Gail

Hi!  I'm Gail Burton Purath. I started Bible Love Notes to give people a minute of scriptural encouragement in their busy day.


I don't have all the answers, but
since I asked Christ to be my Lord and Savior in 1974, I've been learning from the One Who has all the answers! 
 
 I'm still a sinner, a learner, a student who falls down and disappoints God at times. But it's my desire to grow closer to the Lord, day by day, minute by minute.

I need to be challenged, encouraged, corrected, and comforted, and I think you do as well...so let's learn together about the love of God—a love that is so vast that we will always be discovering new and wonderful things about it.
 
Some personal stuff
:
  • I married my best friend Michael in 1970.
  • We have a grown son and daughter and seven grandchildren.
  • I've been a student of the Bible for forty years.
  • I'm a former Army wife, former homeschooler, and former missionary to Budapest, Hungary.
  • I was born in Colorado, but I'm a "nomad" having moved about forty times in my life! My father's job involved frequent moves, my husband spent twenty-two years in the Army, and my husband and I have been moving since his retirement for ministry reasons.
  • I have a Master's degree in Discipleship and Evangelism from Columbia Biblical Seminary.
  • My first book was published in 2023. It's called Wisdom for Life and it features one-minute devotions from Psalms and Proverbs. If you'd like to read about the way God brought that about, please read A Bible Love Notes Book in Spring 2023.
I believe in Christ as He is revealed in the Bible, and I believe we each need to make a personal decision to follow Him in order to be with Him in eternity and to enjoy His fullness here on earth.

If you would like to grow with me and ponder God's love notes each day with me, please find out how easy it is to become a subscriber HERE. (And did I mention that it's free?)


If you'd like to read some Bible Love Notes before signing up, you can check some of these collections: 

113 comments:

  1. It is so nice to meet you Gail. I love meeting new friends and really love it when they happen to be Grandmothers. We have seven grandchildren too. This looks like a lovely place to visit. Thank you so much for the invitation!

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  2. So glad you joined Bless a Blogger, Linda. I agree...blogging allows us to get to know people from all over the globe. So nice to meet another grandmother of 7! Gail

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  3. I'm so happy to have found your blog! Thanks for commenting on my latest post. I look forward to following your thought and faith journey. May you have a blessed Good Friday!

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    1. Thanks for stopping by, Erin. May you have a blessed Easter weekend too. I look forward to sharing this journey with you!

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  4. Your blog looks so nice and I am encouraged to find someone older blogging:-)It is good for the younger ladies to have older moms around cyberspace. I loved reading that you are married 41 years!! I am looking for blogging help and that is what caused me to hop on over!!

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    1. So glad you stopped by. It's interesting that God has made my main focus blogging at this stage of my life. It doesn't take the place of sharing with someone in person, but it's made my scope of ministry larger than any other time in my life. God bless you as you minister on your blog too.

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  5. I've really been enjoying your blog. What a blessing. I am nominating you for the Versatile Blog Award and hope you will accept it in the loving manner I am giving it. http://versatilebloggeraward.wordpress.com

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  6. Hi Gail - I saw your posting on the award but no place to comment so...here I am here :) I loved learning more about you. Look forward to your next posts
    God bless and thank you for the lovely write-up
    Tracy

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    1. Thanks again for nominating me, Tracy. You would have been on my list of nominees if you hadn't nominated me.
      I just enabled my comments on the page...just forgot.

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  7. Hello! I just found you through the Alabaster Jar's Marital Oneness Monday. I would love to follow and receive your love notes!

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    1. I look forward to having you join me on this journey, Sylvia! Bless you, Gail

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  8. so glad you stopped by Tots and Me and signed up with Lovin' The Weekend Blog Hops. I am now following your blog, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
    Love your blog.
    I just wanted to let you know that you have been randomly selected to be the weekend's Featured Host. I would love if you could email me a little blurb about yourself/your blog. Things like, how long you have been blogging, what you blog about, why you started blogging and any other information you feel is important. I will include it in the post and email you back the html code for Lovin' The Weekend Blog Hops Friday afternoon.
    hope to hear from you soon
    kewkew34@yahoo.com

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  9. Gail, I've been blogging about a month and am having so much fun. I found yours today and followed you through my Wordpress reader- I hope it shows up on your stats, because I know how fun it is to see new followers!
    Blessings!
    Melinda

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  10. Hi, Gail! Thanks for checking out my blog. I've enjoyed perusing yours, as well! I think we have some things in common with missions and travel. Blessings! Connie

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  11. Hey Gail! I love your blog. I have a strange question. How did you get the "Check out these blogs" on your sidebar. I use inlinkz but I'm so new to it I don't understand how it all works yet. I like the way all of the buttons fit perfectly in rows like yours. Can you share with me how you did it? I use wordpress for my blog.

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  12. Hi Gail, I could not find a contact form so will use these comments. I am looking for contributors for a our website
    http://www.familyis.org/blogs/ Would you be willing to have some of your devotions republished ?
    Regards
    Tarnya
    Bigmomma@familyis.org

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  13. Hi Gail, Just found you and joined right up! This blog is amazing! Rich in wisdom, encouragement, great devotions and fun ideas too! I see that you visited and joined my blog. Thank you! I am trying yo figure out how to copy and paste your button on my blog. Isn't that pitiful, that I can't do that? I'll get it, though. So much more to learn. Keep on blessing us! May you be blessed! Linda

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  14. Hi Gail, I found you via the link up at Jen A's site--Unite! (I read your tips above and I'm not supposed to tell you that. Or was it on the how to be nice to other bloggers page?)
    Anyway--your post about kindness via the internet is most welcome. You obviously are walking in the calling God has given you.
    We have much in common--I look forward to visiting back soon.

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  15. Hi Gail, I just posted on your beautiful blog hop, and put your link on my sidebar. Can you email me your HTLM code for your " coffee MUG" photo so that I can center it on my sidebar? I can't figure out how to center and image, but I know how to center HTLM code!

    Keep shining for Jesus, Sister!

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  16. Hi Gail,
    You just left me the most encouraging note on my blog and I wanted to thank you. As more and more readers find me online, I am realizing that not all of the comments are positive. I'm so grateful that I'm finally finding a following, but that particular negative response really has stuck with me. I thought and thought about how to respond (if at all) but really wanted to defend my work. And in the end, I'm glad I did. I appreciate you for taking the time to say such a kind thing, and it made me think you're the type of person I'd like to know. Your blog is wonderful...I'm in awe. Thanks again, Gail. Have a great week!

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    1. Rude comments are hard to handle, but you did a great job. Thanks for your kind compliments.
      Bless you, Val.

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  17. Gail, I love this site! My hubby and I run a marriage site called Marriage Life Ministries and I would really love to create something like you have on the side of your site - the blog links widget where you have all of the sites buttons? Could you please let me know how you did that? I refer readers back to the sites I link to every week but I'm doing it in a really simplistic way right now and really loved how I saw yours set up. I've researched and can't seem to figure out how to set it up! Is it a plugin? Grateful for any help! Thanks!

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  18. Hi Alecia,
    I tried to contact you, but couldn't find your contact info on your google profile or your blog. But I'm glad to tell you that I have a tutorial on creating the blog links. It's called "Fun Tool" and it's here:
    http://biblelovenotes.blogspot.com/2012/07/fun-tool.html

    It's done with Inlinkz manager tool. They recently updated their program, and my tutorial was made before that, so there are probably a few differences. But they have videos and instructions for using the program. And, if you have some trouble, just let me know and I'll be glad to help if I can.

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  19. Thank you so much! I better go check on my google profile and make sure its up to date :)

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  20. Hi Gail,

    I found your blog today and subscribed to your email devotionals. Your blog is blessing me so much and I have been scribbling down scriptures and notes for further study. I'm so glad the Lord led me here today. God bless you, love Tina xx

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  21. Gail,

    I am loving your website. I am listening to the devotions while I do the dishes. So refreshing. Love GOD's word.

    ~Katie
    www.simplefoody.org

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    1. What a blessing to hear this, Katie. You encouraged me today. Thanks!

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  22. Hi Gail!
    I am writing my last chapter on my first book(on how families can blossom) set to be published this year.I bumped into your blogg as i set to read about loving in laws.I am blessed and will keep visiting.

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  23. I’m writing to invite you to join the new Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²). If you'd like details, please email me. Thanks. jonathan.petersen@biblegateway.com

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  24. Aunt Gail,
    I need a guidance from a senior person like you in my family problem with the reference of Holy Bible. How do I reach you.

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    1. Hi Anand,
      I think my husband would be a good person for you to email. You can reach him here: growthandrenewal@yahoo.com
      Sincerely,
      Gail

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  25. I do enjoy the blog. Thank you for the shares...

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  26. Hi Gail...wonderful ministry. I too have a desire to reach out to others as you. In 2004 "M" Words and the Christian Woman came to be after (...too much to tell here) His molding and shaping led me to serve and outreach for Him. It is amazing how He leads us down a road we never thought we'd be on, but oh what blessings we find along the way! I too have moved more times than I'd like to count, love to write, miss western NC and spend more time blogging and connecting with women in need than I do anything else, but all that is done for Christ will last. Your a blessing. Another sister in Christ, JO mwordsandthechristianwoman.com

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    1. I took a look at your site, Jo, and it's lovely--wonderful images and thoughts. It is amazing how God directs our paths and uses us. May God continue to bless your ministry.

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  27. I keep trying to sign up for this. But I never get the email to okay it? linwetzel@hotmail.com.
    help thanks LInda

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  28. Hi Gail!
    I live in Charleston SC and came across your blog randomly one day - I am not sure how, but I am SO glad. I always look forward to reading your posts! Thank you for your ministry. It's been a blessing to me and I'm sure to so many others. :)
    Sincerely,
    Juliet

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    1. Thank you, Juliet, for taking the time to encourage me. I'm so glad that my blog has blessed you. I love the city of Charleston--such a pretty place!
      God bless you,
      Gail

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  29. Hi Gail,
    I found your Budapest blog and was brought here to your main blog. I love your 1 minute devotions. I will recommend your blog to family and friends who are searching.

    My reason for contacting you is that I am going to Budapest soon. I wondered if you can recommend a hotel within walking distance of interesting sites.

    Thank you!
    Mary

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    1. Hi Mary,
      I'm glad you enjoyed Bible Love Notes.
      Could you contact me via biblelovenotes @ netzero.com? I can answer your questions better that way.
      God bless,
      Gail

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  30. Thanks Gail!
    I just sent you a test message before I write a whole letter.
    Thanks!
    Mary

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  31. Hi Gail,

    So glad to have found you today. So many things my heart connects with here.
    I have left inspired. Thank you - weary up to my eyeballs as of late.
    :)
    Kimmie
    Mama to 8
    One homemade and 7 adopted
    (And- the Hungarian's daughter, who happens to Love Jesus!)

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    1. Hi Kimmie,
      It blesses me to know that you feel a connection : )
      God bless you for your ministry to your family!
      I'm praying as I write this that God will give you strength and rest today.
      Gail

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  32. Glad to find your site from Pinterest...we have much in common. I also come from a military family, was a missionary/teacher to China (in the 80s) and now my son is raising support as a US missionary to college campuses. I've also started this whole blogging thing, as well; hence, the website. :) I became more home bound in 2009 due to health issues, so I thought I'd give it a shot; it's going a little slow for me, but I'm learning a lot!! Blessings to you!!

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    1. I just checked out your website and it looks great! I think you'll enjoy blogging. I pray that your health will improve as well.
      God bless you,
      Gail

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  33. Hi Gail,
    I recently read two articles by you that I loved about honoring your mother-in-law. I was wondering how to best love and honor my very opinionated (future) mother-in-law. If I do not do exactly what she tells me to, then she will stop talking with me. I want to show her love, but I also do not want to be manipulated into doing everything she tells me to. How do I best love and honor her? Thank you so much for your time and for your ministry.

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    1. Hi Meredith,
      I'm sorry you had trouble commenting. I'm glad you were able to comment here.

      Your question is a good one, and the answer is complex. Each relationship is unique and handling the different personalities involved will require prayer and patience. The good news is that the Lord wants to help you honor your m.i.l. and He is eager to be your Counselor.

      Having said that, let me offer a few tips that might help:
      1. Transitions are always a bit "messy" and you are at a transition in your lives. All of you are redefining your roles. This will require some trial and error and you will all make mistakes in the process. Don't let those mistakes make you give up. Remember that this relationship will affect your well-being and the well-being of your husband and future children. It is worth great effort to do all that you can to make it work. Perseverance is a key.
      2. Honoring your m.i.l. will require lots of forgiveness, patience, and prayer. Ask her forgiveness when you make mistakes, and forgive her even if she doesn't ask forgiveness for hers. God will see and bless you for this.
      3. Refuse to take on the attitude that it's you against her. Ask God to give you her perspective - to show you her fears and challenges. Try to step into her shoes. One day you may be giving up a son in marriage and then you will realize how difficult that process can be and you will be doubly glad you gave your m.i.l. grace.

      There are some cases - rare ones - where a m.i.l. won't respond to honor and love and will continue to be difficult. I hope this is not your case, but if it is, God will show you how to honor her and show her love without letting her control your family.

      I encourage you to take a look at all the articles I've written about honoring parents, in-laws and mother-in-laws. I think that the insights in those articles might give you some help. Bookmark them and read through them as you have time, praying that God will give you specific insights for your relationship.

      And I am going to pray for you as soon as I quit writing.
      May God bless your desire to do the right thing!
      In Christ,
      Gail
      P.S. I might share your question (anonymously) and my answer in a post. I think it's a good question.

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    2. Here's the link to my first of 7 Mother-in-law articles. The links to all of the others are in this article:
      http://biblelovenotes.blogspot.hu/2010/05/strengthen-your-marriage-love-your.html

      And here's the link to the archive of all articles on honoring parents (which would apply to honoring in-laws):
      http://biblelovenotes.blogspot.com/2012/09/honoring-parents.html

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  34. Hi Gail,
    Thank you for the bite size bible study. God really talks to me through your blog to deal with my daily situations. I have sent an invite through Google. Please accept and let me know your email id.

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    1. I'm glad that you are enjoying the devotions. I have not yet received your google invite, but will let you know when I do.
      thanks,
      Gail

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    2. Thank you for the 1 minute love notes, they are helping me to grow in the Lord. I see you are from Colorado, I've been here for 61 years and love it. Last week we received 24 inches of snow, it was beautiful. Keep posting as I love doing these 1 minute studies along with my other bible studies I am involved in. Happy belated Easter, he has risen!

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    3. Hi Debra.
      I'm so glad you are enjoying Bible Love Notes.
      Yes, even though we've lived so many other places, I always think of Colorado as home. My husband's parents have also lived there about 60 years. God bless you and thank you for the encouragement.
      Gail

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  35. Merry Christmas to all the Purath family
    Thank you for the bite size Bible studies

    Caroline

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  36. What an annointed task God give to you. Your more precious than gold. God bless you.

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  37. Thank you so much, Gail, for your most awesome Bible love notes. I see that you are also on Facebook, and I will be "liking" you so that your inspirational notes will appear on my newsfeed. God Bless you!

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  38. Gail , I've been reading your bible notes for almost a year now. I can tell you are a true disciple of Christ because his light shines thru your words. Thank you for your time you put for in them. They are easy to read and understand.
    Melanie

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    1. Thanks so much, Melanie, for the encouragement. That is my prayer - that God would use me for His purposes. And I'm so glad that you find the devotions easy to read and understand too.
      Gail : )

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  39. Your courage in your post "Unashamed" is inspirational to me. In my own blog, I am sharing my faith as well and this post seems like a confirmation to me. Thank you!

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    1. Thanks so much for your encouragement. I pray God will continue to use both of us as we share His wisdom on our blogs.
      Gail

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  40. Hi Gail...thanx so much for a devotional I enjoy daily as I'm driving the schoolbus and have a quick break...but also a devotional I send to my 4 college aged kids...I am content knowing they have something to meditate on each day and grow from....Angela in Canada

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    1. I love that you can read Bible Love Notes on a break from your work. That's what I hope for my readers - that it's a quick reminder of our Lord in the midst of a busy day. And how sweet that you send them to your children.
      Thanks for encouraging me!
      Gail

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  41. I am loving your website. I have always found it difficult to understand the Bible, and have given up trying, several times. You are a blessing to me, and are the missing piece. I'm struggling with my husband of 20 years, suddenly abandoning me. It's not that I didn't pray diligently about this....please help me understand God's role in this; why He stood by and watched, but did not intervene. Help me understand why, since He is the creator of marriage, He did nothing to preserve it? I have asked this question before, but no one yet, has been able to answer.

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    1. Hi Alchemy,
      Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad that Bible Love Notes is helping you.

      I'm so sorry about your situation, and I will pray for you.

      You ask a very common question. In fact, I had a friend whose husband left her for another woman when their children were teen-agers. She asked me the very thing you ask - Why did God let her husband do this?

      God can stop anything. That's true. And God is good and loving so He always wants good things for us. But He has chosen to give men and women free will. Without free will, we would simply be robots. But God doesn’t want robots. He wants children who genuinely love Him and are willing to choose Him even when sinful things look more attractive or when things are hard and confusing.

      I’m sure that if a policeman forced your husband at gunpoint to live with you, you would not be happy. You would want your husband to love you and desire to live with you on his own.

      God also feels that way. He doesn’t want to force us to follow Him here on earth or force us to live with Him in heaven. So He shows us His love and allows us to accept or reject it.

      When Adam and Eve sinned, our world was damaged - the environment outside and the hearts of every man. We want things we shouldn’t want and do things that disappoint God. But when we repent of our sins and ask Jesus to be our Lord He begins changing us from the inside out and we begin choosing the right things – the things that please God and the things that make our lives more godly and healthy.

      We still suffer from sin in our world – we still get sick and we still suffer because of the sins of others but our hearts begin to grow in grace and truth.

      Sometimes our sorrows seem unbearable, but God offers to comfort us, and He promises to never leave or forsake those who choose to follow Jesus.

      This life is such a tiny amount of time, but it seems long to us. But eternity is forever and when we follow Christ here, God promises us an eternity of perfect joy and peace.

      Your husband has made a sinful choice and his choice is hurting you and others. God didn’t make that choice for Him. Your husband made it. And God won’t force your husband to make the right choice. But I’m sure God is at work trying to get your husband’s attention. But your husband has a free will and he can reject God. God won’t force him to be a robot.

      I don’t personally know any Christian who isn’t suffering in some way - painful illness, loss of loved ones through death, rejection by adult children, divorce, etc. Some of them are suffering because of other people’s sins and some are suffering because sin entered our world and brought with it sickness and decay.

      Some Christians in foreign countries are suffering from hunger, abuse, and oppression.
      If there was no eternity waiting, these things could not make any sense. And right now, with the limited knowledge we have, they still don’t make sense, but we can trust our Lord to bring about His plan for us, if we love Him.

      I want to encourage you to pray for your husband, but realize he is going to make his choices. God will not make them for him. And I want to encourage you to reach out to the Lord. Let Him take you in His arms and comfort you. Don’t let a day go by without talking to Him and reading about Him in His Word. The Psalms are especially comforting to me when I am going through difficulty.

      God wants us to bring Him our raw, honest feelings. He isn’t afraid of our questions. We’ll find answers to some of those questions in His Word and some questions remain a mystery to us, but we know we can trust the goodness and love of our Lord even though we don’t have the answers.

      If you don’t have some Christian friends or a good Bible-believing church, please find one. You need the fellowship of other Christians right now more than ever.

      I will pray for you.

      Gail

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    2. Gail that was a wonderful exert, I pray that it reaches with understanding and wisdom. I too went through a similiar situation but not one time did I forget that God was in control of the picture. He was my comforter and my soother through it all. He pulled me through and still is. I remind myself that God will not more on us than we can bare. Be encourage

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  42. Hey. Mrs Gail, My name is Esther and greeting from Mongolia. I hope you to reply my comment.I really love your posts and read it everyday. As if it possible, i want to translate your notes into Mongolian and make it understandable to all our Mongolian christians. But i need your permission. Can you give me your email or gmail?

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  43. I just want to say i truly enjoy reading your articles and look forward to reading them everyday.
    Thank You

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  44. I still love your short devotions. I can translate them in Dutch for you :-) So you can made a Dutch site/blog

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    1. send me an email at BibleLoveNotes @ netzero.com and we can talk about this, Aritha. : )
      I look forward to hearing from you.

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  45. Hi Gail....My name is Candy

    I hope this post find you doing well. This is my last shot at posting, in hope that you will see it. As I have tried other times and no reply. Not that you just have to, but I want to simply encourage you to stay the course. God obviously has favored you. Undoubtely, the platform He has created for himself through you is incredible. Also, I love your blog. I was fortunate enough to have find your blog while minding my business last year, at a time when I was uncertain about family relationships and the poor condition they were in. And then, there it was, your article on "honoring parents". It blessed me so. Your spiritual insight and understanding of scripture is refreshing. I can't say that much has changed since reading the article, but I know that God is working on my behalf. Thanks Gail... and remember to "never grow weary in well doing."

    Blessings

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    1. I'm so sorry that you've posted before without response. They are supposed to notify me of all comments, but sometimes there's a glitch. But I try to answer as many comments as possible.

      I'm blessed to know that the article on honoring parents was helpful. I started writing about the subject when I realized that I had not taken it seriously as an adult child. I know there are lots of complexities in relationships, but I do think God's principles can at least give folks hope that, even if things don't improve, they are honoring God.

      I want you to know that your comment came at a perfect time to encourage me in this very area of honoring parents.

      Thanks for letting God use your words.
      Gail

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  46. Thank you Gail for your wonderful reminders and refresher on God's love and peace. I enjoy your bite size notes which usually lead me to check out the context and the whole text behind them.

    May God bless you to do his goodness.

    Alan Lye
    Singapore

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  47. Thank you, Alan. I'm blessed to know that my devotions encourage you to study God's Word. Thank you for your encouragement.

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  48. Help!
    You sometimes post scripture w/3versions side by side. I'm studying Job 31 & v34 is very confusing wd like to do that, but dont have a clue how. For now, ill write it out. Is it something you can explain easily?

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    1. Yes, all of my newer devotions link verses longer than 1 verse to NIV, NLT, and KJV using Bible Gateway. When you look up a verse in Bible gateway, there is a tool at the top right that looks like 2 combs back to back. That allows you to post it in multiple translations and you can choose the translation by using the drop down menu at the top of each translation column. If you have a single verse, you can use Bible Hub's parallel tool and it gives you over 20 different translations.

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  49. It's so blessing to read your biography
    You are doing a great work to preach the kingdom of God
    I really appreciate you sister.
    God bless you richly for His name's sake

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  50. Thank you for the inspiration. Truly appreciated. On June 5, the following appeared.... Jesus said, "Open your eyes and look at the fields! They are white for harvest" (John 4:35). My scripture says .... They are ripe for harvest... that would be RIPE not WHITE. Not sure how spell check got that wrong :-(!!

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  51. Gail,
    It saddens me that you don't believe that Sarah Young hears Jesus talking to her. Jesus talks to me exactly this same way & I write pages of things he's telling me. I check every sentence with scripture and the words I've written have never waivered from his word. I encourage you to do the same & maybe you will be blessed with hearing Jesus speak to you as well. Remember Jesus said that we should be more concerned with unseen things than the things we can see in this world. Yes, I longed for more as well, I love scripture & I read it daily, but I also feel God's touch when I see things he show's me, we all do, it's that gut feeling that something is right, or the warm sun on your skin or that sense of peace in your heart, so why is it so hard for you to believe that he can speak words to you? Isn't this the way God speaks to everyone? By giving them his thoughts - Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him & he shall direct your paths. I bet he has much to say to you. I challenge you to try it for 30 days, just write whatever comes to your mind during your prayer time. Then make up your mind if you feel it's inspired by our Lord & Savior Jesus, or your own thoughts. You are in for a much deeper walk with Jesus, one you never thought was possible. He is more real than your can imagine. Praying that he touches your life like never before. God Bless you!

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    1. Hi Robin,
      I totally agree that God guides and directs us on a personal basis, and He can guide and direct churches and groups.

      But that’s not the same as claiming that we have heard Jesus’ actual words and He intends for us to share these words (not found in Scripture) with the world.

      And that is Sarah Young’s claim.

      You and Sarah Young say you longed for something more than Scripture.

      I would understand if you said you longed for a closer walk with the Lord, a deeper love for Him, or a stronger faith, but I don’t understand a longing for words more than those in Scripture:

      2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

      God-breathed….making us thoroughly equipped.

      Hebrews 4:12 says “the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

      Alive…penetrating…able to judge our hearts and thoughts.

      Matthew 24:35 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”

      Eternal.

      How can we long for more than this?

      Sarah Young claims the words she writes are Jesus' words to share with everyone, yet she admits they are not Scripture. How could the actual words of Jesus meant for everyone be anything less than Scripture?

      Either they are Christ’s actual living, eternal, words or they are Sarah’s Young’s words.

      I believe they are Sarah Young’s words. And Sarah Young’s words, like yours and mine, are not to be compared with the words of Christ and not to be trusted like the words of Christ.

      I am concerned, Robin, that you assume hearing from God through Scripture cannot give a person the closeness that you have using your method.

      I believe that Sarah Young may be well-meaning, and I’m sure that you are also sincere about your faith, but I still cannot accept that Sarah Young speaks for Jesus.

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    2. Hi, Gail, Thank you for your comments about Sarah Young's books. I had ordered a book of hers for my granddaughter, based on the title, and I'm glad I read it first. I felt very uncomfortable reading a human speaking on Jesus's behalf, and I feel that it was the Holy Spirit telling me that it was not right. Only Jesus can speak for Jesus!

      I absolutely believe that God speaks to each of us -- I've heard His still, small voice telling me what to do or not do, but I know that what He says to me is intended for me. When He tells me to talk to others (e.g., my children or grandchildren), He supplies me with Scripture (and He promises that His Word will not come back void).

      I was equally uncomfortable about billboards that displayed "quotes" from God several years ago (e.g., "Don't make me come down there. God" Who are we to put words in the Holy mouths of God our Father and Jesus?

      Thank you so much, again, for your e-mailed devotionals and for being available to discuss these issues.

      May God bless you,
      Sally

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    3. Hi Sally,
      I'm glad that God gave you wisdom about the Jesus Calling books.
      Thanks for sharing your insights.

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  52. I love you. Thank you and God bless you. Nuff said. 😉

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  53. I'm looking forward to receiving my first e-mail. "When the student is ready the teacher will appear." This seems to fit my need right now. Looking forward to that e-book as well. Thanks Gail for following your leader.

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  54. I am a newcomer to your email devotional and I am grateful for it every morning. Thank you for your ministry. It's helping and changing lives!

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  55. I am blessed, checking through your site keeps me wow.

    I wish to know more about you and have you talk to me on your path to success and obstacles encounter.

    I am Isika Emmanuel

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    1. Hi Emmanuel,
      I'm glad that the devotions have blessed you.
      Reading them is probably the best way to understand how I have followed Christ. Any success I have comes from seeking the Lord, not material wealth or personal gain. I am still learning and making mistakes, but I am so glad that God promises us peace and joy in Him, not earthly wealth or comfort.

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  56. Gail…I am very impressed with your web site and your commitment to our Lord Jesus. Thanks for making this resource available to share the gospel with others. Do you have a church affiliation?

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    1. Thanks, unknown. I'm glad Bible Love Notes is helpful.

      I presently belong to a Bible-believing non-denominational church that teaches the Word of God and believes in the moral views of Scripture as well as the character of God as revealed in Scripture.

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  57. In order to be a disciple of Jesus you must literally give away all your money and possessions. Luke 14:33 and also vs 26 & 27. Jesus said if you don't meet these three conditions you CANNOT be His disciple.

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    1. Dear Unknown,
      Luke 14:26-33 says nothing about giving up all of our money and possessions. It speaks about “counting the cost” of following Christ and it uses the analogy of someone having enough money to complete a project and not starting the project until he does. In the same way, we shouldn’t attempt to follow Christ unless we have counted the cost of being under His Lordship and are willing to give up whatever He asks.

      Luke 14:26-33:
      26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ 31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples."

      Perhaps you are confusing this passage with Mark 10:17-27 where Jesus tells a specific person (the rich young ruler) that in order to follow him, he must sell all he has and give it to the poor. But that quote is directed at one man, not the world. Jesus knew this man's heart and knew that his god was his wealth. For him – and perhaps for others – giving up all of his possessions was necessary before his heart would recognize Jesus as Lord. But nowhere in Scripture does it command that all Christians give away all of their possessions to become disciples of Jesus.

      As to the other conditions, yes, they are universal principles that apply to all of us:

      If we love our family, or any human being, including ourselves more than we love Christ, we can’t be His disciples.

      Scripture is filled with commands to be considerate and loving of others, and Scripture especially emphasizes the need to honor our parents, and that in no way conflicts with this command. However, if we put the wishes of another human being above the wishes of Christ, we cannot be His disciple.

      Muslims who become Christians understand this principle very well because their families often disinherit them and reject them. Anyone who chooses to disobey Christ because a loved one has asked us to do so, is not worthy of being Christ’s disciple. They should have counted the cost before attempting to follow Christ. His wishes must come before the wishes of all others.

      God expects us to be willing to give up whatever He asks of us. That could include all of our possessions, but not necessarily.

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  58. Hi Gail,

    Thank you for your reply. I disagree that Luke 14:26-33 says nothing about giving up all of our money and possessions. Jesus literally said to FORSAKE/GIVE UP ALL your own possessions. He didn't even imply that we should only be "willing" but to actually do it IF we want to become His disciples. The word "willing" is a word you inserted into the text.

    Salvation literally requires repentance and faith in Jesus not just "willing" to repent. There are three conditions to becoming a disciple of Jesus Luke 14:26,27,33. All three are literal and not just in willingness. Salvation is a free gift upon genuine repentance but discipleship will cost you everything you have.

    The rich young ruler could not let go of his riches but Peter said “Look,” Peter replied, “we have left everything to follow You. What then will there be for us?”

    Jesus isn't commanding us to give away all our possessions but if we want to be His disciples He tells us what are the conditions.

    Grace and peace to you!

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    1. It's your right to disagree, but Luke 14:26-33 doesn't contain the word "possessions" in any legit translation, nor in the original Greek (I double checked the Greek to make sure). Nor does it even infer that you must give up all of your possessions in order to be Christ's disciples.

      Repentance and belief are necessary for salvation. Period. Not repentance, belief, and giving up possessions.

      Since you believe a person must sell "ALL" of their possessions in order to be saved, How do you define possessions?

      Is clothing a possession? Are you allowed one set of clothing or one change or clothes? And how do you make this determination? Is there a Scripture that explains what is allowed?

      Are toiletries like soap and shampoo possessions? Is food a possession or is only considered a possession if you have more than one meal's worth?

      Cars are definitely a possession, so genuine disciples could not own a car. Could they lease it?

      Houses are definitely a possession, so why does Paul talk positively of people meeting in the homes of Christians (Romans 16:5)? Do you think they only rented their homes? Is money a possession? Would a genuine disciple need to give away his full paycheck or could he keep enough to rent a place to live?

      In Acts 4 where the Christians lived communally, they pooled their possessions, they didn't sell them. Is it okay to keep possessions if you live in a commune?

      In Acts 10 when the wealthy Centurion and his household came to Christ, why did they receive the Holy Spirit before they had given up their possessions. Why didn't Peter tell them they had to sell everything if they wanted to be disciples? In fact, why is this not mentioned even once in Acts when the Gospel is shared.....not once?

      Why does 1 Timothy 6:17-18 say "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share."

      Why wouldn't he warn them that they can't be disciples if they don't sell ALL their possessions?

      Since Philemon owned a home large enough to have guests, why did Paul commend him?

      Why does 2 Cor. 9:7 say, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." Why didn't Paul tell them they couldn't be disciples unless they gave ALL that they had?

      God commands us not to love money or material possessions, and He asks us to be generous and willing to give whatever He asks. He may even call some people to sell all of their possessions, but Scripture does not support your claim that this is a requirement for all disciples.

      Poor people can be just as greedy and materialistic as rich people.

      God wants us to avoid the wrong attitudes toward possessions, but he doesn't forbid them (Luke 12:15).






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  59. I have no idea how I found you but it was interesting to see you standing in the square in Zagreb. We have been missionaries in Croatia for 20 years; It was neat to see so many places familiar places and to have just stumbled onto your blog. I'm looking forward to reading some of your devotions, thanks for all your hard work.

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    1. Hi Tori!
      We love Croatia, and I actually have an American friend and blogger who lives near Zagreb with her Croatian husband. I have no idea if you are any where near Zagreb, but this is her blog: https://rosilindjukic.com/rosilind/

      I'm glad you found my blog, and I pray you enjoy my devotions.
      May you continue to experience God's blessings in your work in Croatia.

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  60. Hi Gail!
    I found this page this morning after reading the morning devotion on 20/20 Vision-Seeing the Value of Scripture! Good devotion. Anyway, my question has nothing to do with the devotion, but what I read in this post, where you tell about yourself. You call yourself a "sinner" and I don't understand that. If we are truly following God and He's in control and in our hearts, how can we still be sinners? I hope you can understand what I'm trying to ask. I don't understand how we can be God-filled but yet "sinners"! I do thoroughly enjoy reading and studying your devotions. It's a part of my daily devotion routine. And on a side note, I TOTALLY agree with you about the need to give up all possessions, as you were talking to someone above here. Like you said, if God asks us to give up something then we need to give it up. If we don't, I believe that is sin because we are being disobedient! And on something else, THANK YOU for your thoughts about Sarah Young. I got real deep into her devotions and that was all I'd read until I read what you wrote. I went back to see what you were saying and was shocked! You are so right! Anyway, thank you for listening to the Holy Spirit and passing that on. I feel bad because I've given those books as gifts and I have at least 4 or 5 of them too. Do I just throw them away or what? Do I talk to the ones I gave them to or allow the Spirit to direct them? Well, I guess this is enough for one sitting! Blessings on you as you follow the Spirit's guidance and continue in these devotions!

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    1. Hi Just Me,
      I'm glad that you are benefiting from Bible Love Notes.

      I'm aware that there is a teaching that claims it's wrong to call Christians sinners, but I don't find that teaching in Scripture.

      It's true that the most important thing about us is that we're saved and forgiven. It’s true that genuine believers repent of their sins and turn from them. We're works in progress (Phil. 1:6). But we'll bel sinners until we see our Savior face-to-face (1 John 1:3).

      In 1 Timothy 1:5 Paul says: "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst."

      the Greek means "I am" not "I was."

      We could say Christians are not unrepentant sinners (1 John 3:6), but I’m not aware of any Scripture that tells us we’re no longer sinners.

      When I describe myself, I hope I’m echoing what Paul says in Phil. 3:12-13:

      "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

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    2. Just Me,
      I'm sorry that I didn't address your question about Jesus Calling in my previous comment.

      I think you are wise to let the Spirit guide you. If you feel led to talk with some of those to whom you've given the book, I think it would be good to do it. But I think God will let you know.

      And it actually could be a pretty simple thing. You could simply say, "I recently discovered that the author of the book uses a method that isn't actually Scriptural" or something like that.

      I'm deeply concerned about the books because their popularity shows a lack of discernment among Christians, and we need discernment so badly in our day and age.

      In addition, I think Young presents a "soft" Jesus who does not have the same goals and purposes of the Jesus in Scripture. Having said that, I'm not aware of any serious heresies in Young's books.

      I don't recommend reading them, but I hope that those who do will at least recognize they are Young's words, not Christ's.

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  61. Hi Gail!
    I appreciate your further talking on Sarah Young. I, also hope that people will recognize the words as hers and not Christ's! I know how they affected me!

    I don't know anything about a teaching saying it's wrong to call Christians sinners, and I don't view it as wrong, I just didn't understand! Yes, I agree about meeting Christ face to face. I too am like Paul where he says, "Romans 7:15-20 New International Version (NIV)
    15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[a] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." I'm so thankful for God's mercy and grace!! Blessings on you today!

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  62. Hello!

    I have just stumbled on to this website and am filled with joy to see so many writings on such various topics. I was saved almost a year ago and have spent this last year being incredibly careful about what I take in. That being said I am curious to know which version of scripture you utilize.

    Many thanks,

    Candice

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  63. Hi Candice,
    If you click on the Scripture passages (more than one verse) in my devotions, it will take you to Bible Gateway with the KJV, NIV, and NLT and sometimes the AMP listed.

    If you click the single verses in my devotions it will take you to Bible Hub where all major translations are given for the verse.

    If you want to know my view of modern translations, please read "Are Modern Translations Corrupted" on the right sidebar. Or copy this link to find that article:


    https://biblelovenotes.blogspot.com/2009/06/is-king-james-version-best-english.html

    God bless you.
    Gail

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  64. I just wanted to say that I have been subscribed for quite awhile now, and I really look forward to the emails. They have been so inspiring and thought provoking, and I always seem to get the right message right when I need it. Thank you so much!

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    1. That's a blessing to hear. Thanks for taking the time to let me know.
      God bless you.

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  65. Gail, thank you so much for this ministry of yours. The stretching and growing from the daily devotionals I receive from you and others keep me in good spiritual shape, just like the stretching I do each morning to stay in good physical shape. I really value your honesty and courage in sharing the Word of God no matter what others think.

    May you be blessed as you bless others,
    Sally

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  66. Hi, Gail. I'm a long time subscriber.
    I would like to know if I can share your devotionals in my church's Newsletter (of course, with the credits)
    We are the Union Church of Monterrey, an English Speaking church in Monterrey, Mexico. Currently searching for a pastor. I love your devotionals and was thinking sharing some of them with the congregation.
    Blessings
    Mariza Vale

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    1. Hi truffa. I would love to have you do that. If you would write BibleLoveNotes.gmail.com, I can give you the instructions for doing that.

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  67. Hi Gail, I am a church youth director (directing them straight to God!) in my 12th year now. Some say I may be too old to serve Christ with teens (I'm 60), but I love Him and them and they love Him and me. I do hold this ministry lightly in my hands always desiring to do His will and will be obedient when He says this chapter is closed.
    I have often used your Bible Love Notes as a jumping off point in a teaching. Today I read "Discernment: Use It or Lose It". It is so good and actually saved me a lot of time researching this topic. I believe the distortion of emotionalism is one of the greatest things leading our youth/young adults away from Christ. I would love to share this blog with my little group of kids as we dig a little deeper into the subject. Thank you for your faithfulness in serving Christ with the writing you do! Blessings, Melissa (or Mo as the youth call me)

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    1. Dear Mo,
      Feel free to share it with my blessing. There's an old saying you've probably heard before, but it's true: "Age is a matter of mind. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter!"

      My ministry with Bible Love Notes didn't start until I turned 60, and I'm so glad that God can use us at any age.

      May He continue to bless your ministry to these young people!

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  68. I JUST found your resources!! Very thankful. Praying you are well and will continue this ministry!
    Blessings & Chocolate, Ann

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  69. Dear Gail, I have only recently subscribed to your Love Notes site because a dear sister of mine (in Christ) shared your site with me. I am reading daily and am very thankful for your ministry. I have run across these words several times now--and your's is the first time that the words "damaged soul" has finally caught my attention. I'm not sure that I understand or appreciate the meaning and implication of "damaged souls". would you do a study so that I may learn what this means, what it implies? How do I interpret "a damaged soul?" thank you for your love and time, May God bless you!

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    1. Hi Tando,

      I'm not sure how others use it, but I often say that certain behaviors damage our souls. By that I mean that they change our attitude toward sin, damage our conscience (we quit feeling guilty when we sin), and they do harm to our body, our relationships, and/or our spiritual life.

      In some ways, we are all "damaged souls" before we come to know the Lord because we are born with a sin nature and before we know Jesus, we don't really understand our need to resist the temptations in this world.

      But there are certain lifestyles that are especially harmful to a person's conscience and they build a wall between themselves and the Lord they gradually lose all understanding of what they are doing if they don't repent.

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