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Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Ten Apples of Love - Song Poem


10 Apples of Love

In Grandma’s bowl, the apples gleam,  
A harvest kissed by Heaven’s dream.  
Ten gifts of grace, each one a part;  
Of how God loves the seeking heart.

**One**—Forgiveness, sweet and wide,  
Like apple pie on the countryside.  
No sin too deep, no shame too strong—  
His mercy sings a healing song.

**Two**—The prayers of Grandpapa’s hands,  
Planted deep in faithful lands.  
His quiet strength, her gentle cheer,  
God’s love made visible and near.

**Three**—Homemade peace in quilted grace,  
A warm embrace, a sacred place.  
Where hallelujahs softly rise,  
Like cinnamon in lullabies.

**Four**—Harvest harmony, divine,  
Each moment timed, each branch aligned.  
The orchard hums with holy sound,  
Where blessings fall and joy is found.

**Five**—A Hallelujah in the air,  
A song of hope, a whispered prayer.  
Even in storms, His love remains—  
A melody through joy and pain.

**Six**—Orchestrated feeling flows,  
Through every tear the Father knows.  
He writes our hearts in sacred tune,  
From morning light to silver moon.

**Seven**—Faith-filled praising, bold and true,  
In every leaf and sky of blue.  
We lift our hearts, we pray, we sing—  
Our souls rejoice in Christ the King.

**Eight**—Written inspired, His Word,  
The sweetest truth we’ve ever heard.  
It guides, it guards, it lights the way—  
A lamp of love for every day.

**Nine**—Moments cherished, never small,  
Each breath, each laugh, He holds them all.  
In apple-scented memory,  
We find His love eternally.

**Ten**—The final apple, pure and bright,  
A crown of grace, eternal light.  
It whispers, “Child, you are adored—  
Forever safe in Christ the Lord.”
------
So pass the basket, share the pie,  
Let hallelujahs fill the sky.  
Ten apples, ten reminders sweet; 
Of God's great love, for you and me.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© Song Poem AnnaBroPbKbBenJBNmrmpmgn878787

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

I Love My Heavenly Father


I Love My Heavenly Father

*(Verse 1)*  
I love my Heavenly Father,  
He watches over me.  
He knows my heart, He holds my hand,  
He helps and comforts me.  

*(Chorus)*  
I lift my voice to praise Him,  
To him my heart belongs.  
I love my Heavenly Father—  
In joy I sing with song.

*(Verse 2)*  
He walks with me through valleys,  
He shines when skies are gray.  
He whispers truth and fills my soul,  
He's with me ev'ry day.  

*(Chorus)*  
I lift my voice to praise Him,  
To him my heart belongs.  
I love my Heavenly Father—  
In joy I sing with song.

*(Bridge)*  
Even when I’m quiet,  
He hears my ev'ry prayer.  
I feel His love around me—  
I know He’s always there.  

*(Final Chorus)*  
I lift my voice to praise Him,  
To him my heart belongs.  
I love my Heavenly Father—  
In joy I sing with song.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© MBMPKBPBANNABENBROANMRMPM44




Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Son Shine From Above


Son-Shine From Above

Verse 1
Morning breaks in golden light;
But higher still, Your glory shines.
Hearts awaken to thy grace;
As heaven’s day conquers the night.

Verse 2
Flowers turn to catch the rays:
Yet eyes can’t fathom what You’ve done.
For every beam of earthly sun;
Fades beside Your wondrous ways.

Chorus
Son-shine from above, You reign in endless love.
Church bells ring, the angels sing, “Our Savior’s light has come!”
Son-shine fills our hearts, Your radiance never parts
We lift our voice, in You rejoice—Eternal radiant Son.

Verse 3
Storms may rage and shadows fall;
But in Your presence, fears retreat.
Each promise Heav’n’s own Son reveals;
A lighthouse standing firm and tall.

Bridge
Higher than the mountain peaks;
Sweeter than the morning song;
Your mercy warms the coldest soul;
And calls us to forever long.

Chorus
Son-shine from above, You reign in endless love
Church bells ring, the angels sing, “Our Savior’s light has come!”
Son-shine fills our hearts, Your radiance never parts.
We lift our voice, in You rejoice—Eternal radiant Son.

Tag
Every sunset speaks in hues;
But only Christ can make us new.
Son-shine from above, we’re held in your sweet love.
We're held in your sweet love.

Susan Barker Nikitenko August 16th, 2025© PMRMNMKBABBBANNAGNMPMBCOP676766

Son shine - Is Jesus' Light

 John 8:12 ¶ Then spake Jesus again unto them,

saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me

 shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.


Son-Shine From Above

Verse 1
Morning breaks in golden light;
But higher still Your glory shines.
Hearts awaken to thy grace;
As heaven’s day conquers the night.

Verse 2
Flowers turn to catch the rays:
Yet eyes can’t fathom what You’ve done.
For every beam of earthly sun;
Fades beside Your brighter blaze.

Chorus
Son-shine from above, You reign in endless love.
Church bells ring, the angels sing, “Our Savior’s light has come!”
Son-shine fills our hearts, Your radiance never parts
We lift our voice, in You rejoice—Eternal radiant Son.

Verse 3
Storms may rage and shadows fall;
But in Your presence, fears retreat.
Each promise Heav’n’s own Son reveals;
A lighthouse standing firm and tall.

Bridge
Higher than the mountain peaks;
Sweeter than the morning song;
Your mercy warms the coldest soul;
And calls us to forever long.

Chorus
Son-shine from above, You reign in endless love
Church bells ring, the angels sing, “Our Savior’s light has come!”
Sonshine fills our hearts, Your radiance never parts.
We lift our voice, in You rejoice—Eternal radiant Son.

Tag
Every sunset shines to you;
But only Christ can make us new.
Son-shine from above, we’re held in your sweet love.
We're held in your sweet love.

Susan Barker Nikitenko August 16th, 2025© PMRMNMKBABBBANNAGNMPMBCOP676766

Son shine - Is Jesus' Light


Coloring and Devotion

Susan Barker Nikitenko August 16th, 2025© PMRMNMKBABBBANNAGNMPMBCOP676766


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Sunday, August 17, 2025

🌱 The Root of Mistrust

Where is the misspelling on the page?... Let's learn to spell it.



🌱 The Root of Mistrust

Devotion for Teens to Adults

Scripture:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."
— Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)

🌿 Opening Thought

Mistrust doesn’t usually burst onto the scene—it creeps in quietly. A broken promise. A betrayal. A prayer that seemed unanswered. Over time, these moments can plant seeds of doubt that grow into tangled roots of mistrust—toward people, toward ourselves, and even toward God.

But mistrust isn’t just a reaction. It’s a condition of the heart. And like any root system, it feeds on something. Fear. Control. Pain. Pride. The question is: what are we feeding it?

🌾 The Garden of the Heart

Imagine your heart as a garden. Trust is a delicate vine—it needs light, water, and care. Mistrust, on the other hand, is like a weed. It doesn’t need much to grow. It thrives in shadows and silence. Left unchecked, it can choke out the good things God is trying to cultivate in you: peace, joy, love, purpose.

So how do we uproot mistrust?

🌻 Three Steps to Healing Trust

  1. Name the Root
    Ask yourself: Where did this mistrust begin? Was it a person who hurt you? A moment when God felt distant? Naming the root doesn’t give it power—it gives you clarity.

  2. Invite God into the Soil
    God doesn’t just want to prune your life—He wants to transform the soil. Through prayer, scripture, and honest conversation, invite Him to dig deep. He’s not afraid of your questions or your pain.

  3. Practice Trust Daily
    Trust isn’t a one-time decision—it’s a daily discipline. Start small. Trust God with your schedule. With your relationships. With your healing. Each act of trust is a seed planted in faith.

🌼 Closing Reflection

Mistrust may feel safer. It builds walls, not bridges. But walls don’t protect—they isolate. God is calling you to something deeper. Not blind trust, but bold trust. Trust that sees the brokenness and still believes in redemption. Trust that knows the Gardener is good, even when the soil feels dry.

Prayer:
Lord, I confess the roots of mistrust in my heart. Help me name them, face them, and surrender them to You. Teach me to trust again—not because life is perfect, but because You are faithful. Uproot what doesn’t belong and plant Your truth deep within me. Amen.


🛡️ What Are Healthy Boundaries?

1. Biblical Foundation

Boundaries are modeled throughout Scripture. God set boundaries in Eden (Genesis 2:16–17), gave moral boundaries through the Ten Commandments, and even Jesus withdrew from crowds to rest and pray (Luke 5:16). These examples show that boundaries are not selfish—they’re sacred.

2. What They Protect

Healthy boundaries protect your:

  • Time and energy
  • Emotional health
  • Spiritual convictions
  • Relationships from manipulation or abuse

They help you say “yes” to what aligns with God’s will and “no” to what drains, distracts, or damages.

3. Signs of Healthy Boundaries

  • You can say no without guilt.
  • You respect others’ boundaries without resentment.
  • You don’t feel responsible for others’ emotions or choices.
  • You communicate clearly and kindly.
  • You feel safe, not controlled.

4. Boundaries vs. Bitterness

Boundaries are proactive, not reactive. They’re not punishment—they’re protection. Bitterness builds walls out of pain; boundaries build fences out of wisdom. One isolates, the other preserves peace.

5. Boundaries in Relationships

In friendships, ministry, family, or work, boundaries help define what’s acceptable and what’s not. If someone repeatedly lies, manipulates, or disrespects you, setting limits is not unloving—it’s stewardship of your soul.

6. Spiritual Boundaries

These include guarding your heart (Proverbs 4:23), avoiding toxic influences (Psalm 1:1), and maintaining space for prayer, rest, and renewal. Even Jesus didn’t let every voice shape His mission—He stayed rooted in the Father’s will.

Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© PMNMKBRMPBANNABENGNMBMPCP5656544322


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The Case of the Missing Joy

Above is a picture of Carl in his older age and Robby, who changes his appearance. His ears were tucked in in this drawing.  He looks like a regular robot here.


🕵️‍♂️ The Case of the Missing Joy

Main Verse:
"Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled." —Hebrews 12:15 (KJV)


Detective Carl the Forest Ranger was on the case. Joy had vanished from the forest choir. Robby Robot’s tail wasn’t wagging. Grizly Grace was growling again. Even Giggly Gwen had stopped giggling. Something was wrong. Carl pulled out his magnifying glass and sniffed the air. “This smells like a root problem,” he said.

Sure enough, behind the choir stand, a gnarly, twisted root had pushed up through the ground. It was thick, stubborn, and ugly. “Bitterness Root,” Carl muttered. “One of the hardest to dig out.” Robby beeped in agreement. “Warning: joy levels critically low.” The critters gathered around, staring at the root. “Where did it come from?” asked Gwen. Carl scratched his head. “It started small. A little grumble here, a little jealousy there. But now it’s choking the joy.”

Bitterness is sneaky like that. It starts with a hurt feeling, a disappointment, or a grudge. We don’t deal with it, so it grows underground. And before we know it, it’s tangled around our thoughts, squeezing out joy. Just like in gardening, digging out a root takes work. You can’t just snap the top off. You’ve got to get down deep.

In everyday life, this might look like forgiving someone who didn’t say sorry. Or letting go of a grudge that’s been sitting in your heart for weeks. Or asking God to help you stop replaying that moment when things felt unfair. It’s not easy. But it’s worth it. Because once that root is gone—joy comes rushing back like sunlight through the trees.

Carl and Robby worked together with a shovel of Scripture and a spade of prayer. It took time. It took teamwork. But finally, the root came loose. The choir stand lifted. Gwen giggled. Robby beeped a praise tune. And Grizly Grace baked muffins again. “Joy restored,” Carl said with a smile. “Case closed.”


Thought of the Day:
Joy doesn’t disappear by accident. Sometimes it gets tangled in roots of bitterness. Dig deep with God’s help—and let joy grow again.


Bible Reading:
Hebrews 12:14–17 (KJV) — A powerful reminder to pursue peace and guard against bitterness taking root.


Closing Prayer:
Lord, help me dig out any root of bitterness hiding in my heart. Show me where I’ve held onto hurt or anger. Give me strength to forgive, courage to let go, and joy that grows deep and strong. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 Susan Barker Nikitenko August 2025© MRMPBANNABENMBCOB^5454333>***

--------------------------------------------
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Grizly Grace and The Tude Trap "Devotion"




🙃 “The Tude Trap”

Main Verse:
"Do all things without murmurings and disputings." —Philippians 2:14 (KJV)


Grizly Grace was having a day. First, her honey jar was empty. Then she stepped in a puddle. And to top it off, Carl the Forest Ranger told her she couldn’t growl at the choir anymore. “I’m not growling,” she snapped. “I’m expressing myself!” But Robby Robot just beeped and handed her a sticker that said “Attitude Adjustment in Progress.”

Grace stomped off, muttering about how unfair everything was. But as she passed the forest mirror (the one that shows your heart, not your fur), she gasped. Her reflection looked like a thundercloud with eyebrows! “That’s not me,” she said. But the mirror didn’t lie. Her attitude had turned her into a walking storm.

Now, you might not be a bear with a growl problem, but we all fall into the Tude Trap sometimes. Maybe your cereal got soggy, or your sibling took the last cookie, or your teacher gave you extra homework. Suddenly, your mood shifts. You sigh. You snap. You stew. And just like that, you’re wearing the stormy glasses of negativity.

But here’s the thing: a negative attitude doesn’t just affect you—it spreads. It’s like glitter spilled in a carpet. One grumble leads to another, and soon everyone’s stuck in the gloom. That’s why Philippians 2:14 tells us to do everything without complaining or arguing. Not just chores. Not just school. Everything.

God doesn’t expect us to be fake-happy robots. He knows life gets hard. But He does invite us to trust Him even when things go sideways. When we choose gratitude over grumbling, we start to see the good stuff again. Like how soggy cereal means you had breakfast. Or how extra homework means you’re learning. Or how your sibling… well, okay, that one’s still tough. 😄

Grizly Grace eventually came back to the choir with a tray of honey muffins and a softer voice. “Sorry for the storm,” she said. “I’m working on my tude.” And Robby beeped, “Reboot successful.” So next time you feel the grumble rising, pause and ask: What glasses am I wearing right now? Then swap them for God’s perspective—and watch the storm clear.


Thought of the Day:
A bad attitude makes everything look worse. But God’s truth helps you see the good—even when things go wrong.


Bible Reading:
Philippians 2:12–16 (KJV) — A powerful reminder to shine as lights in the world, without murmuring or disputing.


Closing Prayer:
Lord, help me recognize when my attitude is turning sour. Teach me to trust You when things don’t go my way. Give me a heart of gratitude and a voice that speaks kindness. And when I forget, gently remind me to reboot with Your truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.


 Susan Barker Nikitenko August 2025© MRMPBANNABENMBCOB^54543


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

I'm Working On My Additude = New Song



I'm Working On My Additude
(Chorus)

I'm working on my attitude,  
Trying to live with gratitude.  
I’ll ask, “Is this what Jesus Christ would do?”  
Changing my tune, one prayer at a time—  
With humility rhythm and rhyme.
 
(Verse 1)  
When I’m grumbly, mumbly,a stomping my feet,  
I stop and think, “Is this how love should speak?”  
So I bow and pray, give it to the Lord,  
Please let kindness be my final chord.  
 
(Verse 2)  
If I feel snappy, cranky, or blue,  
I pray that Father God will help me through.
He shows us how to live with his grace,  
So I’ll practice patience on God’s que. 
 
(Bridge)  
It's not always easy, I’ll admit,  
Sometimes I’d rather throw a fit.  
But Jesus is working change in me,  
So I sing,I pray,off’rings bring. 
 
(Repeat Chorus)  
I'm working on my attitude,  
Trying to live with gratitude.  
Changing my tune, one prayer at a time—  
With humility rhythm and rhyme.
Susan Barker Nikitenko August 2025©
 Susan Barker Nikitenko August 2025© MRMPBANNABENMBCOB^5454354

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Monday, August 11, 2025

New Song "No Tude Please"


Rascalia's Song

No Tude Please

 No tude, please—I’ve had my fill 

Of stompy feet and voices shrill. 

Let kindness rule where tempers fade, 

And grace be more than just a trade. 

 

No tude, please—let love begin, 

With gentle words and patient grin. 

A thankful heart, a peaceful soul, 

With God’s blessing of self-control. 

 

No tude, please—I need God’s hand, 

To help me live just as He planned. 

A cheerful heart, not grump or gloom, 

Let joy rebloom and fill the room.

 

So if I pout or slam a door, 

Lord, help me love a little more. 

No tude, please—I’d rather be 

A peacemaker in harmony!

 

Prayer:

 Lord  help me have the right attitude.

A  heart  of love and gratitude.

 Help me to always be gentle and kind.

 With peaceful words, never be rude.


Susan Barker Nikitenko 

August 2025© 

RMNMPMKBPBANNABENMoCOP7676


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Saturday, August 9, 2025

🐻 Bear’s Bedtime Tale: “Carl and the Great Fishing Fiasco”




🐻 Bear’s Bedtime Tale: “Carl and the Great Fishing Fiasco”

“So there’s Carl, our noble Forest Ranger, standing knee-deep in the creek like he’s about to baptize a trout. He’s got his lantern in one hand — because apparently fish respond better to scripture than bait — and a fishing pole in the other that’s been tangled in vines since 1997.”

“He whispers, ‘Come forth, fish of faith,’ and I promise the minnows start swimming in circles like they’re attending choir practice.”

“Then Robby Robot, his trusty dog, scans the water and barks, ‘No fish detected. Recommend snack break.’ Carl sighs, adjusts his ranger hat, and says, ‘We walk by faith, not by sight… or sonar.’”

“Eventually, Carl catches something — turns out it’s his own boot from last summer. He holds it up like it’s a trophy and says, ‘Even the lost shall be found.’”


Lead into the story:

🐻 Bear’s Storytime Introduction: “A Boat, A Net, and a Big Surprise”

Bear sat on his favorite quilt, surrounded by giggling children and curious critters. He held up a lantern and whispered, “Tonight, I’m going to tell you about a fishing trip that didn’t go quite as planned…”

The children leaned in. “Was it a silly trip?” asked the raccoon.
Bear chuckled. “It started with empty nets and tired hearts. But then Jesus stepped into the boat…”

He paused, letting the lantern’s glow flicker across their wide eyes. “One fisherman named Peter had worked all night and caught nothing. But when Jesus said, ‘Try again,’ Peter obeyed — even though it didn’t make sense.”

The owl blinked. “Did it work?”
Bear smiled. “Oh, it worked alright. The nets overflowed. The boats nearly sank. And Peter’s heart was never the same.”

He opened his big storybook and said, “Let’s read what happened next — and see what it means for us today.”


Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© 8/9/25 - MBpmnmrmkbpbAnna,BenMBCopbbffds765




Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Hidden Picture Luke 5:6 Peter






🌊 Devotional Reflection: “Obey First, Overflow Follows”

Peter didn’t expect much when Jesus told him to cast the net again. He’d already tried. He was tired. But obedience opened the floodgates of blessing. The boat overflowed—not just with fish, but with awe, purpose, and a new calling.

Reflection Prompt:
Have you ever felt like giving up, but chose to trust God anyway? What happened next?

Prayer:
“Lord, help me to listen when You speak, even when I’m discouraged. Teach me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Fill my heart with faith, and let my life overflow with Your goodness. Amen.”


Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© 8/9/25

 PmRmNmPbKBAnnaBenGNMBCopn65654332*








Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

🎶 “He Filled My Boat With Fishes” Peters Song



🎶 “He Filled My Boat With Fishes”

(Peter’s Song of Obedience and Awe)

 

Verse 1

I cast my net with weary hands,

The night was long, no fish, no plans.

But Jesus spoke — I dared to try,

 And saw the fish come leaping high!

 

Chorus 🎵

He filled my boat with fishes,

With joy, he filled my heart!

 The nets were overflowing,

 My doubts all fell apart.

 

He filled my boat with fishes,

He filled my soul with cheer—

When Jesus speaks, the blessings leap,

And miracles appear!

 

Verse 2

 I bowed before Him, full of awe,

A sinner touched by holy law.

 He called me forth to fish for souls.

 And now His love forever calls.

 

Repeat Chorus 




Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© 8/9/25  

pmRpNpMBCoppbkbANNABENRmNM87676554


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

🐟 Devotional: “Nevertheless, At Thy Word” Luke 5:5




📖 Opening Verse

Luke 5:5 (KJV 1611)
"And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net."


🐟 Devotional: “Nevertheless, At Thy Word”

Simon Peter’s hands were calloused, his nets soaked and empty. The Sea of Galilee had offered no reward that night — just the cold sting of disappointment. He wasn’t alone; James and John, fellow fishermen and sons of Zebedee, had also labored in vain. But as the sun rose, so did a stranger on the shore — Jesus of Nazareth. He stepped into Simon’s boat, not to fish, but to teach. And then came the command: “Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.”

Simon hesitated. He had every reason to decline. The fish weren’t biting. The nets were clean. The men were tired. But then came the words that changed everything: “Nevertheless at thy word…” That phrase is the heartbeat of faith. It’s the moment when logic bows to trust, when weariness yields to obedience.

As the nets plunged into the deep, the miracle unfolded. Fish swarmed the boat, so many that the nets began to break. They called for help, and even the second boat began to sink under the weight of the catch. Simon fell at Jesus’ knees, overwhelmed not just by fish, but by holiness. “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord,” he cried. But Jesus didn’t depart. He called.

This story is great because it’s not just about fish — it’s about calling, surrender, and transformation. It’s about how Jesus meets us in our failure and turns it into abundance. It’s about how obedience opens the door to revelation. Simon Peter, James, and John didn’t just catch fish that day — they caught purpose. They left their nets and followed Him.

The characters in this story — Simon Peter, James, John, and Jesus — represent the tension between human effort and divine intervention. Peter’s confession of sin is a turning point. He realizes that proximity to Jesus reveals our need for grace. And Jesus responds not with condemnation, but with commission: “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.”

Biblical fact: The Sea of Galilee is actually a freshwater lake, known for its sudden storms and rich fishing grounds. Fishermen often worked at night, when fish were more active near the surface. That’s why Jesus’ daytime command was so unusual — and why the miracle was so profound.

This story reminds us that God’s timing often defies our expectations. He doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. He speaks into our emptiness and invites us to trust. And when we do, the results are more than we imagined — not just full nets, but full hearts.


💡 Thought of the Day

Obedience to God’s word may not always make sense, but it always makes a difference.


📚 Recommended Scripture Reading

  • John 21:1–14 – Another miraculous catch after the resurrection
  • Matthew 4:18–22 – The calling of the first disciples
  • Isaiah 6:1–8 – A prophet’s encounter with holiness and calling

📜 Closing Verse

Luke 5:11 (KJV 1611)
"And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him."


🙏 Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for meeting us in our empty boats and calling us to deeper waters. Teach us to say, “Nevertheless at Thy word,” even when we don’t understand. Help us to trust Your voice more than our circumstances. May we be willing to leave behind what’s familiar to follow You into the unknown. Bless this class with courage, clarity, and a heart that longs to obey. Fill us with Your Spirit, and let our lives be vessels for Your glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🙌 Praise be to God, who turns empty nets into overflowing purpose!


Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© 8/9/25 MPMBKBPBANNABBENBPMNMRMGNnnngfdsa


Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Friday, August 8, 2025

Forest Skit: “Joy in the Morning”




🎭 Skit: “Joy in the Morning”

Theme: Psalm 30:5 — “Tears may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Cast:

  • Riley Rabbit – gentle and thoughtful
  • Fiona Fox – cheerful and encouraging
  • Ollie Owl – wise and calm
  • Milo Mouse – energetic and curious
  • Narrator – optional, or lines can be shared

🌙 Scene 1: The Sad Night

(Riley Rabbit sits under a tree with a moon prop above. Riley sniffles and wipes eyes.)

Riley Rabbit:
(sighs) I miss my sister. She went to heaven last year. Some days I feel okay… but tonight, I just feel really sad.

Ollie Owl:
(softly) That’s okay, Riley. Feelings are real. God knows them all. The Bible says, “Tears may endure for the night…”

Milo Mouse:
But what if the night feels super long? Like it never ends?

Fiona Fox:
I know it’s hard, Milo. But God promises that “Joy comes in the morning.” It might not be tomorrow morning—but it will come.

Riley Rabbit:
Even when I cry during prayer?

Ollie Owl:
Especially then. Talking to God is how we find strength. He listens to every tear.

(Lights dim or characters pretend to sleep.)


☀️ Scene 2: The Joyful Morning

(Sun prop rises. Riley stretches and looks peaceful.)

Riley Rabbit:
I still miss her. But this morning, I remembered something—God is with me. And one day, there will be no more tears.

Fiona Fox:
That’s right! Morning reminds us of God’s promises. Heaven is coming. Joy forever.

Milo Mouse:
So even when it’s hard to smile, God’s joy is still inside?

Ollie Owl:
Yes, Milo. Joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a forever gift from Jesus. It stays with us, even on the hard days.

All Together:
“Tears may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning!” (Psalm 30:5)


🎬 Closing

Narrator or Riley Rabbit:
Some kids feel sad and don’t know what to do. That’s okay. Talk to God. Read His Word. Cry if you need to. God’s comfort is real. And joy will come—because He promised.

Susan Barker Nikitenko August 8th, 2025© nmrmpmGnAnnaABenPbKbMBCop(*(*

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Monday, August 4, 2025

Which Glasses to Wear - any age




📖 Which Glasses to Wear

Main Verse:
"Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law." —Psalm 119:18 (KJV)


Sometimes we wake up feeling like the world is blurry—like we’re walking through fog. But the blur isn’t always in our eyes… it’s in our hearts. Just like wearing sunglasses at night distorts our vision, the “glasses” we wear spiritually can keep us from seeing life clearly. Feelings like jealousy, fear, pride, or comparison tint our view. God's Word invites us to switch lenses—to look at life through His love, His truth, and His perspective.

When we wear the “Me Glasses,” everything’s about us. “They didn’t notice me,” “I didn’t get what I wanted,” “I’m not good enough.” These frames distort reality. They make our problems bigger and blind us to God’s work. That’s why we need the “God Glasses”—clear, humble lenses that shift our view from selfish to servant-hearted. Through them, we see others with compassion, forgiveness, and grace.

Jesus wore perfect glasses. He saw Zacchaeus in a tree when others saw a thief. He saw a woman at the well when others saw someone unworthy. He saw purpose in Peter, even when Peter messed up. What if we put on those same lenses—ones shaped by mercy, kindness, and truth? Suddenly, our annoying sibling becomes someone to love. That teacher who frustrates us becomes someone who’s doing their best. Even tough situations become opportunities to grow.

But these glasses aren’t automatic. We have to choose them every day. That’s what prayer and Scripture do—they clean the smudges off our soul’s lenses. Psalm 119:18 isn’t just poetic—it’s practical: “Open thou mine eyes…” It’s a prayer for spiritual glasses. We’re asking God to help us see what we’re missing. And He will.

If you’re staring in the mirror feeling confused, try asking: “Whose glasses am I wearing right now?” If it’s guilt, shame, or fear—it’s time to swap them out. Let God hand you a new pair. It might not change your circumstances immediately, but it will change how you see them. And that’s where peace begins.


Ending Thought:
Let God be your optometrist. His lenses may not be trendy, but they’re the only ones that help you see the truth, the hope, and the love He’s placed right in front of you.


Chosen Passage to Read:
Colossians 3:1–14 (KJV) – A perfect passage on setting your sights on things above, and putting on the character of Christ.


Closing Prayer:
Lord, clear my vision today. Help me take off the glasses of pride, fear, and selfishness. Give me eyes that reflect Your love. Teach me to see people the way You do. And when my sight is blurred, remind me to return to Your Word for clarity. In Jesus’ name, amen.


Susan Barker Nikitenko August 4th, 2025© PMRMPBNMKBANNAMBBENDD$#@!



Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

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