Who Taught Us To Cry (and why I cried at 1:15 and 2:45am)

 

Who Taught Us To Cry?

And why I cried at 1:15 am and 2:45 am

I was thinking about all the emotions we have. Did anyone teach us those emotions? Does anyone teach us to be happy or sad? At what point does a child know that he’s crying because he’s sad, hurt, angry, or stressed about something?

I don’t think any of our emotions are bad. I had a coach I worked with at one time, and she asked me why I had to turn my sad into mad. I told her because I don’t like being sad, so I decided it was better to be mad. After I said that, I realized how ridiculous that was.

I guess, like with any “medical condition,” we want to label it so we know how to treat it. I was trying to fix my “emotional condition” by labeling it. Emotions are funny. You can experience several at one time. It’s the same thing with medical conditions. You can experience several illnesses at once, not realizing they may stem from a single root cause you may not want to deal with.

Most emotions I can feel rising up within me. There is that one called grief that comes up without warning. I know I can take my thoughts captive when anger arises and most times put out the flames of anger before it rages into an all-out destruction zone.

Grief is not the same. Of all the emotions I’ve experienced, that one I don’t try to fight or hold back. Emotions can teach us so much about ourselves and where we are in life. Is it really healthy to hold back any emotion? What do you think?

I know I used to feel uncomfortable around people who cried. I would feel helpless and didn’t want to cry in front of others, not because it made me look weak, but because I didn’t want to make them uncomfortable.

There are people we might call “criers.” They cry at the drop of a hat, and then there are those who just won’t cry in front of others. There are those in between. I started to write this because of the tears I shed in the middle of the night.

No one around, except a snoring husband and a dog lovingly sleeping on my legs.

I used to be such a good sleeper. I never understood people who couldn’t sleep through the night. As I got older, I started to understand a bit better why some people don’t sleep so well. It could be hormones, pain, sleep apnea, unhealthy living conditions, work schedule changes, the list could go on.

Some get up to go to the bathroom a couple of times; some let life's worries keep them up.

I truly believe God will wake people up because He desires so much to talk to them. Do you ever wake in the middle of the night and ask God what or who He wants to talk to you about? Try it. You will be amazed at what happens.

Often, after a conversation with God, He enables restful, peaceful sleep.

I want to share my experience with you.

There are times our hearts are so full. Full of so many things. So many emotions flood our bodies. Good things happen to us every day. I believe that. I believe for every negative thing something positive can be found. Maybe not in that exact moment, but good can come.

I can spiral down when I dwell on the negative things happening in my life and in the lives of those I love. I cannot change people’s circumstances. I can change my circumstances by moving forward, not by sitting in the past of my mistakes or dwelling on what-ifs. Those what-ifs used to get me and hold me captive. NO MORE does that happen.

I spent the summer in New Hampshire, loving on my grandsons and daughter. I got to see friends and share meals and laughter with them. I even met new people who shared their stories of coming off medications and escaping a life of abuse. I got to speak at a ladies' luncheon about the Prescription For Love.

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the little country church we visited. Greenfield Covenant is small, about 80 people, but wow, big on love and putting it into action. They truly felt like family.

It was time to pack the RV and head back to Nevada.

The first night on the road, I woke at 1:15 am. The tears slowly started streaming down my face. Why?  Here’s the list.

I cried because:

I was missing my mom (she entered heaven on 11/4/2025). I knew that when I came back from NH this time, she would not be there to share the stories, pictures, and videos I took.

The day we left was 9/11, the 25th anniversary of the horrible attack on our country. I thought of that day and all the activities taking place in remembrance of the loved ones lost and the evil that ensued that day.

I know my dad misses Mom so much.

I was leaving my grandsons and their mama.

I was leaving friends that love me unconditionally

I was leaving the love of a church family that we haven’t felt in a long time.

I thought about situations where children aren’t in stable homes. They don’t have a loving mother and father in their lives. The parents won’t raise them to know God’s love because they aren’t receiving His love.

I thought about the dogs I walked at the shelter who would not be there when I return. Not because they were adopted, but because they were euthanized. I understand the reasons, but it still hurts.

I miss my younger daughter.

I thought about my friends looking for steady employment and their health.

I thought about all my “widow” (hate that word) friends and how much their lives have changed. For some, it’s been years; for others, they’re just going through it.

I thought of my friend who has “nodules” in her stomach. What are they? Will she be okay?

I thought of all the changes life brings

So many people are “stuck” and unable to live healthy, happy lives.

I started talking to God about all this. All the transitions going on in so many people’s lives. I know how hard we try to strive to make it in this world. It can be exhausting to feel as if we will never rest.

I know that when I choose Jesus, much of my striving ceases. Do I still have worries? Yep! Just look at my list! That was just one day.

I look at friends and family members who choose Jesus, and they don’t strive like my friends who have chosen other ways, things, or people. There is a peaceful confidence that shows up, no matter the circumstances. They know how strong the God they serve is. They know He knows their struggles and still cares deeply for them.

Joy comes amid the chaos. Nothing seems to overtake them. Yes, they get tired, but they don’t get angry or bitter at God.

I never said problems will disappear, but many of them can and are avoided by trusting and living the way God calls His people to live.

That is one of the things that keeps waking me up. I ask God, Why? Why can’t people trust you? He reminds me of the time I had a horrible time trusting churches and many of the people who attended them.

Yes, Lord, that is right, but I never stopped trusting You. The lessons I was taught were so invaluable. I never stopped reading God’s Word, and the beautiful thing is that I can always go to God, just as you can, and ask for revelation and truth.

If we seek truth, we will find it.

As I lay there that night, talking to God, He reminded me of Psalm 23. The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still water. He restores my soul, leads me in paths of righteousness for His Name's sake.

Psalm 23 continues to speak of comfort, goodness, and mercy that will follow me all the days of my life, and the best part is that I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Soon, comfort came, and, my mind set on what God says, I was overcome with joy and assurance of His love for me and others.

Whether they want to receive the Love God has for them through Jesus Christ is on them. Not me. They must choose.

Soon I was rejoicing that I have 2 grandsons. I never asked for them. God knew what I needed. I do know children are a blessing from the Lord. Our family has been blessed. I rejoice that I got to spend 3 months with them.

I go over the Prescription for Children in the JesusRx Prescription for Life podcast, and you can purchase any of the 12 Prescription for Life booklets at the Lulu.com bookstore. The JesusRx Prescription for Life workbook, containing all 12 Prescriptions, is available on Amazon.

In missing my mom, I was reminded of 1 Corinthians 2:9. I know her and other loved ones who received Jesus are experiencing things God has prepared for them. Things we can’t comprehend. Me, my dad, and my widow friends rejoice knowing there is no sadness, pain, or heartache where our loved ones are.

Of course, everyone grieves, and my widow friends go to God daily; He is called their husband. It’s amazing how God can be ALL THINGS!

It takes a repentant heart, a life looking to and living for God, and daily waiting on Him to get us “home.” This place is not our home.

I thanked God for the mom I was given.

I was reminded of all those remembering 9/11 and how so many people came together to help and bring comfort in such a time of need. How 25 years later people still need the comfort of God, and He is there. Jesus left us the comforter, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit does more than bring comfort.

I was led to pray for those caring for children who are not being cared for by their parents. I was able to pray for situations as God reminded me of them.

Knowing He is present- that’s the awesome thing about going to God in prayer; He will lead you to pray for what you ought to talk to Him about.

I was so thankful to God for answered prayer, providing a job for my daughter in the field she studied. I then needed to believe, and I did, that he would work the 3 things that needed to happen to get her moved to the new state where her job is. There’s still one more door that needs to open. I leave it with God and know only through the Power of His Spirit things happen.

God is gracious in answering our prayers, even when loved ones may not believe.

At 2:45 am, I woke up remembering to pray for a friend who has “nodules” in her stomach. I checked in on her a couple of days later, and she said they were benign. Nothing to worry about. Praise God.

As we get older, more medical issues arise. I have learned to go to the Great Physician first, asking Him to lead me to any other physicians or treatments I might need. Many times, no other treatment is needed, and I simply eat better, get rest, read His word, and think upon the ways of God.

I began to rejoice in my health and the health of friends.

Some people hate change, some love it. I’ve had about 38 different jobs and moved about 14 times. This would lead some to say I like change.

I was able to thank God for getting me through all the changes in my life. I am so blessed and grateful that the person I married hasn’t changed.

Actually, my husband and I have changed a lot since getting married. We’ve made many changes together to keep us together and to grow together over the last 36 years.

I remember that NOTHING stays the same on this earth, and it shouldn’t. We should be growing wiser with each passing year. I thank God for the experiences I’ve had that enable me to help others.

I talked to God about technology and how I’m supposed to use it.

Talk about change! Microwaves, computers, email, and cell phones weren’t even a thing when I was growing up. We had to wait an hour for a frozen dinner or pizza to cook in the oven. We used a phone attached to the wall. We learned to type on “non-electric” typewriters. Buying stamps to send out paper invitations and keeping an address book were a thing.

I still love to get a card or “paper” invitation. Sending paper invitations was awesome and still is to me. I LOVE PAPER, and I know God will get those who love him through all the AI “stuff”.

I never want to be a “stuck” person. You don’t have to be either. I love the question “Do you want to be well?”

You would think everyone would answer yes, but their actions seem to be saying something else, as evidenced by the unhealthy ways they live and the negative thoughts they continue to hold.

A selfish person will never be well. A person living with regrets replaying past mistakes will never be well. A person trying to live off the good they have done in the past will never be well. I want to be whole as I work through all the changes happening in and around me.

A person who doesn’t feed their mind, body, and spirit with healthy things will always crave “something.” Continue to feed your mind, body, and soul with the things that will keep you growing and changing to make a difference while on this earth.

There is no better way to live.

This saying is so true:

“For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”

What thoughts are in your heart? Just as I had so many thoughts in my heart and head that woke me at 1:15 am and 3:30 am, I knew where to take them.

If you need help finding balance and comfort amid life's craziness, I can help.

You have to want it. I will start by cheering you on, then teach you to be your own cheerleader. People will always come and go. You are stuck with yourself. What kind of person do you want to be?

All things are possible with God. Are you ready for what is possible?

If so email me at evapopekjesusrx@gmail.com for a free strategy session.

May you sleep well, cry as often as needed, and know you are loved.

In balanced, whole health,

Eva

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"JUSTICE FOR ALL"

 

JUSTICE FOR ALL

 

Do you remember saying the Pledge of Allegiance when you were in school?

It’s something I haven’t said in so long I almost forgot the words. As I kept saying it, the words came back in the right order. What stood out is “justice for all “

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America” and to its republic for which it stands, one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all.”

Why did the words “justice for all” stand out? Because it doesn’t seem there is justice for all while we are on this earth. People commit crimes, and it seems as though justice isn’t truly served. Innocent people get blamed for things they did not do. People lie about others in hopes of benefiting in some way.

There is so much corruption and bribery among those who serve to keep us safe. From those serving us in the white house to local judges and county administrators.

I often think of how easy it is for Christians today to serve God through Jesus Christ than how it was before Jesus came to reconcile us to God. There were so many rules for God’s people. Once the Christians were grafted in, Romans 10:12 states, "For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him."

As I read the Bible, it seemed so hard to do everything required of God’s people. There were very specific rules, sacrifices, days of remembrance, and ways to celebrate those days.

I also read about the consequences for breaking the laws. Was justice better served back then?

We say it takes a village, yet “don’t discipline my child.” I shudder to think how many of our children would not be with us today if we had to live by the rule in Deuteronomy 21:18-21.

This passage describes a scenario where a stubborn and rebellious son is brought before the elders, and if he does not heed their discipline, he is to be stoned to death by the community. This command reflects the seriousness of disobedience in ancient Israelite society.

Of course, this advice is not to be heeded today, but think for a moment. What if it was? In this case, the parent was not the one who imposed the punishment; the community was.

Understanding this passage requires examining its historical and cultural context. Google explained the passage this way.

• Cultural Context — In ancient Israel, community and family honor were paramount, and severe measures were seen as necessary to maintain social order.
• Legal Framework — The law did not permit parents to unilaterally execute their children; the process involved community elders and was meant to uphold justice.
• Modern Interpretation — Many scholars argue that this passage should not be taken literally today, emphasizing the need for understanding the underlying principles rather than the specific commands.
• Moral Lessons — The focus is often on the importance of obedience and respect within family structures, rather than on the punishment itself.

As I was reading the book of Exodus, the heading for chapter 23 stood out to me. There it was: “Justice for all”.

“You shall not circulate a false report. Do not put your hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice.

 You shall not show partiality to a poor man in his dispute. If you meet your enemy's ox or his donkey going astray, you shall surely bring it back to him again. If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying under its burden, and you would refrain from helping it, you shall surely help him with it.

You shall not pervert the judgment of your poor in his dispute. Keep yourself far from a false matter; do not kill the innocent and righteous. For I will not justify the wicked. And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the discerning and perverts the words of the righteous.

Also, you shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger, because you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”  Exodus 23:1-9

Interestingly, it said to help a person who hates you. Would you help someone who hated you? Would you take things back to a person you knew belonged to them so they could continue working? A donkey and ox were used for work.

Jesus said in the New Testament in Matthew to love our enemies.

The part about not taking a bribe or being a false witness would help maintain justice. Not showing favoritism in situations shows justice.

In the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 5:21, “I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing without partiality. Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourselves pure.”

With everything happening in our borders today, how do you interpret don’t oppress a stranger? I see that the stranger should not be treated any differently and should follow the laws and rules. Breaking the laws to stay in the land, they would then need to follow the rules. Because someone is poor, we should not show favoritism when it comes to the rules, it said.

In the United States, we do both. The government shows favoritism to the poor by allowing them to eat without working. They show favoritism to the wealthy and famous by not subjecting them to the same laws.

I cannot continue working on this right now. What I do know is justice does not seem to be served on earth. It disgusts me. There is so much swirling in my mind right now I can’t even get it to where it may make sense. Sometimes nothing on this earth makes sense.

When I get like this, I need to go to the one who can calm my thoughts and bring justice in the end. I know I do not get the punishment that would truly be mine if Jesus had not come and taken it for me. He took it for this world and all its messed up ways. No man, no president, king, or queen can fix the lives of its people. No amount of money can do it.

My mind starts to slip into a depression as I think of the sad state of affairs of this world. I’m not going to blame the government. Some individuals make up the government.

There are people you meet every day or see on the streets who could be kinder, work harder, make better choices, but it’s not about them. OR IS IT?

Should any of that be my concern? Should it be yours? Should we care about anyone but ourselves? There is so much imbalance in many of our lives.

Some are too religious, too political, too controlling, workaholics, exhausted parents, constant travelers, alcoholics, drug addicts, fighters for causes, too political, shopaholics, health fanatics; where does it end?

Not all of those things above are bad, but where is the balance? How do we find it?

Should I care? Should you care? I feel as if I’m not in a good place. Why? Because when Jesus says “Love your enemy” and “love your neighbor as yourself I feel very inadequate.

The Lord God, Father of Jesus Christ, the One given for this world and all its darkness and sin, will always bring peace and clarity to my mind when I seek Him out and His ways. He has saved me. Because of Jesus, I have been saved from many of the world's ways that would have destroyed me. When my mind is set on Jesus Christ, depression has to flee.

Yes, I am inadequate, especially when I forget what words Jesus spoke before “love your neighbor as yourself”.

Here it is: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Mark 12:30 is the key. The key to everything. The key to unlock love for others. The key that lets me do the 2^nd thing.

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” I can do all things through Jesus Christ. Yes, through Him I can love my enemy and pray for those who persecute followers of Jesus today. Jesus died for us all; we were enemies, now called friends as we receive Him and His ways. His ways are good. (Psalm 18:30, Psalm 145:17)

Yes, I’ve been challenged in self-reflection this week after hearing a message at the church I attend while in New Hampshire. It’s good to go to a place (call it church) that brings out the messages from God's Word for us to grow in.

If you read this far, may God bless you. I had no idea where I was going with this post as I started it over a week ago. All I know is my heavy heart has become a bit lighter as I was reminded of what to do to find balance again and put my feet back on solid ground. I want to stand on the solid Rock.

The solid rock provides what’s needed in my life:

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalm 18:2 ESV)

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2 NKJV)

If you need help with balance in your life, remember it starts with standing on a solid rock. If you need help, please send me a message at evapopekJesusrx@gmail.com or go to the website JesusRx.org

I am available to speak at lunches and conferences.

Stay healthy and stay in His Word!