Donny, this walk was wonderful and even more beautiful with all the rain. Love the sound of the rain, the water, and the waterfall. Sorry you got drenched, but like you shared, we do it for God. I can relate with a lot of what you said. I admit I was one of those “Christians” who went to church most Sundays, but I didn’t live like I should the other six days of the week. I hid behind my faith scared of being persecuted or not liked. Did what I thought was cool to gain acceptance. Guess I wanted to have more fun than worship God. Not proud of myself for that, but I let that go and have moved on. Fast forward to today, I no longer wish or want to be that way. I’ve grown in my faith and the adventures as you put it the Lord has allowed or wanted me to take have been such a blessing. I get to share my story or how God led and helped me overcome many things with others to encourage them. It’s not me but God using me to do it. A lot of times when I feel God wanting me to do something new, He brings me to my knees. Then in my weakness but through His strength, He gives me everything I need to move forward. That takes me surrendering to Him and yes asking others for prayer. This new chapter I’m beginning now is exciting, and I think it will be filled with many adventures. I’ll participate in those adventures willingly as long as I know it’s God’s will. Donny, my question to you, what would be your ultimate adventure knowing it is God’s will? My ultimate adventure is to go and do whatever God’s will is to encourage and inspire others and share the gospel however God sees is best for that situation. Hope this works but thought I would share a link to a picture of something I have on my desk at home. It is an iCloud link. Donny, hope you’re dried off by now. Thank you for this prayer walk today. One of my favorites. God bless you and to all in the community.
Thank you so much for sharing Anne. A great example of how to confess to one another.
My ultimate adventure would be a mix of recording and sharing my music with the world in the hopes that the songs challenge and uplift people, I would also like to be involved in some kind of saving children initiative, (I have a couple ideas but still waiting to see if it's Gods will.)
I would also really enjoy hitting the road in a bus or RV to spread love though music, share my testimony in churches, help people on the street and film prayer walks
Thanks Donny! On a last minute adventure right now myself for a writing challenge none other than to the beach for a few days. This is a positive challenge for myself. Looking forward seeing what God has in store! Praying for your adventure and God’s will and timing in guiding you!
I like to analyze myself from the perspective of superficiality and I'm always asking myself if I'm living a life that doesn't match reality and God's precepts.
Of course, as a human being with a sinful nature, I have moments when I try to mask the circumstances.
Paul in the verse “my power is made perfect in weakness” realized that his own strength was useless to strengthen him and that he had total dependence on the power of God.
I'm still on this path, but I know that the Holy Spirit of God is with me “perfecting” me and He knows the desires of my heart.
May God bless us on this journey!
P.S.: I loved the photo and the message on the board.
Thank you Angela! I have many flaws but God is perfect and thank goodness he forgives. Wish it didn’t take so long for me, but it’s okay ad we grow all our life. Still learning and passing on to others what I’m being taught or trying to. God bless you my friend!
You chose some of my favorite verses to highlight Donny. I love your walks out in nature. As I child I spent as much time as I could out in the beautiful places you take us. But at age 28, a spinal cord tumor was discovered at the base of my brain stem. I was given a couple of weeks to live or have surgery that would leave me a complete quadriplegic on a respirator. But God intervened. I am in an electric wheelchair and I have quadriparesis and a lot of chronic pain so I don't get out in nature a lot.
I do boast in my weakness and I live the verses you quoted. His grace is sufficient for me. I share just a tiny bit in His sufferings which aren't worth comparing to the fabulous glory that will someday be mine. I am content with what God has not only allowed but chosen me to live because it has given me a platform from which to share about our Glorious God to people who I otherwise would not.
I would say, be careful what you wish for because you might just get it. There can be much suffering in getting to know Jesus very intimately. I prayed that God would do whatever it takes to save my husband. Shortly after that, my tumor was discovered. After a 12 hour surgery in which he didn't know if I would live, die or how handicapped I would be, he surrendered his life to Jesus. Today he is heaven and I praise God for doing what it took. Now I'm learning to live life as a widow and soon I will be coaching people who feel stuck after the loss of a spouse or another life altering event leaves them devastatingly unable to move forward. Many are angry at God and licking their wounds of hurt and despair. When what they need to do is look up and surrender anew to Jesus. He made us to serve Him. We are not the center of the story, Jesus is. We live to love and serve Him. To reflect His glory and to be conformed to the image of Christ. My local outreach is with evenings around my firetable on my patio to my neighbors. My bigger outreach is coaching and speaking and challenging people with the Truth.
Thanks for getting me back out in nature with your prayer walks Donny. I love your content and it was perfectly resonating today. God bless you.
Faith saves us and despair kills us! (I heard this phrase in a sermon on the 10th chapter of Romans).
The problem is not the desperate situations in life, but the heart that has more despair than faith.
The Scripture gives us the promise that everyone who believes will not be confused, maybe that's why God allows some adverse situations to happen in our lives.
This made me think of the biblical character – the woman who was bleeding and approached Jesus – the Bible does not report that she was desperate, but it says that she believed that if she touched His garment she would be healed.
I believe that our faith moves the heart of Jesus.
I pray that God will help me to have more faith than despair!
Thank you Angela. I endeavor like Job to accept from God's hand whatever He allows and find purpose in it. Not that my trials even compare to Job's. They certainly do not. But we are so eager to welcome and embrace what we consider blessings but when trials come, which are designed to mature us and deepen our faith, we often reject them. Generally speaking, self centeredness and a "me" centered Gospel causes us to feel persecuted and abandoned when "bad" things happen. For example, many widow(ers) think God hates them because He took the one they love so deeply from them. How can He be a good God and do such a horrible thing to me? I understand grief but this is wrong thinking. Our days are numbered before we are born. Psalm 139. We have a predetermined expiration date. I certainly would prefer my husband still be here with me however not my will, but His be done.
I certainly believe in and have experienced divine healing, not only in my life but in my daughter's life. She was burned in a house fire 8 years ago and given 0% chance of survival, yet God miraculously spared her life. We have testimonies to tell because of the trials and suffering He allows. All praise and glory be to our Lord and King.
If and when Satan or demons are at work, we deal with them as Jesus did but not everything is caused by the demonic. Satan can do nothing apart from God's permission and knowledge. We can rest securely in the hands of our Savior.
Judy, this a beautiful story! Like Donny, I would also like to be around your fire table sessions. What a ministry and gift God has given you! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for commenting. I wish you could be around my firetable as well. If you'd like me to add you to my email list, I will let you know when I do a webinar. I'll make is as intimate as possible, like the fire table sessions.
Hi Donny ~ Thanks for braving the rain today. That was such a gorgeous location for a Prayer Walk. I absolutely loved it! I just kept praying that you didn't slip on that wet boardwalk. Ha!
Funny! Recently, I submitted a poem to Graham Wardle's Project Eagle about finally feeling Content in Life. I didn't really want to take the time to participate in the challenge, but for some reason I kept thinking about doing a video; I even said aloud I wasn't doing one -- however, as you say, "it was on my heart" to share that with age I have become content -- content that it's not all about me -- that I am merely a small part of God's Universe, connected to everything else. I don't really have to struggle, to prove anything, to accomplish great deeds. I believe God will use me when He really needs me.
Now, that doesn't mean I'm not still really curious in Life. Matter-of-fact, I'm going on a trip to Greece in September to explore. It just means I don't have to struggle with the meaning of Life or my Purpose anymore. It'll Be OK. I'll be ready to serve whenever God calls.
Love the synchronicity that often appears in these Prayer Walks with things going on in my Life. Thanks again! Hope you got dried out by now... ~ Jan xoxo
Have fun in Greece and thank you for the prayers. I didn't slip despite not being prepared for the weather. I was wearing shorts and very slippery shoes. lol
I very much struggled to concentrate and focus on the questions you were asking today when I saw all that beautiful rain after watching all the footage from Maui today and the devastating fires there. And I felt myself reaching out to God and praying for rain for them. Suffering is a hard thing to embrace, whether my own or that of others. I don't tend to ask why because I fully believe that in all things God has a purpose and a plan. Do I get in a rut sometimes? Yes. Do I settle for a pattern or routine for how I approach God sometimes? Yes. Do I sometimes question his purpose and plan? Yes!! Do I sometimes resist asking for prayer? Definitely. So for today, I pray for contentment in the things I don't understand while my heart aches for people who are suffering and pehaps don't know to approach God and ask Him to give them peace in what they don't understand. And while I have little focus or peace today, I trust God in all things and know that because God is good, He will redeem all the suffering for His good purposes. I will watch this prayer walk again soon and think about those questions you were asking today. That is a beautiful park!
I've been thinking and praying for you and those who have been affected by the devastating fires.love you mate. Take care of yourself. I'm sure looking after your grandson will help. 🙏🙏💖💖🤗🤗
If we don't have our eyes fixed on the Lord, we get lost in many situations in life, because if we only look at calamities, at circumstances, we lose the opportunity to be guided by the Lord, who leads us and frees us from all tribulations.
There is a beautiful song that says:
“This peace that I feel in my soul
It's not because I'm fine
This peace I feel in my soul
It's because I serve those who are faithful to me!
Thank you Donny for your determination to continue the prayer walk through the rain, you are greatly appreciated! I agree that sometimes little quirks that are intended to set us back, fuel my desire to push harder towards my goals. When feeling too settled in life I knew God has a plan for me but wasn’t sure when or how this would happen, 1 year ago the opportunity to start college practically fell in my lap. As a 37 year old mom working full time I hesitated, but as everything was placed so perfectly for me I knew it was Gods plan. I am in my second year now and it’s a daily struggle but I know this is the fate of my future. I don’t know what exactly but I do pray the Lord uses me to show His love. I struggled with dumping my burdens on others quiet often (With the exception of a few people). If I do confide in others about my prayers, I know those people will give me sincere honest advice and steer me in the right direction. I don’t ask just anyone because too often I’ve been passed judgment on things I needed prayer for. I’m Thankful for you all & this community, I love you all!
Boy, what a walk. Not only was it wet, but I was concerned you might slip over. And all those steps. Bet you had a real workout. Very pretty though. I love to walk in the summer rain. It's the best.
For years I was in a depressing rut, but worked my way out of it. I have been lucky to be able to travel and explore this beautiful planet of ours.
When I do get into that place where I feel bored, I get out in my car and drive. Drive to places I can explore and take photos of. It makes me happy and I always get that child like excitement.
Living alone, I talk to myself a lot, or speak my feelings out loud. So when I'm out, I often do the same.
For example, when I was on holiday, my friends and I were driving towards the Canadian Rockies and I was in awe. I kept saying things like, 'Look at that! Isn't it incredible! We are so lucky to see and visit places like these amazing mountains.' I was like a big kid and was excited, taking photos whilst we drove. Even when by myself, I will say similar things about how amazing and incredible everything is. I'm taking in so much visually, especially these days. Some people try to stop me from talking or tell me to grow up or act my age, but I prefer to have my child like look on parts of this world. I'm so serious about others things in life, that I love the simple enjoyment I get from seeing a flower or a bee gathering pollen. And I don't constantly talk, but when I do, especially in nature, I really feel like, while not a prayer, I sort of feel like I'm praying to thank God for all of his magnificent creations.
I think the best example of this, is when I fell overseas in Qualicum Beach. I was more interested in taking photos than I was of my injury. Of course I looked after it, as you know, but again it's that childhood wonder and excitement that takes over. I love that. I'm so glad I have that and could use it overseas. It helped me so much. And has helped me on my journey of getting myself out of the house and doing things that make me happy. So I don't care if people stare at me if I say how amazing a waterfall is etc. I just feel so much joy coursing through me and want others to feel that same magical feeling.
Thank you Donny for this prayer walk. It helps me to remind me and see that I'm not being silly, but enjoying what's around me.
lol I definitely talk out loud when I'm "by my self". because I'm NEVER by my self. God is always present and to me, speaking out loud, is talking to Him.
I like to think I am talking to him when I'm by myself. Especially in nature. When walking or taking photos I always thank him.
Even when I did my family's ancestry and visited their graves, I thanked my ancestors and prayed to God for taking care of them so that their descendants could live and I was born.
Donny I love your walk this morning. I love the sound of the rain coming through as you walk. Lately I have not been walking as much as I usually do, because of my health issues.. The doctor told me not to walk for a while. I saw him yesterday and he told me I could walk again. It is supposed to rain this morning, but I will e walking. I know God is with me and is watching over me. I usually walk a mile or two every morning, even when it rains. I love talking to the Lord when I walk. I don't always ask for prayer and I know I should. I continue to pray for you every day, Donny.
Thank you for your prayers, Donny. I was at the doctor on Wednesday and told him I just wanted to feel better so I can enjoy my morning walks and he told me we would get there. I enjoy your walks so much, even though I don't always comment.
I can count on you . I have had to use caution in prayers i request. I had one person I confided in about something so serious and he knew it had only his and God’s ears. The next thing I heard was what I shared with him being repeated by his spouse to a large prayer meeting, Somethings are among the brothers and some are Confidential. I’m sure she meant well but what came out was what you said happens sometimes judgments. I have been under a shotgun of trouble for years. My response is to always reach out to God but like the scripture says we run this race with confidence in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I will always look for hope in the circumstances I’m in. I hope I can still bring the private prayer requests to you and those I need the group reach out and ask them. Finally, I don’t think the church is doing what God wants from its members. I do understand why people can’t trust its members. I’ve seen God raise a church only to take it down because of pride and jealousy. Please bring on these questions, they are good for us.
Aug 10, 2023·edited Aug 10, 2023Liked by Donny Mac
Thank you Donny for this soggy prayer walk. I could hear the cheers of the great cloud of witnesses as you persevered in the rain! Once again you present us with several thought provoking questions. On the subject of contentment, I think being content and being complacent are often confused. I love being content in my faith. Strong in the faith, curious to grow and learn more, seeking to be more Christlike are all components of being content in my faith despite any circumstances that may arise. Being complacent is where we see church becoming habit, praying become habit, and appearances becoming a priority. As far as trials and tribulations that come my way, I think the manner in which I face those troubles is the focal point rather than the trial itself. My faith, hope and love are my witness. My husband was once fired from his ministry at a church because I mowed our lawn on Sunday in shorts. We have faced long military deployments, cancer, challenges in parenting etc. Bumps in the road come in all sizes and sometimes unexpected ways but I have always tried to keep my eye on the goal of eternity and realize, as you said, that with God I can handle whatever comes my way. I always keep in mind that the “world” is watching how I react. Faith and “counting it all joy” is hopefully creating a life experience that is worthy of God who created me. Thank you for your inspiration and Christian witness. Rain does not dampen your enthusiasm in your faith. Continued blessings on your journey.
Aug 10, 2023·edited Aug 10, 2023Liked by Donny Mac
I just wanted to write something else that came to mind.
I'm not one who goes to church a lot, but there are reasons for that.
I used to love going into the church on my own, and just sit, or kneel, and pray in the quiet. At those times, I felt closest to Jesus and God. But unfortunately, with all the churches locked, except for services, I haven't been able to do this for years. I understand why they have to do it, due to vandalism and theft, but it's sad.
I sometimes feel selfish with my prayers as I feel I am taking time away from those who are suffering or need it more. Or that my prayers are too trivial. I feel a guilt, even when suffering bad depression. Even though I feel like my world is falling apart and I'm not coping, I feel guilt as there are people and children starving, or stuck in a war zone, or dying from cancer.
Also, I remember one incident in particular, where a girl I used to work with, got really annoyed with me being a Catholic. She went on about, how could I be part of a corrupt religion that covered up abuse and had accumulated such wealth. She said we were a bunch of hypocrites, who didn't live by our teachings. In the end I stood up for myself and said that, yes wrongs were done in the past, but that not all priests were abusers. That it was a small percentage, that the news constantly focused on the Catholic faith. That, yes the Vatican did cover it up, as well as others, but that I didn't condone any of it and that priests, and other abusers, were being arrested and prosecuted and paying for their crimes. I am embarrassed this went on for far too long, but I knew none of this as a child or growing up. I was just living by the Catholic teachings.
Yes, the church had built up a lot of wealth during the centuries, but most of it is like a museum. Mostly assets. They are not things to sell. Even if the church sold everything, what would they do then? All that history is on display and earns money to help those in need.
But most of all, I said that I am proud to be a Catholic, because of what I had been taught and learnt over the years of how to live. To love and respect people, to do good works. To do no harm. To help those in needs. To be kind. All the wonderful lessons that Jesus and God taught us to do. The Catholic principles ate what I live by. I was not going to suffer for those in the past or present who did not practice what they preached. I am a good Catholic. A proud Catholic, because of who I am and not what others have done.
This is more than a prayer walk for me. What an introspective place to walk/hear the "rain walk" with you Donnie. You spoke from a perspective than I could relate to. However, the main point is I will be thinking about the many questions you raised. I will be in prayer and thought of them. Thank you.
I have to share my praise!! Last week I shared that I was going to the beach with 3 of my 4 children and 4 of my grandchildren. We were having some problems (talking about each other behind each other's backs) Anyway, it took the whole week, but finally we confronted it and got victory over it. The other thing was my sciatica pain, which is still there, but a LOT less pain. I have asked God to take away the pain, but so far, he hasn't. Donny mentioned about this kind of thing last week. It's hard to praise God when you have an ongoing thing, but I am trying to. Today I met a woman who lost her husband to dementia last week. There is always someone less fortunate than ourselves. Look at all the devastion in Hawaii and Ukraine. As we pray for them, we need to ask God what can I do to help and get our minds off of our own selves. In the process, we will be happy in helping others. Just a thought . . .
Thank you Donny for another prayer walk.Everytime ZI watch your walk I am blessed.I enjoy watching God’s creations ,I learn more about God and I pray with you.As I am watching your walk I am in Seoul Korea waiting for my next flight going to LA then to Calgary.I don’t hide at church because I know that God is with me whatever circumstance I am in.I ask for prayer and patiently waits for God’s answer. I am done with my trip and I am going back to Canada thank you for your prayers.I would like to ask for prayer for my son Abel.He had a stroke 3 years ago and his left arm and left leg were affected.He has a hard time walking I pray that Gid will touch his leg and arm so he can walk without any difficulty.In Jesus name amen. As I go back to Canada I will be your subscriber. Thank you Donny for your ministry.I am pra for you and your pra walk.
This park was fantastic. Hopefully you and the equipment survive the rain. I believe in God but do not participate in church. I was raised in the church and found those people you spoke of hiding. It didn’t feel authentic. My relationship with our Father is personal, satisfying and as he guides me I will share and serve. As for child like curiosity, tell me I can’t do something and I’m the first in line and my response is why not. Just do it. Life’s too short not to take every opportunity and have fun along the way. Prayers and hugs 🤗
Donny I loved this prayer walk cause just liked you said this was your favorite park to walk in and you are so right it's so beautiful I love places like this cause it amazes me how GOD made all of this beauty and me and my son could never understand how people see what GOD has done and only GOD could but yet they don't believe in GOD 🙏🙏 as for asking for prayers well I can be at work and I have people I'll go to and ask them to pray for me or whatever I need prayer for 🙏🙏 cause that is one thing I believe in is prayers he has answered my prayer when I was living with someone and i knew it was wrong and he took him out of life 🙏🙏 GOD has been so good to me and my son cause without GOD i don't know where we would be and i love talking to people at work about GOD and some will even pray and that makes me feel good i have talked with two different woman who have cancer and they tell me how they are fighting it and how much they love talking to me 🙏🙏 Thats why i love your prayer walk cause it makes me check myself 🙏🙏 Thanks again for what you do and for making me a better person 🙏🙏
Thank you for loving my response to Donny's question about rejoicing in our suffering and your note back to me. I love the quote you shared about faith verses despair. It is so true!
Donny, this walk was wonderful and even more beautiful with all the rain. Love the sound of the rain, the water, and the waterfall. Sorry you got drenched, but like you shared, we do it for God. I can relate with a lot of what you said. I admit I was one of those “Christians” who went to church most Sundays, but I didn’t live like I should the other six days of the week. I hid behind my faith scared of being persecuted or not liked. Did what I thought was cool to gain acceptance. Guess I wanted to have more fun than worship God. Not proud of myself for that, but I let that go and have moved on. Fast forward to today, I no longer wish or want to be that way. I’ve grown in my faith and the adventures as you put it the Lord has allowed or wanted me to take have been such a blessing. I get to share my story or how God led and helped me overcome many things with others to encourage them. It’s not me but God using me to do it. A lot of times when I feel God wanting me to do something new, He brings me to my knees. Then in my weakness but through His strength, He gives me everything I need to move forward. That takes me surrendering to Him and yes asking others for prayer. This new chapter I’m beginning now is exciting, and I think it will be filled with many adventures. I’ll participate in those adventures willingly as long as I know it’s God’s will. Donny, my question to you, what would be your ultimate adventure knowing it is God’s will? My ultimate adventure is to go and do whatever God’s will is to encourage and inspire others and share the gospel however God sees is best for that situation. Hope this works but thought I would share a link to a picture of something I have on my desk at home. It is an iCloud link. Donny, hope you’re dried off by now. Thank you for this prayer walk today. One of my favorites. God bless you and to all in the community.
https://share.icloud.com/photos/00ewfEU6AoKiDhOQc2t3lmXcA
Thank you so much for sharing Anne. A great example of how to confess to one another.
My ultimate adventure would be a mix of recording and sharing my music with the world in the hopes that the songs challenge and uplift people, I would also like to be involved in some kind of saving children initiative, (I have a couple ideas but still waiting to see if it's Gods will.)
I would also really enjoy hitting the road in a bus or RV to spread love though music, share my testimony in churches, help people on the street and film prayer walks
Thanks Donny! On a last minute adventure right now myself for a writing challenge none other than to the beach for a few days. This is a positive challenge for myself. Looking forward seeing what God has in store! Praying for your adventure and God’s will and timing in guiding you!
Anne, what a wonderful testimony!
I like to analyze myself from the perspective of superficiality and I'm always asking myself if I'm living a life that doesn't match reality and God's precepts.
Of course, as a human being with a sinful nature, I have moments when I try to mask the circumstances.
Paul in the verse “my power is made perfect in weakness” realized that his own strength was useless to strengthen him and that he had total dependence on the power of God.
I'm still on this path, but I know that the Holy Spirit of God is with me “perfecting” me and He knows the desires of my heart.
May God bless us on this journey!
P.S.: I loved the photo and the message on the board.
Thank you Angela! I have many flaws but God is perfect and thank goodness he forgives. Wish it didn’t take so long for me, but it’s okay ad we grow all our life. Still learning and passing on to others what I’m being taught or trying to. God bless you my friend!
You chose some of my favorite verses to highlight Donny. I love your walks out in nature. As I child I spent as much time as I could out in the beautiful places you take us. But at age 28, a spinal cord tumor was discovered at the base of my brain stem. I was given a couple of weeks to live or have surgery that would leave me a complete quadriplegic on a respirator. But God intervened. I am in an electric wheelchair and I have quadriparesis and a lot of chronic pain so I don't get out in nature a lot.
I do boast in my weakness and I live the verses you quoted. His grace is sufficient for me. I share just a tiny bit in His sufferings which aren't worth comparing to the fabulous glory that will someday be mine. I am content with what God has not only allowed but chosen me to live because it has given me a platform from which to share about our Glorious God to people who I otherwise would not.
I would say, be careful what you wish for because you might just get it. There can be much suffering in getting to know Jesus very intimately. I prayed that God would do whatever it takes to save my husband. Shortly after that, my tumor was discovered. After a 12 hour surgery in which he didn't know if I would live, die or how handicapped I would be, he surrendered his life to Jesus. Today he is heaven and I praise God for doing what it took. Now I'm learning to live life as a widow and soon I will be coaching people who feel stuck after the loss of a spouse or another life altering event leaves them devastatingly unable to move forward. Many are angry at God and licking their wounds of hurt and despair. When what they need to do is look up and surrender anew to Jesus. He made us to serve Him. We are not the center of the story, Jesus is. We live to love and serve Him. To reflect His glory and to be conformed to the image of Christ. My local outreach is with evenings around my firetable on my patio to my neighbors. My bigger outreach is coaching and speaking and challenging people with the Truth.
Thanks for getting me back out in nature with your prayer walks Donny. I love your content and it was perfectly resonating today. God bless you.
Judy, thank you and amen. I appreciate you sharing and would enjoy sitting in on one of your "fire table sessions".
I would love that Donny but I don't know how free the others would feel being raw and real with their struggles. I will ask them.
WOW! What a powerful testimony, Judy!
Faith saves us and despair kills us! (I heard this phrase in a sermon on the 10th chapter of Romans).
The problem is not the desperate situations in life, but the heart that has more despair than faith.
The Scripture gives us the promise that everyone who believes will not be confused, maybe that's why God allows some adverse situations to happen in our lives.
This made me think of the biblical character – the woman who was bleeding and approached Jesus – the Bible does not report that she was desperate, but it says that she believed that if she touched His garment she would be healed.
I believe that our faith moves the heart of Jesus.
I pray that God will help me to have more faith than despair!
Thank you Angela. I endeavor like Job to accept from God's hand whatever He allows and find purpose in it. Not that my trials even compare to Job's. They certainly do not. But we are so eager to welcome and embrace what we consider blessings but when trials come, which are designed to mature us and deepen our faith, we often reject them. Generally speaking, self centeredness and a "me" centered Gospel causes us to feel persecuted and abandoned when "bad" things happen. For example, many widow(ers) think God hates them because He took the one they love so deeply from them. How can He be a good God and do such a horrible thing to me? I understand grief but this is wrong thinking. Our days are numbered before we are born. Psalm 139. We have a predetermined expiration date. I certainly would prefer my husband still be here with me however not my will, but His be done.
I certainly believe in and have experienced divine healing, not only in my life but in my daughter's life. She was burned in a house fire 8 years ago and given 0% chance of survival, yet God miraculously spared her life. We have testimonies to tell because of the trials and suffering He allows. All praise and glory be to our Lord and King.
If and when Satan or demons are at work, we deal with them as Jesus did but not everything is caused by the demonic. Satan can do nothing apart from God's permission and knowledge. We can rest securely in the hands of our Savior.
Judy, this a beautiful story! Like Donny, I would also like to be around your fire table sessions. What a ministry and gift God has given you! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for commenting. I wish you could be around my firetable as well. If you'd like me to add you to my email list, I will let you know when I do a webinar. I'll make is as intimate as possible, like the fire table sessions.
That would be awesome! Anne.wooten77@gmail.com
Great. Thank you very much Anne!
Hi Donny ~ Thanks for braving the rain today. That was such a gorgeous location for a Prayer Walk. I absolutely loved it! I just kept praying that you didn't slip on that wet boardwalk. Ha!
Funny! Recently, I submitted a poem to Graham Wardle's Project Eagle about finally feeling Content in Life. I didn't really want to take the time to participate in the challenge, but for some reason I kept thinking about doing a video; I even said aloud I wasn't doing one -- however, as you say, "it was on my heart" to share that with age I have become content -- content that it's not all about me -- that I am merely a small part of God's Universe, connected to everything else. I don't really have to struggle, to prove anything, to accomplish great deeds. I believe God will use me when He really needs me.
Now, that doesn't mean I'm not still really curious in Life. Matter-of-fact, I'm going on a trip to Greece in September to explore. It just means I don't have to struggle with the meaning of Life or my Purpose anymore. It'll Be OK. I'll be ready to serve whenever God calls.
Love the synchronicity that often appears in these Prayer Walks with things going on in my Life. Thanks again! Hope you got dried out by now... ~ Jan xoxo
Have fun in Greece and thank you for the prayers. I didn't slip despite not being prepared for the weather. I was wearing shorts and very slippery shoes. lol
I very much struggled to concentrate and focus on the questions you were asking today when I saw all that beautiful rain after watching all the footage from Maui today and the devastating fires there. And I felt myself reaching out to God and praying for rain for them. Suffering is a hard thing to embrace, whether my own or that of others. I don't tend to ask why because I fully believe that in all things God has a purpose and a plan. Do I get in a rut sometimes? Yes. Do I settle for a pattern or routine for how I approach God sometimes? Yes. Do I sometimes question his purpose and plan? Yes!! Do I sometimes resist asking for prayer? Definitely. So for today, I pray for contentment in the things I don't understand while my heart aches for people who are suffering and pehaps don't know to approach God and ask Him to give them peace in what they don't understand. And while I have little focus or peace today, I trust God in all things and know that because God is good, He will redeem all the suffering for His good purposes. I will watch this prayer walk again soon and think about those questions you were asking today. That is a beautiful park!
I appreciate your honesty 🙂
I've been thinking and praying for you and those who have been affected by the devastating fires.love you mate. Take care of yourself. I'm sure looking after your grandson will help. 🙏🙏💖💖🤗🤗
I agree with you!
If we don't have our eyes fixed on the Lord, we get lost in many situations in life, because if we only look at calamities, at circumstances, we lose the opportunity to be guided by the Lord, who leads us and frees us from all tribulations.
There is a beautiful song that says:
“This peace that I feel in my soul
It's not because I'm fine
This peace I feel in my soul
It's because I serve those who are faithful to me!
I don't look at the circumstances
I look to your love..."
I'm praying for Maui along with you!
Thank you Donny for your determination to continue the prayer walk through the rain, you are greatly appreciated! I agree that sometimes little quirks that are intended to set us back, fuel my desire to push harder towards my goals. When feeling too settled in life I knew God has a plan for me but wasn’t sure when or how this would happen, 1 year ago the opportunity to start college practically fell in my lap. As a 37 year old mom working full time I hesitated, but as everything was placed so perfectly for me I knew it was Gods plan. I am in my second year now and it’s a daily struggle but I know this is the fate of my future. I don’t know what exactly but I do pray the Lord uses me to show His love. I struggled with dumping my burdens on others quiet often (With the exception of a few people). If I do confide in others about my prayers, I know those people will give me sincere honest advice and steer me in the right direction. I don’t ask just anyone because too often I’ve been passed judgment on things I needed prayer for. I’m Thankful for you all & this community, I love you all!
wonderful
Boy, what a walk. Not only was it wet, but I was concerned you might slip over. And all those steps. Bet you had a real workout. Very pretty though. I love to walk in the summer rain. It's the best.
For years I was in a depressing rut, but worked my way out of it. I have been lucky to be able to travel and explore this beautiful planet of ours.
When I do get into that place where I feel bored, I get out in my car and drive. Drive to places I can explore and take photos of. It makes me happy and I always get that child like excitement.
Living alone, I talk to myself a lot, or speak my feelings out loud. So when I'm out, I often do the same.
For example, when I was on holiday, my friends and I were driving towards the Canadian Rockies and I was in awe. I kept saying things like, 'Look at that! Isn't it incredible! We are so lucky to see and visit places like these amazing mountains.' I was like a big kid and was excited, taking photos whilst we drove. Even when by myself, I will say similar things about how amazing and incredible everything is. I'm taking in so much visually, especially these days. Some people try to stop me from talking or tell me to grow up or act my age, but I prefer to have my child like look on parts of this world. I'm so serious about others things in life, that I love the simple enjoyment I get from seeing a flower or a bee gathering pollen. And I don't constantly talk, but when I do, especially in nature, I really feel like, while not a prayer, I sort of feel like I'm praying to thank God for all of his magnificent creations.
I think the best example of this, is when I fell overseas in Qualicum Beach. I was more interested in taking photos than I was of my injury. Of course I looked after it, as you know, but again it's that childhood wonder and excitement that takes over. I love that. I'm so glad I have that and could use it overseas. It helped me so much. And has helped me on my journey of getting myself out of the house and doing things that make me happy. So I don't care if people stare at me if I say how amazing a waterfall is etc. I just feel so much joy coursing through me and want others to feel that same magical feeling.
Thank you Donny for this prayer walk. It helps me to remind me and see that I'm not being silly, but enjoying what's around me.
lol I definitely talk out loud when I'm "by my self". because I'm NEVER by my self. God is always present and to me, speaking out loud, is talking to Him.
Keep that child like wonder
I like to think I am talking to him when I'm by myself. Especially in nature. When walking or taking photos I always thank him.
Even when I did my family's ancestry and visited their graves, I thanked my ancestors and prayed to God for taking care of them so that their descendants could live and I was born.
Donny I love your walk this morning. I love the sound of the rain coming through as you walk. Lately I have not been walking as much as I usually do, because of my health issues.. The doctor told me not to walk for a while. I saw him yesterday and he told me I could walk again. It is supposed to rain this morning, but I will e walking. I know God is with me and is watching over me. I usually walk a mile or two every morning, even when it rains. I love talking to the Lord when I walk. I don't always ask for prayer and I know I should. I continue to pray for you every day, Donny.
Thank you for your prayers Terri. I am praying for your healing
Thank you for your prayers, Donny. I was at the doctor on Wednesday and told him I just wanted to feel better so I can enjoy my morning walks and he told me we would get there. I enjoy your walks so much, even though I don't always comment.
I can count on you . I have had to use caution in prayers i request. I had one person I confided in about something so serious and he knew it had only his and God’s ears. The next thing I heard was what I shared with him being repeated by his spouse to a large prayer meeting, Somethings are among the brothers and some are Confidential. I’m sure she meant well but what came out was what you said happens sometimes judgments. I have been under a shotgun of trouble for years. My response is to always reach out to God but like the scripture says we run this race with confidence in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I will always look for hope in the circumstances I’m in. I hope I can still bring the private prayer requests to you and those I need the group reach out and ask them. Finally, I don’t think the church is doing what God wants from its members. I do understand why people can’t trust its members. I’ve seen God raise a church only to take it down because of pride and jealousy. Please bring on these questions, they are good for us.
Of course Lucinda, you and everyone else are welcome to send private prayer requests.
Thank you Donny for this soggy prayer walk. I could hear the cheers of the great cloud of witnesses as you persevered in the rain! Once again you present us with several thought provoking questions. On the subject of contentment, I think being content and being complacent are often confused. I love being content in my faith. Strong in the faith, curious to grow and learn more, seeking to be more Christlike are all components of being content in my faith despite any circumstances that may arise. Being complacent is where we see church becoming habit, praying become habit, and appearances becoming a priority. As far as trials and tribulations that come my way, I think the manner in which I face those troubles is the focal point rather than the trial itself. My faith, hope and love are my witness. My husband was once fired from his ministry at a church because I mowed our lawn on Sunday in shorts. We have faced long military deployments, cancer, challenges in parenting etc. Bumps in the road come in all sizes and sometimes unexpected ways but I have always tried to keep my eye on the goal of eternity and realize, as you said, that with God I can handle whatever comes my way. I always keep in mind that the “world” is watching how I react. Faith and “counting it all joy” is hopefully creating a life experience that is worthy of God who created me. Thank you for your inspiration and Christian witness. Rain does not dampen your enthusiasm in your faith. Continued blessings on your journey.
wonderfully said. Thank you for sharing
Thank you Donny. 🙏
I just wanted to write something else that came to mind.
I'm not one who goes to church a lot, but there are reasons for that.
I used to love going into the church on my own, and just sit, or kneel, and pray in the quiet. At those times, I felt closest to Jesus and God. But unfortunately, with all the churches locked, except for services, I haven't been able to do this for years. I understand why they have to do it, due to vandalism and theft, but it's sad.
I sometimes feel selfish with my prayers as I feel I am taking time away from those who are suffering or need it more. Or that my prayers are too trivial. I feel a guilt, even when suffering bad depression. Even though I feel like my world is falling apart and I'm not coping, I feel guilt as there are people and children starving, or stuck in a war zone, or dying from cancer.
Also, I remember one incident in particular, where a girl I used to work with, got really annoyed with me being a Catholic. She went on about, how could I be part of a corrupt religion that covered up abuse and had accumulated such wealth. She said we were a bunch of hypocrites, who didn't live by our teachings. In the end I stood up for myself and said that, yes wrongs were done in the past, but that not all priests were abusers. That it was a small percentage, that the news constantly focused on the Catholic faith. That, yes the Vatican did cover it up, as well as others, but that I didn't condone any of it and that priests, and other abusers, were being arrested and prosecuted and paying for their crimes. I am embarrassed this went on for far too long, but I knew none of this as a child or growing up. I was just living by the Catholic teachings.
Yes, the church had built up a lot of wealth during the centuries, but most of it is like a museum. Mostly assets. They are not things to sell. Even if the church sold everything, what would they do then? All that history is on display and earns money to help those in need.
But most of all, I said that I am proud to be a Catholic, because of what I had been taught and learnt over the years of how to live. To love and respect people, to do good works. To do no harm. To help those in needs. To be kind. All the wonderful lessons that Jesus and God taught us to do. The Catholic principles ate what I live by. I was not going to suffer for those in the past or present who did not practice what they preached. I am a good Catholic. A proud Catholic, because of who I am and not what others have done.
This is more than a prayer walk for me. What an introspective place to walk/hear the "rain walk" with you Donnie. You spoke from a perspective than I could relate to. However, the main point is I will be thinking about the many questions you raised. I will be in prayer and thought of them. Thank you.
I have to share my praise!! Last week I shared that I was going to the beach with 3 of my 4 children and 4 of my grandchildren. We were having some problems (talking about each other behind each other's backs) Anyway, it took the whole week, but finally we confronted it and got victory over it. The other thing was my sciatica pain, which is still there, but a LOT less pain. I have asked God to take away the pain, but so far, he hasn't. Donny mentioned about this kind of thing last week. It's hard to praise God when you have an ongoing thing, but I am trying to. Today I met a woman who lost her husband to dementia last week. There is always someone less fortunate than ourselves. Look at all the devastion in Hawaii and Ukraine. As we pray for them, we need to ask God what can I do to help and get our minds off of our own selves. In the process, we will be happy in helping others. Just a thought . . .
I like how you share your experiences with God, counting their struggles but also their victories.
Thank you and keep going, it helps me to give everything to God even the little things!🙌🙂
Thank you Donny for another prayer walk.Everytime ZI watch your walk I am blessed.I enjoy watching God’s creations ,I learn more about God and I pray with you.As I am watching your walk I am in Seoul Korea waiting for my next flight going to LA then to Calgary.I don’t hide at church because I know that God is with me whatever circumstance I am in.I ask for prayer and patiently waits for God’s answer. I am done with my trip and I am going back to Canada thank you for your prayers.I would like to ask for prayer for my son Abel.He had a stroke 3 years ago and his left arm and left leg were affected.He has a hard time walking I pray that Gid will touch his leg and arm so he can walk without any difficulty.In Jesus name amen. As I go back to Canada I will be your subscriber. Thank you Donny for your ministry.I am pra for you and your pra walk.
Praying for your son, Abel!
God bless you Angela
This park was fantastic. Hopefully you and the equipment survive the rain. I believe in God but do not participate in church. I was raised in the church and found those people you spoke of hiding. It didn’t feel authentic. My relationship with our Father is personal, satisfying and as he guides me I will share and serve. As for child like curiosity, tell me I can’t do something and I’m the first in line and my response is why not. Just do it. Life’s too short not to take every opportunity and have fun along the way. Prayers and hugs 🤗
Donny I loved this prayer walk cause just liked you said this was your favorite park to walk in and you are so right it's so beautiful I love places like this cause it amazes me how GOD made all of this beauty and me and my son could never understand how people see what GOD has done and only GOD could but yet they don't believe in GOD 🙏🙏 as for asking for prayers well I can be at work and I have people I'll go to and ask them to pray for me or whatever I need prayer for 🙏🙏 cause that is one thing I believe in is prayers he has answered my prayer when I was living with someone and i knew it was wrong and he took him out of life 🙏🙏 GOD has been so good to me and my son cause without GOD i don't know where we would be and i love talking to people at work about GOD and some will even pray and that makes me feel good i have talked with two different woman who have cancer and they tell me how they are fighting it and how much they love talking to me 🙏🙏 Thats why i love your prayer walk cause it makes me check myself 🙏🙏 Thanks again for what you do and for making me a better person 🙏🙏
Robin, God is so wonderful that He uses people like you and Donny to bless those in need.
But the great responsibility for all of this is the Holy Spirit of God who dwells in those who serve him!
God bless you to continue the good work of the Lord!
Thank you for loving my response to Donny's question about rejoicing in our suffering and your note back to me. I love the quote you shared about faith verses despair. It is so true!