Serendipitous Thoughts by Sugar Bear

" Rock On: Built for the Battle, Anchored in the Spirit "

The Holy Spirit whispered to me this morning as I felt the silence of Iowa corn:

Rows upon rows stand like quiet saints—rooted, unwavering, reaching upward in obedience to the sun. No noise. Just presence. Just purpose.

In that silence, I hear what the Spirit is always whispering:

Stillness speaks louder than noise.

Growth happens underground before it shows above.

Obedience doesn’t shout; it surrenders.

Faith flourishes in the ordinary.

That’s why I live in Iowa.

Not for attention, but for depth. Not for applause, but for formation. This land teaches me to listen, to slow down, to grow in the quiet.

“It’s not about you.” And I knew exactly what He meant. My body may ache. My sinfulness may groan.

Romans 7:24 (Paul):

“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?”

Some days, my mind wages war against peace. But when I build on the Rock of Christ, I don’t crumble—I rise.

Back in the day, just before kickoff, some of my teammates would look me dead in the eye and say, “Let’s go to war, Sugar Bear. You were built for this.” Another would slap my helmet and roar, “Be The Greater You! Be the wall!” Those words lit a fire in me—not to destroy, but to fight with heart, discipline, and purpose.

Today, the battle looks different—but the warrior spirit remains.

Now, I want my life to preach.

I want my faith to be in action.

Not just on Sundays—but in every hallway, hospital room, and hurting heart I encounter.

Jesus said: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). That’s not a suggestion—it’s a charge. And we’re not alone: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord (Zechariah 4:6).

The Holy Spirit is still calling the plays—our Counselor (John 14:26), our Guide (John 16:13), our Power (Acts 1:8), and the Seal of our victory (Ephesians 1:13). When the fog rolls in, the Spirit gives clarity.

So what’s the mission?

• Make disciples – Matthew 28:19.

• Walk with Jesus daily – forgiven, not perfect.

• Equip others – real, ready, and rooted in truth.

When folks ask how they can help, I say: Look up, wide-eyed . We were made for this fight—not to retreat in fear, but to rise in faith.

God bless you when you’re dealing with illness, economic struggle, mental battles, or job loss. And never forget: It’s not about you—it’s about Jesus. He made you for this storm. You are the joy in my, "Why!"

Remember God will not give up on you! And neither will "Sugar Bear" I love you!

God bless you and this ministry!