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The Cost of Obeying God
Service, Life's Journey Dana Rongione Service, Life's Journey Dana Rongione

The Cost of Obeying God

When the angel Gabriel appeared unto Mary that fateful day, I doubt she had any clue how greatly her life was about to change. After all, his greeting troubled her, and she must have wondered what his words meant. But once he explained God's plan for her to bear the Messiah, she responded with humility and surrender: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word" (Luke 1:38).

With those words, Mary agreed to carry the very Son of God in her womb, knowing full well the cost that came with such an honor. She knew people would accuse her of impurity when they noticed her pregnant belly. After all, she was still a virgin espoused to Joseph.

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Focusing on the Gift
Life's Journey Dana Rongione Life's Journey Dana Rongione

Focusing on the Gift

As we embrace the festive Christmas season, our thoughts naturally turn to the timeless story of Jesus' birth, the tradition of giving and receiving gifts, and the overall spirit of generosity. Yet amidst all the merriment, it is important to pause and ponder a deeper lesson that extends beyond the holiday itself—one that teaches us about the true meaning of gifts and their significance throughout the year.

Before I go any further, I want to share a cherished memory from my childhood. On one particular Christmas, my sister and I yearned for a special gift—a lifelike doll named Lorrie, accompanied by a complete nursery of miniature furniture. This precious doll was in every catalog and every commercial.

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When It Seems There Is No Hope (Repost)
fear, hope, Life's Journey fear, hope, Life's Journey

When It Seems There Is No Hope (Repost)

“Thou art wearied in the greatness of thy way; yet saidst thou not, There is no hope: thou hast found the life of thine hand; therefore thou wast not grieved. ” — Isaiah 57:10

During my Bible reading last week, this verse jumped out at me, and today, I would like to make an application with it. Let's begin with the first phrase: Thou art wearied in the greatness of thy way. Does the way before you seem great today? Does the path appear long and scary? Troublesome roads can leave us weary, even if we haven't traveled them yet.

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Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 6

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 6

As we navigate the storms of life, it's essential to remember that just because we face trials doesn't mean we're out of God's will. The disciples were exactly where Jesus had commanded them to be, yet they encountered a tempestuous sea.

The story also highlights the significance of trusting God's character and promises when we can't see Him working. Often, Jesus operates behind the scenes, diligently working all things for our good and His glory.

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Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 4

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 4

Picture this: The disciples are on a boat battling a relentless storm. They've been rowing for hours, weary and frustrated, questioning where Jesus is in their time of need. And then they see Him, walking on the water. It's a moment filled with uncertainty and doubt, as they initially mistake Him for a ghost.

But here's where the story takes a remarkable turn. Peter, known for his boldness, dares to speak up. He requests to join Jesus on the water, asking, “If it's really you, Lord, let me walk on the water and come to you."

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Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 2

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 2

Do you ever feel like every step forward can feel like taking three steps back? We've all been there, haven't we? We put in so much effort, yet it seems like we're getting nowhere.

In this episode, we'll dive deeper into the frustration, exhaustion, and fear the disciples faced in the midst of the storm. It's a universal experience that many of us can relate to, especially during challenging times. But remember, just as the disciples eventually reached the other side, so will we.

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Unveiling Our True Selves to God

Unveiling Our True Selves to God

In Exodus 34, we encounter a unique story about Moses. When he came down from Mount Sinai after speaking with God and getting the second set of tablets bearing the Ten Commandments, his face shone radiantly. This divine glow was a physical sign of his close communion with the Almighty. However, it frightened the Israelites, so Moses covered his face with a veil among the people.

And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him. - Exodus 34:35

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Harmony in Unresolved Melodies
Life's Journey, Positive Life, Encouragement Dana Rongione Life's Journey, Positive Life, Encouragement Dana Rongione

Harmony in Unresolved Melodies

Ah, the sweet sound of a resolved chord, a musical sigh of contentment that brings a smile to our faces. I'm with you on that one! There's something deeply satisfying about a piece of music that ends on the perfect note, giving us a sense of completion. However, it’s becoming quite the trend to end a musical piece on an unresolved note. It drives me crazy! I feel like we’re in the middle of the song, and then suddenly, we’re on to the next song. Huh? What just happened?

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Plot Holes or Potholes?

Plot Holes or Potholes?

You know that feeling when you're in the zone, pounding away on a keyboard, and in the middle of a writing sprint that's like a caffeine rush for your creativity? (If you’re not a writer, you’ll have to equate this to some other project you’re elbow-deep in.) So there I was, watching my tale come alive on the screen and giggling in excitement. The story was full of twists and turns, excitement, mystery, and anything else I could throw at it. And the best part of all? It was almost finished!

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Finding Hope and Blessings in God’s Timing
Patience, waiting, God's goodness, Life's Journey Dana Rongione Patience, waiting, God's goodness, Life's Journey Dana Rongione

Finding Hope and Blessings in God’s Timing

Waiting can be a real test of patience, especially in our fast-paced world where everything seems to be just a click away. But you know what they say - good things come to those who wait. And trust me, God knows how to make us wait.

Think about it - we live in a culture of instant gratification. We want our fast food, our express checkout lanes, and our next-day Amazon deliveries. Waiting is not exactly our strong suit. Yet, time and again, the Lord puts us in the waiting room of life. It's like He's saying, "Hold up, my child. I've got something better for you, but you'll have to wait a bit."

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