Author: ruthbillingsley

How long, O Lord, must I call for help,    but You do not listen? Or cry out to You, “Violence!”    but You do not save? Why do You make me look at injustice?    Why do You tolerate wrong? Destruction and violence are before me;    there is strife, and conflict abounds. Therefore the law is paralyzed,…

When I sit on the dock looking out over the lake, I feel at peace. I experience a quiet sense of calmness. When I’m on the beach, watching the steady waves on the soft sand, I see the amazing view and feel God’s peaceful presence. Wading in a beautiful stream while fishing, I feel surrounded by God’s…

Over the years I have made many quilts.  Most have been given away, some are used on beds or displayed around the house, and some are stored away.  I also have quilts and unfinished blocks of my mother’s and my aunts’.  These treasures feel like hugs because they are full of memories and love.  Quilting   My mother…

Have you ever heard God call your name? When He did, were you listening? God has a lot to say to us, but we tune Him out most of the time. I have heard Him speak to my heart, but this doesn’t mean I always listen and obey. However, He never gives up on me!…

A few weeks ago, as I was reading Our Daily Bread, I was inspired by  a story about the Great Depression during the 1930’s.  It was a time of great despair, poverty and suffering. Unemployment caused food lines, and men on street corners sold apples for a nickel as factories were shut down.  The devotional drew attention to a…

There is a season for everything.  A time to plant and a time of harvest.  Have you planted your garden yet this year?  It takes a lot of work.   You first prepare the soil, decide on what you want to grow, and then put the seeds or plants into the soil.  I have had a garden for a few years….

How many sunrises have I seen on Captiva Island beach in Florida? I have added up all of our trips and estimate over 150 times! I get up every morning before dawn and walk down the sandy path to experience one of the most humbling, yet delightful times of my life, the beautiful, peaceful, and…

Next to our property, among the tall grasses and weeds, I discovered an old porch foundation.  Many years ago it was a family home, a place of love and shelter.  It still stands as a reminder of a strong foundation that has withstood the storms of the past and today stands firm and unyielding.  It was built well…

When we think about Easter, we may envision bunnies, candy eggs, baskets full of toys and treats, grandchildren hunting for hidden eggs, family time, and dinner after church, but this year will be different for us. We will worship virtually with our churches and use FaceTime with our extended families. We will miss our Easter…

Have you ever been to “Painting With a Twist” or an art studio where you meet with your friends and everyone paints a picture? My painting never turns out quite like I expect. I’m not a good artist, but I do have a lot of fun. I have acquired another keepsake to take home and…