's the beauty of this season. He saw our mess, But He didn't leave us to fend for ourselves. Instead, he came up with a rescue plan. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (NIV)

Yes, Jesus loves us that much...

Yes, Jesus loves YOU that much.

I know what you may be thinking, "But Debbie, God could never forgive me for what I've done, my sins are too great."

While I don't know what your sins are, there's good news. Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross covers EVERYTHING. This includes sins that occurred in your past, present, and future. Unbelievable to think about, right? Well, consider this: His unselfish act covers not only your sins but the sins of the entire world.

That's right. Jesus is like an "equal opportunity" agent; he doesn't care about your past- just that you believe in him and trust him as your Lord and Savior.

What then should be our response? I don't know about you, but I think his sacrifice should spur us into action. We should be so motivated by our transformation that we can't help but share the Good News with others. John 8:12 says, "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said: 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"

Furthermore, we should feel honored that Jesus chose to include as as part of his rescue plan. He doesn't need us, he wants us. John 1: 12-13 says, "Yet to all who did receive, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but of God. We are all children of God."

To listen to We the Kingdom’s song, you can access it here:

Wisdom Wednesday: Wisdom in the News
Submitted By: Debbie’s Dad

“And now, Israel, what doth the Lord they God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul?” (Deuteronomy 10:12; see also 5:33 and 8:6)

In recent news, the word “wisdom” has been used to describe the principles of a man that was a very thoughtful and successful investor. A billionaire with a revered legacy of investment leadership, Charlie Munger died at 99 years and was considered an investment oracle. [1] His investment wisdom was summed up in five basic principles:

1. Know your stuff–Invest in businesses where you are very competent and understand.

2. Proper Incentives–Understand the incentives for business management. You can estimate the outcome—their success or failure.

3. Safe Businesses–Invest in businesses with a margin of safety from risks.

4. Protected Businesses - Favor businesses with a protective layer from their competition.

5. Leverage Compound Interest - Reinvest gains from properly incentivized, safe, protected companies.

While they summed this investment wisdom up in a few principles, we can also sum up Biblical wisdom in even less than 5 principles.

The Bible similarly establishes a set of principles that are repeated throughout Scripture to guide those who seek Godly wisdom. They are highlighted in our verse for today–Instructions to God’s people:

1. Fear the Lord–Deep, reverent fear of the Almighty God is the beginning and foundation of gaining the wisdom and knowledge of God. (“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” Psalm 111:10). Fools reject God (Psalm 14:1) and the proud or haughty fall, fail to find Him, and are destroyed. (Prov. 16:18).

2. Walk In the Way of the Lord–Joshu also instructed God’s people to walk (to live their daily life trusting in the Almighty) in trust and obedience to God’s instruction: “But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Joshua 22:5 (NKJV).

3. Enjoy the spiritual blessings of walking in Godly wisdom–The “Blessed is every one that fears the LORD; that walks in His ways” (Psalm 128:1).

Another man, John H. Stammis, summed up these principles of Godly wisdom in 1887. His well-known hymn, “Trust and Obey” captures the principles of reverence, trust, and the obedient walk that provides happiness:

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Refrain:
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Wise investing is valuable, but wise living for the Almighty God is invaluable - beyond estimation and priceless! May be invest our lives and eternal destiny following the Biblical wisdom to revere, trust, and obey!

For more posts like this, go to:debwaltz.com
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[1] Martin Baccardax, The Wisdom of Charlie Munger: 5 Simple Steps to Investment Success, The Street, 29 November 2023; https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/savingandinvesting/the-wisdom-of-charlie-munger-5-simple-steps-to-investment-success/ar-AA1kISU8.

Music Monday: “God Problems.” by Maverick City Music (featuring Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine)

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for me. For those following my journey on this blog, you may recall how my family and I have stepped out in faith by hiring a writing coach to help me complete my novel. After our second meeting, Darcie concluded she needed to see what I had so far to see if there was a better place to start my novel. In the meantime, she suggested I read Save the Cat Writes A Novel: The Last Book On Writing You Will Ever Need by Jessica Brody. I’m still in the book, but I’m learning a lot. I thought I knew the techniques for writing a book. But boy was I wrong... I still have a long way to go.

It means the world that I have someone else (besides my family) who sees my potential; Darcie sees my talent and will work with me to bring it into the market. Hiring someone was always going to be part of the plan, but life always got in the way.

Not anymore.

Circumstances have kept me from attending my regular morning services, but that hasn't stopped me from attending. Meta Church's (NYC) newest series entitled "Legendary Faith.” reminded me about stepping out in obedience when you have heard God's calling on your life. This doesn't make it easy or mean you have all the answers. Because we don't. As Christians, we trust in The One who knows our future and sees how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together. We may not see the end product for ourselves, but still believe our life has a purpose for the Kingdom.

To read more on this blog, please go to:Debwaltz.com

The Wisdom in Turning Around

Submitted by Ed Waltz

“I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I did not hide; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD”; And You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah. Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found; Surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him.” (Psalm 32:5-6 NASB 95)

In Psalm 32, David rejoices in the forgiveness of God. He confessed the pain he endured when he hid his sin (vv. 13-4)–his body wasted, he groaned all day long, and his vitality (motivation) was drained away. How dreadful to be in guilt and conviction about his sin–David, a man of God! Perhaps this Psalm follows Psalm 51, where David seeks pardon from God after his sin with Bathsheba (his sin of adultery and murder is recorded in II Samuel 11).

Yet, in the next verses (vv. 5-6), he explains the joy when he wisely turned and confessed his sin to God. He received forgiveness, and the burden was lifted. Confession before God is a necessity to walk in wisdom—repentance (an attitude of the heart) and confession (an action to call on God) are both an element of wisdom.
The Lexham Bible Dictionary says, “The Hebrew word that most closely approximates “repent” or “repentance” is translated into English as “return,” which basically means “to turn around and go in the opposite direction.” We move from rebellion toward God in our sin to confession to God—our humble acknowledgement of our transgression.

Yes, repentance and confession are a part of living the life of wisdom. If we are wise, we will confess our sins and be restored to the fellowship of walking with God - and as David said, we will be forgiven from the guilt of our sin and be secure in Him. The flood of tests and trials in life (the “great waters”) will not reach us.

To read other blogs like this, please go to:debwaltz.com

Wisdom Wednesday: Fools Hate The Knowledge of God
Submitted by Debbie’s Dad

“How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?
For scorners delight in their scorning,
And fools hate knowledge.”
-Proverbs 1:22 NKJV

In this passage, Solomon is providing instruction to a young person on living life. His emphasis is on the important need to listen to instruction and learn wisdom and knowledge of God.
The first chapter introduces a sequence of exhortations:
• The purpose of the Proverbs collection is to know wisdom and instruction by understanding instruction. (1:1-24.)
• A wise and understanding person will listen and learn (1: 5-6.)
• The fear or reverence of the Lord is the beginning of gaining wisdom (1:7.)
• Listen to the instruction of your parents. But watch out for sinners that will entice you! They will ultimately take your life away from you. (1:8-19)

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debwaltz.com

This is one of my favorite authors-. Although she has written nothing recently. Some days I find my purpose, other days I forget it. That's when we need to redirect ourselves. Are our expectations based on what we think or on God's?

I'm trying not to waste this season.

Where my single friends at?

Can I challenge you?

Write down the expectations you have in your head for the perfect spouse. Go ahead. Write them all down, even the ones you wouldn't voice out loud.

Now, go through and put a check mark next to every one of them that is a biblical trait.

That's your list, my friends.

And the goal will be an active growth in those areas, not a guy/gal who is perfect in those areas. All the others may be nice to have but aren't necessary.

I had a friend not too long ago, who told me she was in the perfect scenario to feel butterflies and didn't, so she decided not to go on another date.

Real talk...she was honest. A lot of us do the same thing without realizing it when we go on dates.

Friend, please make sure your list matches the Bible and not a Hallmark movie. And hopefully, he has some of those movie type romance moves and lines in his back pocket. My guy likes to pull those lines out in the absolute cheesiest moments.

I also realize, that guys who are wholeheartedly following Jesus seem like unicorns in our culture. And I'm so sorry for that. As someone who got married in her 30s, I KNOW it's discouraging. But they exist, and the only thing you can control is your own walk with the Lord and the list in your head.

My guy is younger than I planned. Shorter than I was used to. And better than I even knew I wanted.

Praying for you, friend. You are loved. You have a purpose. Don't waste the season.

Fun Friday: A Bucket List Dream Checked Off- My Adventures in Paris

By: Debbie

It hard to believe that I am writing on my last port of call in today's blog. There's a lot more I could've included in this series, but then it would just continue on and on. In retrospect, though, I think the timing's perfect since I am embarking on a new journey to complete my fiction novel. The journey requires my entire focus and energy; I will only blog twice a week rather than the normal three times per week. That being said, I'd appreciate it greatly if you would pray for Darci and me. This partnership is bound to take a toll on each of us individually as the weeks progress. For Darci, I pray she knows what a godsend she is to me in this journey. To read more about this blog, please go to:debwaltz.com

There's another update on this beautiful Friday. Although I wasn't able to reschedule my Spinal Muscular Atrophy interview with Nina Day, I hope you will take some time to read my personal reflections on the theatrical movie "The Hill" The real life story of Major League legend Ricky Hill.
debwaltz.com

Since my interview got postponed about SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy). I thought it would be helpful if I gave you some some info regarding the the disease

https://debwaltz.com/

A Life Without Limits - Rollin' Into The Future I have decided to implement three different themes over the summer. These themes include:

A new faithful Friday with "Even If" Founder Renée Dollemayer

Faithful Friday: My interview with "Even If" founder Renée Dollenmayer - Rollin' Into The Future Faithful Friday: My interview with "Even If" founder Renée Dollenmayer

Faithful Friday: A Quick Note to All This Year's Graduates

By: Debbie Waltz

As the school year wraps up, I know several people graduating and moving on to the next stage in their life; My niece Elizabeth and cousin Joshua are among that group. That being said, I would like to take a moment to applaud you on all of your accomplishments and wish you all the best in your future.

Elizabeth, I have enjoyed watching you grow from a shy young girl into a confident young woman. You are always willing to come alongside someone and help them if needed. It's been amazing to watch you grow in confidence as you continue to try new things and mentor others in swimming. You are always willing to help me out with driving my wheelchair and co-piloting the van on unexpected road trips. For that, I will be eternally grateful. With you around, I feel independent, like an aunt going out with her niece. I can't wait to see what the future holds for you in college.

Joshua, I'm sorry we live so far away. I have enjoyed watching you grow up through Facebook Live and catching up on occasional family reunions. Your passion for marching band is infectious, and I can tell Aunt Jennifer loves it too! I know God is going to do great things in your life

Words of Wisdom to Pass on.
I want to share with you some life lessons I've learned since I graduated from Saline High School in 1999.

1. Cherish the moments you're given because you can't get them back. We've all heard the saying, "Life is precious." But it's so true these days - with Covid and everything else happening, it's so easy to lose track of what's important. That being said, take a moment to step back and examine whose influential life has impacted you and tell them. Who knows when you'll get the chance again? Your college life will start soon, and you're bound to forget. So just don't, okay?

2. Take stock of friendships and attempt to stay in touch. Keep track of friends' phone numbers and stay in contact. We've all heard the saying, "They grew apart."; this rings true for long-term relationships and friendships as well. That said, try to stay in touch with the friendships you value most. Sometimes things may get in the way, but don't let them. Even the most minor thing, like a text, reminds them you still care and are thinking of them.

3. Remember to balance work and play

For more of this blog, please go to: debwaltz.com

Happy Memorial Day. Although I am technically off today, I wanted to remind you of the real meaning behind this holiday. Our freedom isn't free, recognize and honor those in your life who have paid the ultimate price. In doing so, we also honor and appreciate the one who paid ultimately for our sins On the Cross

Check out the newest music Monday update-debwaltz.com

Since tomorrow is my birthday, I will be taking break for faithful Friday. It's hard to believe. I will be 43 years old . But I haven't forgotten about you. Yesterday, my friend posted this link featuring about the character of Little John in the Chosen. The actor who plays this character is TRULY disabled- having CP and scoliosis. In this interview, he openly explains his childhood experiences growing up with a disability. I can relate

Actor who plays apostle embraces his limp Jordan Walker Ross plays Little James in The Chosen, but his disability in the show is no act. Born with cerebral palsy and scoliosis, Jordan has sometimes q...

Wisdom in the Innermost Being

Submitted by Debbie’s Dad

Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being,
And in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.
(Psalm 51:6, NASB)

This Psalm has a superscription—a sentence preceding the content that provides context and more explanation. David wrote the Psalm following his sin of adultery with Bathsheba (recorded in 2 Samuel 11). After being confronted by Nathan about the sin he tried to conceal, David was contrite and publicly acknowledged his sin, violating several of the Ten Commandments in this Psalm.

The Psalm proceeds with a clear line of prayer before God:
• Verses 1-2 are David’s appeal to God’s love and compassion for forgive a sinner. He requests
that his sins be “blotted out” (erased) and he be washed and cleansed (made clean again.)

• Verses 3-4 acknowledge his transgression against God’s law, and that God is just to judge him.

• And in verses 5 and 6, he recognizes he was born a sinner – as a human he inherited Adams’ sinful nature. These verses contrast David and God:

To read more of this post, you can go to: debwaltz.com

Music Monday: "Perfectly Loved." by Rachael Lampa (featuring TobyMac)

by: Debbie Waltz

Welcome Back, Readers~

Before I go into my song of the week, let me just so you I am exhausted. Every time I attend one of these conferences, I can't help but question why I'm doing it. There is so much information from so many people; it's hard to wrap my mind around everything. Let alone there is nobody to take notes for me. Therefore, I must rely on the kindness of strangers who will share their notes with me at the conference. Of course, that doesn't solve all my problems, but it usually brings to mind essential concepts relating to fiction or blogging that I can use.

As fantastic as these conferences are, they remind me of my limitations and bring me face-to-face with my old "friend" comparison. Thoughts like "they are doing so much better at building an audience than I am." or "Wow, she's got a book published; she's light years ahead of me." cross my mind. That's where I stop myself and realize that while we may run the same race, she does not have the same obstacles as I do. I'm not saying this to throw myself a pity party. It's a simple fact. I do not have the same capabilities as someone else. Neither does someone else have the ability to reach my realm of influence. Psalms 139:14 - 15 reminds us that God created us all unique. It says: "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth." (NIV)

God doesn't just stop there, though. As Christians, we are called to a deeper purpose. God has given us gifts and talents to help us provide for ourselves here. But even more importantly, we are supposed to live our daily lives constantly pointing to Him through our words and deeds. Remember what Ephesians 210 says: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."