The things that occupy our time

The Bible is full of beautiful, encouraging, but also difficult and sometimes bizarre passages. Well, I am sure you all know that :)

One of the most important warnings in simple words was urged by the Master Himself when He addressed His followers about the vine and the branches. Jesus told them to stay connected to Him if they wanted to bear fruit, to be productive, and then He added: Apart from Me, you can do nothing (John 15:5).

I always thought that was such a radical and strong statement and kind of weird at the same time. Let's face it, there are millions of people who do all kinds of stuff without Him, every day. There are millions of people who labor in their own strength and purposely keep the Lord out of their daily business. What exactly does Jesus mean when He says 'apart from Me you can do nothing?'

Of course, I understand that if it wasn't for the breath of life He gives us, we would be dead. But still... 👉I personally believe Jesus' emphasis was not on the 'doing' of stuff, but on the fruit our labor produces. Does our work bring forth fruit? Are we putting energy in things that will be gone next year, or in relationships with everlasting value? 

Are we investing money in things that will be outdated or gone over time, or in programs that build the Kingdom? Are we working for earthly success, or to serve others? Quite some introspective questions to think about.

'Apart from Me, you can do nothing'. That is not a negative statement, it is a positive promise. It is everything we trust in and hope for! It seals our connectedness with and our dependency on God. It is a reminder that we live and move and have our being in Jesus Christ alone.

His words remind us, over and over again, that knowledge, education, status, or success are not important in the Kingdom, but the measure of fruit-bearing for the Kingdom of God... a matter of eternal value!

Millions are their numbers

When my book Breath of Life was published, back in 2008, I had no idea it would remain so topical and accurate. I received many comments on the story of Sorek, as described in that book.

With the abortion debate flaring up again, reader Don Coley (CA) sent me a message recently, that said:

"In the USA there is now a renewed opportunity for Sorek and his Breath of Life. His developing personality was so engaging that, after reading Breath of Life, I wrote about Sorek as well."

Don's poem will resonate with everyone who has read Breath of Life and hopefully trigger the curiosity of those who haven't read it yet.

Who will side with Sorek? Who will set him free?

God has formed his features, God has shaped his plan

This God who holds his future, still gives a choice to Man

Choice to seek his purpose or choice to turn away

Choice that stops a beating heart, erases birth that day

No laughter in his future. No hugs, no friends, no wife

Because a choice was wrongly used and took his Breath of Life

Millions are their numbers, Sorek all their name

Lives not lived but slaughtered, choice reduced to shame

Must it always be this way? Is there nothing we can do?

To value life above false choice? What’s next is up to you.

Who will side with Sorek? Who will set him free?

I will side with Sorek, I will help him be.

And the winner is...

Thank you all who responded to my giveaway on various social media outlets. The release of a new book does call for some festivities, doesn't it? 😊

One thing festive, for sure, is receiving favorable reviews. I got one for my new book First Love from Reader's Favorite, quite a surprise to me since I did not ask or pay for it.

I'll quote from the review:

"Marja Verschoor-Meijers knows her stuff. I have been a minister for over 45 years and have read thousands of books. In my humble opinion, First Love does a better job at explaining Law #7 than any other author I have ever read. She uses the Scriptures and not only exegetes this commandment, but she also gives practical application."

Quite humbling, I must admit. If you want to read the full review, please CLICK HERE. I have been receiving some comments from readers by mail and social media as well... but I could use more!

So, when you are reading, or have finished reading, First Love, please let me know your thoughts. Did it inspire and encourage you? Did it speak to your heart?

👉And now.... the winner of last week's giveaway is Francesca Spataro (Italy). 

She will get a free copy in the mail! She has been a faithful reader of my books and even translated several into Italian, so I am sure this one will be a welcoming addition to her library.

First Love is available as e-book and paperback on Amazon in your country.

Giveaway 'First Love'

Yeah, summer is on the way. Hopefully, you will take the time to read a good book.

Why not read my latest release First Love? Especially now that you have a chance to win a free copy. I think a new book release is not complete without a blog giveaway, so let's do it!😃

Last month First Love hit the shelves. It is the ninth book in a series (all books can be read separately) about the Ten Commandments in the 21st century and it is based on the seventh commandment: Thou shalt not commit adultery.

Not exactly an easy or popular topic to write a book about, but I certainly believe that First Love holds a beautiful and inspiring message about God's faithfulness and love. His love for Israel, for humanity, and for you as a reader. 

Because our limited human love fails us, we need His divine love in our lives in order to be able to love others. It all starts with receiving His love, renewing our understanding of that love, and refreshing the way we love Him back. What God wants to establish in our spiritual lives, He will surely use in our day-to-day natural circumstances. After reading this book, you will:

• have a better understanding of God’s love for people
• know that you are loved by God
• feel encouraged about refreshing your relationship with God, your spouse, and other people
• be inspired to love others as God loves you
• be able to ban boredom from your life
• be determined to remain faithful until the end.

👉So, how do you enter this giveaway? Simply like this post when you see it on social media. Leave a comment, and share the post! Yep, that's it. I'll put your name in the hat and next week I'll ask my husband to draw a winner!

First Love is available as e-book and paperback on Amazon in your country.