E.M. Johnson | Updates

A Tiime to give Thanks

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Life moves quickly. We rush from one responsibility to another, often so focused on what needs fixing that we forget what has already been given. But every once in a while, it’s worth pausing—taking a breath, looking back, and remembering the countless blessings God has poured into our lives. Each year we pause this time of year and remember to be thankful.

Some blessings are easy to spot: answered prayers, unexpected opportunities, relationships that enrich our days, protection in moments we didn’t even realize were dangerous. But many of God’s greatest gifts are quieter, woven gently into our story in ways we may not recognize at first.

One of those blessings is people—especially the ones who have prayed for us.

Think about it. Throughout your life, there have been individuals who lifted your name to God without you even knowing it. Parents who whispered prayers over cribs. Grandparents who prayed for your future long before you understood your purpose. Friends who interceded during seasons when you struggled. Pastors, mentors, and even strangers who felt led to speak your name before the throne of grace.

Some of those people are still with you. Others may have gone on to be with the Lord. Yet their prayers remain part of your story—threads of grace shaping who you are today.

What a humbling and beautiful blessing.

So this Thanksgiving, take a moment to thank God for all his blessings including those who have quietly helped you along the way.

Gratitude has a way of softening the heart, sharpening perspective, and reminding us that we are never walking this path by ourselves. God’s blessings surround us—past, present, and future—and His goodness is always at work.

May this season be a reminder to pause, give thanks, and honor the God who has carried you this far—and will continue to carry you all the way home.

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When the Unexpected happens: Farewell to the East Wing of the White House

E.M. Johnson — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

When the East Wing of the White House was torn down without the approval or foreknowledge of the Commission of Fine Arts, an independent federal agency that would have reviewed the proposed project plans, were they submitted, it was a national and personal trauma. Many were shocked that the President would destroy the East Wing without going through proper channels. The President quickly fired the Commission of Fine Arts, assuring they could not interfere with his plans. There was collective silence from many Senators and Representatives who sworn an oath to protect the Constitution, the people and stand for justice. There seems to be no one who would stand up for the people against an assault on The People’s House.

I, like many others in the nation, was shaken. It wasn’t just a loss of brick — it was the loss of something symbolic, something that represented stability and heritage. But as shocking as the event was, it served as a reminder that even in the strongest places, the unexpected can still happen. And in those moments, we are invited to turn our eyes back to One who never changes.

Life often surprises us in ways we could never predict. We plan carefully, we build with care, and we do our best to keep everything secure. Yet sometimes, God allows things to be shaken — not to destroy us, but to remind us that our foundation must be in Him, not in what we build. Psalm 46:1 tells us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” When what we’ve trusted in crumbles, His strength becomes clearer than ever.

The destruction of the East Wing was a terrible loss made worse by weak leaders who refuse to stand up and speak truth out of fear of reprisal from the White House. They placed a man above the law, a decision that will, no doubt, come back to haunt them. This is a moment of reflection. We must speak truth in love, even when we are afraid, even when it is dangerous.

We don’t always understand why certain things happen. Sometimes life changes without warning — jobs are lost, relationships end, health fails, or dreams fall apart. In those moments, we’re tempted to ask, “Why, God?” But instead of looking for answers, God calls us to look for Him. He promises in Proverbs 3:5–6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

When the walls of our security fall, God is still faithful. He’s still good. He’s still in control. The East Wing may have fallen, but the Lord remains our strong tower — unshaken, unmovable, eternal. And as the country goes through these dark days, we must rebuild faith, unity, and hope.

If you’re walking through your own “East Wing moment” — a season where something precious has been lost or broken — remember this: God has not abandoned you. He is working, even now. What feels like the end may be the beginning of something new, something deeper, something holy.

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When dogs, cats and rabbits go to church

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Saint Francis of Assisi Day

Blessings for a wonderful day and week. Yesterday was one of those days. I try to get my animals out to a blessing of the animals service during the first week of October. I remember how much those services meant to me during the last years of my beautiful animals who have passed on. At any rate, I knew it would be a challenge this year with Lady (the first part of the name was tethered more in hope than reality) Naomi Ruth. She did not disappoint.

We went by the dog park first, and in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi and his love for animals, we spent some time at the park and offered a prayer for those dogs and owners who were interested. We later attended a service at King Avenue United Methodist Church in Columbus, Ohio, where there was a beautiful worship,and treats for the dogs, visitors, friends, members and clergy, who celebrated God‘s love for all of His creation. "All things bright and beautiful," played on the church bells to open and there was a moving closing with the reciting of the Serenity Prayer of Saint Francis. Every single animal was prayed for individually and by name. It was a day to reflect and be thankful for all the friends, human and animals that God has placed in our lives.

Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi (Prayer for Peace)

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:

where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;

where there is darkness, light;

where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console,

to be understood as to understand,

to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

I find the prayer very calming and grounding. May we all learn and grow from these beautiful words. Take a moment to reflect on the prayer today. I believe it will be a blessing to you as well. Thank God for creating such a wonderful world! I certainly thank Him for all of His creation and the beautiful people like you who have blessed my life. May your week be a beautiful one.

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A New Beginning

E.M. Johnson — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes what seems like the end of the road is really just a new beginning.

Mama Dog, as she was known then, had her babies the day after the city picked her up. Someone kindly called in and reported dogs fighting in the street, probably for food. One dog,, the caller mentioned, looked pregnant. The next day, Mama had her puppies, refusing to let anyone near her. How could she trust them, or anybody for that matter? Mama Dog’s life had been less than ideal, and she had every reason to be distrustful. Her beautiful babies were soon placed with eager families. From her perspective, they probably just disappeared, her body still producing milk for babies she no longer had.

Life can be painful and disappointing. Sometimes on our worse day, God sends a plain clothes angel.

The future was not bright for a dog who was fearful, anxious and distrustful. A shelter worker saw something in this dog and worked hard to help her find a foster home. She succeeded, and that foster home became a permanent home. Lady Naomi Ruth’s life had a miraculous turnaround. What seemed like the end was really a new beginning. Naomi now has a home, a new life and a name that reflects her journey. God is a God of second chances, and when it seems everything is all over, He can give us a brand new start.

He is truly a God of the impossible. The Biblical figure Leah had a made for Divorce Court marriage. There was deception, and her husband’s true love was her sister. Somehow, from this negative start, God turned things around. Our mistakes, our sins have consequences, but God is a God of the turnaround, the rescue, the new start. He remembered Leah, and he remembers us. Find out more about Leah’s journey in Imperfect Lives, Perfect Grace.

If your personal journey is not progressing as you once dreamed, remember Naomi, remember Leah, and remember that God is here and now for you in your situation. Have a blessed and beautiful week.

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God uses who He Choses !

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

I am not sure how I first became aware of Dr. Claude Mariottini, Emeritus Professor of Old Testament at Northern Baptist Seminary. He was born in Brazil and has an impressive resume, but what caught my attention was “The love of the text” that shines through when I read his blogs and other writings. Outstanding teachers love their content and count it a sacred task to share those truths with others. He reminds me so much of my own Old Testament instructor, Dr. Briggs, who faithfully shared the sacred truths of the Old Testament to countless students at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. These professors both loved the Word, taught the Word and taught others how to love it. Their work was their love, and their love was their mission, help others to understand the value, the truth of the text, understand how God speaks through history and time with a message of love for every generation. Dr. Mariottini recent blog,( https://claudemariottini.com/2025/09/08/rediscovering-the-women-of-faith-who-shaped-ancient-israel/) challenges Christians to think about the women of faith who shaped ancient Israel. In his words.” We might assume that biblical women were relegated to domestic spheres… this narrow view blinds us to the remarkable women who transcended these boundaries to become leaders, prophets, warriors, and wise counselors.” It is a wonderful blog and a reminder of the fact that God uses who He will, man, woman or child, slave or free to share the precious message of hope, holiness, and righteousness to all generations.

I hope that you are inspired to continue on your path, making a difference for God’s people in every way that you can, fulfilling your destiny in the Lord. You and the work you do matters…to God and to those around you.

Have a blessed and beautiful day.

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Tragedy and Hope

E.M. Johnson — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The assassination of Charlie Kirk is a horrible tragedy, first and foremost for his wife, children and loved ones but also Turning Point USA and his large following. He was a charismatic leader, a young man in the Rush Limbaugh tradition who thrived on controversy and gave voice to many young people within the conservative movement. His death is not only a tragedy for those who subscribed to his political views but for anyone who really cares about freedom and justice.

There should have been no rejoicing or finger pointing after the tragic murders in Minnesota of Melissa Hortman and husband Mark, nor now. Bring the temperature down in the room. We must return to the idea that we are one country. We mourn the loss of anyone of us and understand that the world is not a children’s storybook. Life is filled with complicated people, not the good guys and the bad guys, my guys being good and everyone else being bad.

Kirk’s message was controversial. But in American we have long prided ourselves on the fact that free speech (with certain restrictions) is important. We pray, not only for his family but all Americans who are victims of needless violence. Stop shouting at each other and start listening and finding common ground. If leaders refuse to do so, then it must come from the people. There are troubling indicators that violence, even in schools, continues to be an issue in American, Coupled with the polarizing political climate, this is a toxic cocktail.

We must recover who we really are, and that begins at the individual level.

Acknowledge who Christ is and then seek daily to be like him. The fact is, he was loving and kind, not just to the disciples (his Tribe) but to others along the way (Samaritan woman). He refused to be held captive. He was a Jew who also taught the necessity of loving non-Jews. He was a man who taught his followers to have respect for women . We must seek to be more like him.

Do not ignore cruel, vulgar, abusive language because it comes from someone in authority. Do not give them a free pass. Do not make excuses for their behavior. Call it out for what it is and help set a higher standard of expectation from elected officials. Is this really what you want your children to see in leadership? Let them see a parent who does not laugh and agree with calling people names but someone who says, “You know that is not a good thing to do, and we don’t want to do that in this house.”

Limit your family’s exposure to violent, racist, and ungodly programming in media. Spend time talking about how this does not represent your family and why. Talk together, walk together (, have fun as a family. Demonstrate not only abstract values but show them through your own actions what respect, loyalty, honestly and Christianity look like.

Live like a disciple of Jesus.

We must make a difference, and it begins with each one of us. The answer is not more guns,(without the love of Jesus this can only mean more deaths) . We do not need a return to tribalism but a return to God. The devil cares less about what we call ourselves and more about how we live. If we are Christians, they will know us by our love.

We must live like Christ. We must walk like Christ. We must treat others the way Christ would have us to treat them.

Lord, help us to be like you.

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Take Time To Smile

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 8 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this life, it is absolutely essential that we learn the power of laughter. If we don’t learn to laugh, we will doubtless spend more of our lives than necessary with tear-filled eyes. There is always a reason to feel discouraged, but with God there are even more reasons to feel encouraged and hopeful.

A dear friend shared the story of a slip and fall that turned comical. She was leaving an office building with her family through a back door. They moved ahead, and she was taking a little longer to get to the front of the building. Unexpectedly, she fell and had difficulty getting up Everyone else was already on the other side of the building, and she began to panic, struggling to get to her feet. God at that moment spoke one word to her heart, “Spiderman.” It made no sense…until it did. She slowly maneuvered herself over to the side of the building and then, carefully using that wall as a support, got to her feet.Sometime later when I fell on the ice walking to the mailbox. I thought of her. Laying there on the ice as cars went down the street, I smiled and begin moving towards the mailbox that provided the sturdy dependable strength I needed to get on my feet. My point is simple. God helps us to smile even on dark days and when we may feel there is nothing to smile about! It may be His way of reminding us of His constant love and care. “I’ve got you and I’ve got this situation in hand.”

During this season when there is so much division, uncertainly and pain, remember, God has you. Take a deep breath and smile. Thanks for signing up for my newsletter, if it was in a direct email or at my website, emjohnsonauthor.com, I am just glad you did. I look forward to sharing reflections, encouraging words and updates on books and events

My focus is faith based books and I would love it if you would share what you reading right now that you might find encouraging or helpful. Let me know. I would love to know! Take care and have a blessed and wonderful day.

Laughter is powerful.

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Day of Forgiveness

E.M. Johnson — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Who knew there was a day dedicated to forgiveness?

Maybe you knew, but I didn’t. It turns out September 1 is National Forgiveness Day. Like many others, I had to think about it for a moment, and then I realized that this might just be a good idea. Just a few days ago I told a friend, “Let it go,” when she shared an event from her past that continues to cause her pain years after the actual event. I was not being heartless, but for some time I have been aware of the shadow of past pain that seems to continue to affect her. I feel it pulling her back, keeping her from enjoying some pleasures of her current life. My friend talked for a few minutes, confiding that she has managed to let go of some of the pain she experienced in a former church setting, but there are some other areas that she is still making peace with in her life. I was so happy that she managed to release some of those terrible memories and that she was actively seeking to release other situations to God. We have no power to change the past, but we can give it to the Lord and continue to go forward in our lives.

Countless thousands have read The Hiding Place, the story of Corrie Ten Boom's life and the beautiful testimony of how God helped her to forgive the unforgiveable. Forgiveness is a place God can take us when we seek Him. It is difficult but necessary for our own mental, physical and spiritual health.

This year let’s join thousands of others as we allow ourselves to grow spiritually. Let’s take the time to forgive and let go of those personal areas of pain we have held onto. Let’s do it with God’s help, not because the individual deserves it (they may or may not). As the song says, "They will know we are Christians by our love.” Lord, help us to forgive those who have hurt and injured us. From a day I didn’t know existed to one I plan to take part in, I invite you to join me on National Forgiveness Day on September 1. God can start us on this journey, and He can help us to forgive

.Imperfect Lives, Perfect Grace tells the story of Leah and her journey to honestly, forgiveness, love and a closer walk with God. Learn more about her at https://emjohnsonauthor.com/

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Happy Birthday America!!!

E.M. Johnson — Fri, 4 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Flags, parades, and Uncle Sam. It can only mean one thing: it is time to celebrate the 4th of July. If you're an American, this is a very special day and deserves a very special celebration. I have always loved the fact that in cities and town from New York City to Gahanna, Ohio you can count on high school bands, mayors and local beauty contestants to all march (or wave from a convertible) their down main street.

It is tradition. It is collective joy. It is America.

This year I am going to offer a challenge. Enjoy your picnics, parades and family gatherings, but more important than all of that, take a few minutes to thank God for how He has blessed America and ask Him to guide and direct this country in all that is done. No one of us is smart enough to guide America into the future without the help of God.

The second challenge? I am asking that you take a few minutes and review the document that started all of this. Read the Declaration of Independence, not a summary, not someone's commentary, by the actually document. I am providing a link below.

https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

This nation can only survive if we cling to the principles upon which it was built. Enjoy the festivities but never forget what makes America, America. The principles, the documents, those who gave their lives, and those who have or are currently serving in the armed service. America is a wonderful tapestry of people and principles held together as one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all.

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Is Sunday School Still A Thing?

E.M. Johnson — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Many churches have seen a downturn in attendance and Sunday School in particular. People are busy trying to catch up on sleep or just trying to get in a little family time on Sunday. Most of all, Sunday School seems so 1990. You remember buses everywhere, contests, and BIG Sunday Schools all over the place. This is, well,2025, and it is so different…right? Well, kind of, but not really.

Things are changing but the funny thing is people still have the same basic needs they had 1,000 years ago. Some would say that includes physiological needs (gotta have food, shelter, clothing). We all want to feel safe, loved and appreciated for being who we are. We all want our children to grow up into well-rounded adults who will be a blessing to the world.

How do we help keep ourselves and our family with the right focus? We stay in touch with the one who gives us destiny and purpose in life. We all need to learn more about God and the B-I-B-L-E. Help your family, help yourself by supporting your local Sunday School. If you are a teacher we thank you for sharing your gifts. You help us all to be better.

https://www.amazon.com/Destination-Education-See-Possibilities-Transformative-Christian ebook/dp/B0DPNPC6FS

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Signed Copies

E.M. Johnson — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

If you are interested in receiving a signed copy of Destination Education or Imperfect Lives Perfect Grace please contact me directly from the website and I will be happy to make that happen. Thanks for your interest and support.

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The power of learning

E.M. Johnson — Sat, 11 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A friend told me the story of why he entered Bible School. His youth, talent, and impressive oratorical and spiritual gifts captivated people. He felt the call of God in his life. One senior pastor, who he respected, didn’t seem as taken as some others. Instead of telling him how talented he was, this minister kept encouraging him to go to Bible School. Why did he need to go? He could move the crowd with his singing and preaching. People loved to hear him. He could turn the house out. The senior pastor would just smile and keep saying the same thing. He wanted him to go to Bible School.

Only after some time did the younger preacher comprehend the events unfolding. The older minister saw potential in him that could be short-circuited if the younger minister saw himself as “ready,” at his young age. Finally, the minister took the Pastor’s advice. His Bible School training changed him and his ministry. Dr. Berry didn’t look back. He became an advocate for training and education. He started his own Bible school and became a man who could move in many circles because of his talent, education and sincere love for God. John Berry realized that, “You don’t know what you don’t know until you do know what you didn’t know.”

Being able to count among my friends this wise, talented, and humble man was a blessing. We all have talent and gifting, but we all need the discipline to develop those natural talents so that we can offer our best to God and the world around us. After all, we don’t know what we don’t know until we take the time to learn. May this year be a time of growth for us all.

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Let God lead the way

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We are entering a new year and it is bursting with surprises. Many of us have faced down discouragement and illness to get to this point. Some of us have seen some moments where we were not sure we would be at the door of another day, or even another moment but here we are about to enter 2025. In traditional churches congregants frequently greet the new year on their knees in prayer. I have been thinking about that a lot lately. The prayer is filled with thanks and gratitude but also with commitment.

We want to enter 2025 with that same attitude, knowing that God is in charge and asking Him to lead the way. I like the feeling of knowing I am putting God first and I know that the entire world needs that honest dependency on God in this moment. Happy 2025 but don't go there on your own, allow God to lead the way.

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Visit us at All Authors!

E.M. Johnson — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

https://allauthor.com/author/johnsongray/

Book information and more!!

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Destination Education

E.M. Johnson — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Well, the obvious question is, what is Destination Education (DE). To be honest I am not sure when the term popped into my mind but it felt right. We are all headed somewhere for some reason. We have goals, ambitions, hopes and dreams. This one-time adventure, this unique ride, our life here on this earth is our chance to do….what again? Life and eternity are intertwined and for people of faith it is essential to line up one’s life activities with one’s destiny, the ultimate purpose. Destination Education is about helping people to line up their lives with God’s purpose.

There are a lot of destination ventures, vacation opportunities, marriage destination locations, honeymoon sites and educational . adventures.. These are great but Destination Education, See the Opportunities! is about helping teachers prepare students to understand and practice spiritual principles. These principle will strengthen their relationship with God. They will increase the student's knowledge of the Bible, and their ability to apply Biblical principles to their lives so that they enjoy their life in this world and are prepared for their ultimate destination. Do I hear strains of , “I got heaven in my view?” Now that is a perfect destintaton adventure!

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Countdown to Destination Education

E.M. Johnson — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Destination Education See The Possibilities! can be pre-ordered now. The book will be available for general distribution on January 7, 2025. While Destination Education has been operating for years as a teacher training resource I wanted to share the principles behind the ministry. This book spells out what we believe about the Christian Education ministry and has been years in the making. The countdown is taking place right now! Order your copy so you will be among the first to learn more about Destination Education and the difference it can make in your ministry.

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