Day: August 5, 2023

Posted in joyful-echoes, Ministry

Keepers of the Kingdom: Standing Strong in Today’s Battle for Truth and Kindness

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Keepers of the Kingdom: Standing Strong in Today’s Battle for Truth and Kindness


In our ever-changing and challenging world, it is essential to stay grounded in truth and kindness. As we navigate through a society that can often be shady and cruel, we must equip ourselves with the full armor of God to withstand the temptations and traps thrown our way. In today’s blog post, we will explore the importance of standing strong in the Lord amidst increasing cruelty and negativity, emphasizing the significance of truth, kindness, and avoiding the trap of anger.

The Battle for Truth:
In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire, it is crucial to hold fast to the truth. As keepers of the kingdom, we have a responsibility to seek and share truth in all aspects of our lives. By staying informed, fact-checking information, and engaging in critical thinking, we can combat the spread of falsehoods and ensure that truth prevails. The armor of God provides us with the tools to discern truth from deception and equip us to be defenders of honesty and integrity.

Kindness Over Cruelty:
As the world becomes more hostile, it is increasingly important to embrace kindness and compassion. The small acts of love and consideration we show towards others can have far-reaching impacts, creating a ripple effect of positivity. By treating others with kindness, we can counteract the cruelty that may surround us. It is vital to remember that everyone is fighting their own battles, and a little empathy can go a long way in spreading light in a dark world.

Avoiding the Trap of Anger:
Anger is a powerful emotion that can cloud our judgment and lead us astray from the path of righteousness. Satan knows that anger divides and weakens us, making us susceptible to his many traps. To stand strong in the Lord, we must learn to control our anger and respond with grace and forgiveness. Remembering the teachings of love and compassion that Jesus showed us, we can rise above anger and choose to…

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating Community

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Celebrating Community: Why Supporting Local Festivals, Car Shows, and Fairs Matters


In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget about the importance of community. However, local festivals, car shows, and fairs are not only about having a good time; they play a vital role in supporting our communities, churches, and youth. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of these events and why it is crucial for us to show our support.

The Spirit of Community:
Local festivals, car shows, and fairs are about more than just entertainment. They are an opportunity for members of the community to come together, catch up with old friends, and build new connections. These events foster a sense of unity and belonging, reminding us of the power of community spirit. By attending and participating in these gatherings, we contribute to the overall well-being of our neighborhoods.

Supporting Churches:
For many churches, their annual festivals serve as important fundraisers that help finance their operations and support their schools. These festivals often rely on various fundraising activities like silent auctions, raffles, and food and beverage sales. By attending and contributing to these events, we ensure that our local churches have the necessary resources to continue their important community work.

Preserving Tradition:
County fairs have been a beloved tradition in rural communities across America for generations. However, in recent years, we have witnessed a decline in the number of exhibits and participation, both in the open class and youth 4-H & FFA categories. This trend is disheartening, as it risks losing an essential part of our heritage. County fairs bring people together to celebrate successful learning, showcase their best harvests and crafts, and engage in friendly competitions. By supporting county fairs, we preserve our cultural traditions and create lasting memories for future generations.

Empowering Youth:
One of the key elements of local festivals, car shows, and fairs is their ability to raise funds for local charities and youth programs. Car and bike shows not only provide an opportunity to admire and explore classic cars, but they also serve as a platform for connecting with people who sell car parts. By engaging with these events, we can contribute to the betterment of our youth and support their growth and development.


In conclusion, supporting our local festivals, car shows, and fairs is more than just attending a fun event – it is an act of strengthening our communities, churches, and youth. By participating in these gatherings, we celebrate our shared values and contribute to the overall well-being of our neighborhoods. So, let’s make an effort to attend, volunteer, and promote these events, ensuring that the spirit of community lives on for generations to come.

Quotes on Community:

  1. “A true sense of community comes alive when we gather, celebrate, and support each other.” – Unknown
  2. “Community is not just a place, but a feeling of belonging and togetherness.” – Debbie Phillips
  3. “Community is the foundation upon which we build our lives.” – Unknown
  4. “When we support our community, we create a brighter future for everyone.” – Debbie Phillips
  5. “In community, we find strength, hope, and endless possibilities.” – Unknown