As this week closes, I find myself reflecting on the past few weeks with a grateful heart.
We’ve been working hard behind the scenes, updating the websites — not just visually, but deep under the hood. The work wasn’t always easy, but by God’s grace, it went really well. It’s a blessing to see progress, both in what’s visible and what’s unseen.
Of course, the road isn’t always smooth. There are always people out there who, for whatever reason, would rather see others fail than succeed.
But scripture reminds us:
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”
— Matthew 5:44 (NKJV)
We are commanded not just to endure these things — but to forgive and to bless in return. It’s not always easy, but it is the way of Christ, and it’s the way we choose.
This week also brought unexpected joy.
A few of my photography submissions were chosen to be featured in the printed and digital editions of Bold And Beyond Magazine in their Nature section.
I don’t know exactly which issue they’ll appear in yet, but I am truly grateful for the opportunity.
Photography season is officially back for me, and I look forward to sharing some of the new images I capture — as always, giving all the glory to our Creator who painted this world with His own hand.
We continue to praise and thank our Divine Father God, Jesus Christ, and The Holy Spirit, for all that is good, all that is growing, and all that is yet to come.
Ending in Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today with hearts full of gratitude.
Thank You for giving us the strength to build, to grow, and to persevere even when unseen by the world.
Thank You for protecting us from the bitterness of others, and for teaching us to forgive just as You have forgiven us.
We thank You for the opportunities You open for us — seen and unseen — and for reminding us that all good things flow from You.
Help us to walk humbly, love boldly, forgive fully, and live with purpose in Your Name.
Strengthen our hands for the work You have placed before us.
Bless every step we take, and let every work of our hands glorify You.
In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ,
Amen.
Scriptures to Live By
- “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.”
— Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV) - “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”
— Colossians 3:23 (NKJV) - “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
— Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

I so agree that it’s difficult to bless those who persecute us, John. I understand the teaching though and that we create more of what we put out into the world. So, congratulations on you photography being included in an issue of Bold And Beyond Magazine! This is a well-deserved, positive sign! Wonderful!!
I love the scripture reading you included today.
Thank you very much, Sheila! I appreciate your words. It’s definitely not always easy, but staying grounded in faith is the goal. I’m grateful for the opportunity with Bold And Beyond — they actually came to me, which was surprising, because usually, for companies like that, you have to reach out to them. It just goes to show that when you stay faithful and keep putting in the work, God opens doors you didn’t even knock on. 😎
Wonderfully Written…. Standing with you in gratitude, faith, and praise…
Amen 🙏🏼🤗
Amen! Thank you for standing with me, Willie — I’m truly grateful. Together, through faith and praise, we lift it all to Him! 🙏😎
That’s quite inspiring, John.
Thank you, Sheila! 😎