Author. Teacher. Influencer.
About Zina
Zina Hermez is an Author and Teacher from the Metro Detroit area. She has hosted many Masterminds and Workshops while featuring other authors and teaching publishing, writing, and marketing at her sessions. She is also an educator and has been for more than 20 years, working with students of all ages in academics on subjects like reading, math, and writing as well as many other subjects. Her Not Without God books have reached many people.
Last week, I featured Bradley A. Blocksom at my writers group – the Writing Because I Can’t Not Write group. The show was a hit! We had him on Author Spotlight, and he presented, and gave his background story – we held a live Q&A session, and he ended with a reading from his upcoming book! Brad is a writer and Bible scholar, Fuller alum, and physics grad. Here is a link to the Facebook preshow replay – where I also give a reading from my most recent book.
Jesus walks on water to save his disciples who are caught in a terrifying storm!
The fact that God walked on water and the fact that God raised people from the dead says a lot. I think it relates to science also. Physics and the Bible coincide. Because if God was not the designer of Quantum physics, he never would’ve been able to walk on water. According to Quantum Physics, we can be broken down into our tiniest parts, and we can even walk through walls. Not that God, or Jesus, also known as God – could not have walked on water without Quantum Physics, after all, He is the maker of all things. He knew how to walk on water and even raised the dead. God made everything, so everything belongs to Him. As the Bible says. Nothing can happen without God as everything happens ‘by God and for God,’ the Bible tells us. We tend to praise our own efforts or wonder why bad things happen to us; however, all things that happen – good and bad, have been permitted by God – no matter how tragic – it does not mean that we can not heal or control how we react. Much of faith has to do with how you handle and react to bad situations and often times there is a greater purpose. Even if we are not aware of what it is, sometimes we learn something from the situation or heal in other ways. The Laws of Physics also state that there are rebirths. Universal rebirths, like the resurrection, deaths, and rebirths are common. The same with the order of loss and gain. We may lose sometimes, but we can choose to use it for our gain. We can sit there and sulk or we can believe in the hope and promise of tomorrow and wait for the moment when Jesus walks on water to come and save us, and he will, indefinitely.
Did you know that space and time conform to light? God is light, and in Him, there is no darkness. Our lives can also be shaped around God; however, we have to put Him at the center. Just like the sun, light is at the center. We have to aspire to have God at the center of our lives. With God’s light we can’t go wrong. Even when we fail, He will take us back. The speed of light is so fast that everything around it begins to slow down. It is eternal. We are taught that “Gravity is the shape of space-time itself,” it is flexible. God holds gravity and the universe; everything is in His hands. Ask him to lead and to guide. The path will not be easy at times, but He will bring you through it.
Zina Hermez
“The driving force behind the critically acclaimed Not Without God: A Story of Survival, Zina Hermez doesn’t just tell stories—she reshapes lives. At sixteen, a car accident shattered her spine and nearly her future, but she defied predictions that she’d never walk again. Through unshakable faith and perseverance, Zina not only reclaimed her mobility but also forged a path as an influential author, educator, and mentor. Her work is a beacon for those navigating life-altering challenges, providing actionable insights and hope rooted in personal triumph.
Zina’s books are more than mere enjoyable reads—they’re guides. In Not Without God: A Story of Survival, she breaks down how faith, determination, and real-life strategies helped her rebuild her life, making it a must-have for anyone facing adversity. Her journey has resonated with millions through features on Christianity Today and ESPN’s Solutions from the Huddle, where she shared actionable strategies for overcoming adversity.
From being invited to speak at Harvard’s Business Expert Forum to leading workshops for aspiring authors, Zina’s influence spans across diverse audiences.
Not a surprise, her book has been praised as ‘engaging and poignant,’ an ‘inspirational how-to manual for managing life’s toughest challenges with humility, grace, and honor.’ Readers consistently describe her as “truly amazing” and her writing as “a true gem.”
Her services go beyond inspiration. Zina equips others with the tools to share their stories, and has hosted mastermind sessions with bestselling authors and publishers to demystify writing and publishing. Her reach extends globally, with thousands following her blogs, articles, and social media, drawn to her authenticity and wisdom.
Zina’s mission is simple yet profound: to show others they can overcome the impossible. Whether you’re healing, writing, or seeking hope, she’s a mentor, guide, and leader you’ve been searching for.”
@ZinaYH78 (via X.com)
Zina Y. Hermez. Author. Teacher. Artist. Featured as one of the Top 10 Leading and Notably Self-Made Women of 2025 on MSN
The top is a quick sketch of the face of Christ that I completed in just under 30 minutes, which is a copy of the one to the bottom, Christian Holzer’s, and his is called, “The Real Face of Christ.”♥️
I don’t believe that the Big Bang was the “beginning.” I could start by citing a major Bible reference:
2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
Well…this proves that there was SOMETHING before nothing. What exactly was that something? It was God. He is eternal. Thus, we are eternal also. If we are made in “his likeness & image,” as the Holy Scripture states.
I will leave the rest to the famous world renowned physicists, click right here: World Science Festival: Was the Big Bang the Beginning? or on the original link – https://youtu.be/MO3w2D3uDTw?si=gP93A0I4bPMGJYHo
Some religions believe that the universe came into existence by some “one time” event and that it will “end” with the apocalypse.
But much of the universe is “cyclical,” says NY Times bestselling author, professor, and physicist, Brian Greene.
The Big Bang could have lead to recreations that expand “new” universes and cycles that repeat over and over.
We are a younger planet. Our presence here is not a mistake. There are reasons why we should not exist; for example, a total annihilation should have occurred at the very beginning, but by some small chance – we have arrived.
The universe is infinite. This means that energy is eternal. The universe doesn’t a have a beginning,
It seems we’ve figured out the part about He was, IS, and ALWAYS will be! God is not the universe! But he made it! Now, physicists believe there are “universes” and that once this one “ends” there will be a new…and there have been, again, and again.
In the Book of Revelations, St. John says, “I saw a new Jerusalem” (heaven) coming out of the sky (a new city), and he also states he saw a “new earth.” St. John effortlessly talks about new creations and beginnings.
New worlds he saw in these visions that God gave him.
We like to think of the world as in a story form as having a beginning, middle, and end. But that is not the way it has to be.
“How can mindless, thoughtless, particles, come together in a configuration that somehow yields the aftersensation of thought, feeling, and emotion – how can this be ‘generated’ if we don’t have any intrinsic version of these qualities to begin with?” Says Brian Greene. Well, they can’t.
Some say that “particles” cannot come to those thoughts and feelings on their own and that there has to be some supreme super intelligence in charge.
The word ‘Altruism’ will help you understand. Altruism “is the principle and practice of concern for the well-being and/or happiness of other humans or animals.” Some have argued with atheists, ‘if there is no God,’ then why do we possess these feelings of altruism? Atheists have been baffled by that question.
Short Bio:
Zina Hermez has authored the books, Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World and other programs.
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of people from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. Zina also likes to write on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
Zina’s been invited to speak at the Harvard Faculty Club’s Business Expert Forum and has designed notwithoutgod.net, a top inspirational blog.
Many of you have wondered before how I’ve done it. I don’t talk about it much, but I’ve been through a lot. Those of you who really know me, or who have known me for a long time have an idea. For those of you that don’t know me as well or who may have met me recently – there’s a lot of mystery as to all I’ve been through.
Nonetheless, the aim for this post is not to make anyone feel sorry for me, not by any means. I am not the kind of person that feels sorry for myself. In times of hardship, I have learned to not only survive, but to thrive. I was pondering upon a good quote for this post tonight; I thought of the one above. “Faith is an everlasting relationship with never giving up.“
That’s how I’ve done it. Simply, Wonder no more. I simply have the will and stamina that God has given me to keep on going no matter what. Most of you know that my book series, Not Without God, is centered around a catastrophic accident I encountered when I was a teenager at sixteen years old. My books depict my faith, how I overcame, walked, and became a professional teacher. There’s a lot more to my books! If you are interested you can take a look: Not Without God books.
I’m a long-time educator. Despite my accomplishments, I have suffered a lot of hardship – but I am forever grateful to God who helps me win all my battles, To him be the glory!!!
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the books, Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places.
Zina writes on faith and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and science and loves to help others. Zina has created notwithoutgod.net as well as the Not Without God series/brand. She’s written articles for healthcare and she’s the creator/leader of the nonprofit organization, Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group – For aspiring and seasoned writers.
Each week she invites one author and hosts free masterminds for the public while showcasing bestsellers and award winners. She also teaches a free Zoom course each week to assist the public with improving their writing. Zina’s been an educator for nearly twenty years and has taught multiple subjects to thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and parts of the world.
She’s been invited to speak at the Harvard University Faculty Club’s Business Expert Forum and holds a B.A. in English with a minor in History from Oakland University in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Zina says the reason she majored in English was not primarily to teach; it was to write. When Zina is not writing or teaching, she enjoys cooking, listening to music, exercising, or socializing.
Good morning, so often we take life for granted. Anxiety, fear, and stress very well get in the way every single day. I try to remember, live each day, as if there were not many many more days left. What I mean is, as humans we tend to think that we will have thousands upon thousands of more days. Hopefully, we will. However, we have to make the most of each day no matter what the circumstances are. When we look at our problems, failures, or stress, we simply can’t enjoy the day. We think about what’s wrong or what has happened in the past. It gets in the way of our performance or happiness. You have to put aside whatever is stressing you out and seize the day, as they say. Our emotions can get to us. The Bible tells us that the heart is deceitful above all else.
Does your busy schedule make you feel stressed? So many times just thinking about all we have to do can simply stop us from having a good day.☀️ Keep in mind, that no matter what, today is your day, make the most of it.
I have been in the worst situation before, on a ventilator, and couldn’t move (after the accident that I was in as a teenager). I have had to communicate by writing only and couldn’t eat for almost a month. However, I felt the Lord‘s presence guiding me through it. I felt him telling me to just hold on every moment and to keep on going. I made it through, things got better, and there have been many brighter days.🌞
God is in your corner, he wants to help see you through it. Don’t be afraid to call on his name. We live in an ever-changing world where things are always evolving. Meaning, very (good) things are always possible.🌈😊🙏
Have a great day!
~Zina:)
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling-book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together. Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was published last year.
They shall not grow weary…they shall not fail…🙏⚛️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling-book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together. Ask about her meetings if you are interested in attending. Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was published last year.
Sorry God for when I fail at this and for when I fail to demonstrate anything short of your love. Thank you for always taking me back and for being so forgiving.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling-book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together. Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
You are never alone. God is with you, whether you realize it or not. Just call on his name if you don’t already feel his presence. He will be with you. Even in the darkest hours, God will be there.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
Read that again.😊
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
The idea that life should always be smooth is the wrong one. God is in the midst of our trials. Sometimes God calls us to do something, and we have to discern if it’s coming from his voice. It may not be easy because the task may be difficult. However, God calls us to do the hard things for our growth. He may also call us to do what’s difficult for the benefit of other people. Use your intuition. Ask. Don’t reject something because it’s not easy. It is in the challenges that we grow.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
Good morning, I love you, God. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. At times life has been difficult, but you’ve always brought me through. You’ve never left my side or abandoned me. It is me who has left you. Nonetheless, you’ve always been in the corner, waiting, with open arms. Even when I didn’t deserve it, God, you’ve welcomed me back – every single time. Your love is unconditional, and never fails me, and it is eternal. Thank you, God. I love you so much.❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors can network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also likes to write about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was just published last year.
Christ will make a way when there’s no way. Your situation may seem hopeless and like there’s no way out. It may seem as though nothing will ever change – but one day you will see, God will make a way. It may not happen as quickly as you would like. Miracles don’t always happen overnight. Recovery and healing can take a long time. But we must be patient and endure. We must take care of ourselves and our health. We must ask for God’s direction and guidance.
Sometimes we wait on a miracle to happen, and it seems like we’ll never get what we are wishing for – however, one day our miracle will appear. I believe there are miracles all over the place. There are many things most would not consider miracles that I do like oxygen, for example, health to your bones, or healthy blood work, these are things that others may take for granted.
I recognize these every day miracles and have experienced some much bigger ones. I’ve experienced God making a way when there is no way. I’ve seen him shine his unconditional love so that we may see. I’ve seen His love in many ways. When the outcome was grim, God picked me up. He saved me and gave me life again.
Through hardship, and I have had more than one, I’ve learned that God will always make a way out. He will give you the strength to endure and enough wisdom to survive whatever you’re going through. We must call out to him and ask and seek. We cannot only depend on ourselves. There is a way when you don’t call on God, but it’s usually not the right one. The only way to make it is through Him. He is the beginning and the end. The maker of everything.♥️✨🙏
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She likes to write about health and diet also and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was published last year
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places. Last August she created the “Writing Because I Can’t Not Write Group” meetings and workshops where aspiring and seasoned authors network and learn together.
Zina writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She likes to write about health and diet also and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm was published last year.
Today I want to share the first 10 verses of the Book of Hebrews. This is one of the most powerful books in the Bible. We are taught in Scripture that the Word of God is sharper than a double edged sword, able to separate joints and marrow, dividing even down to the soul and spirit and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The Bible provides us with fresh ‘living medicine.’
You may not feel the effects of listening to the Bible right away, but I promise you, if you meditate on the Bible for just 10 to 15 minutes a day, you will start to feel a difference. Lately, I’ve been listening to The Book of Acts, the Book of Hebrews, and John, chapters 14 through 16 are other favorites. I must say, I’ve been feeling stronger, clearer, and very good.
These verses are so great that I can’t even get through all of them before I relisten. And then when I continue to read/listen to the Book of Hebrews, I just feel more strengthened. I like to listen on the BibleGateway app by audio. I’m going to post the first ten verses so you can read them. I hope you enjoy.✨
Now, meditate on each of these verses for at least 10-20 seconds, and feel the power of God coming through them and the power of our Lord, Jesus. By the way, Hebrews 1:3 and 1:8 are my favorite verses here.💫
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
Have you ever been in the pit? Have you ever been so sick you did not know if you’d make it? Have you ever looked upon the wicked and wondered why they prosper? Who did you call out to? Who did you ask for help? Was it yourself? Surely, you cannot save yourself nor can you understand the ways of the world all by yourself. My question is, who do you go to when you are in dire need, deptessed, or want answers?
Call out to the Lord. He will rescue you. You don’t need to see him to feel it. Call on his name and he will come to your aid. He will comfort you, bring you peace, and someone to guide you, a message, or healing of some sort.
You can’t accomplish everything alone. We need his help. We are not separated from him. We have even learned that the entire universe is ‘entangled,’ according to Quantum physics. God is not separate from us; actually, we are made in his ‘likeness and image.’ It can be a simple prayer. Call out to God today.
Psalm 18 (full)
1 I love you, Lord, my strength.2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.3 I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise,
and I have been saved from my enemies.
4 The cords of death entangled me;
the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.
5 The cords of the grave coiled around me;
the snares of death confronted me.6 In my distress I called to the Lord;
I cried to my God for help.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry came before him, into his ears.
7 The earth trembled and quaked,
and the foundations of the mountains shook;
they trembled because he was angry.
8 Smoke rose from his nostrils;
consuming fire came from his mouth,
burning coals blazed out of it.
9 He parted the heavens and came down;
dark clouds were under his feet.
10 He mounted the cherubim and flew;
he soared on the wings of the wind.
11 He made darkness his covering, his canopy around him—
the dark rain clouds of the sky.
12 Out of the brightness of his presence clouds advanced,
with hailstones and bolts of lightning.
13 The Lord thundered from heaven;
the voice of the Most High resounded.
14 He shot his arrows and scattered the enemy,
with great bolts of lightning he routed them.
15 The valleys of the sea were exposed
and the foundations of the earth laid bare
at your rebuke, Lord,
at the blast of breath from your nostrils.16 He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
he drew me out of deep waters.
17 He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
18 They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support.
19 He brought me out into a spacious place;
he rescued me because he delighted in me.20 The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my handshe has rewarded me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the Lord;
I am not guilty of turning from my God.
22 All his laws are before me;
I have not turned away from his decrees.
23 I have been blameless before him
and have kept myself from sin.
24 The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.25 To the faithful you show yourself faithful,
to the blameless you show yourself blameless,
26 to the pure you show yourself pure,
but to the devious you show yourself shrewd.
27 You save the humble
but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.
28 You, Lord, keep my lamp burning;
my God turns my darkness into light.
29 With your help I can advance against a troop;
with my God I can scale a wall.30 As for God, his way is perfect:
The Lord’s word is flawless;
he shields all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God besides the Lord?
And who is the Rock except our God?
32 It is God who arms me with strength
and keeps my way secure.
33 He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
he causes me to stand on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for battle;
my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You make your saving help my shield,
and your right hand sustains me;
your help has made me great.
36 You provide a broad path for my feet,
so that my ankles do not give way.37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them;
I did not turn back till they were destroyed.
38 I crushed them so that they could not rise;
they fell beneath my feet.
39 You armed me with strength for battle;
you humbled my adversaries before me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs in flight,
and I destroyed my foes.
41 They cried for help, but there was no one to save them—
to the Lord, but he did not answer.
42 I beat them as fine as windblown dust;
I trampled them like mud in the streets.
43 You have delivered me from the attacks of the people;
you have made me the head of nations.
People I did not know now serve me,
44 foreigners cower before me;
as soon as they hear of me, they obey me.
45 They all lose heart;
they come trembling from their strongholds.46 The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock!
Exalted be God my Savior!
47 He is the God who avenges me,
who subdues nations under me,
48 who saves me from my enemies.
You exalted me above my foes;
from a violent man you rescued me.
49 Therefore I will praise you, Lord, among the nations;
I will sing the praises of your name.50 He gives his king great victories;
he shows unfailing love to his anointed,
to David and to his descendants forever.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
God is perfect. He cannot be anything but perfect because He is God. It is the same with his design. God made everything perfect around 13.8 billion years ago at the start of the Big Bang. The Book of Genesis and Big Bang timelines correlate. On the first day, God created LIGHT. On the ‘fourth day,’ the sun. Humans and animals came last, on the sixth day, said Moses. Everything you see is a result of the Big Bang, or Big Event, as I like to call it. We are told there was no noise or bang because there were no air molecules at the time. All matter in the universe, everything, is from God’s creation.
The greatest physicists in the world say that one day everything will disintegrate, even black holes, all structures, buildings, and everything will come down. The universe will end. Religious people focus on this day and refer to it as the end of the world. The greatest physicists also agree that there will be new beginnings or a rebirth, so to speak, fluctuations of particles that will be floating around in ‘the void.’
The Bible also tells us in the Book of Revelation that St. John saw a new earth and the ‘New Jerusalem,’ the city of heaven coming down from the sky. I find this quite ironic. As “the Revelation of Jesus Christ” the “Revelation is sometimes called the Apocalypse, which in Greek means a revelation, uncovering, or unveiling. This book is an unveiling of the Lord Jesus Christ and a revelation of His authority, power, and preeminent role in the Father’s plan of salvation. The book also reveals a lot of important information about the events leading up to the Second Coming and the Millennium,” according to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
In Revelation 21 John sees that God will dwell with and comfort His people and that the celestial city of God will be established on the earth, which confirms the above. Jesus will reign on earth and live amongst his people. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
Rejoice always. Be constantly rejoicing. You will face many troubles, but the hope of the Lord rests in you. Those who truly know the Lord cannot be down for long. He is the God of light, peace, and abundance. Prayer can be a simple chat. Keep the faith and persist. You will prosper. You have every reason to be glad. A saviour has been born. He will rescue you. What you’re going through today does not matter, it’s about who is walking in the fire with you – the Lord.❤️❤️🔥🔥
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
When I am unsure of what will happen next, Lord I will trust. When the world is unpredictable, I will put my faith in you and know that you have my back. When I have failed, and it’s hard to get back up, I will know that you will help me rise if I continue to trust. Lord you are my strength, you are my faith and my hope. My trust lies in you. Sorry for when I feel doubtful. Sorry for when I dwell on past regrets or the chances I did not take. Every day is a new day. A new beginning. A new chance to walk forward and to be blessed by you.☀️🙏🌟
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
In the early twentieth century, we learned how particles like electrons behave when they travel close to the speed of light. Paul Dirac came up with an equation for this. He was surprised to find that his equation always had two solutions.
He recognized one solution described the electron and the other was a mystery. He later found that the other solution was described as anti-matter, or, an anti-electron. It had the same mass and spin as the electron but it had an opposite electric charge.
The first had a negative electric charge, the other had a positive electric charge. The other name for this anti-electron is the positron. The same thing is true for ALL particles. Quarks have anti-quarks, and there are anti-atoms, etc.
This was amazing because Dirac knew it would DOUBLE the known particles in the world! When matter and anti-matter come together, they annihilate. So there is a big question.
Why is there any matter left? We would expect equal amounts of matter and anti-matter to be created at the beginning or at the Big Bang, but if this were the case the universe wouldn’t exist. We would not be here.
The Laws of Physics do not have a preference for a plus sign over a minus sign, for example. There should be a sea of structureless radiation; however, that is not what happened. We are here. Physicists have been puzzled by this.
“Some have wondered if the anti-matter got separated from the matter and if the matter exists as anti-stars, anti-planets, and anti-galaxies,” says Brian Greene, world renowned physicist. Interesting thought.
Scientists have predicted that for every billion anti-protons there must have been a billion and one protons. That would leave just enough matter to have everything we see today!
The Book of Genesis teaches us:
1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the face of the waters.
3 And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. 4 And God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. -Genesis 1:1-5
The Book of Genesis and the Big Bang Theory correlate as far as timelines go. Did you know that 13.8 billion years ago there was a tiny microscopic point in space and it generated so much energy that it went bang? There was no noise, though, because there were no air molecules at the time. But LIGHT was created.
Then, 13.8 billion years later HUMANS are created. The first thing created was light and the last thing created is us, humans.
The sun was also created 9.2 billion years after the Big Bang. If you divide 9.2 into 13.8, you get 2/3. So, 2/3 of the way from the light, our sun was created. 2/3 = 4/6. Moses says in the Book of Genesis that light was created on the first day and he says the last thing created, on the “sixth day” were human beings. Genesis also states that on the fourth day God created the sun, and because 2/3=4/6 this makes perfect sense.
Moses uses “days” and the Big Bang Theory uses billions of years. However, they follow the same order. Thus, LIGHT was first created (as stated above in both calendars). Then came the sun 9.2 billion years later, and we, humans came last. We can guess that humans came into existence around a hundred thousand years ago, but that is just a rough estimate.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast, and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and parts of the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
Be glad and persist. All too often we wonder why we have to endure trials. Stop asking God why. Start asking why not. Not that you should be happy when you endure fiery tests and tribulations; however, you should realize that your life is no more precious than any other. God loves us each the same. Whatever trial you are going through – someone else has it worse than you. Be glad and thankful. Know that God will bless you in return. Often he returns blessings by a hundredfold. Be glad. Persist. Don’t give up. Help and give love to one another.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Romans 16:17-1) ESV Not everyone that seems to be for you is your biggest fan. At times strangers may support you more than loved ones. The ones you least expect to may be opposed to your plans. Watch your back. Not everyone is in your corner.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book(s), Not Without God: A Story of Survival and Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on The Neil Haley (media giant’s) Show, The Intuitive Edge podcast and on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’broadcast as well as Grace and Truth Radio World!
Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among many other places.
She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale.
Today I want to talk about my books: Not Without God: A Story of Survival and my most recent, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm. They are both centered around a catastrophic accident I was in at sixteen years old. While trying to cross the street on my way to school, I was a pedestrian hit by a motor vehicle. Chapter one of my book is called, “The Crash.” I write about a nurse named Mary Kay, a survival life flight nurse, who was on a helicopter ride with me to Mott Children’s Hospital at the University of Michigan.
She just kept gently rubbing my shoulder and saying, “Hold on, Zina, hold on. We’re taking you to U of M. They’ll take good care of you there.” I remember holding onto her voice and fighting for my life. I was in and out of consciousness, I couldn’t move, talk, or see. I just mumbled. I remember feeling a peace, though. The Bible talks about a peace that surpasses all understanding. I felt the Holy Spirit with me there. Mary Kay’s voice carried me through.
It’s interesting because before the accident I would ask God what life is all about. God, I know you are real, and I feel your presence. But I want to understand you and know you more. How does life work? Like many of us, life was dysfunctional at home. My surroundings had me confused. I wanted to know him and understand him better. The accident was a turning point. I experienced God’s genuine love through the doctors, nurses, Mary Kay, and others who were fighting for my life. I witnessed the love of Christ.
I would stay up each night upstairs on the 6th floor East, at the time, at Mott Children’s hospital. With a flashlight in one hand and a notepad in the other, I would write. God spoke to me through whispers in my heart. He told me I would recover and even walk again. I am not walking as well as I did before the accident, but I have completed thousands of hours of physical therapy and can now walk with forearm crutches or a walker. The progress I have made is huge. Some doctors predicted I would be paralyzed for life.
I also write about a man named Dennis. Someone I worked with at Strawberry Hills Fruit Market just before my accident. I worked there for a few months. Dennis was the kind of man that was always happy and always sang hymns to God. After my accident happened, Dennis would come to the hospital. He’d bring prayer booklets and talk to me about Jesus and having faith. My left arm had been stuck at a 90-degree angle from the crash. It was even impossible to eat with it. On one visit, Dennis got up and stood next to my bed – he held my arm gently but firmly and started to pray in what some Christians call “tongues.”
He started to slowly stretch my arm and it was very tight at first. But as he was stretching I began to feel the heat. My arm slowly stretched out. All the while he was looking up to the ceiling and praying and stretching it. Finally, my arm became completely straight. If God didn’t heal my arm through Dennis that day, I never would’ve walked again. I never would’ve been able to get up on parallel bars. That story is also in my book.
My latest book, which was just published in January of 2022 is also a narrative, like my first. But Hope In the Storm is more of a teaching book. I offer journaling sections at the end of various chapters where the reader can write and reflect. I ask questions like, “When was the last time God was there for you?” or “How much time do you spend on prayer or reading the Bible?” We are told in the Bible that the Word of God is sharper than a double-edged sword it can divide joint and marrow, soul, and spirit, the Bible provides life-giving medicine. When you soak the verses up, they can strengthen and even heal you inside.
I also write about how physics and religion merge in my book. You may have learned in school or at church when you were younger that everything will come to an end. Physics and the Bible both verify that one day everything will end. All structures will come down, there will be nothing standing, and all black holes will even disintegrate. We don’t know when this day will be, Brian Greene, a famous world-renowned physicist says it will be a long time from now but since nothing can truly be predicted, it can happen sooner.
However, there will be new beginnings or fluctuations. All that will be left are particles floating around in the void. These particles will at times get large, so then new particles will form. If you wait long enough, any rare thing can happen, says the famous philosopher, Sam Harris. These particles will form new beginnings. The number one rule of thermodynamics says that energy can never be destroyed, but it is transferrable.
In Revelations 21 John says, “For then I saw a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and earth were gone. There was no longer any sea. In Revelations 21:2 he states: “I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.”
John continues in 21:3-4, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Thus, science and the Bible merge. There will be new beginnings… Thank the Lord!
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
For unto us a son is born, unto us there is a child, and the government shall be upon his shoulders. What does this verse say to you? ‘The government shall be on his shoulders.’ What this says is more than what we can even comprehend. There’s a reason why heaven is called the New Jerusalem. There’s a reason why the kingdom of God has been referred to as a city. The kingdom of God is a place where Jesus reigns. He is the ultimate ruler. The kingdoms of God has rule over all the universe(s). As he has said in the Bible, “my kingdom is not of this world,” had his kingdom been of this world he wouldn’t have been treated that way. Therefore, take heart – there is another city, another state, country, nation, a place where God reigns. The government is upon his shoulders. Seek to be a citizen of the kingdom of heaven.🌟🎄🛐✳️❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Did you know that one day every single black hole will disintegrate? The universe may continue to expand, forever, though. However, there will be a time when everything will end – and everything we know about, matter itself will all disintegrate; it is called the Big Freeze or Heat Death. The universe will get ever colder as it gets ever larger. All black holes will evaporate and give off a particle spray in the void; nothing will be left. There will be electrons and neutrinos that are floating around. The temperature will get very low.
Think of the Empire State Building in Manhattan where the ground floor is the 1st unit and the next unit is the 10th floor, the next floor is the 100th, etc. But if you go to about 10 to the hundred years into the future, that is when this could happen (a long time from now). Every black hole will have evaporated by that time. Now we are at about ten to the tenth floor, Brian Greene says – a world renowned physicist and NY Times best-selling author in his book, “Until the End of Time.”
The only thing that will be left are the most “refined” or stable elementary particles that will be around. They will be roaming around in the void and there will be fluctuations where these particles will AT TIMES BE LARGE, so then, new particles will FORM, if you wait long enough – rare things can happen – Brian continues. These particles will create new beginnings or fluctuations “on their way to eternity,” is how Brian Greene puts it.
I love the line that when you have an eternity every rare thing can happen. Space goes on infinitely far. There are no limits to the universe or edges. Space goes on forever. Thus, if space is eternal, we are eternal.
St. John has a vision in the Book of Revelation 21: In the vision, John saw the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down from Heaven to the new earth, for the old earth had been destroyed. While the new city was coming down, John heard a loud voice that said the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them.
Bible Gateway read in Revelations 21:1-3, “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
2 And John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
You don’t have to be religious to have heard the Lord’s prayer before. In the Lord’s prayer, we say, Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven…” We are actually praying for heaven to come down to earth when we do this.
This is why I believe the universe is infinite and eternal. Brian proves it. In my opinion, there has been more than one ‘Big Bang,’ or ‘Big Event’ as I like to call it. I don’t call it a bang because there were no air molecules at the time. I believe that there are multiverses.
As a matter of fact, some physicists believe there is assimilation. Which means there could actually be copies of yourselves out there in other universes. However, don’t worry much about copies or you or other universes. This one is the only one you should be concerned about. Bottom line: “It is spectacular that collections of particles can come together to yield a human being,” the famous physicist says. I love that, again the miracle is that you’re here.
I am open minded so it wouldn’t surprise me if there were multiple or an infinite number of universes with multiple copies of ourselves out there. There is even an app: it is called the Universe Splitter. You should download it. You can ask it any question about your life, and it will tell you what will happen in one universe vs. another. Again, I take this with a grain of salt but have used the app before. When you click “split” the app sends a signal to a laboratory in Geneva, Switzerland. The photon gets hurtled toward a splitter and can either go left or right. It will tell you your future: if you will marry, if you will become rich, etc.
Again, I have used this for fun. I don’t dwell on these things too much. I am worried about the universe I am in now. But it is very interesting to me that physics and science agree with the Bible in some instances – the universe is eternal and infinite.
Here is the link to Brian Greene’s interview in case you want to watch it:
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes about health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The other day I was waiting in a long line at the pharmacy in my car, and I started to get anxious. I began to feel like my chest was tightening, and I started to feel short of breath. I didn’t know what was wrong, but knew I was having a mini anxiety attack. Just as I began to feel worried, I heard a voice from within, it said “there is peace here.” I heard it again: There is peace here…I calmed down.
I had previously been listening to the Bible for several days before this and knew this voice was coming from within, or maybe externally from an angel or guide of some sort. When you meditate on the word of God, His voice is powerful. It’s strong enough to cut through joints and marrow, it helps you discern thoughts, and gives you pure intentions of the heart.🗡🛡❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists” (Acts 12:7).
I know God is capable of doing all things. There’s so much more than what we can see. We must believe. We must pray for righteousness. We must do our best to be good and right.
I have felt the presence of angels in the direst of times, so this Bible verse does not surprise me in the least bit.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The gatekeeper is God… He is Christ… We are the sheep that he leads out, if we listen to his voice.🛐☦️⚛️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s also been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast as well as ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
When we say the Lord’s Prayer, we are praying for heaven to come down to earth. When we pray, ‘thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven’ we are making this request.❤️ In the Book of Revelation, Saint John has a vision: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,” and then there is a new dwelling place where we dwell with God.✨
We are told we will be given a heavenly body. “For we know that when this earthly tent is taken down (that is when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands” (2 Cor. 5:1).
In heaven there will be no loss. On earth, we suffer, but in heaven, it is not the same. There are golden streets, and I believe we can walk beside angels like St. Michael. We spend time with Jesus and get to walk with some of the apostles. God sits on his throne. And I imagine that his size spans more than the earth. He created all the universe(s). The earth is “his footstool.” He is the maker of everything!
We will be in his throne room. We can probably watch our favorite preacher in person and perhaps our favorite musician. We will hear choirs of angels sing in a type of song we’ve never heard. There will be lots of praising, infinite praising all day long, and there will be churches, flowers, and colors you have never seen. I do believe there are “days” up there.
Einstein told us and the Bible affirms that a day in heaven is like a thousand years! It’s in 2 Peter 3:8. Time varies based on velocity, energy, and mass (gravity). Let’s take mass (gravity), according to Einstein’s theory of relativity, as gravity increases, time slows down. ‘Time moves more quickly for someone in a low gravity environment than it does for someone in a high gravity environment.’
This may explain why time moves slower in God’s throne room. ‘The Lord dwells where gravity is high relative to that on earth.’ Furthermore, we are told by the Mormons that we know that His throne is in a ‘star cluster’ containing many large stars, something which would create massive gravity and slow it down perhaps to where a day could equal a thousand years!
Abraham also 3:2 reads: “And I saw the stars, they were very great, and one of them was nearest unto the throne of God: and there were many great ones which were near unto it.” The name of the one nearest to God’s throne is Kolob. Abraham tells us that Kolob “govern[s] all those [worlds] which belong to the same order as that upon which [Abraham] standest.” Kolob could be at the center of our galaxy. The gravitational pull created by this cluster of huge stars (along with gravity from dark matter) holds our galaxy together and keeps the outer rims (where we are) from flying off.
Moreover, heaven is a reunion with loved ones and friends. I personally believe you can have emotions and are still experiencing concsiousness there. Perhaps there are family and friends who welcome you ‘at the white pearly gates?’ I think it may be a different experience for each of us; nonetheless, beyond beautiful for all. ◆◆◆
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Relationships may fail. Family may disappoint. But God will always be there. He is the one thing that is constant in our lives. No matter what you go through, he will be by your side. We may not even realize it, but he waits, patiently. He does not force his ways. God gives us free will to make decisions. Although he sees every outcome. He knows the route we will take. So he always sees the result. He is there to pick us up when we fall. He will hold us together when we are hurt. He will console us in times of trouble. God’s love will enfold you. Amid the pain, you will know, that God’s love will bring you through.
Recently I was having a little anxiety about all the tasks set before me. I kept thinking about my future and how it will be. I lost my dad a few years ago and my responsibilities have grown. I helped care for him before, and now I am still helping mom. I felt a lot of pressure. Life can be difficult and caring for others can make it harder. God whispered in my heart, “Keep on going. I will get you through. Work through these feelings.” I got up. Went about my day. Completed the difficult stuff and thanked him.
I also learned that being in God’s perfect will does not mean that life should be “perfect,” either, it may be difficult, but in the end, you won’t regret staying on his path. God can heal us, give us strength, and help us overcome. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and omnipresent. God is Love.
You may wish for something, for example, and sometimes our wishes come true when we least expect it. I wrote an article before describing how prayers get answered. One way or the other, God will answer you. No prayer is unheard. Whether you are praying for deliverance from something, good health, or more finances, God hears you. His voice often comes to me directly after I make a request. I get especially strong feelings after just reading the Bible.
Having a relationship with God is like exercising a muscle, the more you practice having it, the stronger it gets. You can hear him clearer. You get instant feedback. There’s a reason your wish has not been met. Whether or not you understand is not what makes the difference. What makes the difference is whether you trust him enough and ask for his counsel. In due time, good things will happen to you. All things are possible God.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Here is the link to my Facebook live I just did this evening with an excerpt from my latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm! ♥️🙏☦️
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=754441265847157&id=1514758298
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The universe goes on infinitely far. There are billions upon billions of galaxies and more stars than you can fathom. There is more out there than we can even imagine. You cannot see all of it but only what you experience before your eyes. It is the same with God’s love, you cannot experience all of it, it is infinite. And God can even love each of us as if we’re the only ones here. He cares about your every move, success, failure, and heartbreak. God wants what’s best.
That is not to say we won’t suffer hardship or go through trials. There is no way of avoiding pain. It’s a part of life. We live in a universe where each person is unique. No two people are exactly alike. God is omnipresent and can be everywhere all at once. At times it doesn’t appear that he cares, but we have to trust in his plan even when things are not going well. We may never fully understand but seek his face in good times and in bad. He will always make a way. He will bring you through. You will come out on the other side better and stronger than before.
God is in control. The greatest physicists like to say there is a “cosmic order.” Every thought we have, every action we take is our “particles” playing out and being fully governed by physical law… says Brian Greene, world renowned physicist. There is this “divine order” with God as the greatest designer!
We do have free will to make choices, though. One of my favorite pastor’s and New York Times best selling author, Greg Boyd, has said that God sees all of the possible choices we can make and he has a plan for whatever route you take. Sometimes we make the wrong decisions and cause ourselves to be hurt. Sometimes we make the right ones and everything is great! Whatever we choose, God loves us the same. He is there to console us. Ask him to lead and guide you; ask for spiritual direction and to be wise, and to help you follow his path all the days of your life.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The heavens declare the glory of God. It doesn’t take much to see God’s miracles or to witness all that he has made.✨ Often we’re too busy with our day-to-day life that we don’t stop to smell the flowers, gaze at the beach, or to take that long walk amongst nature.🌳 But God’s design is everywhere, it cannot be denied. Our day-to-day life may contain problems or less than good circumstances. So, again, we fail to see the beauty in all he has made—even the beauty in ourselves.♥️ We’re too busy trying to succeed in this world or make it by. Thankfully there is so much more beyond what we can see. There is more that we can’t see beyond the ‘skies.’ God’s handiwork is magnificent and contains more than we can imagine. There are colors we’ve never seen.🌈 Nature we’ve never experienced. Peace like no other.☮️ And love that is unconditional.💕 God is the Everlasting, Only being that will ALWAYS love, accept, and embrace us no matter what. God is love.💕♥️💚
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Dear Lord, you are always ready to forgive. You embrace the opportunity! You are my God and king.👑 I mess up daily, and you continuously forgive me. I am imperfect. You are perfect. I am unwell. You are “holy” (excellent), indeed! Your knowledge is beyond what I can fathom. Your ways are higher than my ways. Your love is sacrificial and unending. You are more than a best friend. You know my heart in ways I could never understand. God, thank you for your loving kindness and for always being there for me.♥️✨🌠
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Have you ever thought that maybe they could exist? I know I have. Ryan Graves, who is an F-18 advanced fighter pilot for the Navy, has engaged with UFOs. He goes into all the details along with discussing the Department of Defense’s release of UFO footage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLDp-aYnR1Y If you start this video at about 1:01 Ryan starts to talk about how he saw a light and engaged with it while he was flying one day, but, he first talks about all the stars over the ocean–the shooting stars and the peace he felt just before it. Then he goes on to explain, again, that he and a few people in his squadron had detected UFOs. The link to the Lex Fridman podcast is above.
When he was a junior pilot, around 2014, he had been operating with his team in the city of Afghanistan. He came back here, entered “the maintenance phase,” and further discusses the F18. The upgrading, and other things I will never understand. lol😅
But once he starts to talk about the radar of the F18, I understand a little better. He says how they had even gotten a better radar back then. There was a transition. So…there were objects on the radar that they hadn’t seen before. He’d seen these objects more clearly with the new radar: they saw a representation of the objects (UFOs).
All the data that came in represented tracking from the radar that showed us where the object was going. The “target aspect” would go all over the place. It was stationary. The UFO was stationary against the wind. “That is very uncommon,” Ryan says. For an object to be stationary against the wind like that.
The objects were at 20,000 feet, 10,000 feet, etc. The US NAVY considers the wind whenever they do anything. They go by the current and even plan their activities that way. BUT THIS OBJECT was stationary against the wind. IT WAS NOT A DRONE, Ryan verifies. He’d see these “instruments” flying in patterns, sometimes circular or just going straight east. And he’d see them doing this ALL the time.
This is air space where there was NOT SUPPOSED TO BE anything at all, off the coast of Virginia Beach. It’s not restricted but it is well monitored and Ryan and his crew were out there every day! If you also forward this video to about 1:40, he explained that one of the objects he saw appeared to have the shape of a “gimble.”It was black and white and appeared to be two plates put together.
As if there is an energy field that went to the top of the “funnel” or to the bottom of it, he continues. It continued on a long path and then just abruptly went into the opposite direction. It was very strange.
I find this fascinating. Michio Kaku is a famous world-renowned physicist. He’s talked about aliens and other life forms on Lex’s podcast also. But back to Ryan for a minute, he could tell that these objects were not going into a straight line but in more of a drift, they didn’t seem to be controlled by a computer (or autopilot). Here’s an article about it I also read on 60 minutes: https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/05/17/ufo-sightings-navy-ryan-graves/ There is also a video of it in the article!
Ryan goes on to say it’s not a secret that we are not alone out there and maybe even being observed! The reason I find this fascinating is because I’ve been studying physics for a few years now, and I’ve have heard from more than one world-renowned physicist–that if there are aliens out there–they would be 2-3 billion years or more ahead. We are a young planet.
They would be able to command the winds. We cannot, yet. Type 1 planets can manage their planets to where they don’t harm them through global warming, for example. A type 1 civilization is capable of harnessing planetary power. They control the weather, again, earthquakes and volcanoes, and they can even modify and prevent certain damaging weather events such as hurricanes, etc., Michio Kaku says.
“A type 2 planet would be stellar. They play with stars, entire stars, and they use the energy output of a star. They colonize nearby stars! Type 3 planets are galactic and able to ROAM the galactic space lanes.” We are on the cusp of Type 1, Michio Kaku, continues.
Here is the link to that video also: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD5yc1LQrpQ
I am unique as a Christian in that I believe it is very likely there is other life forms. This is not hard for me to believe. As a matter of fact, I embrace it. I think they are peaceful. I think they even know Jesus as God and King. I think they are not out to harm. I think they know God and understand his love. I think what Ryan saw was them presenting themselves to us. Finally, I think there is a lot more to come!☄️🪐🌠
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
I watched a great podcast yesterday. Lex Fridman interviewed Bishop Barron. It’s nice to hear about physics from a religious perspective. I really got a lot out of it. Bishop Barron says “God is the substitent act of ‘to be’ itself.” That makes perfect sense to me. God says, “I am who I am.” He is God. He doesn’t need to prove himself.
“God IS the reason there is a more contingent being at all!”
“God is not an entity; people think of God as a big being,” Bishop Barron continues to say. God is beyond being. However, I do believe he is a “being” in heaven. I believe his size spans the earth and is probably even much bigger than that. Colton Burpo, in the book, “Heaven Is For Real” says that God looks like a much bigger version of the angel, Gabrielle. I believe that Colton said he wears a yellow/golden sash. If I remember correctly.
For me, I am a believer in God and always have been. I have believed in Jesus for as long as I can remember, from a very young age, I didn’t need “proof or evidence.” I didn’t need to see him or experience him with my five senses. I feel God. I feel him there with me every day.
And he speaks to me in the silence and in nature, in love through others, in friendships, and much more. God speaks to me when I’m listening to the Bible, for example, after I’ve just put it down or listened by audio, I get the clearest messages ever.
God’s very nature is to be, again. He is holding us together. Gravity is what keeps your feet to the ground. God made gravity, which keeps our feet to the ground and also keeps planets in their orbits! The universe(s), planets, galaxies, and billions upon billions and billions of stars are all held together by God.
Real faith is believing even when it’s dark, even when you can’t see, and even when you’re taught not to believe. It’s like an author to a book. The author may not seem to be in the book, but he is the writer. HE IS THE AUTHOR AND THE FINISHER. HE IS GOD.
Furthermore, God becomes one of us. God becomes a human (Jesus). Jesus makes humanity radiant and beautiful. He is the redeemer of all reality, Bishop Barron continues. “Jesus came to pay a debt that he didn’t owe because we owed a debt we couldn’t pay,” is another way to put it. The Bible tells us: “For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all” (Romans 11:32).
The greatest physicts in the world talk about free will (some of them think it is non existent) and that everything is in a cosmic or what I like to call a “divine” order. But we have choices. The world renowned pastor and NY Times bestselling author, Greg Boyd, says that God sees every choice we can make, every route we can go. Even when we make the wrong ones he is there to pick us up.
God foresaw that we would all need him. God knew we would all fall short. God is love; God is light. God is omnipresent, and he can be everywhere at once. God is all knowing and all kind.♥️
Here is the podcast link to Bishop Barron’s interview with the popular host, Lex Fridman.
And here is the other podcast I mentioned, with Todd and Colton Burpo, from the NY Times bestselling book (and movie): Heaven Is For Real.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Did you know that gravity is everything? It not only keeps your feet to the ground, but it keeps planets in their orbits in space. God made gravity. Not that God is gravity, but what God made–gravity, is incredible!!!
Quantum Mechanics gives us probabilities. These probabilities display that God gives us many chances, there are many routes we can take, we can even apply percentages to the likeliness of outcomes. This is all based on Quantum Mechanics. When a doctor gives you a prediction, for example, it’s based on science.
Quantum Engtanglement is a very interesting theory, when two objects interact (even if they widely separate, they have an influence on one another) regardless of the distance between them. One particle can be in Los Angeles and the other at the opposite end of the earth–but they will imitate one another, spin in the same manner, and even behave the same. Einstein used to call it spooky action at a distance!
Newton’s approach to gravity was a little different, says Brian Greene, world famous physicist. It wasn’t wrong but just older. We have now learned through Quantum mechanics that there are many possibilities. NOTHING is predictable. Even when we think we can predict something, we can be wrong. It happens EVERY DAY.
There are numerous possibilities, and in an eternal universe, such as the one we’re in, not only can ANYTHING happen but EVERY rare thing WILL happen!
A particle can be a wave, and a wave can be a particle. Technically, we are considered ‘particles.’ So we can be “a wave,” as a matter of fact, the entire universe is a wave. EVERYTHING is ENTANGLED.
There is even something called QUANTUM SUPERPOSITION! Not only are we all “entangled,” having a “duplicate,” so to speak. But if you have a physical system that exists in two configurations, IT CAN ALSO EXIST IN QUANTUM SUPER POSITIONS OF THAT CONFIGURATION.
If you have a coin that could be heads or tails, for example. In Quantum Mechanics it can also be in ALL the other positions, PART HEADS, PART TAILS, for example, so, not only is the coin “entangled,” meaning, there are TWO of them, but you can have doubles OF ALL KINDS OF COMBINATIONS. Partly heads, partly tails, etc. BUT WHATEVER YOU FIND FOR THE FIRST ONE YOU WILL ALSO FIND FOR THE SECOND ONE!!!
How do you apply this to your view of God? How does this apply to the Bible? I mean, if everything is entangled, BASICALLY, EVERYTHING that can be known is known! Because GOD is All knowing, he is omni present and can be everywhere at once. There is nothing God does not know, and he is aware of eceryboption that is available. The future is open.
As far as entanglement, the Bible reads, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me (Gal. 2:20).” WE ARE ENTANGLED WITH CHRIST.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
How are we brought to consciousness? Why is it we are aware, more aware than animals are, for example? As humans, we are capable of more than other creatures. We can write symphonies, win the Nobel Prize, make a difference, start a non profit, have a family, and fulfill our lives to the best of our abilities.
But who is really in control? Did you ever think that there may be a higher power setting the precedent for our lives? Did you ever think of God as being the greatest computer designer that has ever lived? Yesterday I began watching this 3 hour podcast interview done by Lex Fridman. Here he is interviewing the great, Sam Harris. Sam is a world renowned neuroscientist and philosopher.
He believes that there is no such thing as free will, or that there is an illusion of free will. We feel like we are the captain of our own ships and like our decisions affect our outomes. Sometimes they do, but not all the time. At times things happen to us that we don’t choose. Things appear. We are not always happy with what we see, hear, or experience.
This is when we should take it with a grain of salt. Meaning, don’t get caught up in emotions or stuck in frustration or anger. There is an “author of our existence.” It is God. Ultimately, he is in control. You don’t know what you’re going to think next, what you are going to attend to or your next action. Everything arises and comes to you through an electrical impulse (neurons, axons, and messages from the outside environment).
“The script could already be written,” Sam Harris says. The sense of self is not an illusion. But free will he thinks is an illusion. Your existence could be compatible with an absense of free will. Sam says that “Some evil genious in the next room could be typing in code into your existence.” Lol It may feel that way when we fall short. We get upset, throw a fit, and get caught up in our feelings.
But what Sam is teaching here is very encouraging. Sam says to not get stuck in patterns of thought that are a hindrance to your well being. We are all agents, by products of the Big Bang, or Big Event, that happened 13.8 billion years ago. It’s incredibly freeing to recognize that the mind is not entirely ruled by you. Everything is under a Cosmic Order. We are under the Laws of Physics.
We have a king, Jesus, and Holy Father, God. They are the creators of our existence. We have to remember all they’ve done for us and always come back to love. Jesus died for our sins so that we may be free and live (forever) with him. “…for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body [and mind]” (1 Cor. 6:20).
Here is the amazing podcast interview. Please watch it. It is life changing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dC_nRYIDZU
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
I had a wonderful visit with two members from the Chaldean Cultural Center on Wednesday of last week. The executive director, Weam Namou, and the videographer, Michael Nafso visited me to talk with mom and I about my books and life story!📚
We had a wonderful time and they took a lot of ‘B-rolls.’🎞🎬🎤
Here are some images I shared at the event below:
During their visit, we discussed the accident I had in 1994, how I survived though my faith, and walked again. We discussed my dad’s work in Baghdad and what he did after transitioning to the US. We discussed my experience as growing up chaldean. My mom was also interviewed and spoke in her native language of “sureth.” Here are some more photos from the day below:
“The Chaldean Cultural Center (CCC) was established in February of 2003. A goal of the committee was to build a museum that covered over 5,000 years of history. They wanted to preserve our unique heritage and make it known to future generations of Chaldeans as well as to the public.
The CCC has provided various youth and adult programs such as public forums, lectures and discussions, book and film programs, exhibits, and publications. The Museum didn’t open until May of 2017. The Museum expanded the programs to include in-depth tours for academic intuitions, schools, churches, temples, and summer camps.”
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s recently been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students of all ages from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
If you do these things you will be happier—for this is how the love of God is—He does not seek revenge. He’s all-forgiving. All kind. Omnipresent. His love is Unconditional.💟☦️✨✴️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Call on God. He will be there. The Lord provides supernatural strength. You don’t have to see it to believe it. Ask for help. You’ll get the call, friendly gestures, compassion, and help. Call out to God. Tell him you need him every hour: from moment to moment. You will get through it. He will provide you with a strength you were not aware you had, the courage to walk through the most difficult situations, and he’ll give you the heart to keep on going! God will be there. He will give you peace that surpasses all understanding and enough strength to make it!❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
When times are troubling and you don’t know how things are going to go, take heart—God wants what’s best. He will make it happen if you keep the faith, follow his path, and if you ask him to lead and guide you. Doing these things will really benefit you. You may be tempted to go another way, to not heed God’s voice, and to depend on your own SELF. But putting SELF first and not calling out to God for help never works. It’s only a temporary solution. A temporary fix that never cures a bigger problem. Ask God to help. Call out to the Lord. Specifically, ask him to lead and guide you, and all things will fall into place.❤️😊🙏
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
A ‘particle’ or electron can be a wave, we learned that through the double-slit experiment. As a matter of fact, the entire universe is a wave. Have you ever thought of yourself as a particle with wavelike features? Today someone told me I seem like I don’t take things too seriously.😂 How serious should I take things when we are completely under a (beautiful) cosmic order created by a master artist whose design cannot be duplicated. We are loved beyond measure. Given infinite chances. We are eternal. How serious should I take things when this life is only temporary? Then onto the next. I am learning more and more to not be ruled by emotions. ‘The heart can be deceitful above all else,’ the Bible tells us. Love. Laugh. Care. Be a friend. Follow after God. Seek to do good. All else will fall into place. #Particles #waves #stringtheory #electrons #God #artist #doubleslitexperiment💕😃🌊🙏👑
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
He will win no matter what.♥️ You may try to go up against what is right. You may try to overturn an event with your selfish desires. You may think you can have your way even when you are wrong. But in the end, God will make a way. Justice will prevail. If you hold onto faith and persist, he will make it right. Ask him to lead and to guide. Keep in mind that you cannot go up against the Almighty One. Keep close to your heart some of the fruits of the spirit: patience, long-suffering, kindness, humility, self-control—in the end, you will be victorious. We all fail at times, but make sure to seek after God’s peace. Keep asking Him to direct your path. You will win in the end.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Superposition—at the core of Quantum Mechanics—means we have a Quantum system that can EXIST in TWO different CONFIGURATIONS, Quantum mechanics says it can also exist in QUANTUM SUPERPOSITIONS of that Configuration. A flipped coin, for example, is not just heads or tails it can also be in all of the other configurations! Part heads, part tails, etc. QUANTUM entanglement is applying that to systems that have multiple parts, and there is a CONSTANT CORRELATION between these two states. If one is heads, the other is heads also, and so forth… The ENTIRE universe IS entangled this way. Everything has a duplicate! What this law teaches, in my humble opinion, is that everything you experience, God experiences, everything you feel, God feels. All the pain and even joy you experience he experiences as well. When you cry he cries, and when you rejoice, he also rejoices. “Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God” (Romans 6:8-10).♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
We are told by the Mormons that we know that God’s throne is in a ‘star cluster’ containing many large stars, something which would create massive gravity and slow it down perhaps to where a day could equal a thousand years! Abraham 3:2 reads: ‘And I saw the stars, that they were very great, and that one of them was nearest unto the throne of God: and there were many great ones which were near unto it.’ The name of the one nearest to God’s throne is Kolob. Abraham tells us that Kolob ‘govern[s] all those [worlds] which belong to the same order as that upon which [Abraham] standest.’ Kolob could be at the center of our galaxy. The gravitational pull created by this cluster of huge stars (along with gravity from dark matter) holds our galaxy together and keeps the outer rims (where we are) from flying off into the intergalactic space.”
This Book of Abraham was canonized by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1880.
(This excerpt is taken right from my latest book, “Not Without God: Hope In the Storm.”
father’sday #dad’sinheaven♥️🕊🙏
For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies” (2 Cor. 5:1-3).
#mydad #bestfriendforever♥️
My beloved dad, Yacoub Hermez (Jul 1, 1932-Nov.23, 2019🙏 #restinheaven♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
“If it’s meant to be it’ll happen.” Often times we hear this, and there is a lot of truth to it. It’s wonderful to have this kind of faith.✨ However, sometimes WE make what’s meant to be! We envision it. We PUT FAITH into ACTION. We are not meant to be idle and to do nothing. We have to make our lives happen! The greatest physicists in the world have even confirmed that we could be moving here through our imagination, so imagination is not something we can choose to use. It is how we are moving through life! What are you imagining today? “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). What’s meant to be will be—yes—there is a cosmic order. But we also play a divine role in it!☄️🌟✳️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
God chose you.💕 Not because of anything you said or did. God loves you unconditionally. Just the way you are. You are his child. The one he longs to be with. God loves you the same even when you really mess up. He hopes and waits to hear from you.💓 He loves you as a father would. I call him ‘Holy Father.’ Jesus is a reflection of God’s love and what it’s like. All-encompassing. Forever. Eternal. The Holy Father wants what’s best for us. He can make our dreams come true. He can help us overcome. All we have to do is call on him. “…for, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’” (Romans 10:13).
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
You can overcome anything with God.❤️ It’s true. God will never fail you. Even when there is loss. There is gain. It’s the natural process of life. God will recompense. Don’t ever think it’s too late or that evil has won. God has a way of working things out in your favor. Just persist. Do good. Never give up. Keep in mind that all things work together unto good for those that love the Lord.🙏
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Today has been a very exciting day! First, I received my FIRST two PROOF COPIES of my latest book, “Not Without God: Hope In the Storm.” Pictured below:
Shortly after that, I heard from Victoria lynn Weston, and my latest podcast episode on the Intuitive Edge podcast has been published!!
Victoria and I discuss God, intuition, the higher self, and my life and story. It was such a great interview! The link is below:
https://www.ayrial.com/not-without-god/ I hope you enjoy it!❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s “Solutions from the Huddle” broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLTv
God is omnipresent. He can be everywhere all at once. He is a God who does not sleep. We have access to him 24 hours a day. The world may teach us there is no God, there is no hope. The world may teach we are doomed. With God, there is always hope. There is restoration. The laws of physics prove to us that any (good) thing is possible. The double-slit experiment taught us that light and matter can represent characteristics of BOTH particles and waves. It teaches that ALL possible paths of particles can interfere with one another; even though one possible path happens. ALL REALITIES exist at once. It’s a concept known as superposition, until the final result occurs.
God can lead us through the worst of times. Just call out to him. We are told through the Bible that God is all around. The holy spirit is our present help in times of trouble. We cannot escape his presence. He comes to us through our intuition. We can’t tune out his voice or pretend he is not there. God is altruistic and kind. He is loving and he requires the same of us. He’s not just an old guy with a white beard sitting in the sky waiting to scold us! People who are focused on the judgment and warning everyone have never experienced the real Jesus Christ. They are portraying some mad made image of a God who won’t love you if you mess up. God’s love cannot change. He is the same as yesterday. Today. And forever.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Sometimes our prayers get answered in a way we least expect. Let’s look at the lame man in the Book of Acts (Acts 3). “One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer–at three in the afternoon. Now a lame man from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg (for alms) from those going into the temple courts.” The man asked for money because his paralysis debilitated his finances too. But on one of the many days the lame man asked for money, he got something more!
The man knew that Peter and John could help him. Peter said, “Silver and Gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you; In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him, and immediately the man’s feet and ankle bones received strength. So, he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple gate with them—walking, leaping, and praising God! Notice how the man’s miracle happened suddenly? He waited for a long time. As a matter of fact, he waited his whole life.
I think he thought he could no longer be healed anymore. Have you ever felt like it’s been too long for something good to happen to you? Have you ever felt like God’s forgotten about you? I mention him because on one of the many long days he sat there begging for sufficient funds, he got something more! He walked.
God knows what’s best for us. He doesn’t always say “yes.” He sometimes says “not right now.” But there’s no end to a prayer. You can never tell when or how it will get answered.
The holy spirit dwells within all of us, so when we activate prayer we turn on a switch. The God of all energy hears us. Even when it feels like God doesn’t hear you or your prayers are in vain, something is happening. You’ve opened the gateway. There are different forms of prayer. But think of prayer as a pathway to peace.
Once you make a request, there is usually an unfolding of events. At first you may hear from your intuition. Prayer doesn’t mean God will grant all your wishes. But when you keep the faith, God will compensate. For every prayer there is an answer.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven; not treasures on earth—where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal (Matthew 6:19). In heaven neither moth nor rust destroy and no one can break in and steal! WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS; THERE YOUR HEART ALSO WILL BE.
When we say the Lord’s Prayer, we are praying for heaven to come down to earth. When we pray, ‘thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven’ we are making this request.❤️ In the Book of Revelation, Saint John has a vision: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,” and then there is a new dwelling place where we dwell with God forever.✨
In heaven, our light is Jesus and he lights up the sky. Imagine there is no ‘day’ or ‘night’ but only light from Jesus and God? We are told we will be given a ‘heavenly body.’
“For we know that when this earthly tent is taken down (that is when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands” (2 Cor. 5:1).
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Give thanks to God. His loving kindness endures forever. Give thanks. This Memorial Day let’s remember the others that have made the ultimate sacrifice.🙏🇺🇸🙏 Give thanks to the Lord, who sends heroes to help, doctors to heal, armies to protect, and legions of angels to assist us.😇 His loving kindness endures forever. Give thanks to God, who rescues us from oppression, who helps us when we are in need. “I am the Lord who [continually] heals you,” the Bible says. That means healing is not a one time thing or event. He is continually molding and shaping you. Give thanks to God, most of all, his love never fails us. It endures forever and ever.❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
9 Pray, then, in this way:
‘Our Father, who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Amen.❤️
We are told to pray for his ‘kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven,’ here in Matthew 6:9-13, the Lord teaches us how to pray. Can you imagine, how beautiful? The Lord has told us his kingdom is not of this world. In this world, there is evil. But if his kingdom comes, if his will is done, there will be no more suffering.
This is a very powerful prayer!
In the Book of Revelation, John has a vision—while on Patmos, God gave John a vision of the final days of earth, and a peak at heaven. In the vision, John saw the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down from heaven to the new earth, for the old earth had been destroyed.
When we pray for the Lord’s will to be done. We are praying for perfect peace.☮️ Even when you feel like you’re in a dark world, remember, there is a light, Jesus, and he has overcome the world.🌍🕊✨
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s just been featured on the well-known and popular, Intuitive Edge podcast! She’s also been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World! Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The interview today was fantastic. Victoria even suggested that my story could be made into a Hallmark movie! She said I probably have healing capabilities and that she thinks I could one day walk without crutches!🔊💻🕊️✨ #intuitive #edge #podcast #interview #god #notwithoutgod #astoryofsurvival #hopeinthestorm #author #speaker #writerlife 😃🎙💖
CLICK ON THIS LINK TO WATCH my ‘wind down,’ recap!🔊💻 https://www.facebook.com/zina.hermez.7/videos/1049661458973279/?d=n
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Do not seek to be ‘great.’ Seek to do great things. Don’t be arrogant or ‘puffed up.’ Humble yourselves and know that ‘the Son of Man’ who came way before you did not come to be served BUT to SERVE. Let him be your greatest teacher. When angry try not to sin in actions or thoughts, when feeling sorry, repent. Follow after God. Look after others. The promise is you will have ‘a long life.’ Get away from YOU. Meaning, take the focus off yourself. Give. It is better to give than to receive. And love at all times.❤️ Do your best.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world from many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
He sends his word. He heals. He delivers. Thank you for your loving kindness, Lord. Your goodness to me has not gone unnoticed.❤️ You’ve saved me more times than I can even remember. You’ve always been there. You’ve healed and restored. You’ve been there when there was no one, on many occasions. I have been defeated, depressed, and in pain—you, Lord, have never left my side. You have always been here to console me, comfort me, love me, and guide.♥️ Thank you for being my God and my friend.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written several hundred articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
God will fight for you. Just be still. You don’t have to do too much. Seek after Him. Allow him to lead and guide you. Ask God to help. He will be your guide. He will not forsake you. He will not abandon you. God will be there. You’ll get messages. Strong feelings. Thoughts. When you seek after God. You will be sure. You will know what to do. You will not doubt. God will keep and sustain you. He will bless you forever and ever.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written several articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
I pray to have this kind of faith. ‘Trust’ without border faith is bigger than just a ‘trusting’ faith. It’s easy to have a trusting faith. Most of us possess that already. We naturally trust in God for a good day, food, clothing, work, and friendships. Oftentimes, we get it all and more! But a ‘spirit without border’ faith is different. It’s where you trust in the unknown, the unpredictable, and believe in God to bring you out even in the direst circumstances. I have been called to have this kind of faith before—it’s where you just know, no matter how hard it gets—God will be there to help you through it. Your faith is so strong at this point that you bring the outcome into existence! The greatest physicists in the world have said we are moving here through our imagination. Therefore, imagination is not a tool we can just choose to use. It’s how we’re moving through life. Now, just think, you have a God who loves you so much that he gave you the ability to bring to pass your dreams with just your mind! So long as your dreams are permitted. God is still in control. God is on the throne, and we have to work within the Laws of physics. God also wants what’s best for us and those dreams of yours could be seeds he planted! “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written several articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Yahweh is my shield. Without him I am nothing. He sets me on my path, gives me peace that surpasses all understanding, and sustains me. He keeps me together when I feel like I’m going crazy. He gives me a plan and reassures me that he is in control. Without him by my side, I don’t know where I would be. He is the sunshine of my day.☀️ The glow of the moonlight.🌝 Without God, there would be no me! He is everything. Although I often neglect him in my thoughts and at times go about my day as if he’s not there–HE NEVER forgets me. He tells me I’m enough and tells me I am loved. There will never be a better relationship.❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Pursue righteousness and desire spiritual gifts. Easier said than done, right? Sometimes we want to get angry. Sometimes we want to be rich or overcome with success. Sometimes we feel victimized and don’t understand our trials. But walking on the right path is not an easy one, as a matter of fact, you will face more for your convictions: there will be more trials. More rejection. More abandonment. Seek after God anyway. Pursue righteousness and desire spiritual gifts, and you will be given the crown of life.👑👸🤴
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
This is so true. At sixteen years old, I began a search. I was searching for God. I knew his presence was there and felt him with me daily, but I wanted to understand more about him and life. I was confused. How could he be so good but life be so dim at times? Then I was met with an accident. A very bad (vehicle) related accident. It all became clear. I experienced his loving-kindness through the others working to save my life.❤️ I felt his presence in an even more profound way and learned that light✨ will always outweigh any darkness. Hope is a never-ending song that can not be diminished. Love is more powerful than you think. I learned, that with God we can overcome anything no matter how bad the circumstances.❤️ When I couldn’t predict the future or even how many more breaths I would take, God delivered me. Not only did he save my life but he made me triumphant. Our God is more than just a healer. He is a deliverer! He will deliver you from the worst of times!✨❤️🕊
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the very popular book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
When Mary Magdalene went to search for Jesus’s body after he was laid to rest, she was surprised to see he was not there. Who she thought was the gardener was Jesus. Supposing him to be the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and remove him.” Jesus said, “Mary!” She knew him then and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbani!”—which means Master. Mary went there broken-hearted. She went to his tomb. Her master, her God, had been crucified. All hope was gone. All security diminished. It seemed that death had won. Mary was telling the supposed gardener to tell her where he was (even though she thought him to be dead). “I will bring him here. I will take care of him.” Mary loved Jesus so much that she wanted to bring him to her and the other disciples. Have you ever felt like anything in your life has been dead, only to find it’s been resurrected? Have you ever been heartbroken beyond belief only to find a newfound hope, a new life you never imagined? I can’t imagine the awe, wonder, and fascination that must’ve been going through Mary’s mind when she learned that Jesus was alive! It meant so much—she ran back to tell the Good news to the other disciples. “Jesus is alive!” She tells them. This changed everything. Hope was alive. Death has lost. Evil had not won. He’s the beginning and the end. The Author and Finisher of Life.🌟🙏☦️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Trusting in God is not popular in our generation, and I’ll tell you why. Trusting in God can be tricky. First off, people have a hard time trusting something they cannot see. We don’t always attribute nature, the beauty of the earth, and one another as belonging to God. We live in a generation of science deniers. People question whether NASA and its findings are a ploy or not. This is a generation devoid of trust who wants evidence. But even when the evidence is right in your face you are taught to deny it. God is in everything. Everything happens ‘by him and for him,’ the Bible tells us. To deny there is a God or live as though he doesn’t need your attention is not a good way to live at all. You came from God. You go back to God. You did not create yourself. He is the one who made billions upon billions of stars. Your very own being is made from those stars: you are made from stardust. The” Big Bang Theory” and “Book of Genesis” correlate as far as timelines go. Before there was anything, there was something—it was God. Trusting in him is not popular because you don’t see results immediately. You feel unheard often. You may continue in pain. But the beauty of God is he’s been working behind the scenes all along. He will lead and guide you if you ask him to. He will direct your steps and even when it feels like he’s not moving; He is working. Hearing you cry out. Working to your benefit. No prayer is ever unheard or unanswered. Even if you receive a ‘no’ he will give you the grace to get through it. He will replenish and restore. Your life is not completely in your control; God is in the driver’s seat. Ask him for help with it.🌟✨💫
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
With God all things are possible. It’s hard for that to register in a world that’s so bleak and dim, in a world filled with war, hopelessness, disease, and fear. What we have to realize is that part of the ‘call’ is to not only believe in life everlasting but to live with an undying hope. What does this hope say in dark times? There is a God. What is the promise for those in pain or suffering? There is a God and you will get through this. Getting through is just that. It doesn’t mean we can work around it, ignore it, skip over it, or escape it means we have to get through it! There is hope on the other side if our intentions are pure–there will be a rainbow at the end of it. There will be a sunshine. There will be whispers in your heart that say, “Keep going. I am God,” and “Don’t give up.” There is a glory that awaits us on the other side. And sometimes we’re lucky enough to catch glimpses and “specs” of it while we’re here. But it awaits. Repent. Praise God and be grateful that he always forgives even when we mess up daily.☀️🌈🛡️⚔️☦️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
What’s incredible to me is how the Lord preserves us and keeps watch over our lives. We may feel like the enemy has won, like there is no hope, as if life is worthless and there’s not much left to live for. But God will give us a sign. He will reach out. There will be a phone call, a friendly smile, and a kind gesture. Something will tell us to keep on going, keep believing, and do not give up. When you truly love the Lord, you keep going no matter what because you know about his massive love. You know that how things ‘appear’ to be are not how they really are. You know that there’s a love greater than you could even fathom and you’ve barely tasted it. You know there’s something beyond. Something more. Glorious is not a big enough word to describe it. It’s beyond what you imagine. Beyond space and time. It’s God. The Everlasting. The One and Only. The Maker of ALL things. It’s his Love.❤️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The word became ‘flesh.’ This Bible verse can be taken in so many ways. It’s true. I’m not sure where to start. I looked up the word, “Incarnation,” it’s a central Christian doctrine that God became flesh, that God assumed a human nature and became a man in the form of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the second person of the Trinity. I thought that was described very well. Jesus became flesh. He came and bore our sins; our mishaps; our failures and our mistakes. The ‘word’ is so powerful, the Book of Hebrews goes on to tell us:
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account (Hebrews 4:12-13).”
I try to practice listening to the Bible by audio (I have downloaded the Bible Gateway app). I try to listen for at least fifteen minutes each day. Sometimes this turns into a couple hours. I do well at it for a few weeks at a time then fall off my tracks. I skip a few weeks of listening sometimes. But the clearest messages and feelings I’ve ever gotten are usually right after or while listening to Scripture. The Bible provides us with fresh ‘living water.’ It’s like medicine to our soul.💦📖🕊
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
How do we remain in love? How do we always ‘turn the other cheek,’ so to speak? I fail and get angry at times. Part of the human condition is to fail and sometimes we can’t help it. I think the important thing to keep in mind is that we feel remorse. If we feel remorse or upset for our wrongs, the hurt we caused someone, or our irrational behavior that makes the difference. God never expected for us to be perfect. He said I came for those who ‘are not well.’ The sick, the sinner, and the downtrodden. He came to save us from our hurts and pains. He did not come to condemn but to heal and save. I think we need to realize that healing is not a one time thing or event. God knew we would need to be healed, restored, and set straight more than once. But how do we do better? Good question. When we feel sorry, when we acknowledge the hurt, rejection or pain that we caused God notices that. He forgives. He restores. We’re given another day, another chance, and another opportunity to get it right. We ask him to help us. We have to humble ourselves. I remind myself that how I treat others is how I’m treating God, because the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit dwells within each of us.❤️🙏✳️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
When king Solomon was asked by God what he wanted in a dream, he asked for wisdom. King Solomon could’ve asked for anything, and he asked to be wise. ‘He chooses an understanding heart. Wisdom, so he can make good decisions for his people. And God is so pleased with Solomon’s choice that He gives him every other good gift, too.’ King Solomon understood the unimportance of material things in comparison with wisdom and obedience to God. He knew his riches were only temporary, and he sought to be loved by God more than anything else. He went on to build one of the greatest temples in Jerusalem known to mankind.
When the Lord refers to Solomon in the New Testament, he uses him as an example of why we should not worry. God reassures that the Lillies of the field are cared for, and we will be too. The Lord says, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God doth so clothe the grass of the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Be not therefore anxious, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:28-33). #NIV
Seek first the Kingdom of Righteousness, it’s a great reminder for all of us. Don’t worry about what you shall wear, eat, or drink—God will add all these things to you. What made King Solomon so special was that he sought. He was blessed by God and much was added to him.🤴✝️🕊
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! You can order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Have you ever felt this way before? Like you are on the edge? You can’t take anymore. Life’s getting worse, and what is the point of it all? When you have these days, remember that God is not one who ‘gives up.’ And he never meant for you to give up either. When all is coming against you, and you feel like life will never be ‘right.’ Remember, it’s an opportunity for you to depend on God. To call out to Him in prayer, in solitude, to turn to scripture and seek his presence more and more! It is in these moments you will rise above. You will make it. You will not be defeated, and God will let you know you can accomplish anything with him by your side. Never give up, and keep your eyes on Jesus.✝️⚛️💜
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
https://www.facebook.com/zina.hermez.7/videos/5310744068945652/?d=n
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Have you ever thought about what brings about ‘consciousness?’ I mean, what is the difference between you and a baseball bat? After all, you are both just a collection of particles. Of course the bat cannot think or behave like you! The bat could never be as conscious or aware as you are. Brian Greene, world famous physicist says, ‘we are an exquisite collection of particles.’ We have a high level of information integration going on ‘in our heads,’ Brian continues. He also does not believe in the idea of free will. He says we are governed by physical law and laws of the universe; however, as humans we have a variety of ways that we can ’respond’ to the world and outside environment. So then could we say that we are ’responsible’ for anything? Yes. If you played an integral part in a course of events, than you are also an integral part of the consequences that happen.’ It’s algorithmic. So, then, should we still be responsible for our actions and punished for our transgressions, so to speak? Brian says, yes. If our punishment would benefit society as a whole and stop us from doing it again. I’m going to add the link to this video, but first I will tell you how I see it: our God is a personal one. He was punished for our transgressions when he died on the cross. He was raised again by the Laws of Physics (our Holy Father created all of it!). I believe what Brian says, that so much is ruled by the Laws of the Universe, and of course, God made us to be more exquisite than a baseball bat. He loves us unconditionally—even when we mess up. And he is always waiting for us with open arms. We are here ‘from moment to moment,’ but what we are experiencing is eternal. There is no end.✨☦️⚛️
Here is the link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8uCNjyEDDM
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written more than 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm is live and for sale! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Mary was the first to see Jesus after he rose from his (temporary) death. She was the first to report the Good News to the disciples that spread all across the world! Jesus is risen! Hallelujah! He is risen. The above verses are taken from the Book of John (Chapter 20), NIV.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”💦💦💦
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
I cannot think back to a time in my life when I didn’t need God. I‘ve needed him all my life. He has been here since my youth and has taught me (Psalm 71).🕊 He has been here all my life.💕 The following are images from Psalm 71.✨🌹
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written almost 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Love your enemies. Pray for those who scorn. Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44), to do good to those who hate us (Luke 6:27). I know it can be tough. But just think about how much God has forgiven you? How many times has he taken you back? We are called to love and forgive one another.🧡✨
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written almost 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
Life does not always turn out the way we pictured, but I’m thankful for the many blessings God has bestowed. He continues to show his love and favour. Despite any hardship, God is kind. You see, there can’t not be hardship in life—Jesus suffered first and foremost. So any pain, loss, or hurt we experience we should take up and give to him. God is wonderful. In every loss, there is gain, in every (heart) break, there is restoration, and in every battle, there is peace. God never leaves. It is usually us who turn away, and even then, he is standing in our corner cheering us on. He’s rooting for us. He wants to be there. The Lord tells us that in this world we will have troubles, but [to take heart] he has overcome the world!💖
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written almost 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
God has given me this promise so many times. The first time I heard it I was very young. It was during one of my childhood ‘bike rides.’ I felt the presence of the Lord so strongly during those times and he’d talk with me through whispers in my heart. ‘This road will not be easy’ he told me, but ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.’ It was so comforting to hear. Alongside nature, I rode and rode. God would talk to me during those summer bike rides. He promised he would always be by my side. He has never left and never will.♥️✨☀️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written almost 500 articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm has just been released, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
The greatest physicists in the world have said: ‘In an eternal universe, anything is possible!’ Not only can anything happen, but every RARE thing will happen (if you wait long enough)! That is how Sam Harris, the philosopher and neuroscientist, recently put it. We are more than likely living in a cosmic bubble bath of universes and big bangs or big ‘events.’ Ours just happened 13.8 billion years ago. We have learned through string theory that our universe could be one of many! In the Book of Revelation John sees ‘a new earth’ and the ‘city of heaven’ (Jerusalem) coming out of the sky. This tells me there could be more than one earth. As a matter of fact, one of the greatest physicists, Michio Kaku, recently said—for every star on average there is one planet going around it, ONE in five of those planets are EARTH sized planets! Here is a great video on some of the latest discoveries: https://youtu.be/kD5yc1LQrpQ
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm will be released tomorrow, on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She also writes on health and diet and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm will soon be released on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
From top to bottom they are: John 8:12, John 7:38, John 7:28, and John 7:29. I hope you enjoyed reading them.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and the Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. Her latest book, Not Without God: Hope In the Storm will soon be released on Jan 24! Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Without-God-Hope-Storm-ebook/dp/B09P9T2DLT
One of my favorite pastors, Greg Boyd, had once said, ‘God lives in our imagination.’ Meaning, we can only see God through our imagination while we’re here. In this culture we’re taught not to use it. We’re taught it’s silly if we imagine things without seeing them and some may even mock you for believing in God. But this Bible verse explains it. He who has not ‘seen,’ yet believes is blessed. Jesus saith unto him, ‘Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.’ Jesus at one point also says it is because his father has revealed it. Do you believe? Are you able to believe without directly seeing? Christianity is based on faith. Without faith it’s hard to accept. Imagine how Mary Magdalene felt when she saw the Lord, risen, standing outside of the tomb? Imagine how her faith and belief was not only verified, but how she at that moment knew she was worshipping the one and only Lord! How excited must she have been? The Bible also says: ‘Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy’ (John 16:20-22).🎄♥️🎁
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Recently she was featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
Sometimes we strive for perfection. We keep it pretty on the outside. We do our best to make the greatest first impression, we choose the right words, we go to church on Sundays, we buy lots of presents, and we gain as much love as we can for validation. As you already know, though, the truth is that none of us can be perfect. Only the Lord was perfect. That is not to say we should not strive for it, but accept the broken pieces, and the times you’ve really messed it up and failed. The times you regret what you did or said. All of those parts make up you; however, the ‘ugly’ parts don’t represent you. They just represent a time when you were ‘broken.’ We have all been there. Some more than others. Good thing God will always love you no matter what.♥️
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Recently she was featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
I was listening to a very powerful chapter in the Bible last night: John Chapter 8. As a matter of fact, I have listened to John (or read it, I should say) a lot, but I do a lot of listening nowadays through my audio app. The verses were really resonating with me yesterday. I kept listening to some of them over and over. So I’d like to share a few verses with you below. This is where the pharisees were really challenging Jesus. His words are remarkable!
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Recently she was featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
Refined by the Fire
But he knows the way that I take, when he has tested me I shall come forth as gold.
Paul writes in a letter to the Romans in Chapter 10: “If you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead–you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified. And it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved” (Romans 10:9-10).
I remind you of this verse because some have a misconception about how to come to the Lord. They may think you need to have had a sin-free life or that he would not accept you into the Kingdom if you’ve messed up! The opposite is true. Paul said if you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart, you will be saved.
Grace is a gift. Our works don’t consistently demonstrate that we should earn it. God loves us, still. Whether you are a ‘Noah’ or fall short (at times we all do) he longs to be with you, and you will one day understand the importance of his existence! All we have is now so let’s make the most of it and live in his presence!
God can pull you out of your past so you can live fully in the present. The path will not be an easy one. God may call you to put away selfish desires, arrogance, or any sense of entitlement.
It isn’t a live-your-best-life kind of path; at times, it will be difficult. There are hardships and rejection. It isn’t always pleasurable. But following Jesus is not a one-time event—he is continually molding and shaping us. It will be worth it in the end! When you know where the grace in your life comes from, it makes it that much more special! If you ask the Lord to direct you, he will guide your steps.
***
I walk with the kind of crutches that you can slip your arm into; not the kind that someone would use if they had a broken leg, for example. They are called forearm crutches. The next step for me would be to walk well with one cane, and I hope to get to that. But I’ve come to accept that even if I don’t, it’ll be okay. God grants our wishes but sometimes with limits for his own purposes or for the purpose of the Kingdom (heaven).
In due time it will all make sense. Remember that every successful endeavor takes careful ‘watering.’ Increase can be a gradual process. Everything is in God’s hands. Again, we can be co-workers with God, but we have to do our part. By having faith and taking action! We cannot just be stagnant. We have to work hard. He can help us through anything. We have to talk with him and make him our best friend. He wants to see our dreams happen.
God will get you through anything. Rest assured. You may not know where to turn or what steps you should even take, but he will lead you and guide you if you ask him to. Seek after his wise council. You do not need to worry, but only be still and ask him to help you. There have been times where I had no idea what my life was doing or how I would end up. God brought me through in those times and gave me step by step instruction. He is a problem solver. A friend. A refuge. An ever-present help in our time of trouble.
The beautiful thing is he’s omnipresent. He can be everywhere all at once. He is a God who does not sleep. You have access to him 24 hours a day. The world will tell you there is no way out. The world will tell you you’re doomed. The world will tell you there’s no hope. With God, there is always hope! There is restoration. The laws of physics prove to us that anything is possible. But nothing can be possible if you throw your hands up. With God ALL things are possible. He can lead and guide you through the worst of times. Just call out to him and he will be there for you.
We are told through the Bible that God is all around us. The Holy Spirit is our present help. This means we cannot escape his presence no matter how hard we try. To say we’ve never heard from God is to tell a lie. We can tune out his voice or pretend he is not there, but it’s difficult to do that because he is everywhere. God is altruistic and kind. God is loving and he requires the same of us.
He’s not just an old guy with a white beard sitting in the sky waiting to scold us! People who are so focused on the judgement and ‘warning’ everyone have never experienced the real Jesus. They are portraying some man made image of a God who won’t love you if you mess up. God’s love cannot change. He is the same. Yesterday. Today. And forever. It is us who turn our backs or walk away.
He had loved us at our darkest and at times when we did not deserve his love. God is not partial. He doesn’t only love us when we are doing ‘good.’ He loves us when we fail. He loves us when we’re not pretty. The beautiful thing is we have a chance to turn our lives around and seek after him once again. He loves us eternally. The sooner people realize that God does not change (like we do), the better. He’s not a fair-weather friend. He’s not here for a ‘season’ or because there is some benefit. He doesn’t behave the way humans do.
He is our Holy Father. He loves us when we’re not ‘winning,’ and when we know we could be better. God can’t not love us because God is love. He is the epitome of it. Some may paint the picture in your mind of a God who punishes. But, again, those images are not of the Jesus I know. His arms are open wide, lovingly, and he is waiting for his children to come home.
All the blessings he’s given to me that I am going to continue to describe, I do not believe I gained because I am privileged. It may be because I’ve sought after him. Maybe I can hear better. But I haven’t received blessings because I’m privileged or better. I do believe that God gives different children special missions, and I may be one of them. That is not to say it has been easy to carry. Friends have turned their backs. I’ve been abandoned.
As I mentioned earlier, a life of trying to follow Christ (and really doing it) is not always an easy one. There is rejection and people don’t always understand. They also expect you to never mess up and to not have any flaws. They don’t understand that part of the human condition is to fail. Some may not understand why you’re so devoted. Or they may resent you for trying to do something worthwhile. Either way God didn’t put us here to please each other, we have to please him first. Part of pleasing him is fulfilling our mission. It’s not a desire I can choose to have. It is from within. I can’t help but write books.
***
When I began driving again at nineteen years old, I wore tall braces that came up to my knees. I kept my walker in the back seat of my car. I’ve had my braces cut down throughout the years. When I was still a patient at Mott Children’s, the braces were exceptionally high! They reached up to my pelvis. I also had a bulky back brace that was attached. I’ve improved a lot since then. The braces I wear now are called AFOs, which stands for “ankle to foot orthosis,” they mainly give support to my ankles.
I had to be my advocate! A patient has to request for their strength to be examined. He or she could be ready to walk with lower braces or without any walking devices, but without asking, they may never know it. Physical therapists perform strength tests, but these are done only at evaluations.
I often see people walking with Exoskeletons in physical therapy (a robotic machine that helps wheelchair users stand up). But the user is mostly just shifting their body weight from one side to the other, and the device helps lift the patient’s leg. It’s used as more of an exercise tool and not outdoors. The Exoskeleton was made for soldiers carrying heavy cargo while going uphill to prevent injury to their lower extremities, and the device weighs fifty pounds! Adding all that weight to your body does not make it easier to walk.
It is crucial to call on the name of the Lord. I have put a lot into this, but it would’ve never happened without God’s guidance. God loves us, so when we call out to him, grace is freely given.
There is no limit to what God can do. We are the miracle workers, too. Without Him, we can do nothing, but we have to do something to start. I got to a point where I exercised until I got soaked: dripping sweat and having to change clothes. When I could not move at all, I used to try hard to move my legs. Even when I couldn’t see it happening, I imagined it, and, eventually, they did. The power of the mind is incredible.
I want to add that there’s something that happens when tragedy strikes. I mean, there is gain in loss. That may sound strange. But loss humbles us in a way and reminds uswe are human. It happens for a reason, and I believe it is to enhance our personal growth.
Asking God questions, sharing my thoughts with him, worries, and concerns helps, and I get better while doing it. I like to talk to God and pray. I pray for myself and for my health and for God to bless me in mind, body, and spirit. I pray that he blesses my mom and (late) dad.
I talk to God while on the walking machines. I talk to Him while at the grocery store and shopping. I talk to Him as I’m getting ready for my classes and when I’m getting ready to teach. I hear from him too while I’m teaching because it is helpful. He gives me direction. I’ve been told that my instruction is very clear and concise. I give immediate feedback after every class. It is God assisting me.
I sometimes read Bible verses and short prayers. I try to commit to fifteen minutes a day of doing it, and I sometimes count prayer as being done while I’m writing, since my main focus is always on God. I speak to him through worship and prayer songs. I express my love by singing out loud and feeling his love. I especially talk with him when it’s quiet, because that is when I can hear from him best.
Prayer helps feed my soul. It helps give clarity to my mind. When I am praying, I am sorting thoughts out. I am prioritizing and giving them to God. I often get messages within or even visions right away. I know what he wants me to do. Maybe it’s because I’ve been talking with him so long. At certain times, the message are stronger than others. But I know he’s always there and listening, no matter what.
We can talk with God about anything. Our good days, bad days, our feelings toward our family or friends. We can tell him where we want to be five years from now or what we’re feeling in our hearts. We can tell him how we feel because he already knows. We can treat him like he’s a friend. He is the only one who will never leave and always stay. When God is in our corner nothing can stop us!
We can read the Psalms and study the Bible. We can say the Lord’s prayer and light a candle. We can talk to him in the car on our way to work. We can never run out of things to talk about. When God is involved, life will be much better. You’ll hear from him. You’ll have strength to make it through the day. He will handle it all and give you steps and instruction.
He is not a do nothing being. People tend to think that trust means inaction. Like, ‘oh, if I trust in God, he will do everything.’ This frustrates me when people believe the Lord has to act on their behalf. Trust does not mean do nothing. Often we don’t know how to hear from God or care to, for that matter. Our egos may tell us that we have enough. We don’t have ‘time’ for God.
You mean, the huge white-bearded man in the sky? Why cater to him or ask for his input one may think. But we need God. He is more than an outside force who created everything. His voice comes from within. When we listen to God, we accomplish a lot more for ourselves, for our family–for humankind.
The more you focus on him, the easier it will get. Go into a quiet place. Get away from the noise. Meditate on his word. Ask. And then wait to hear back. The answer often comes from your intuition and can even come from others. But please be careful with the ‘hearing from others.’ They can steer you their way, and when their voices outweigh your own and God’s than you are in the danger zone. Listen: ‘anything pure, anything whole, anything that is beautiful and good comes from God.’
***
You can spend time with God wherever you are. When you are praying, you are receiving. Whether you realize it or not, God is giving. The Holy Spirit guides you. But once you ask, there is an unfolding of events. You eventually get your answers.
Let me also just say that fitness in your body creates fitness in your mind also. It helps me write better. I have more energy during the day. Exercise enables you to deal with situations better.
I reached my goal of getting up to one hour of straight cardio. It’s an achievement I set out to complete. Let me let you in on a little secret: you have to get into “the zone.” Once you get into that zone where fatigue cannot affect you any longer and where you keep going no matter what–it becomes a mental game. Sure, you’ll be tired, but you will persist. You know you will succeed no matter what. After exercising, you will feel motivated. It’s the most excellent feeling.
You may not see your miracle or dream occurring, but something is happening behind the scenes—this is what the essence of faith is: The ability to see something good in your life with no evidence of it. You create the experience! An outstanding doctor of mind once said, “The body takes time to catch up to the mind.” If you decide to do something in your mind, your body will eventually follow. If you are achieving it in your brain, you will achieve it in your body, also.
When and where do you pray? Are you able to take prayer outside of church or a religious institution? I’ve told others that just talking to God is the best form. You can share your thoughts, give him prayer requests, and give him thanks for the blessings he’s bestowed. God wants to hear about all your worries, hopes, and concerns. God wants to be there! God wants to be a part of your everyday. He loves you more than you know. Start talking with him today!
Sooner or later, the inspiration (or answer) to your prayer will come. It is hard to discern God’s voice sometimes, but the Holy Spirit lives within us. And good thoughts about yourself and others come from above. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).
If your thoughts are pure, kind, and not adverse, this inspiration comes from the Lord. The fruit of the spirit is love. He will give you wisdom in how to overcome challenges. But he will not inspire you to think evil about yourself or anyone. I have made a point to try and listen to Bible verses every day, but sometimes I fail and just read some online instead. Sometimes I listen and it lasts for a few hours; this helps to strengthen my faith and defeat any forms of depression.
What strategies do you use? Do you read the Bible? If so, which parts are your favorite? Why do you like those verses? How often do you study the Word? If you have not read it, when can you start? I like the NIV version. The ESV is good also because it is more modern and precise than the New King James. Maybe you can write out a study plan. My favorite Psalms are 69, 71, 74, and 77. Do you have any favorite ones? Another book I like is the Book of Acts, and it is in the Bible. You can also focus on reading the Bible for a minimum of fifteen minutes here (instead of writing in this section) or meditate on your favorite Bible verses.
You can even copy passages onto paper. I have done that. That way, you can repeat them over. It is a great way to strengthen your faith. If you are not familiar with the Bible and don’t know where to start, I recommend that you start at the New Testament’s gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John.
What is one thing that stands in the way of you accomplishing your goals? Is it a lack of faith, fear of failure, business with other tasks, or a time issue? I have learned you have to make time for the extra things. No one is going to do it for you. For example, I like to write. I have a full online teaching schedule, and I could add more students if I wanted to. But here is the thing, when you focus on your dreams, you feel a release. Not that your ‘day job’ does not matter. I love to help people overcome academic obstacles. It is rewarding, but when you focus on that one extra thing you love to do: it makes your heart happier.
My ‘extra thing’ is to write. What is yours? I have always written. I used to win contests in grade school. One of my worst memories was losing my first storybook from construction paper in the second grade. I searched the whole house and could not find it. It was such a significant loss. The first big one I ever had. If writing is not a passion, what makes you feel happier? I have done a lot of it, and I don’t regret all the hours I put into it. It has made me write better!
God has put us here to help one another and see each other through, but we each have a creative side or something we are naturally ‘good at’ or attracted to. For some, it is to paint or make music. I like to cook and bake also. Since I started doing the Mediterranean, I am not doing as much. What is one thing you would like to improve or get better at? Would you like to follow a diet plan? Try your best to keep your calories under 1,500 per day if you’re a woman and under 2,000 if you are a man. That way, you could potentially lose atleast one pound per week. What are your goals, dreams, or what is it you want to accomplish? Feel free to answer all the questions above that I’ve asked (or again, simply meditate on the bible) in your journal!
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students. Additionally she’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
This painting was done by the famous artist, Akiane Kramarik, and has gone for millions. it’s called ‘Prince of Peace.’ It’s also known as ‘the Carpenter.’ She painted it when she was only eight years old through visions. Her image is also depicted in the movie, Heaven Is for Real, when Colton’s dad, Todd Burpo, continually shows little Colton photos asking him to identify Jesus after Colton makes a short trip to heaven! None of Todd’s photos got a confirmation from Colton, but when Colton was presented with this image he said, ‘That’s it! That’s him, dad!’ It doesn’t get any better than this.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students. Additionally she’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students. Additionally she’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
This verse describes me perfectly. One thing I love about God is he will always be there. He is our stronghold. Friendships may fail and many others may disappoint, but God is the one being who will never leave or stop loving us no matter what. We can access God at any time by calling out his name. Jesus came to help us understand God’s unconditional love. It is cross like love. It is love greater than we can fathom, and it runs deeper than human love. He shed his blood; we know that there is no greater gift than to give one’s life. While we are still sinners he saved us. He came to redeem man. Yes. He is my rock. My refuge. My everlasting friend. The one I take comfort in and the one I run to when I’m in need. He leads me besides still waters. He blesses and consoles me all the days of my life.❤️🔥💟❤️🩹💞
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students. Additionally she’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is also a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
God is amazing. He guides our path even when we know we could be doing better. He leads and guides out of his love for us. Life doesn’t always turn out the way we expect, but one promise we have is that God will never leave us. Friends may abandon and others may turn their back, but God is the one being that will never leave your side no matter what.❤️ He will be there for an eternity…✨❤️🩹🎁
About Zina
Zina Hermez has authored the Best-selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. She’s been featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students. Additionally she’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog, and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She is a major foodie and loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
We don’t depend on God enough. At times I just stop what I’m doing to thank the Lord, but I need to do it more. He showers me with miracles and helps me overcome even when the situation looks bleak. He surpasses my expectations every time, and when I’m disappointed he is there to pick me up and bring me back to life! It’s really hard when you’re down in the dumps; sometimes it’s hard to see his presence or even realize he’s there. Sometimes it takes a test of your faith to see how well you believe despite any pain and you grow closer to God. You see his blessings. You realize life is imperfect but we have a perfect God. So all things work together unto good no matter what…🕯🛐✨❤️🔥
About Zina
Zina Hermez authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Recently she was featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She has recently launched food services and is a major foodie! She loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
‘Life is really what you make of it,’ says Brian Greene, world renownedphysicist and New York Times bestselling author. Brian says we’re all in a position of only being aware of our own conscience being though we can only judge that others are conscience by their behavior. There is something special about us. Fish and dogs aren’t able to come up with the ideas that we are. How can it be that a particle can create consciousness? Brian says.
In my opinion, it’s God. I believe in a supreme intelligence—Holy Father (God). His size spans the entire earth and he is too big to make out visually. I’m not sure how big he is, but he’s huge! His son, Jesus, is a reflection of his love.❤️🩹 All loving and kind. God is full of power amd light.✨ He’s the creator of the heavens and earth! Brian Greene says that he doesn’t believe there is no God. He has said he just doesn’t know.
By the way, he keeps the largest Christmas trees in his home at Christmastime!🎄 That’s another detail he’s shared. His views are accurate. We are beings just passing through; the whole universe will be destroyed due to entropy at some point. We don’t know when that will be (probably much further down the road). But in the meantime we are to make the best of life, enjoy it, and be kind to all of humankind.❤️🔥🙏⚛️✨🌤
If you’re interested in watching the entire interview here is the link to it: https://youtu.be/98HZanvAJ8Y I think you will enjoy it!
About Zina
Zina Hermez authored the best selling book, Not Without God: A Story of Survival. She’s been featured in numerous articles, guest posts, podcasts, websites, newsletters, and magazines. Recently she was featured on ESPN’s ‘Solutions from the Huddle’ broadcast and on Grace and Truth Radio World. Zina’s written hundreds of articles and has taught thousands of students from all over the world spanning many different backgrounds and cultures. She’s appeared in Christianity Today, the Suite T blog and Southern Writers magazine among other places. She writes on faith, science, and overcoming adversity. She has recently launched food services and is a major foodie! She loves to help others. You can connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, Linked In, or Twitter.
Zina Hermez 