Thursday, September 3, 2026

The Power of the Cross, the Blood, the Resurrection, and the Word

Through Jesus- the power of the cross, 
blood, His resurrection and Word

(UPDATE: Added scripture - Isaiah 55:7-9. Also, at the end, added 55:12, as moved by His Spirit. Also added one picture. Glory belongs to the Lord alone - BP Sep 9/26)

Power in the Blood and Name of Jesus/Yeshua

Although you have felt abandoned and forgotten at times, you do well to remember that I have promised never to leave or forsake My people. I shall not fail you; fear not. [Deu 31:6] They may turn away from Me, or they may mistake My silence for absence, but I do not depart.

The reprobate have made their choice. Apostasy is on the rise, just as it is written. I had to bring you to this place [spiritually], for I am doing a good work in you that you cannot yet see. 

I AM HERE. RISE UP - begin to thank Me and praise Me. We have walked together a long time. Before you were born, I knew you. I have been patient with you in much. Patience is learned through waiting, and obedience is learned through what is suffered. [Heb 5:8]

Great troubles are soon here, but for those who allow this deep purifying, this cleansing, this testing; such as these are the pure vessels I require in this hour. I will have a holy people; a pure Bride, without spot or blemish. Show forth your praises, for I have called you out of darkness and into My marvellous light. [1Pet 2:9]

Continue on. Worship Me in spirit and in truth, for the hour is now. [Jn 4:23] Rejoice in My love. I am close to those who keep a repentant heart filled with godly sorrow, hating sin. Rejoice in My love for you, for perfect love casts out fear. Fear has torment, and they who fear are not made perfect in love. [1Jn 4:18]


Jesus Christ is Returning Soon

Listen to the sound of the trumpet and the approaching hooves of multitudes (witnesses). I AM returning, and no one knows the day or the hour. Therefore, keep watch - pray. 

Speak forth as I lead you by My Spirit, for if I am lifted up (upon the cross) I shall draw men unto Myself. For this reason I came, willingly shedding My blood as a sacrifice to redeem all who believe; to forgive and to reconcile back to the Father through Me [Jesus].

Choices - Even in the Garden of Eden, mankind has always had the power to choose. Choose wisely. Lay it all down; it will be worth it to pick up your own cross and follow Me. In times of weakness, I am your strength.

Remember, you overcome him (Satan and his minions) by the blood of the Lamb (My blood) and the word of your testimony, and love not your life unto death (upon that spiritual cross, nailing the sins of the flesh there), turning away from them. I will help you. Bring your petitions, your prayers to Me, with thanksgiving.

Do not be anxious - bring your requests to Me. [Phil 4:6] Wait upon Me. Be strong and of good courage. I speak once, twice, yet man does not perceive it [Job 33:14] Yet you perceive, My child. Now is the time. Selah


Armour Covered in the Lamb's Blood - Spiritual Warfare is Real

How heavy is your heart, My child, for the battle has been hard and long. Hold fast to me, for a while longer, and you shall see the victory. The time of sealing, the test of endurance, the test of faith, the trying of the heart belongs to the remnant.

The remnant are those who are born-again, Spirit-filled believers who love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul, and being, and love your neighbour as yourself. These are the two greatest commandments, and all the other laws hang on these two.

My people shall endure to the end, coming through victoriously, having been well-trained (and many who are being trained) by previous and ongoing tests and tribulations, being purged and purified in the fires (furnace of affliction) and through the waters (of separation).

Everything that may abide [endure] the fire, you shall make it go through the fire, and it shall be clean: nevertheless, it shall be purified with the waters of separation: and all that abides [endures] not the fire, you shall make go through the water. [Num 31:23]

Yes, hold fast to Me, for I AM your refuge and your strong tower. Yea, the cross is heaviest when it is first being carried, and excruciatingly hard to the flesh to stay upon; dying to self and all that is in the world [is difficult]

(NOTE: I understood that Jesus knows the battle between the flesh and the spirit. He comforts us in His understanding, and His understanding is not as that of people. He is no pushover, but He is no tyrant either. He cannot be compared to a human - not in thought, word or deed. God is astounding! BP end note]

God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours...
credit_Stockcake.com

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. [Is 55:7-9]

Yet only after death can My resurrection power go forth to raise you up to a place where the enemy cannot touch you [spiritually] unless you give him permission by giving in to temptation.  

(Note: But repentance brings forgiveness; we struggle against this flesh until the day we join the Lord, but that does not mean we get lazy about sin. Satan cannot force us to sin - but he tempts us with everything he has. We need to hate it just as our Creator does... BP)

Jesus is close to the broken-hearted
filled with godly sorrow

Filled with Godly Sorrow

Genuine repentance is honoured; forgiveness is real. Healing and restoration are in My hand. Look up, look up, for your redemption draws near.

Further chaos and destruction are coming upon mankind and the world, for judgment goes forth. Sin also is a destructive and chaotic force, which the enemy delights in. I AM the one who shall create the new when all is said and done.

Keep on your [full] armour [Eph 6]; pray without ceasing; abide in Me and do that which I ask of you to do. Obedience is rewarded. Great blessing is about to fall upon My obedient children; but great judgment also is falling upon all nations and all peoples of the earth. Yes, and the wrath of the devil, the prince of this world, is coming, but he has nothing on Me, and he cannot overrule that which I have spoken and that which I have ordained to be.

[Note: (What I understood): Some people can get carried away when they see the words 'great blessing'. My cautionary reminder is to always remember this world is not our home.

A "great blessing" can be a restored relationship that was severed, one that someone has prayed about for a long time, perhaps even decades, perhaps even the now-answered prayer of 'salvation' for someone in their family, someone who did not live to see the answer to their prayers come to fruition, but a great reconciliation is coming through the hands of the Sovereign, Providential God. the prosperity preachers would have people think a "great blessing" is material gain, money - or with some charismatics, a new Learjet.

Another great blessing could be a long-awaited healing of the "impossible" kind, or a much-needed job or home. For others, it could be a miracle pregnancy or adoption that they have fervently prayed about. It may be acceptance at a certain university or college. It could be deliverance from addictions (cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, pornography, sex sins, etc.) It could be a miraculous deliverance from the sex slave market or a kidnapping situation, or a release from prison.

A great blessing can come in many forms and ways - and always through the hand of Almighty God [El Shaddai]. Think upon these things - BP -End note]

Answers to any of these prayers are great blessings!

Fear not-greater is He (Jesus)
in you than he (Satan) that is in the world
Fear Not

Do not fear Satan or any demon, or any enemy of the cross, whether in the spiritual or in the physical. Fear not, despite all the evil you see being unleashed upon the earth. Yes, it is intensifying and grievous, and shall continue. So it is written; so it shall be. My will shall be accomplished. My Word is true, and I warned you not to be deceived...and that these last of last days would wax worse as sin abounds.

So shall My Word be that goes forth out of My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing where I sent it. [Is55:11]

Satan's wrath has been loosed for a time; yes, but he knows that his time is short. [Rev 12:12] Look to Me and abide, for I AM your strength, your wisdom, your discernment, your all-in-all. Obedience ... My peace I give you, not as the world gives, but the peace I give passes all understanding. [Phil 4:7]

Let not your heart be troubled; neither be afraid. [Jn 14:1]

Rise up! It's your time. Rise, My child, for I AM with you. This shall turn around as surely as in days gone by. Watch and see what I shall do for you. Trust in Me and wait, as difficult as it is and has been.

Watch, pray, and feed upon My Word (Bible)

I have gathered every tear, heard every sigh, and acknowledged every prayer. Blessed are those who wait for Me.

It is written: Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.[Phil 1:6]

Do not give up just before the finish line.

People see the uptick in storms and unusual weather patterns and try to explain it away in some logical, scientific way. All is in My competent hands. The world has changed and continues to change. 

Very little is the same as it was. Floods, fires, earthquakes, all are increasing in frequency and intensity. This was stated years ago, yet it continues to escalate. The earth is travailing as a woman in labour; it is in great pain. You entered the beginning of sorrows some years back; it increases. It does not take a prophetic eye to see. 

Leaders are being removed. The Antichrist/beasts are about to rise up and make their presence known. The Antichrist will bring a false peace, and 'order out of chaos'.

(Note: I, Bonita, can sense him and have for some length of time now, but I press in to Jesus, and I stay in the Word, and in prayer. Do the same, my friend. Stay close to Jesus; you cannot go wrong - BP End note)

My people are coming to a place where I have led (and for others, I am leading) them, through the wilderness, through the darkness, through the tunnels of fog and confusion, through the fire, and through the water. 

I AM helping you
Take hold - rise up!

Fear not. I am helping you in ways that you have not even perceived. I have heard your prayers for your loved ones, and all that concerns you. Trust Me. Answers are coming. Why do you think the enemy is doing all he can to halt you? Rise above depression and hopelessness with a garment of praise, and a determination to trust Me 

Yes, great trouble is coming, but you are here for a reason, and it is not a platitude, but a fact... You were born for this very time period.

I am not the author of confusion, but of peace. [Cor 14:33] I AM bringing all who are Mine to a place where they shall stand until the appointed time when I gather My people up. The winds are blowing - change is in the air. Selah

For whatsoever is born of God [Adonai] overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith. [1Jn 5:4]

And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. [Rev15:2]

Penned for His glory

Bonita                           dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com

Addendum: 

It is the time in history when our plans must be the Lord's plans. Satan is preparing for the unveiling (revealing) of his 'chosen' one. God makes all things right that Satan has made wrong - in His timing, and in His way - even when we do not agree or understand; His way is best.

Satan looks for people's vulnerabilities. He looks for chinks in the armour, a point of entry where he can cast his hook with the intent to ensnare and defeat us. He finds his way "in" (the chinks) through unconfessed sin, besetting or habitual sin (strongholds), bitterness, unforgiveness, and giving in to temptation. 

The hook is baited with tasty morsels of our favourite things, that is, whatever the flesh lusts after or desires the most. Jesus helps us when we cry out to Him. He is our Intercessor in the heavenly courts, our Advocate. Trust Him. We are all fighting something; all have weak areas - this flesh fails us, but greater is Jesus!

For you shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.[Is 55:12]

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

He Promised Peace-He Engaged in War


Iran versus U.S.
And you shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that you are not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet

For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places. [Mat 24:6-7] (Emphasis mine)

It is late, but this is a heads-up that later today (Wednesday, September 2), I will be publishing a more in-depth article. 

When Trump was campaigning, he promised he would bring peace and end the wars. Instead, he has joined Israel and engaged in war. He has taken the helm - he is calling the 'shots' (not a pun, but a fact). 

A few days ago, I completed a three-day fast, as I searched for some answers. There is much going on, many distractions and interruptions. News came to the people that yesterday, September 1, 2026, at noon Eastern Standard Time, Trump ordered USCENTCOM to launch an attack against Iran, which was in retaliation for the attacks that Iran conducted the previous night.

Live coverage was with Steven Ram (red arrow)
September 1, 2026 (circled)

A spokesman for Iran stated that the attacks were in response to the US hitting those missiles that were supposed to spread mines throughout the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump spewed forth a strong warning: "You better not respond. If you do, and you start to escalate this, we're going to hit you with the largest attack you have seen so far."

All the news reported that Iran did indeed respond; they did retaliate. Trump had predicted that they would respond, sarcastically stating that "they are stupid and they are a terrorist regime."

Illustration credit: Fox News on Steven Ram
YouTube Channel

On August 30, 2026, US forces struck Iranian military rocket launchers on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, ending a month-long lull in hostilities, according to Fox News.

The above information comes from a live coverage presented by Steven Ram on his YouTube channel. He titled the coverage: Breaking | Iran is attacking U.S. Bases!


Providence of the Living God

The Lord is ever faithful. True, yes - it is true that war had already begun between Israel, Iran and the United States (although recently it has seemed to be more between US and Iran). 

Nonetheless, I believe judgment has already begun. The beginning of sorrows is something I wrote about a year or so ago. Truthfully, I cannot recall exactly how long ago. It must be found to be accurate about exactly when it was; however, everyone I speak with - every single person, no matter if they are young, middle-aged or elderly - claims that time seems 'whacked' [youth], 'out of sync' [middle-aged], 'not normal' [old school].

Praying about many things on the fast, I did mention the nations because personally, I do not think that there is one godly nation. All seem to be angry, full of protesters, bitter. All are in rebellion and allowing all kinds of abominations, including Israel - the entire world presents like the days of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah. This I have made no secret of by mentioning it in past articles, going back several years.

2020 was the first time the Lord had me post that it would be a pivotal year (that was in January, and the pandemic had us locked down in March--ONLY God knew. I know nothing on my own, absolutely nothing.) His glory alone...

That being said, I believe that deep within the Lord has let me know that each year from now on will be pivotal, as we head for the Great Tribulation. Nothing will ever be the same again. They are pushing hard for the 2030 agenda. 

Folks, that is like a heartbeat away. We all need the guidance, strength, wisdom AND increased discernment of the Lord (the Holy Spirit and the WORD give us discernment). He does not want us to fear. He wants us to trust - and yes, He does know that can be difficult for this old flesh sometimes. 

Fear can warn us of danger, but if we are not trusting God, it can also paralyze us, given the right situation. And we need each other to encourage and pray for one another. 

I came across scripture and dated it. Unbelief and rebellion, combined with fear, have taken hold of multitudes. That was written up at the top of the page. These notes are for me - I have to keep myself in check too, with the help of the Holy Spirit and Jesus. Yes sir, you bet I do! 

Leaders (kings, princes, Prime Ministers, whatever title their country gives them) - they are hungry for power, pushing for control, established the system that will be ruled by the Antichrist of all antichrists.

On the 26 of August, after prayer, the Holy Spirit led me to Scripture in a Bible not often used (I have several Bibles: KJV, NKJV, ESV, Amplified and Jerusalem Bible)

I have a bad habit of dating, making comments, and highlighting scriptures. The scripture I was led to was one the good Lord had led me to previously, and ironically, four months to the day (April 26) - both dates being this year.

Although they are highlighted in a KJV (King James Version) Bible, I am copying it here as presented in the NKJV (New King James).

Your way and your doings have procured these things unto you; this is your wickedness, because it is bitter, because it reaches unto your heart.

My bowels, my bowels! I am pained at my very heart; my heart makes a noise in me; I cannot hold my peace, because you have heard, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war.

Destruction upon destruction is cried; for the whole land is spoiled; suddenly are my tents spoiled, and my curtains in a moment.

How long shall I see the standard, and hear the sound of the trumpet?

For My people are foolish; they have not known Me; they are sottish children [stupefied, inebriated], and they have no understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. [Jer 4:18-22]

click any picture to enlarge

At the top of the page, I had spoken of rebellion, unbelief and fear...it must have been back on April 26 that I wrote that. I use different Bibles. Sometimes I find the King James has a verse or section that I do not understand, so I use a translation with more modern language, like the ESV (English Standard Version) or Amplified.

Also, during the fast, I prayed for my children and grandchildren. Just because we are Christians does not mean our children are. Sometimes, if they are believers, they may be a prodigal, backslidden, or in a place that is not wholly sold out to God/Jesus - like where most (if not all) of us once were.

Look at Eli, a prophetic spiritual leader, whose two sons, Hophni and Phineas, high priests, were sinful souls, guilty of theft (sacrificial meats of the worshippers) and sexual immorality. Eli did not discipline them though.

Then there was the prophet Samuel, whose two sons, Abiah and Joel, whom Samuel appointed as judges, were also sinful in their ways. They perverted justice, and they were dishonest, accepting bribes. They did not honour God as Samuel did.

David had a son who was the half-brother of his daughter Tamar. He raped her, then hated her, putting her to great shame. She was the sister of King David's son Absalom, who avenged his sister by killing Amnon a couple of years later. He also plotted to overtake his father David's throne.

Click any pic to enlarge

He was proud of his hair, but it got tangled up in a low-lying branch when he was riding on his mule. [2Sam 18:9] David's loyal commander-in-chief, Joab, discovered him caught up and helpless. The King had told his men to be gentle with the young man Absalom and not hurt him. "Do it for me." David had pleaded with his men. [2Sam 18:5]

Death of Absalom
James Tissot - 1904

He explicitly disobeyed David and used the opportunity to thrust three spears or lances into Absalom (for plotting against David), and the rest of the soldiers finished him off. Joab wanted the rebellion ended and protect the kingdom.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. [Rom 3:23]

So after praying for my children and grandchildren, the Holy Spirit led me to Scripture (the Word of God IS alive and active and sharper than any two-edged sword). Glory to the Creator!

El Shaddai, our holy God, speaks to us through His Word. Jesus IS the Word who came in the flesh. So magnificent, so mind-boggling. I post the verse here because, as I have often said, Jesus still feeds the multitudes.

There are others (many others) who have been praying for their children, some travailing. Receive the Word of God. Ask Him, and He will answer. He lives.

This Word is for you too. There are no coincidences with our Father.

God has heard your prayers. (Thank You Jesus - this is all because of you!) Cling to the strong Vine like healthy grapes...

click to enlarge
Isaiah 49:26

This has been a heads-up. I have more prepared but it is almost 5:00 AM. 
Stay close to Jesus. He is your Advocate, Comforter, Counsellor, Prince of Peace.

for His glory alone
Bonita                             dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com



Tuesday, August 25, 2026

One Act of Obedience

(NOTE: Update Added August 26/26:

I overlooked the part about the "tapestry" in my notes. The story has been added under 'Obedience - A Fruit of Love'. Also, three pictures have been added - BP)

ONE Act of Obedience

Around 2005, in a night vision (I dare not call it a dream since I was not asleep, but merely resting with closed eyes), I saw the word OBEDIENCE. The capital letters highlighted the importance of the word. And the warm, glimmering gold emphasized the purity and holiness in the act of obedience.

As I gazed upon the word in my spirit, Christ Jesus immediately came to mind. Because of the precious Holy Spirit, I was very aware of Messiah’s presence. The sense of great peace enveloped me. I wondered what the Lord was trying to show me.

My peace shattered abruptly as I witnessed a darkness moving downward from the top of the letters of ‘OBEDIENCE’. There was a wrestling with the fear of the unknown. What was that darkness? Jesus is the light of this world. [Jn 8:12]

It was all happening very quickly, and soon the entire word ‘obedience’ was covered in the dark fluid. Before confusion could consume me, a scripture came to mind. I could not recall it verbatim, but it had to do with Jesus stating that He is the light of the world, and when we follow Him, we will not walk in darkness, but have light (life). [Jn 8:12]

It all happened faster than I can even type. It was an open vision, so it was like watching a short movie. No sooner had the scripture come to mind than everything brightened, as a light revealed what the ‘darkness’ was that covered the word ‘obedience’ in its entirety.

BLOOD! Immediately, I understood that the precious blood was that of “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world”. [Rev 13:8] Indeed, the precious blood of Jesus/Yeshua the Christ.

The next day John saw Jesus coming to him and said, Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. [Jn 1:29]

Once seen and understood, fear fled.

The obedience of Christ Jesus was completely soaked (drenched) in the precious blood of the Lamb that was poured out for us when the Messiah was upon the cross. [Phil 2:8]

And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Obedience was a fruit [one of the fruits] of His love for His Father [Jn 14:31] and for us (humankind), as He willingly sacrificed His life, spilling His precious blood to redeem us from the penalty of death (the wages of sin is death) [Rom 6:23] and to break the power of sin.

For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. [Rom 5:19]

And said to them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: [Lk 24:46]

One act of obedience brings forth the greatest miracle of all – salvation!

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ [Yeshua Mashiach], which according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. [1Pet 1:3]

Obedience – A Fruit of Love

Right now, it is very important to practice obedience. Many of God’s people are being tested right now, and obedience will be part of that testing. Could our suffering be to bring up the dross? To challenge our faith? To test our heart?

Think upon it. We are in the beginning of sorrows…this is the time to do all the Lord asks.

If He instructs you to fast, prayerfully ask how long and what kind of fast – please be sure it is the Lord’s direction, especially if you are elderly or have limitations due to any physical reasons, such as diabetes or some other limitation. The Lord will lead you properly and according to your situation. There may be something else He requires of you instead.

Perhaps He has moved on you to pray earnestly. He gives instructions. Stay in the Word, pray.

This was to be posted by last Sunday [three days ago, the 23rd Aug], but it has been a great difficulty due to interruptions and distractions. Yet, all things are in God’s timing. Nothing takes Him by surprise... us, yes, the Lord - no.

For we know that all things work together for good to those who love God and are the called, according to His purpose. [Rom 8:28]

As often stated with this verse, it is not suggested that everything that happens is good, but rather Almighty God [El Shaddai], in His wisdom, works everything together to bring forth the good that He has purposed.

It is like the metaphor of the tapestry, which comes from a poem written by Grant Colfax Tullar [1869-1950] (an American hymn writer), but made famous/popular by Corrie Ten Boom.

Tullar wrote the poem after a dark season of despair, hopelessness, and discouragement. Corrie Ten Boom had many speaking engagements as a survivor of the Holocaust, a survivor of Ravensbruck Nazi concentration camp.

She used to carry the poem on a piece of paper, along with a piece of embroidery with knotted, messy threads on one side and a lovely golden crown on the upside. She would read the poem and then demonstrate the meaning with the piece of embroidered material she carried with her.

She explained the knotted side represented our perspective of life, which can be confusing, tangled, chaotic and random. The flip side represented God's master plan and the crown of eternal life.

Tullar had originally named the poem "The Weaver". Corrie Ten Boom simply renamed it "Life is But a Weaving" (The Tapestry Poem). Her famous quote was: "Although the threads of my life have often seemed knotted, I know, by faith, that on the other side of the embroidery is a crown."

Although Grant Tullar wrote the poem, it is famously, howbeit erroneously, credited to Corrie Ten Boom.

click any picture to enlarge
pic credit_TenBoom.org

My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colors -
He weaveth steadily.

Oft' times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.

Now 'til the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas
And reveal the reason why.

The dark threads are as needful
In the weaver's skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.

He knows, He loves, He cares;
Nothing this truth can dim
He gives the very best to those
Who leave the choice to Him.

Does Your Character Pass the Litmus Test?

About four months ago, I mentioned that hearts are being tested (tried) right now. If someone questioned that God would not do such a thing, I will repost the scripture that I used then.

Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the Lord tested Joseph’s character. [Ps 105:19] NLT (New Living Translation)

Today, during prayer this morning, before I opened the Bible, I mentioned a few things to the Lord. Then I asked Him to lead me to what He wanted me to know. Again, I was led to [Psalm 105:19]

I trust the Lord when we pray sincerely to Him, humbling ourselves the best way we know how, and then trusting Jesus to lead us by His Spirit and answer our prayer request.

We pray with thanksgiving. That is another lesson that has kept coming before my eyes, either in Scripture or in some of my writings from days gone by. The testing has not been easy at times. In fact, there are times I have broken down into tears. Pain has a way of wearing us down.

There is no desire in my heart to complain, but I do tell the Lord that I am at my wit’s end. Year after year rolls by. I listen to what is happening with brethren. So many are suffering in different ways.

Situations are arising that test the character, integrity, sincerity, and genuineness of each individual. It has always been said that a person’s true character is proven in times of adversity. I have seen people who are thought to be so macho, so brave, yet cower instead of protecting a woman or child when startled by a sudden loud noise at night, out in the country.

I have seen so-called ‘good men’ kick a helpless puppy for not ‘behaving’ right when no one could see them except ‘family’. Yet to their friends and business associates, they are the epitome of ‘charm’.

smiling charmer hides the truth
image credit_dreamstime.com
1 of 15 free images - trial

The same charming person can be someone we would never suspect. They could turn out to be a thief, a liar, an adulterer, a murderer or a humanoid. How often has someone been found guilty of something, and people could not believe it? It seemed completely out of character. That is how charming someone can present themselves – a most convincing mask.

Yet, I have seen a person who was always mocked and ridiculed as being a ‘wimp’ due to their quiet or laid-back nature, turn out to be a real trooper in times of need. God knows exactly what kind of litmus test will prove the character of each individual.

Many of us have been going through one situation after another. Has it felt like everything is a battle, and everyone is at odds with you? I went through a time like that recently. Many times, I would end up in tears, wondering why the onslaught would not stop.

More times than I can count, asking Jesus for help, I searched my heart to see what I could be doing wrong to bring all of it upon myself. It seems that there is this unspoken expectation that Christians are never supposed to be depressed, or get angry, or be stressed, or have negative days. Just smile the perpetual Joel Osteen smile and give thanks to God…

“I failed You, Lord…” I often found myself lamenting, but the Holy Spirit corrected me, especially when a wave of melancholy swept over the flesh, or I spoke forth the devil’s lies. The expectation to be positive and unmoved by even stressful and/or pressing situations is both exhausting and unrealistic. Even those who disagree with the false doctrines of the prosperity gospel can be affected by some teacher’s influence, without realizing it.

The Leftover Sting of the False Prosperity Doctrine

Many believers are stuck in the rut that faith heals everything and that it quietly subdues all kinds of suffering, whether physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual pain, financial distress, marital problems, or wayward children. If not, then it must be the result of some hidden sin.

I remember being told that people who held bitterness inside suffered from arthritis, or that if anyone had cancer it was due to unforgiveness, and on and on and on it went. This is not true. Not only is it harmful, but it is unbiblical. It is the “hidden sin” mentality.

One time the disciples of Jesus asked him if a certain man was blind because of his parents’ sin or his own sin, to which Jesus responded with an adamant no. He stated that the condition was not caused by sin but that God’s love, power and work would be manifested through his healing, which would ultimately glorify God [Yahweh]. [Jn 9:2-3]

This has been something I have written about many times over the years because the first church I chose to attend after the orphanage happened to be a Word of Faith, prosperity-preaching church.

I was twenty-five years old and needed a job. An apartment building a few blocks from me was looking for a manager. I went in to apply for the job. The duties were simple enough. I would be responsible for cleaning all the apartments before and after occupancy, cleaning halls, lobby, and the laundry and mail rooms. I was to collect rent, deposit monies, and screen potential renters. The then-manager assured me that I practically had the job, but I would have to meet with the building owner after the weekend to make it official.

Going by the prosperity teaching that I had heard over the couple of months at the church, I gave notice to the manager at the apartment I had. The new job provided a furnished one-bedroom apartment and a small salary each month. 

I named-it-and-claimed-it (claimed the job and apartment as done in the spiritual; it will manifest in the natural). That is the teaching in a nutshell. I would have gotten the job too, but I had no husband. The job required a couple. The man would be responsible for maintenance for the building, something I could not do.

Desperately, I went back to the manager of the apartment where I had given notice, but sadly, he had already rented the place out. A woman at the church allowed me to stay at her place (on the couch) in exchange for light housework and babysitting her two school-aged boys.

That was my hard lesson with the “name-it-and-claim-it” prosperity doctrine. It was a rude and harsh awakening, but the Lord allowed me to find out very quickly after I had started at the church. I only went a few more times before I left it. Something happened that caused me to leave the church for the next 13 years, but I have spoken of that in past articles – not for now.

I have to admit that despite knowing that the doctrine is false and unrealistic, there have been times that the teaching has affected me, and I did not immediately recognize it. The Lord is truly so faithful. That is not just a Christian cliché; it is a beautiful reality.

If you have been going through interruptions, distractions, and opposition to the point that it has worn you down, be encouraged. You are most likely being tested. I asked the Lord about what was happening. Yet once again, He led me to a Scripture that I posted a couple of months back. It was confirmation of what I sensed, but I was not 100% sure about.

Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the Lord tested (tried) Joseph’s character. [Ps 105:19]

Worship God Through Jesus

But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeks such to worship Him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. [Jn4:23-24]

This song beats any AI song, although there actually are some good AI songs. Still, I hesitate and will not be promoting them often. Steve McWhirter put out a song that I only recently stumbled upon, but it was actually put out online in 2020.

It is called “Come Jesus Come” – it is our heart’s cry, especially as we see the evil that is flooding this world and knowing, as the Great Tribulation fast approaches, that according to the Word of God, it is only going to get worse. But thank God for Jesus and the Holy Spirit!

May it bless you as much as it does me. To God be the glory.

Click the link at the bottom of the lyrics to take you to McWhirter’s official YouTube channel.

Come Jesus Come

Sometimes I fall
To my knees and pray
Come Jesus come
Let today be the day

Sometimes I feel
Like I'm gonna break
But I'm holding on
To a hope that won't fade

Come Jesus come

We've been waiting so long
For the day You return
To heal every hurt
And right every wrong

We need You right now
Come and turn this around
Deep down I know
This world isn't home

Come Jesus come
Come Jesus come

There'll be no war
And there'll be no chains
When Jesus comes
Let today be the day

He'll come for the weak
And the strong just the same
And all will believe
In the power of His name

Come Jesus come

We've been waiting so long
For the day You return
To heal every hurt
And right every wrong

We need you right now
Come and turn this around
Deep down I know 
This world isn't home

Come Jesus come
Come Jesus come

One day He'll come
And you'll stand face to face
Come and lay it all down
'Cause it might be today

The time is right now
There's no need to wait
Your past will be washed
By rivers of grace

Come Jesus come

We've been waiting so long
...so long
For the day You return
To heal every hurt
And right every wrong

We need you right now
Come and turn this around
Deep down I know
This world isn't home

Come Jesus come
Come Jesus come
Come Jesus come

 Come Jesus Come - Stephen McWhirter (Official YT Channel)

for His glory alone
Bonita                     dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com


Friday, August 21, 2026

Military Convoys - Ontario - Plan Accordingly

Friday August 21 - Saturday August 22, 2026

Increased military traffic and localized delays will occur on major Toronto and GTA highways starting the night of Friday August 21 and into Saturday, August 22, 2026, as part of the 32 Canadian Brigade Group’s end-of-summer training exercise, Exercise STEADFAST WARRIOR

Affected Routes

Reservists will convoy in military and chartered civilian vehicles, making scheduled refuelling and rest stops along key regional corridors.

[NOTE: They will basically be monopolizing (using) seven (7) of Toronto and GTA's most used, most popular and key travelling roads - BP]

These are:

Petawawa - Camp Borden

STEADFAST WARRIOR

• Don Valley Parkway (DVP)

• Gardiner Expressway

• Hwy 400

• Hwy 401

• Hwy 404

• Hwy 410

• Hwy 427

Peterborough

WOLFPACK GUARDIAN

• Hwy 7

• Hwy 115

The military states that the soldiers (approx. 1,100 in the STEADFAST WARRIOR convoys will be carrying  weapons, but they will not possess any live ammunition. Weapons will be unloaded.

The Department of National Defence (DND) has not scheduled exact minute-by-minute highway closures since this is a rolling deployment rather than a static road block. However, the primary operational windows for Exercise STEADFAST WARRIOR are as follows:

Initial Departure Wave: Begins the NIGHT of FRIDAY, August 21, 2026. Heavy transport and supply convoys will start moving from local GTS (Greater Toronto Area) armouries.

Peak Highway Movement: Continues throughout the DAY on SATURDAY, August 22, 2026. Convoys will be actively merging, travelling, and making routine fuel stops as they head north and east toward Garrison Petawawa.

People are advised to find alternative local routes to bypass the convoys, if possible, to prevent slowdowns. Motorists who must use the same routes as the convoys are urged to exercise extreme caution, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid cutting in and out through the military convoys.

East - West Bypasses - Alternative to 401 and Gardiner

Highway 407 (ETR- Toll Route) 

Highway 3

Highway 7 is the fastest option to entirely bypass Hwy 401 military traffic corridor across the top of the GTA. Hwy 7 runs parallel NORTH of the 401.

However, an important NOTE:

Motorists advised to keep a sharp eye out as some eastern Ontario military groups use segments of Hwy 7, but the GTA municipal portions remain a solid alternative.

For shorter local trips, use the major arterial roads and stick to the multi-lane municipal roads like Steeles Avenue, Finch Avenue, and Dundas Street to avoid highway on-ramps where convoys may be slowing down traffic to merge.

North - South Bypasses - Alternative to DVP, Hwy 400, 404, & 427

Central Toronto: Avoid the DVP by utilizing major north-south surface veins such as Don Mills Road, Bayview Ave., or Leslie Street.


West End/Peel Region: Alternatives to Hwy 427 or 410 are thoroughfares such as Airport Rd., Dixie Rd., or Hurontario St. This can help motorists safely navigate around the highway hubs.   

Refer to:      Military Convoy Traffic Delays  

Petawawa 
 
Also from August 21-29, 2026, the Canadian Army Reserve has a training event taking place at Garrison Petawawa called Exercise Wolfpack Guardian. Drivers in the Peterborough area should expect increased military traffic on major local routes, including highway 7 and highway 115, as convoys transport personnel and equipment. 

People will meet convoys heading toward Petawawa on Thursday, August 20 and Friday August 21, 2026. Return dates are August 29-30. Over 500 reserve soldiers will be in the convoys from northern, central and eastern Ontario.

Convoys will make brief, planned stops for fuel, rest, food, and maintenance, but soldiers will not carry weapons or ammunition during public stops. Please exercise caution when approaching or driving near Department of Defence vehicles Give military vehicles plenty of space and do not cut through a convoy.


More information will be added over the course of the weekend. Keep in mind this involves two days for the Toronto, GTA (Greater Toronto Area), Peterborough and Petawawa areas. There may be delays.  

     

Although these exercises are carried out yearly by the military as part of training, it is wise in these chaotic, unpredictable days to seek counsel from the Lord, and wherever or to whomever He so leads us.

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. [Prov 11:14]

Blogger is really messing up my editor and work these days...surreal.



for His glory alone 
                             Bonita   dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com