Book Review: The Wood's Edge by Lori Benton

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Title: The Wood's Edge

Author: Lori Benton

Series: The Path Finders #1

Genre: Historical Romance

Audience: Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~

 **5 stars**

I simply love this era, this style of writing, this feel. Lori Benton, I love your books! ^_^ Set in a time of unrest, Native Americans hunting the forests, and the Colonies and England stirring against each other, The Wood's Edge did not fail to catch my interest and capture my heart. (Just like Burning Sky and The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn before it; and also Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz. All set around the same time period). I don't know what exactly it is ... but I am just in love with novels like these. I don't think I will ever get tired of them. Lori Benton (and Laura Frantz), please bring them on! *grins*

The story starts in the midst of a terrifying scene of war. The French and Indian War. Regionald Aubrey is carrying his still newborn son away from his sleeping wife. Grieved. Tortured with the thought of having to tell his weak and troubled wife about the death of their baby. That's when he sees the Indian captive. She's recently given birth to two babies ...

     Years later, his decisions of that day still haunt him. And unknown to him, it also haunts others. A young girl named Lydia. An Indian boy, Two Hawks. A heartbroken mother, Good Voice. His sins will reach far and wide to try and destroy many; even his beloved "daughter", Anna.

Honestly, The Wood's Edge wasn't what I was expecting. I was a bit worried I might not like it. The first main character I met was a young married soldier, Regionald. The next a teenage girl, Lydia. The next a sorrowing mother, Good Voice. And I was like, Hmm, so when am I going to meet the two on the front cover? Well, that came soon enough. It all worked out; giving just enough backstory, poignancy, and depth to make the story even better before we actually meet the main characters who are depicted on the cover. So yes. I quickly fell into this tale. And absolutely adored it.

It's heart-rending, yes. There's rough times. Terrible decisions. Dark secrets. Bitterness and revengeful thoughts. There's tears. There's hate. There is broken families and broken people.

     But then there is beauty. Laughter. Love. Forgiveness cuts through the darkness, illuminating a path to joy and peace. To hope. There are second chances. A masterful story unfolds with grace and depth.

I just loved it. The meeting at the wood's edge. The budding love. The preacher in the Indian's village. ...After the bear attack. The redemption story. Ah! There's so much in here I want to spill out about!! But you'll just have to go read the book for yourself. I don't want to give any spoilers.

Cautions ... There may be some slightly frightening moments. A bit of violence depicted. As for romance, it's definitely for mature audiences. There were a few a-bit-heated scenes. 

But I really liked the realness and deepness of this love story. First love. Secret romance. Young people who don't even quite realize they've fallen in love. Ah yes. And there were some boundaries set and things realized as it progressed that showed maturity and wisdom concerning romance on the characters' parts.

I mentioned a theme of forgiveness ... Yes. Powerful. Incredible. Real. It was just so very soul-touching, this story. I loved the faith theme. I loved watching the Truth of Jesus spread amongst the Native American village; seeing how they responded to it. I loved seeing how Anna's faith and journey to God played out. It was all just so beautiful! Eep! Touched my heart. <3

Anyway. Historical romance at its best. A sweeping drama. Rich. Emotional. Raw. Profound. As I closed The Wood's Edge, I just got this satisfied feeling, mixed with a little bit of awe. Contentment. Like, I just read a very beautiful story. And I can hardly wait to read the next one! A Flight of Arrows, <3

Book Review: A Time to Die by Nadine Brandes

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Title: A Time to Die

Author: Nadine Brandes

Series: Out of Time #1

Genre: Dystopian

Audience: Young Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~

 **4 stars**

I recently came to love dystopian. It intrigues me. Thrills me. So when I saw that A Time to Die by Nadine Brandes was a Christian dystopian, I was so excited to read it! Now I sit here, contemplating. One star? Four stars? Five stars? It was raw, it was riveting, it was heart-breaking! I suppose I won't know exactly what I think about this book until I read the second book in the series. But no, no, the one star is out of the question. A Time to Die is a too well-written and fascinating of a tale to get only one star! *smiles*

Parvin Blackwater has one year left to live. And she's only eighteen. Her clock is slowly loosing its numbers, ticking ever closer to her death. But she has yet to really live! And she sees injustice and wrongs around her that she aches to fight against. Yet what difference can she make with so little time left?

     Step into this broken, futuristic world and go on a wild journey with Parvin as she discovers things she has never before known.

The dystopian aspect and world was amazing. Well thought-out. Terrible. Real. Absolutely intriguing. I saw a few similarities to Divergent and The Hunger Games pop up here and there ... yet A Time to Die was so very different than them even so. It's definitely its own unique dystopian world.

I was surprised and startled again and again. Nadine Brandes had so many unexpected twists waiting around the corner! Wow. I was hooked, and finished this story in no time.

The theme was awesome. It made me think: What would I do if this was my last year? It honestly scared me, because, like Parvin, I sometimes feel purposeless, useless ... like I've wasted my years so far. I can identify with her - that longing to leave a mark on the world. To make a difference for good. To live life to the fullest; to use what God has given you! ...But then, not knowing how. Not feeling like my efforts amount to anything. So yes. It was incredible to journey along with her and watch her grow. Poignant to feel her desperate emotions. 

     I also loved the whole theme with 'Shalom'. It was so very beautiful. So very deep. Every part of that was brilliant, and definitely makes a reader want to draw nearer to God. Beautiful job, Nadine! ^_^ Eep! I could go on about it, but I don't want to give any spoilers. Read A Time to Die and experience it for yourself, people!

So yes. I identified with Parvin. Despite some slightly foolish choices, I really liked her character. She wasn't the hard, "fake", arrogant, kick-butt heroine that some dystopian (and fantasy and perhaps historical) novels like to display. Instead she was someone I could relate to; someone I could cheer on. Luke was hard er to understand sometimes, but I liked him too. And Solomon Hawke was sweet. Willow was a sweetie too. Oh my word, I just want to explode right now with anger at a certain person and a certain people group ... but I'll keep myself from doing so, so I want give away any spoilers! But be prepared to be angry. Very angry. This story stirs up emotions for sure. The sheer injustice!!! The betrayal! The absurdity! The hypocrisy! The way human life no longer holds its preciousness! O.O Grrr! It just made me so mad. How could they? And then try to pass it off as righteous or "just-the-way-it-is"

*Ahem* There was a bit of a budding romance going on; but nothing much. There was some violence. Definitely some gore. Nothing like reading The Hunger Games; but still sometimes I was left a bit squeamish or shocked.

Overall, an absolutely gripping tale. And that ending!!!! O.O I am so very happy that I will be reading A Time to Speak soon-ish here!

If you like dystopian ... intricate mysteries ... wild journeys ... heart-pounding suspense ... tender moments ... themes of poignancy and depth ... Then you most certainly need to pick up A Time to Die and give it a try!

I received a copy of A Time to Die from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Reflection.

"I look into the quaint mirror on my bedroom wall, taking in the thick, dark hair, round face, and small nose. Searching the greenish-blueish-grayish eyes as if their questioning gaze could somehow give answers to the confusion churning in my heart. To the pain. It's like a physical ache sometimes.

I stare harder. My reflection is motionless. Her eyes are so wide, glassy with only a tinge of what I'm feeling inside.

Hopelessness. Anger. Hurt. Fear. The emotions plague me, but she only stares back from the mirror - looking for all the world like a stranger. Who is she? Who am I?

You're ugly, I think - I tell the girl in the mirror. I feel a little fury, a splash of rebellion. But my reflection does not change. Her eyes are still wide, staring, deep, deep inside me.

Your work is stupid. You'll never be good enough.

Your life is purposeless.

Your dreams are impossible. Silly. Selfish.

Meaningless. Meaningless. Meaningless.

I'm still staring into my own eyes, but my thoughts are now spinning wildly. Hurt - it pulses through me. Pain. Pain. Pain. Bewilderment. Hopelessness. I'm drowning in it.

When will it all stop? When can it all stop? I lost my hope, and suddenly life has no point. I want to curl up and fade into oblivion. But that's not possible.

My reflection changes now. The green in my eyes deepens. The whites redden as a glassy film slowly appears. I step closer to the mirror and watch as a tear forms.

Pure and colorless, it blossoms. Then it slips over my bottom lashes, down to briefly touch my nose, curving over my cheek.

The single tear releases something in my soul, and in my reflection, my expressionless demeanor crumples."

© Shantelle Mary Hannu
(Snippets for a story, To the Shattered Heart)
(Pictures found on Pinterest)

Book Review: To Darkness Fled by Jill Williamson

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Title: To Darkness Fled

Author: Jill Williamson

Series: Blood of Kings #2

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Enter darkness ...

They have no choice. Chased by an evil prince, Achan, Vrell, and the Kingsguard knights flee into Darkness. They head north, for Tsaftown and Ice Island, where they must free an army that can help them fight for Er’Rets.

Darkness sickens Vrell. How long can she keep her secret without being caught? Achan already suspects her of lying. If she is not careful, he will suspect her of treason as well. She hopes he will let his suspicions go until they reach her home. 

Achan wanted freedom, but this new journey has bound him more than ever. Sir Gavin’s claims are so far fetched. First, that there might only be one God, and second, that this God chose Achan to push back Darkness, the magnificent curse of Er’Rets. Him. Achan. Barely a man himself.

Each setback Darkness brings seems minor compared to the one choice only Achan can make. What will he choose?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

To Darkness Fled by Jill Williamson - the book that kept me up until, well ... we'll just leave it at the wee hours of morning. *wink* I have been on rather a bad schedule, but truly, this story was so superb I just ignored the time! I wanted to keep reading and reading until I was finished. And then I thought,"Why did I do that? Now I have to wait forever for the next book!" So yes, it's like you want to read the book straight through without stopping, but then you regret it because you don't have the next book on hand.

It's just amazing writing. Fascinating adventure. Heart-melting romance. The journey starts in By Darkness Hid, Book One. In this book, Achan and Vrell are on the run from the men who rejected the truth of Achan's royal blood at the end of the first book. Through giant attacks, kidnappings, and a growing friendship, Vrell Sparrow stubbornly keeps her true identity a secret. And Achan struggles to face the reality that he is to be king if all works out the way his companions intend.

     And through it all, darkness continues to stalk them. Will they all come out unscathed?

Seriously, this is like one of my newest favorite series. I don't even know quite what it is about it ... the amazing fantasy world, the Christian allegory theme, adorable romance, superb characters, action and adventure, humor ... but By Darkness Hid, and now To Darkness Fled have completely thrilled me. Just the sight of the thick books with their intriguing covers makes my heart leap with excitement! *grins* It's one huge adventure.

I liked Vrell Sparrow (or Lady Vrella) so much in this book. Well, at least until the end-ish, and then I was tsking and shaking my head, inwardly yelling, "Vrell, no!!! Why are you so stubborn and foolish??" But truly, she's a great character. And her whole boy charade is fabulous. I absolutely adore the interactions between her and Achan. And how he calls her 'Sparrow' and tousles her hair. He has no idea; and she's always squeaking and blushing. It's wonderful, hehe ^_^ She's also such a splendid healer ... and just a brave, little, spunky thing. Oh my goodness, her antics near the end of the book had me giggling madly. (Of course, that would have been when it was the wee hours of morning). *Ahem* Anyway, To Darkness Fled definitely has it's humorous side. I love it!! I love interactions that make me laugh. I love young boy and girl who are friends and unintentionally fell in love who make you laugh. It's all just grand.

That being said, I like Achan too. Sometimes he was a bit pompous. And I wanted to smack him. I really could have smacked him for what he thought that sent Vrell off the deep end. Oh brother. Those two have some serious issues to work out. ...If Vrell ever stops doing things her own way!!

Sir Gavin, Sir Caleb, Inko ... all wonderful companions. Gren and Bran and their stories were interesting, and kinda sweet. Fun traveling about and meeting people here and there. Fighting giants. Hiding. Being on the run. Great fun. *grins* The fighting the dark guys was a bit scary.

Once again, the whole sharing thoughts and all, "bloodvoicing", could be weird at times. It's partly interesting and fantasy ... but partly just weird. I don't know. I didn't mind it so much in this book, but caution if you don't like that sort of thing! That's about the only "magic" element. And it's really more a fantasy element than magic. It's a gift from God in the story. There is some other magic, but it's black magic used by the bad guys. Then there's some fantastical creatures and whatnot, which is always fun! Well-done fantasy world! ^_^

Need I say more about the romance? Perhaps. It's just too adorable. I love it soooo much! *beams* Despite the fact that Vrell is disguised ... and Achan sees her as a scrawny "boy" ... she's falling for him without quite knowing it. And they have this cute friendship. And - and, well, I should probably just let you read it for yourself. But it's just so unique and adorable!! <3 Achan and Vrell have some growing up to do yet, but I just love them together!

Let's see. So caution if you're not into some slightly strange fantasy elements. I would say about sixteen and up, considering the romance. There's a kiss or so, and perhaps some slightly heated moments. Mistresses are talked about. Some scandalous happenings glimpsed or alluded to. Probably some slightly violent happenings. Alarming incidents. The dark-being-sort-of-things may be a bit frightening.

All in all? To Darkness Fled is a raw, dangerous, sweet, humorous, hair-raising adventure. It's an example of fantasy at its best. The characters are unforgettable. The whole feel is very real. Amazing job, Jill Williamson! I could hardly stop reading. And now I can hardly wait for From Darkness Won! (But I am kind of scared too ... because it's the last book!!!)

Anyway, fantasy lovers, you don't want to miss this fabulous three-book adventure!! <3

Book Review: Forever With You by Robin Jones Gunn

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Title: Forever With You

Author: Robin Jones Gunn

Series: Christy & Todd: The Married Years #1

Genre: Contemporary

Audience: Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

There was something about the CHRISTY MILLER, SIERRA JENSEN, CHRISTY & TODD: THE COLLEGE YEARS, and KATIE WELDON series that just drew me in. I loved going back into their world; and I felt like Christy, Todd, and their friends were somehow my friends. So you can guess how thrilled I was when I heard Robin Jones Gunn was writing CHRISTY & TODD: THE MARRIED YEARS! Christy and Todd forever! <3 *grins*

Forever With You, Book One in CHRISTY & TODD: THE MARRIED YEARS series, starts out with Christy waiting to tell Todd some important news. Todd Spencer is a youth pastor, and Christy loves being his wife and making their little apartment a home. But all things are about to change. Journey with this sweet couple through married life and up and downs in the ministry ... fall in love with their stories all over again!

I must admit, I didn't much like a good chunk of this book. It was a bit depressing, and left me feeling a little down, and annoyed, for some reason! Annoyed with Christy, then annoyed with Todd. For all the talk about their hearts being connected, they didn't seem very connected in the beginning of Forever With You. They didn't communicate very well ... tell each other what they were thinking. So for awhile, it was looking like a pretty sorry existence for them.

But somewhere along the line, things looked up. Not necessarily in the story, but in Christy and Todd's hearts. Our dear characters grew, and learned, and leaned on God.

And I fell in love with Christy and Todd, and their friends, and stories all over again!! ^_^ It was just so beautiful. Their walk with God. Their walk closer to each other. The precious, soul-deep memories made with true friends. The nearness of God. I think I struggled and grew with Christy and Todd a little in this book!

It was lovely to not only reunite with our forever couple, but also Doug, Tracey, David, Rick, Bob, Marti and a few others. We didn't actually reunite with Katie (over in Africa), but Christy did skype with her! *grins* I'm excited for the wedding promised to come in the next book! How wonderful to see how each character has grown and where they have gone. And not to mention, to meet Baby Daniel! <3 How far Christy and all her teenage friends have come - through the grace of God!

So yes, the faith theme ... beautiful. By the end, it was so deep and meaningful; very much touched my soul. I was stirred and encouraged by the message brought across. God is so good and faithful! I love when a novel brings that truth across! Amazing job, Robin Jones Gunn!

The romance ... Christy and Todd are a happily married young couple. And in spite of this being a story where the main character is married, the author did not write sensual scenes! There were some sweet, deep, "lovey", slightly passionate moments, but I feel Robin did a good job of keeping it clean and the married couple's private times to themselves! So that was appreciated! *smiles* This series still has a feeling of being written for teens, so I would say about sixteen and up, perhaps.

Anyway, overall, just a rich beginning to this exciting, new series. Raw. Real. Poignant. Tender. Beautiful. Faith-filled. And joy! I can feel the joy! I am so looking forward to reading Home of Our Hearts!

Movie Review: War Room

My Review (5 stars):

It makes you laugh out loud, and then your eyes are filling with tears; then your heart is bursting ... and at the end you're left deeply moved, encouraged, and inspired. You want to praise the Lord! To pray more - and more boldly and believing at that!

War Room (2015) is the Kendrick Brothers fifth movie, I believe; and truly their most incredible film so far! With talented actors such as Karen Abercrombie, T.C. Stallings, Priscilla C. Shirer, and Alena Pitts, a powerful story unfolds about a weary, young wife who dares to pray for her breaking marriage ... to take up her sword and shield against the real Enemy's dark and subtle plots.

Prayer is the theme of War Room (2015), and oh, is it a powerful theme, brought across in a powerful way. Some scenes left me with chills ... just in awe of our mighty God. And also a little stunned at the power He gives us. He has given us the weapons to fight darkness! Now we just need to pick them up and start fighting. 'Enough of this passive Christianity', this movie shouts! There is awesome power in the name of Jesus. And powerful and effective is the prayer of a righteous man or woman (James 5:16).

     So yes. I was left with a deep desire to pray more. To fight this battle. And I still have that desire! I was inspired to write down Scriptures that are really speaking to some of my situations at this point, and tape them on my walls. And to pray harder ... every day ... never giving up(!) ... for my "brother" or "sister" who needs to be brought back to the Lord. For the one whose heart needs to be changed. For the one who needs strength and healing. This movie reminded me, it's never too late! We should never give up on praying for a situation. Oh God, show us more of Your heart; and let us pray with boldness and confidence for Your kingdom and Your people!

Not only does this movie have an amazing message, but it also has a delightfully humorous side. I absolutely loved it! *grins* Miss Clara, an older woman who's quite an important character of the story, just cracks me up. She is so genuine, wise, and just hilarious! And her heart for the Lord shines strongly.

There were just a lot of real and relatable people in this movie. I really liked Elizabeth, kind of the main character of this story. In some ways, I very much "got her"/understood what she was feeling ... (eating chips in the closet, *wink*). I also very much related to her struggle with praying, distraction, and her first time in her prayer room.

     Very easy to see yourself in these characters.

I don't know what else to say. Other than it's spectacular. I adore movies that make me laugh. And I love a movie that brings across powerful truth and tugs me closer to my Father. War Room (2015) did all of that.

     I strongly recommend this movie to every Christian. Families, this is a wonderful movie to watch together. Churches, youth groups, friends ... go see it! Be impacted. Learn how to pray powerfully.

     Seriously, you'll love it! ^__^

**Note: there is some thematic elements. Some intense and slightly disturbing scenes. Caution to young children. Some themes having to do with infidelity.**

Blog Tour: Water Princess, Fire Prince by Kendra E. Ardnek

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About the Book

When the Lady Dragon does come,
Hold fast, do not fear, do not run.
Your Water Princess will fight,
Fire Prince will set all to right.
Each shall come from a Fall,
Their union will save you all.

Despite the fact that she's on track for competing in the Olympics, and he's practically raised his younger brothers since they lost their mom in a car accident, Clara Mandras and Andrew Stevenson are pretty much normal teens. They have normal hopes, normal dreams, and they live in a normal world.
All this is torn away from them when they are thrust into another world and declared Water Princess and Fire Prince. With no experience ruling a country, meeting each other for the first time, and being expected to fight the Lady Dragon – an evil sorceress plaguing the world of Rizkaland – Clara and Andrew are underprepared and inexperienced. Unless they learn to work together despite their standing opposition, Rizkaland's hope will be lost.

What is to come will change their lives forever. 

Title: Water Princess, Fire Prince

Author: Kendra E. Ardnek

Series: The Rizkaland Legends #1

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Teen

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

I was excited to read Water Princess, Fire Prince by Kendra E. Ardnek, as the story description sounded like something I’d enjoy. And I did quite enjoy this story! Akin to The Chronicles of Narnia in some ways, it swept me away into a strange and intriguing world along with its characters.

Clara is a normal fifteen-year-old girl, practicing diving one day with her friends. She never expected time travel. She never expected princes or princesses.
     Andrew has younger brothers to care for; responsibilities to attend to. Saving Rizkaland was not exactly in his future plans.
     What happens when the Water Princess and the Fire Prince clash? … And when the dreaded Dragon attacks?

From the beginning, my interest was piqued. Water Princess, Fire Prince starts with a splash, and fast paced excitement. From there, it slows down a bit. But perhaps we’re too intrigued with the new world to notice, *smiles* Truly, I feel Kendra did a genius job with Rizkaland; so much imagination, color, and fun! It was a bit mind-boggling at points, the time-traveling theme … but definitely captivating! I really enjoyed exploring this fantasy world along with our time-traveler characters.

Speaking of those characters … I had a hard time with Clara sometimes. She had a bit of arrogance about her that bothered me time and again. The way she treated some people with a certain rudeness, as if they were beneath her. She just didn’t seem, hmm, happy, for a lot of the time. Kind of a moody teenager mixed with “tough” heroine sort of girl. That was just my initial reaction, maybe other readers saw her differently. But I will say, I liked her by the end of the book. She had her faults, but she definitely seemed to grow and mature—especially with the loyalty and sweetness of a certain young man. (It kind of reminded me of the Katniss and Peeta relationship). So while some of her attitude rubbed me wrong, Clara did end up being a good character! *smiles* She grew, and learned, and loved, and did some great things.
     Andrew was wonderful. At first, he was portrayed almost as a bit wimpy. But quickly you saw his strength and leadership show though. Coupled with steadfastness and gentleness … *sigh* He’s a pretty great guy.
     I liked the array of other characters. Lots of different interesting people.

I mentioned the romance … it was pretty cute. I admit, I was slightly startled at reading this deep of romance with two sixteen-year-olds, but Kendra presented it tastefully and pretty maturely. Some people do get married young and have a strong, loving relationship. As long as God wills it and works in their hearts at a young age! *smiles* Anyway, it was a sweet journey. It was touching to watch two young people bound together fall in love within the will of their King. There was some kissing and romance-y stuff. I don’t know. I’d maybe say fifteen/sixteen and up as for audience.

I don’t remember much for violence, though there were some battles. Nothing particularly frightening either.

But we have time-travel, complex happenings, griffon-like creatures, an evil dragon, a unique love story, an ancient prophesy, war, intriguing abilities, and lessons of courage, trust, and humility woven throughout the pages of this book.

Overall, I really liked it! The reason for not five stars? Well, I don’t really know. Clara bothered me a bit at first, but like I said, that changed! At the end, something happens that I wasn’t expecting. It was really shocking and sad to me, and I was wondering where the emotion from Clara was?? Yeah … I just would have liked to see more real and raw emotion from her at this point.

But other than that, I think Water Princess, Fire Prince is a great story! Filled with wild imagination, this tale is sure to intrigue you! I very much enjoyed returning to its pages, and am excited to read the next book in the series! So much mystery still waiting to be unraveled! *grins*

I received a copy of Water Princess, Fire Prince from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Faithful Fridays: Psalm 103

"Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

The Lord works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.
For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.

As for man, his days are like grass;
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,
and its place knows it no more.
But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting onthose who fear him,
and his righteousness to children's children,
to those who keep his covenant
and remember to do his commandments.
The Lord has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.

Bless the Lord, O you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his word,
obeying the voice of his word!
Bless the Lord, all his hosts,
his ministers, who do his will!
Bless the Lord, all his works,
in all places of his dominion.
Bless the Lord, O my soul!"

Psalm 103 ESV

These are the verses God showed me as I was feeling fearful and discouraged one night. They encouraged me, and soothed my soul!

So if you're afraid, go to the Word of God, and listen for His voice. Also, pray. Talk to Him. I find that in the midst of my anxiety, praying out loud is very powerful. Speak Jesus' name and watch as darkness is chased away!

Blessings to you, my dear readers. Rest in the Lord today! <3