How God Led Me to the Heart of the Message in My New Picture Book, What Color is God’s Love?

I couldn’t deny that I was weary. The cross-country move proved to be harder than expected. I didn’t know how I could keep moving forward without a break . . . without breaking.

I inhaled deeply then exhaled. I’d just spent a year researching Bible verses to use for my book Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. I knew that I could trust God in the wait. I preached the message with confidence, day in and day out. I believed what I said, what I read in the Bible. So, I didn’t understand why I was running on empty.

As my sweet pup licked away my tears, I looked out the window and noticed the rain had stopped. The sun broke through the dark gray clouds, shining on a white heron that had landed in the lush green foliage on the creek bank next to our front yard. When the bird spread its wings and took flight, I thanked God for the reminder of His unlimited power and His loving care over Creation and in the details of the lives of His children.

He led me to Psalm 33 as I began writing a free verse poem, a celebration of the God-designed colors I saw in my front yard creek.

Oh, Lord, why do I doubt You!

“The LORD looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do” (vv.13-15).

I began to thank God for the countless ways that He had proven that He had never lost sight of me. I praised Him for the times He carried me through when situations felt too hard, when the pain felt too overwhelming, when the losses felt too great to bear. In every situation, He had been right there providing for me, caring for those I loved, never failing me, and never letting me down.

“But the LORD watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love” (v. 18).

I asked Him to help me that day, because I knew I didn’t have the strength to trust Him on my own. I prayed through over the verses and asked the Holy Spirit to help me believe.

“We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone” (vv. 20-22).

Then, I asked the Holy Spirit to give me the faith of a mustard seed. I asked for the faith of three men in a blazing furnace. I asked for the faith of a teenager facing a giant. I asked for the faith of Abram ̶ a man willing to leave everything to follow God without knowing where He was going, to take one step at a time and accept being redefined, to be willing to sacrifice what he thought was the fulfillment of his promise, to embrace loss and still trust God would come through, to know that God’s word was sufficient enough for him to believe.

I wrote the first draft of a free verse poem as a song of praise, but God had me tuck that poem away until after I released Waiting for God in August 2019 and my first picture book, Different Like Me, in August 2020.

In the meantime, God sent people to love me where He had sent me.

God loved me through Carmen Leal, who brought Callie into our lives through a kill-shelter. God loved me through my first church family, the staff at ReachOut Books and Solid Grounds Coffee Shoppe. God loved me through a dog-loving neighbor who ended up being one of my biggest supporters and Callie’s Grandma Jan.

God loved me through Jake and Amanda Guell and our Tails for Life Family, who trained Callie to be my service dog. God loved me through the readers who sponsored Callie’s training when my insurance wouldn’t pay for the medication that lessened my nerve pain in my upper thoracic back. God loved me through my praying doctor, who fought for me to get the only medication that has helped manage the pain in my upper thoracic back.

And God loved me through my husband, who cared for me every day . . . even when he was hurting and tired.

During that difficult season, God reminded me that He can use us to love others from our space of weakness even when we’re running on empty if we’re abiding in Him.

He transformed me and that manuscript over the next few years as I prayed and waited to hear from God. Finally, in November 2021, He blessed me with the opportunity to work with the talented Bunmi Ishola from WaterBrook. She helped me to be braver as I dug deeper into the Scriptures and allowed God to lead me to the messages He wanted me to share with each color.

You see, I knew What Color is God’s Love? was more than a book about colors. I wanted to give readers what I didn’t have as a child, a safe place to process their God-given emotions . . . in God’s loving presence.

I wanted the magnificent colors God created, even those that are often seen in a negative light ̶ like black or gray or brown ̶ to be seen as beautiful and to affirm an unchanging truth about God that is found in the infallible God-breathed words of Scripture.

That’s why I created the Breath Prayer Cards (download now or visit the What Color is God’s Love? book page on my website at your convenience). I want readers to open their Bibles, so they can get excited about getting to know God more!

I want What Color is God’s Love? to ignite readers’ imaginations, spark conversations, and inspire service motivated by love for Jesus and people! As readers explore God’s colorful creation, I pray they experience the power of His constant presence, engage with Him through the prayerful study of His Word, and enjoy loving God and their beautifully diverse neighbors every day.

I hope you’ll partner with me in ministry, by loving your neighbors and ordering an extra copy of What Color is God’s Love? to share as a gift today, donating a copy to your church, library, school, or Free Little Library, or by sharing the link with others and encouraging them to order copies of What Color is God’s Love? for their family and friends.

I can do nothing without God or your ongoing prayers and support. I thank God for you and am praying for you.

Thanks for making a difference in my life by connecting with me here, through Our Daily Bread Ministries and the God Hears Her blog, and on Instagram and Facebook.

I’m looking forward to growing closer God as we dig deeper into His Word in 2024. To God be the glory, the honor, and the praise!

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In What Color is God’s Love?, a little girl with an invisible disability and her service dog join their diverse family and friends through a whirlwind of adventures and celebrate the spectacular spectrum of colors God designed. Each color invites readers to explore their God-given emotions and becomes a reminder of God’s unchanging character as they experience God’s love flowing for them, in them, and through them.

To love your neighbors by ordering extra copies of What Color is God’s Love? to share as gifts, to donate to your library, to your church, your school, a Free Little Library, or an afterschool program, please use this special access link to your favorite retailers provided by WaterBrook.

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However, if you’re local, please join us for this special event to help support Serendipity Bible House.

Alan and I believe in investing in small businesses in our community.

I’ve been shopping at Serendipity since 2001. I want to encourage people to order my books from Serendipity Bible House in Fairfield, California for this special event. While we are celebrating the release of What Color is God’s Love?, you can also order Waiting for God, Different Like Me, Diferente como yo. However, you’ll need to place your orders soon!

Please call Serendipity or visit the store for details regarding PRE-ORDER DEADLINES and TO PLACE YOUR PRE-ORDERS TODAY!

Thanks for making a difference by supporting small Christian businesses. These ministries can only make a difference in the Kingdom when we keep them in business by being intentional about shopping in their stores!

I’m looking forward to praising Jesus with you!

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Redeeming Hope – A Personal Story of Loss, Lament, and Letting God Use Our Heartbreaks

(Loving Note: This article touches on grief after miscarriage.)

I concentrated on breathing slowly, trying to ignore my husband’s useless attempts to comfort me as we walked out of the doctor’s office. Alan dug his keys out of his pocket as we approached the car. “At least you weren’t that far along,” he said.

Hugging my purse to my chest, I glared at my husband. Almost five months seemed far enough along to me. I blinked away the stinging in my eyes as I remembered the nurse’s failed attempt to comfort us by saying that “the fetus had stopped developing” so she doubted I was “as far along as my chart indicated.”

The fetus? No. The baby stopped developing. My baby, who was far enough along to have a heartbeat and far enough along to be a loss, was worth grieving.

Alan opened my car door and placed his hand on my shoulder. “It’s not that big of a deal,” he said. “This happens to a lot of people.”

Shrugging away from his touch, I slid into the passenger seat as anger, confusion, and resentment widened the gap between us. Staring out the window in silence didn’t stop my husband from bombarding me with what I now recognize as well-intentioned platitudes used to process his own confusion and grief.

Over the next few weeks, I concealed my feelings behind a lipstick-glossed smile at work. But baby-sightings in-person and on television triggered explosions of grief. At home, I lashed out at my husband.

Eventually, I asked for a divorce.

Please click here to visit the God Hears Her Blog and read the rest of my story in “Redeeming Hope.”

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Can I Be Sad and Still Have Strong Faith?

I’ve lost count of the days I sat alone, sometimes laid up in bed struggling with pain management and sometimes wrestling with guilt because fatigue sucked up more than half of my day. No one heard my sobs, except God and my service dog who tried her best to lick away the problem she didn’t understand. I shared my one-and-done work related post, so one missed me on social media.

Then, I wept.

Embracing the sadness, I surrendered to the tears. But why was I sad? I’ve struggled with depression in the past, triggered by a hostile work environment. These tears felt different, refreshing in a way. Still, I had no idea how to explain why I was experiencing this sadness.

Sure, my road is tougher than I would like it to be. But God has also blessed me with so many reasons to be grateful every day. I enjoy a full workload and mean every word I type as I invite others to join me in praising Him. So, why did I need to cry alone?

I didn’t have an answer, so I simply allowed my feelings to flow.

Some folks insist that everyone needs a good cry. I believe that statement. But for some reason, I knew these tears meant more than an overflow of feelings. As I sat in the quiet room, stroking my service dog’s soft fur, I thanked God.

The ministry of tears had once again brought me to the foot of the cross, eyes gazing at the unchanging truth that kept me rooted in faith.

I couldn’t share those tears. I had to let them finish their work of cleansing my weary soul, emptying my aching heart, clearing my jumbled mind. When the streaks of salty woes eased to sniffles, peace pressed into me, first in my chest then rolling over my shoulders and off my back as I exhaled.

Can I be sad and still have strong faith?

I used to struggle with that question. I’d always been quick to feel, open to sharing with transparency and boasting in my weaknesses while proclaiming the strength of Christ alone. Was I wrong? Did my easy weeping reveal a weak spot in my faith?

I’ve been told that people with strong faith can’t be sad because their hope is in Christ. I’ve been told that my faith is weak, that I don’t want to be healed, that I don’t believe God can heal, because I’m still battling chronic pain and fatigue. But my walk with Jesus and my sacred strolls through the Bible have proven those claims false.

As I wept today, for no particular reason, I looked to the psalms for answers and found a rock-solid foundation of hope.

I could hear the psalmist David sighing as he began his prayer with confident surrender.

“Answer me when I call to you, O God who declares me innocent. Free me from my troubles. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer.” (Psalm 4:1)

David turned his words toward his offenders then announced what He could depend on with a shoulders-back and head-raised proclamation of faith.

“You can be sure of this: The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call.” (Psalm 4:3)

Those are not the words of a doubting sinner. Those are the words of a victorious king reliant on the King of Kings.

Turning back to listeners, David encourages obedience and trust in the Lord before interceding in prayer then intimately speaking to God regarding his personal testimony without missing a breath.

“Let your face smile on us, LORD. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine.” (Psalm 4:6-7)

David acknowledges God’s ability to meet His needs while he is still in need.

His faith shines with a bold assurance in God’s promised provision. But it’s clear that David is still suffering. I can imagine his head bowed because I bow my head as I pray with David.

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.” (Psalm 4:8, emphasis mine)

As I look around me, I see suffering that is hard to hide and suffering hidden behind a smile and a dismissive “I’m fine.” I’ve been guilty of the latter, wanting to protect God’s reputation by pretending everything was good in my life.

Now, I know better because I know God better.

Can I be sad and still have strong faith?

The psalmists would answer yes and prove their stance with their songs of praise and lament. The disciples would say yes and display their scars of faith like badges, as they willingly shared in the suffering of Christ. The Saints of the Old Testament would gather around and swap stories of God’s faithfulness, trustworthiness, and power through their toughest moments. They all knew sadness and had faith.

As I tried to understand the reason for my gush of feelings, I asked God for clarity. He took me to dictionary .com on a hunt for meaning.

Sadness is “an instance of sorrow.”

If that’s true, then sadness is also an emotion that will pass, not our identity.

Sadness is not a shawl of shame that needs to be denied or minimized.

Sadness proves that we feel, that we care, that we’re alive, that we’re still fighting, still trusting, still walking by faith.

How does God respond when we’re sad?

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 51:17)

We can stop fearing sadness and trying to avoid tears when we begin to understand the ministry God does as we surrender to the emotions He gave us to experience.

Our tears are prayers God hears, songs of worship God receives, and expressions of trust God accepts as He walks us to the promises He will undoubtedly fulfill.

Loving Lord, thanks for knowing how much we need to feel sadness, how much we need to experience the overflow of tears, and how much we need to encounter You in the instances of sorrow You use to deepen our dependence on Your enduring mercy and love. Help us trust that You never let a tear slip down our cheeks without Your acknowledgement. And help us rest in the surety of Your all-encompassing grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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If your heart is weary and longing for answers—for healing, for provision, for miracles—Waiting for God renews your hope with strong biblical truth and encouraging Scripture-based prayer. Guided to inhale God’s Word, exhale in prayer, and rest in God’s love, you will be restored, able to worship the Lord even when the wait feels endless.

Xochitl Dixon shares her personal stories and the experiences of others to help you reclaim your peace and joy, knowing God has not forgotten you.

You can order your copies of Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace from Amazon. Don’t forget to love your neighbor by ordering extra copies to share as gifts.

To God be the glory!

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Finding Comfort When Christmas Comes with Heartache (Special Book Giveaway)

Somewhere, someone is hurting as the world around them revs up for the holiday festivities.

Someone is adjusting to life after a big transition.

Someone is struggling to pay bills.

Someone is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Someone is wrestling with fear or anxiety after an unexpected health diagnosis.

Someone is battling disease or struggling with pain management.

Someone is feeling rejected, lonely, forgotten, insignificant.

Someone doesn’t know how to tell their family they just lost their job, their home, their spouse, their unborn child.

We can add so many things to this list of circumstances causing someone to suffer.

You may know that someone who is hurting this Christmas.

You may even be that someone today.

If not, we can be sure that any one of us could be that someone tomorrow.

So, how can we find the comfort we need when Christmas comes with heartache?

“My comfort in suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” Psalm 119:50 (NIV)

As I prayed over this verse, I thought about the physical and emotional pain my family endured over the last year. Some of our heartaches and trials will roll over into the coming year.

Longing to gain a deeper perspective, I prayed over the psalmist’s declaration of faith, searched other translations, and found a spirit-refreshing nugget of hope that solidified my peace.

The New Living Translation says: “Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.” Psalm 119:50 (NLT)

The English Standard Version says: “This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.” Psalm 119:50 (ESV)

The International Standard Version says: “This is what comforts me in my troubles; that what you say revives me.” Psalm 119:50 (ISV)

The Word English Bible says: “This is my comfort in my affliction, for your word has revived me.” Psalm 119:50 (WEB)

God’s promise is what He says . . . His Word!

Yes!

God’s promise revives ̶ renews, restores back to life, makes operative again, brings back ̶ my life.

God’s promise preserves ̶ keeps alive, makes lasting, keeps safe, protects, maintains ̶ my life.

God’s promise assures us that He loves us and never leaves us.

His love is unconditional, “absolute, free from imperfection, pure, complete, without limits”  (Dictionary .com).

His presence is unrelenting, “not yielding or swerving in determination, not easing or slackening” (Dictionary .com).

God alone is able and available to handle anything and everything that happens to land on our list of afflictions.

Even while we are right smack in the middle of heart wrenching circumstances, we can trust God to be our strength, our peace, our enduring hope, and our constant and complete Giver of comfort.

Hallelujah!

God of All Comfort, thanks for using Your Holy Word to reveal Your unchanging character, Your unconditional love for us, and Your unrelenting presence with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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REVIVE Your Prayer Life!

Pause for Prayer with Xochitl Dixon introduces Revive Your Prayer Life: An Interview with Amy Boucher Pye, Our Daily Bread writer, speaker, spiritual director, and author of the award-winning Finding Myself in Britain, The Living Cross, Celebrating Christmas: Embracing Joy through Out and Reflection, and 7 Ways to Pray.

Join me for Revive: 31-Days of Spirit-Refreshing Biblical Encouragement and Prayers on my Instagram page and subscribe to Pause for Prayer, my YouTube channel, today!

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EXCLUSIVE BOOK GIVEAWAY FOR MY BLOG SUBSCRIBERS!

TO ENTER: Let me know where you are from when you leave a comment under this blog post and you will be entered for your chance to receive a free copy of 7 Ways to Pray: Time-Tested Practices for Encountering God, written by my fellow Our Daily Bread Writer Amy Boucher Pye, and a free signed copy of my 31-day devotional, Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. Must be a U.S. Resident to be eligible for this giveaway.

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Thanks for being a member of my blog family!

If you are reading this article in your email, please join the conversation in the comment section on my website by clicking here, scrolling down to the comment section, and writing your message. (This link only works if you are reading this blog post as a subscriber via your email inbox.)

I moderate comments for the safety of our community, so your comment will not show up right away. However, I will read, reply to, and approve every comment that is appropriate to share under my blog articles.

I’m looking forward to growing with you as we remain rooted in God’s Word and growing with God’s people.

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Are you looking for a gift that will have lasting spiritual impact on someone you love?

Different Like Me, one of five children’s books chosen as a finalist for the 2021 ECPA Christian Book Awards, celebrates our differences and our sameness as God’s beautifully diverse and purposefully connected image-bearers. In Different Like Me, a diverse group of children join forces to help a friend and discover that God created everyone to be different and special so we can serve together for His glory!

In Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace, I will guide you through 31 days of spirit-refreshing devotions. We will inhale God’s Word, exhale in prayer, and rest in God’s love as we trust Him for healing, for provision, and for miracles when the wait feels endless.

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Living Like a Masterpiece

Suggested Reading: Ephesians 2:1-18

As I celebrated my 51st birthday, I reflected on how my life has gone nothing like I’d planned!

I’m also admitting that God’s plan is way better than anything I could have imagined. And I have a pretty active imagination.

Though some seasons have seemed a bit too-stormy and some roads have felt a bit too-long and too-hard, God has always brought me through.

He’s never wasted an experience, good or bad. He’s refined me in ways I never realized I needed. And, oh how He’s blessed me beyond what I dared to dream possible.

Still, sometimes, I don’t live like I believe what He says about me.

If you’ve ever struggled with believing what God says about you, please check out the Worship Expressed God Says I Am . . . Collection today.

Then, check out Ephesians 2, where the apostle Paul explores the benefits of being made alive in Christ.

Paul writes: “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil ̶ the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” (Ephesians 2:1-2, NLT)

I can imagine the apostle grabbing his fellow believers by their shoulders and giving them a good shake.

“Why are you insisting on living as if you’re still dead in your sins?”

Paul reminds us that none of us can escape the reality of being dead in our own muck before Jesus.

All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature” (v. 3, emphasis mine).

Then, Paul uses one of the most powerful declarations in the Bible: But God!

But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved.)” (vv. 4-5, emphasis mine).

Paul reveals the link between life and death is our wholehearted belief in who Jesus was and is and always will be, as well as what Jesus did when He died on the cross and rose from the tomb three days later.

Our complete dependence on God the Father secures our ability to live like we believe the reality of our new-life status through our intimate connection with God the Son, Jesus Christ, which is only possible through God the Spirit.

“For He . . .” signifies a reliance on God, not self.

The pressure to live for God with loving obedience and faith is not on us, in our weakness, but on our willingness to surrender to God and rely on the strength of His Spirit who dwells in us.

Because of God ̶ of who He is and what He accomplished through the cross and the resurrection of Jesus, as well as from before He created the world and into all eternity ̶ Paul’s following statements stand on firmly established truth.

For He raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of His grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all He has done for us who are united in Christ Jesus.” (vv. 6-7)

God’s work is finished.

God’s plan is, always has been, and will always be in motion, but His destination has already been reached.

We already have a secured spot, a place at His table, a guaranteed reservation that impacts our lives on this side of eternity.

The life-transforming power of Paul’s message is clear.

“God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:8-10, NLT, emphasis mine)

We received God’s gift of salvation because we are His masterpiece . . . “we” being plural.

In our me-centered world, it’s tempting to take these verses to encourage ourselves, build up our self-esteem, pep-talk our way into not giving up. When we do this, we miss one vital aspect of Paul’s main point.

Paul draws our attention to our union in Christ and with one another when he affirms that we, as the community of believers ̶ the Church ̶ are God’s masterpiece.

Once singular and self-centered, we are now made “anew” as an interdependent body of cherished children. God has entrusted each of us individually and us collectively with gifts intended for us to steward with Spirit-empowered wisdom, courage, and commitment to Kingdom-Building.

God planned our paths long ago and has been guiding our steps, molding us through refining fires, and empowering us to live like a masterpiece ̶ connected to Him and others through Christ’s life and sacrificial love shown on the cross and as He rose from the tomb.

“Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of His death on the cross, and our hostility toward one another was put to death.” (v. 16)

Because the fruit of the Spirit cannot help but be evident in the life of believers in Jesus, those who truly place their faith in Christ simply cannot be hostile toward one another or toward nonbelievers.

“We are carefully joined together in Him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.” (v. 21)

We are a masterpiece . . . together.

We can ask God to help us believe what He says about us in the God-breathed words of Scripture.

We can ask God to help us surrender to Him as we rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.

God is waiting for us to lift our arms high with confidence in His ability to empower us to live like a masterpiece ̶ each one dependent on God and interdependently serving God and others.

As active members of the Church, dedicated to bringing Him glory, we can fulfill His greatest commandment and the great commission.

What can you do this week to live like a masterpiece ̶ as a loving member of the Church God loves and uses for His glory?

How has God changed your perspective on your need for Him and the Church over the last year? 

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Last month, I served alongside three talented Christian Children’s picture book authors to explore why representation in children’s literature matters.

This month I am celebrating God’s love with these wonderful Kingdom-Builders who have been honored, along with me, as 2021 ECPA Children’s Book Award Finalists and a Winner.

This week, I have the privilege of being the highlighted author as these phenomenal women of God lift me up, encourage me, and help me reach more people for Jesus by helping me spread the word about Different Like Me.

I need your help, too.

If you have read Different Like Me, would you please write a short review on Amazon?

Reviews can help Amazon place Different Like Me in front of more readers.

To write an Amazon review, please click here, sign in, and answer the following questions:

  1. Why do you like Different Like Me?
  2. Would you recommend Different Like Me to others?
  3. How have you shared Different Like Me with others?
  4. (Optional) How has God used Different Like Me to encourage you or your little readers?

You can also partner with me in ministry by helping reach readers in your personal sphere of influence in the following ways:

  1. Invite me to an in-person or Zoom author visit, during which I will read Different Like Me and visit with the children at your church, school, homeschool group, afterschool program, and kids’ event (i.e. Vacation Bible School, MOPS meeting or event, AWANA, Harvest Festival, Angel Tree Party, etc).
  2. Connect with me to gather sponsors who will donate signed copies of Different Like Me to give away to all the children who participate in your kids’ event (i.e. Vacation Bible School, MOPS meeting or event, AWANA, Harvest Festival, Angel Tree Party, etc).
  3. Love your neighbors by ordering extra copies of Different Like Me to share as gifts.
  4. Keep an extra copy of Different Like Me in your car and ask God to show you who He wants to receive your gift.
  5. Donate copies of Different Like Me to your local libraries, Little Free Libraries in your community, local churches, local schools, individual classrooms, afterschool programs, foster care centers, children’s hospitals, and more.

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God is working in amazing and surprising ways this year as I team up with more folks who are dedicated to sharing God’s truth and love to the ends of the earth!

My husband, Alan, our youngest son, Xavier, and I have said “yes” to an wonderful outreach ministry opportunity.

In September we launched Worship Expressed, an online store where you can purchase Christian apparel and accessories that I have prayed over while designing. We even have a few designs created by our son, Xavier.

Worship Expressed is adding to our product line and will be working with Christian authors to create a few special collections before the holiday season arrives.

Please help us invite others to worship God through our attitudes, our words, our actions, and the Worship Expressed apparel and accessories we choose to use and wear every day.

How can you partner in ministry with the Worship Expressed family?

  1. Click here to “LIKE” the Worship Expressed with Xochitl Dixon page on Facebook, then “Like” and “Share” some of our posts.
  2. Click here to “Follow” the Worship Expressed page on Instagram, then “Heart” and “Share” some of our posts.
  3. Click here to visit, shop, or join the Worship Expressed family by creating an account.
  4. Take photos of you enjoying your Worship Expressed apparel and accessories and tag us on social media.
  5. Contact us through the Worship Expressed website to share your testimonies about how God used your Worship Expressed apparel and accessories to help you invite people to talk about Him, praise Him, and share the Gospel with others.
  6. Love your neighbors by ordering extra Worship Expressed apparel and accessories to share as gifts.

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Thanks for being a member of my blog family!

I hope you will connect with me in the comment section under this blog post.

If you are reading this article in your email, you can reply to this email OR join the conversation in the comment section on my website by clicking here, scrolling down to the comment section, and writing your message.

I moderate comments for the safety of our community, so your comment will not show up right away. However, I will read, reply to, and approve every comment that is appropriate to share under my blog articles.

I’m looking forward to growing with you as we remain rooted in God’s Word and growing with God’s people.

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My Dream of Being a Smuggler (Big News, Invitation, and Mega Diverse Book Giveaway)

Suggested Reading: Acts 1:1-11

Have you ever had to release your grip on a dream?

When I first surrendered my life to Christ in 2001, I wanted to share His truth and love to the ends of the earth. I dreamed of serving the Lord through mission trips. My husband said mission trips were not for him, so I decided to wait until our sons grew up. I secretly prayed our sons would have missionary hearts and join me in international ministry.

After watching a video showing a group of people in China receiving Bibles smuggled into the country in suitcases and weeping as they savored the God-breathed words of Scripture, I dreamed of becoming a Bible smuggler.

In 2011, I attended a Christian writers conference and spoke with a well-known agent about using writing as a tool for ministry. He asked me if I wanted to use writing for ministry or if I wanted my name on a book.

I said, “I want to share God’s truth and love to the ends of the earth and I don’t care how.”

He said, “Don’t forget the ministry of magazine writing.”

God used that conversation to lead me into a mission field I never considered possible.

But in September 2012, when I turned to pick up a paper from my desk, I ended up writhing in pain on the floor. My overcompensation to ease the pain from my 1992 upper thoracic back injury caused damage in my shoulders and neck. I had my first back procedure and shoulder surgery before the end of the year.

In January 2014, after numerous back procedures and two months before my second shoulder surgery, my mom fell while walking through a parking lot. When doctors reviewed her blood samples in preparation for her procedure, they diagnosed her with Leukemia. They placed her on bone marrow transplant list and sent her to Seattle for treatment in June, just a few weeks before our youngest son graduated from high school.

As we celebrated his achievement, I prepared to move out-of-state to serve as my mom’s live-in caregiver.

I wouldn’t be traveling to China that year.

A few of my aunts visited us in Seattle in September. They helped me celebrate my birthday by paying for me to attend a Christian writers conference the following year, to celebrate my mom’s remission.

After my aunts left, my mom encouraged me to continue using writing to encourage others and point to Jesus. She believed in me and didn’t laugh at me when I shared about my dream to become a Bible smuggler.

I started to dream again and repeated my 2001 prayer.

Lord, I want to share Your truth and love to the ends of the earth and I don’t care how!

My mom danced into the arms of Jesus in October 2014.

I went to that Christian writers conference, still tender with grief, and heard Robin Jones Gunn share about how she had dreamed of being a missionary.

She shared how God kept closing doors when she took the steps enter the mission field and how, years after allowing that dream to die, a young girl from the middle east sent her a letter. The reader thanked Robin for sharing Scriptures in her teen novels. She said she would never be allowed to read the Bible and asked Robin to add more Scripture into her novels.

Then, this young girl said she had prayed to receive Christ as her personal Lord and Savior with the character in the story Robin penned.

God allowed Robin to become a missionary as He sent her words to this young reader.

Weeping, I wrote these words in my notebook: Lord, please use the words I write to share Your truth and love to the ends of the earth . . . and I don’t care how!

During that conference, I received an email informing me that I’d been accepted to serve as a contributing writer for Our Daily Bread Ministries. I found that same agent and shared my news with him.

I would be smuggling Bible verses into China!

God is still allowing me to serve as a missionary, sharing His truth and love to the ends of the earth in ways I never dared to dream possible.

On July 22, 2021, two years after China banned online sales of Bibles, Our Daily Bread Publishing informed me that Different Like Me, which includes Genesis 1:27 and Psalm 139:13-14, is being published in Simplified Chinese.

To God be the glory, the honor, and the praise, praise, praise!

In Acts 1:1-13, moments before His ascension, Jesus establishes the disciples’ purpose and their Power Source.

“He said to them: ‘It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:7-8, emphasis mine)

Jesus is coming again.

Until He does, we have the pleasure and privilege of sharing His truth and love to the ends of the earth . . . however and whenever He gives us the opportunities.

AND when we work together, we can reach more people for Jesus.

Hallelujah!

*

BIG NEWS

*

The Lord has blessed me with another wonderful ministry opportunity.

Alan, Xavier, and I are excited to announce the launch of our new family ministry.

Worship Expressed offers Christian apparel and accessories that I design.

I pray for those who will be joining me to worship God through our attitudes, words, actions, and the apparel and accessories we choose to use and wear every day.

Worship Expressed currently offers T-shirts, totes, mugs, steel water bottles, and journals in a variety of styles and colors

I’m currently designing sweatshirts and a few home décor items.

A percentage of all profits from Worship Expressed will be donated to Our Daily Bread Ministries and Compassion International.

Worship Expressed will also host periodic fundraisers to raise awareness for Muscular Dystrophy, childhood cancer, autism, and other ministries that serve children with special needs.

*

Would you like to partner with me in ministry as the Lord continues to allow me to share His truth and love to the ends of the earth?

I need Praying-Peeps and Patron Planters.

Praying-Peeps commit to praying as God opens doors for me to serve Him.

Patron Planters join me in planting seeds of God’s truth in the hearts of readers by:

  1. Loving your neighbors by ordering Worship Expressed items and extra copies of Waiting for God and Different Like Me to share as gifts.
  2. Sharing photos of you with your Worship Expressed items and with copies of Waiting for God and Different Like Me on social media.
  3. Host an Author Reading or invite me to share a message at your next event.
  4. Order Worship Expressed items or contact me to inquire about designing custom items for:

* Church Events

* Bible Study Group

* Pastor Appreciation Day

* Church Staff Appreciation

* Ministry Leader Appreciation

* Family Reunions

* Ministry Teams

* Writers Groups

* Writers Conferences

* Fundraisers

* And MORE!

  1. Donate Waiting for God and Different Like Me to public libraries, school classrooms and libraries, free little libraries, church libraries, ministry leaders, and community programs that serve children and adults in need.

I thank God for your partnership in sharing His truth and love to the ends of the earth!

*

BOOK GIVEAWAY

*

I hope you enjoyed the “Representation Matters” blog series.

That special announcement I told you about is actually a MEGA BOOK GIVEAWAY, which includes signed and personalized copies of the following 4 books:

1. Cora Cooks Pancit by Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young

2. Different Like Me by Xochitl Dixon

3. Breakfast with Jesus by Tina M. Cho

4. The Celebration Place by Dorena Williamson

*

How do you qualify to be considered for this Mega Book Giveaway?

Follow ALL FOUR authors on Instagram by clicking on the links below:

@DorinaGilmore

@xochitl.e.dixon

@tinamcho

@dorenawilliamson

*
This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram. All ages can win the giveaway if they have an Instagram account.

*

One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Instagram by noon PT/3 pm CT on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. Prizes will be shipped to one winner at a U.S. address only.
*

If you received this message in your email inbox, click here to join the conversation by making a comment under the original article on my blog.

I look forward to connecting and growing with you!

*

Because God Is

Suggested Reading: Psalm 145

“Why should I trust God when He doesn’t seem to care about me?”

When my friend asked that question, I understood her struggle. I had asked the same question before. I had grappled with accepting the goodness of God when His actions or His inaction resulted in grief. I had cried out, “It’s not fair.” I had sobbed prayers filled with variations of disbelief: Why, God? Why not, God? When? How long? Do You hear me? Do You care?

My friend didn’t need encouraging platitudes. She didn’t even need answers or a plan of action.

She simply needed to know she wasn’t alone.

So, I led her to one of the psalmists who understood the pain of waiting, the frustration of not knowing which way to turn, the discouragement of wondering how much longer the rough waters would last, and the heartache of dealing with the negative consequences of his own poor choices.

In Psalm 145, the psalmist David demonstrates the reasons we can trust God.

 

  1. We can trust God because He is worthy of all our praise.

David begins Psalm 145 with an intimate prayer, speaking directly to the Lord. His first utterance is not a list of demands or complaints. He starts off praising God as King, declaring a commitment to praising the Lord “for ever and ever” (v. 1).

“Every day I will praise You and extol Your name for ever and ever” (v. 2). Extol, to worship, to praise, to lift up, and revere. And with his next breath, David exalts the Lord.

“Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom” (v. 3).

 

  1. We can trust God because He has a reputation of faithfulness.

David says God’s generations will be talking about His mighty acts (v. 4).

He will not allow anyone to worship God alone. When they speak of “the glorious splendor” of His “majesty,” he will “meditate” on God’s “wonderful works (v. 5). When they “tell of the power” of His “awesome works,” David will “proclaim” His “great deeds” (v. 6).

Together, they will “celebrate” God’s “abundant goodness” and “joyfully sing” of His “righteousness” (v. 7).

 

  1. We can trust God because He is gracious and good.

“The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all’ He has compassion on all He has made” (v. 8-9).

David had experienced God’s mercy time and again. He had been wrapped in God’s loving patience, overwhelmed by God’s forgiveness, and comforted by God’s all-sufficient grace.

 

  1. We can trust God because He is always working in the lives of ALL His children.

The testimonies of God’s goodness and faithfulness in the lives of others penetrate our present struggles with an aroma of enduring hope.

So that “all people may know of [His] mighty acts and the glorious splendor of [His] kingdom” (vv. 10-12), His “everlasting kingdom” and sovereign reign that will endure “through all generations” (v. 13).

 

  1. We can trust God because He is consistent.

David declares God is trustworthy in all [He] promises and faithful in all [He] does” (vv. 13-17).

God holds us up, lifts us up, and provides “at the proper time” (vv. 15-16).

He hears us and cares for us, even when we feel unheard and left to fend for ourselves.

 

  1. We can trust God because He is intimate.

 David had been on the run, hiding from Saul and trying to deceive himself after falling prey to temptation through idleness.

He had wept bitterly, felt abandoned, grown weary, and seen his own wickedness destroy those he loved dearly. Still, God remained close and comforting.

“The LORD is near to all who call on [Him], to all who call on [Him] in truth” (v. 18). He knows our deepest needs and transforms our greatest desires to align with His heart as we draw nearer to Him each day.

 

  1. We can trust God because He is just.

 Though God doesn’t rescue us from the consequences of our deliberate sins, His compassion and forgiveness transforms our wounded hearts and even uses our past to draw others closer to Him.

David sings a final prayer and testimony that inspires others to praise the Lord.

“My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise His holy name for ever and ever” (v. 21).

 

  1. Like David, we can trust God because He is . . . God.

 

Mighty and merciful Jesus, for remaining the same and being with us yesterday and today and forever.

 Please help us praise You, simply because You are God.

 Transform our minds and our hearts so that we will want to live in alignment with Your flawless Word. Empower us to love You and others with our words, our actions, and our attitudes.

 Thanks for blessing us with the privilege of praising You and proclaiming the goodness and faithfulness of Your mighty name.

 In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*****

If you need a burst of enduring hope as you continue waiting for an answer to prayer, for a trial to pass, or for a door to open or slam shut, join me for 31 devotional readings filled with biblical truth and Scripture-based prayers that will empower you to trust daily in God’s plan and pace.

Invite a friend and meet with me as we inhale God’s Word, exhale prayers and praises, and rest in God’s love through each chapter in Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace.

If you’ve already read Waiting for God, please help me spread the word and reach more readers with God’s truth and love by writing a short review on Amazon today.

Pause for Prayer with me by subscribing to my YouTube channel today.

I’m looking forward to growing with you!

Taking a Spiritual Inventory

***

I don’t know when the complaints started seeping into my mind and spewing out of my mouth.

I’d experienced cabin fever during the harsh winters and the too-hot-and-rainy summers in Wisconsin. I’d grown accustomed to the loneliness that comes with living with pain and limited mobility. I’d even managed to thrive during the mandatory isolation during the pandemic.

But when God answered our prayers and brought us back to California, the obstacles we faced triggered an unexpected bout with irritability. My husband caught the bug, too.

Our journey has included more than a few challenges, but the Lord has provided for us in amazing ways since our return.

So why did we allow frustration to spice too many of our conversations? Why did we gripe a-little-too-much about the negative aspects of apartment living?

Last week, The Lord answered those questions with a gentle prick of conviction.

I mentor two beautiful teenagers via Zoom. We meet weekly to pray and study the Bible.

After finishing the book of Matthew, I had planned to lead them through the book of Romans.

God had other plans, better plans, a bit more uncomfortable but absolutely necessary plans.

I challenged the girls to read through the book of Galatians, one chapter a day. I believe in teaching in the trenches, so I also read a chapter each day.

When we get comfortable with reading Scripture, we can be tempted to forget that each word is God-breathed, infallible truth from the heart of our sovereign and good God.

 As I read Galatians 5, the Lord reminded me of the heart-transforming power of His Word.

He affirmed my desperation for constant connection and total submission to Him.

He also pointed a spotlight on my sinfulness.

“If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” (Galatians 5:15, NIV)

I couldn’t deny that I’d succumbed to the “acts of the flesh” (v. 19). Discord, dissensions, and factions (v. 20). Yep. There they were. In my own home. Caused by my own attitude.

Being isolated from people didn’t affect me as much as realizing I’d severed my own connection with God.

Plunging myself back into His loving arms of grace, I repented then asked God and my husband to forgive me. Then, I said a prayer I hadn’t uttered for years.

Lord, please make me more like You.

I needed some fruit, some ripe and fragrant fruit of the Spirit that would make me look more like Jesus.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).

So when the neighbors didn’t follow the apartment complex rules, when my husband snapped at me, when something didn’t go as I planned, I had a choice.

Would I react in frustration? Would I lash out in fear? Or, would I respond like Jesus?

If I depended on my will, my strength, my ability, I would never be able to respond like Jesus. So, I needed to reconnect with my Power Source.

The apostle Paul charges us to “walk with the Spirit” so we “will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (v. 16).

But how? How could I walk with the Spirit if I wasn’t connecting with Him constantly?

Reading through Galatians with those two teenagers reminded me to go back to the basics, to return to the foundation of my faith ̶ an intimate relationship with God.

I desperately needed to approach God like a child again, with innocence and willingness to trust, with a longing to please Him, with a reliance on Him to provide everything I needed.

I began praying through the Scriptures each day with a hunger I haven’t felt in a long time.

I invited the Spirit to be my strength, to guide my steps, to change my heart and mind so that He could empower me to walk in alignment with God’s Holy Word.

I’d like to say I immediately checked my attitude at the door, but I would be lying.

I did, however, feel convicted when I allowed sin to seep into my attitude, my words, and my deeds. I did become quicker to apologize when I messed up and acted in the flesh. I started to respond with more compassion and understanding.

The process of transformation takes time and the power of the Holy Spirit.

 God affords us all the time and power we need to become all He’s planned for us to be.

We do not have to do things in our own strength.

We can call on God immediately when we’re in need.

We don’t have to complicate our spiritual lives by trying to look more spiritual.

As we lean into God’s loving embrace, we can listen for His heartbeat and know that we are loved, cherished, and purposed for His glory.

We are empowered by the Holy Spirit, who lives in us. So we never have to be disconnected from Him. Never.

As we invite the Holy Spirit into our daily living, breathing prayers and praises throughout the day, we can ask Him to take a spiritual inventory.

To God be the glory, the honor, and the praise!  

Spirit of God, thank You for being our Power Source. Please increase our ability to love selflessly. Make our joy contagious. Give us peace that transcends all understanding. Let forbearance and kindness seep into our relationships. Change our character so we can reflect goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control as we honor You with our attitudes, our words, and our actions each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

***

Dig Deeper

I am asking the Holy Spirit to increase my self-control so that I will be quicker to listen, slower to react, and wise with the words and attitudes that I allow to impact my relationships.

If you were going to take a spiritual inventory, what fruit would you want the Holy Spirit to cultivate in your life?

***

First Goal Met: Solomon is Getting His Service Puppy!

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!

I thank God for every single person who helped us reach our first goal of $10,000.00 so that Solomon can be placed on the list to receive his puppy from the next litter!

Between June 10, 2020 and June 24, 2020, sponsors blessed us with $10,898.69 of tax-deductible donations made directly to Tails for Life and earmarked for 4-year-old Solomon Henry’s service dog.

I had the privilege of telling Solomon’s family that we reached our first goal on his sister’s birthday. What a gift!

Solomon was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in April 2020. His family has been processing the life-changing impact of his diagnosis while facing big decisions about his treatment.

We may not be able to change Solomon’s diagnosis, but we ARE helping change his life.

Every single dollar . . . every single penny . . . every single time someone chose to share our posts has made a difference.

We still need $11,101.31 before Solomon’s puppy can start the two-year training program with lifetime training support.

But today, we’re celebrating!

To God be the glory, the honor, and the praise, praise, praise!

—–

Would you like to join us in praying for the Henry family and prayerfully consider making a donation directly to Tails for Life today?

Please make checks payable to Tails for Life, write “Solomon Henry’s Service Dog” in the meme, and send to:

 

Tails for Life

Attention: Jacob Guell

W7074 Penny Lane

Fond du Lac, WI 54937

 

If you have any problems making a donation online and adding “Solomon Henry’s Service Dog” in the notes section, please make your donation online. Then email Jacob Guell at [email protected] to let him know your donation is for Solomon.

Please also consider inviting a friend or two to help so we can reserve Solomon’s spot and begin the two-year service dog training process as soon as possible.

I thank God for all of you who sponsored Callie’s service dog training and who continually pray for us as we share God’s truth and love to the ends of the earth.

I am praising God now for the wonderful way He is going to provide for Solomon and his family, just like He provided for me and my sweet Callie Mae.

Please feel free to leave a comment below to encourage Solomon and his family, as well as the Tails for Life team members who have dedicated their lives to serving God by providing well-trained service dogs and ongoing training support to those in need.

—–

 

Callie’s Birthday Wish: We Have a Hurting Friend Who Needs Our Prayers and Our Help

Callie turned two today!

I shed grateful tears when I think about how the Lord has used Callie, a mixed breed rescued from a kill-shelter, and the trainers at Tails for Life to improve my quality of life physically, emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually.

When we followed God from California to Wisconsin in August 2018, I couldn’t even walk to the end of the block with my cane. I couldn’t endure more than an hour out of the house without hunching over with stabbing pain in my upper thoracic back.

Though I still struggle with daily nerve pain, fatigue, muscle spasms, and headaches, my doctor’s helping me improve my pain management and Callie’s helping me improve my independence and mobility.

I can now walk Callie, without a cane, 2-3 times a day. Hallelujah!

When I’m having high level pain or spasms, Callie stays by my side and offers pressure therapy upon my request. She helps me get out of my chair and picks up things that I drop. She helps me balance when I’m walking and slows down when I have a flare-up during an outing.

Callie has flown across the country with me and served the Lord by my side during multiple book signings and speaking events. She lays next to me when I’m writing and rests under the table when I’m working at my desk.

I feel more confident and courageous when I’m serving the Lord with Callie by my side.

None of this would be possible without God, the New Pawsibilities rescue shelter, our first Wisconsin-friends, Gary and Carmen, and the group of generous readers who sponsored Callie’s service dog training with Tails for Life.

As I thank God for allowing us to serve Him together, I enjoy sharing our adventures at Callie the Service Dog with Xochitl Dixon (Facebook).

Callie is also building friendships and serving the Lord online at @callie.the.service.dog with Xochitl Dixon on Instagram.

But nothing is more rewarding than helping others who would benefit from a service dog. 

Four-year-old Solomon needs our help today!

On April 16, 2020, one of the families in our church discovered that their son, Solomon, was diagnosed with Duchenne (pronounced “do-shen”) Muscular Dystrophy.

My friend, Lara, explained how Solomon’s diagnosis will impact his future.

“This is a disease that doesn’t have a cure. My son’s body cannot make the protein properly to sustain his muscles. As he ages, his body will slowly become weaker.

The mutation on the X-Chromosome means nearly all who are affected by DMD are males.

Boys will typically need a motorized wheelchair by middle school. Eventually they will need help with the most basic needs of life.

Life expectancy varies between DMD boys, some pass as early as their teenage years – some live longer – but most pass in their 20’s.

I’ve grown closer to Solomon and his family as I pray for them.

Solomon is a bright and happy boy. He’s curious, funny, and kind. He likes playing with tools and Legos.

And he loves Callie!

Lara shared how this disease is already impacting her son’s physical abilities.

“Solomon is unable to run or jump. Stairs are hard work. He struggles to pick his feet up high enough off the ground, so they don’t drag. He literally trips over his own feet.”

But Solomon’s disease is also effecting his whole family.

While her husband works to support their family, Lara tries to stay right by Solomon’s side, constantly fearing he will fall and injure himself.

“His sister, Addy, loves him very much,” she said. “Although she doesn’t fully understand what “Duchenne” means, she knows enough to run and get his favorite blanket or stuffed animal when he falls and hurts himself.”

But Lara proclaims that Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy has not left Solomon’s family without hope.

“The God who stopped the sun in the sky for the Israelites, the God who parted the Red Sea for Moses, the God who raised Lazarus from the dead . . . that is the God I believe in. And that is the God who could have reached into my womb and healed my son before he was born. He is the God that could heal my son right now.

But He doesn’t.

And I HAVE to be okay with that. It is now more important than ever for me to have hope in Him and in His promises.

Is it easy?  Definitely not. Do I do it consistently? Nope. But, after the hardest of days when the tears won’t stop flowing, do I come back before His throne on my knees? Sure do. I have to believe in God’s goodness, in His power, in His might. I have to believe that He loves my son. I have to believe that it will all be okay, regardless of the pain now.

Because if I don’t believe all of that, what am I left with? Belief that God that doesn’t love Solomon? Belief that God isn’t all-powerful or all-mighty? Oof. That puts me in a very dark place. I don’t want to be there. So today, in spite of the pain and the grief, I choose to believe. I choose to have hope in the future.”

Jacob Guell from Tails for Life explains how a service dog can help brighten Solomon’s future.

A professionally trained service dog will help Solomon balance and can provide a sense of independence for Solomon, even as his muscles weaken.

The dog will help Solomon stand up from his chair or the floor, if he’s sitting on the floor or after a fall.

When Solomon drops something, the dog will pick up the item he drops. He can even retrieve and carry items.

The dog will be able to work with Solomon when he is in a wheelchair, too.

A service dog would also offer support to Solomon’s family.

The dog will alert a family member if Solomon needs help. He will stick close to Solomon and offer physical and emotional support, so family members don’t have to be so worried about leaving his side to keep him from falling.

The dog would also know how to get assistance from someone if Solomon is in need of help, at home or in public.

I know from my experience with Callie that a service dog brings so much more to the handler and the family.

The sense of comfort and confidence that comes through working with a service dog is a priceless gift.

A professionally trained service dog will allow Solomon and his family to have a better quality of life physically, emotionally, and mentally as his disease progresses.

How can we help bring Solomon and his service dog together so they can begin their life-changing journey together?

Tails for Life works with reliable breeders to ensure their service dogs have a specific temperament that will make them successful as they work with their handlers and families.

Securing a puppy and the two-year training spot with ongoing support from Tails for Life costs $22,000.00.

I know from experience that the Tails for Life team works with integrity and goes above and beyond to serve the families God has entrusted to them.

The sooner Solomon can secure a dog and a training spot, the sooner he will be able to begin working with the service dog.

Tails for Life needs $10,000.00 as soon as possible to reserve a dog and a training spot for Solomon.

The remaining balance of $12,000.00 is due when the training begins.

Tails for Life is already booking training spots for next Spring. They work on a first come first serve basis, so they cannot reserve spots without the funding.

Sponsors can make tax-deductible donations directly to Tails for Life via their website (click here).

Donations must include a message in the notes section to inform Tails for Life that their donation is for Solomon.

Tails for Life also accepts tax-deductible donations via check (instructions below) with a note informing them that the money should go directly to Solomon’s dog and training.

Donations over $250.00 will receive a special form in addition to the receipt everyone receives with their life-changing donation.

Tails for Life has trained Callie and me since July 2019, but they have been making a difference in the lives of children since 2013.

This team has provided well over a dozen service dogs to families across Wisconsin and Illinois, along with a few other states.

They have helped many children with rare disorders or diseases, children who were turned away from other organizations because they didn’t fit the organization’s criteria.

For Callie’s birthday, I wanted to spread God’s love and hope to this family in need. But I know Callie and I can’t do this alone.

Any donation amount will help and be appreciated.

Every dollar counts and helps us get closer to the goal of $22,000.00 so Solomon can begin his adventure with the service dog God has already chosen for him and his family.

Will you please join me in praying for the Henry family and prayerfully consider making a donation directly to Tails for Life today?

Please make checks payable to Tails for Life, write “Solomon Henry’s Service Dog” in the meme, and send to:

 

Tails for Life

Attention: Jacob Guell

W7074 Penny Lane

Fond du Lac, WI 54937

 

If you have any problems making a donation online and adding “Solomon Henry’s Service Dog” in the notes section, please make your donation then email Jacob Guell at [email protected] to let him know your donation is for Solomon.

Please also consider inviting a friend or two to help so we can secure Solomon’s dog and training spot as soon as possible.

I thank God for all of you who sponsored Callie’s service dog training and who continually pray for us as we share God’s truth and love to the ends of the earth.

In the photo above, Callie is “praising the Lord.” (Yes. I taught her how to do that, so we could praise Him together!)

And today, I am praising God for the wonderful way He is going to provide for Solomon and his family, just like He provided for me and my sweet Callie Mae.

Please feel free to leave a comment below to encourage Solomon and his family, as well as the Tails for Life team members who have dedicated their lives to serving God by providing well-trained service dogs and ongoing training support to those in need.

———-

June 15, 2020 UPDATE:

PRAISE the LORD! Every single donation is making a difference!

As of 8 am Monday, June 15, 2020, only five days into our fundraising efforts, God has blessed us with a total of $5,144.69. Hallelujah!

We may not be able to change Solomon’s diagnosis, but we are helping change his life by donating today!

Please SHARE this post, so we can reach more people!

Thank you for your prayers and support! To God be the glory, the honor, and the praise, praise, praise!

—–

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