Something Nice about All States

     I have been working on this post for a few weeks.  The goal in this one is just to give encouragement through beautiful scenery.  

     Ephesians 4:29 says, Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  It is also said (though not scripturally!) that a picture is worth a thousand words.  This post is a combination of those two statements!

    I am going to say some good things about all 47 states I've visited (my apologies to Wisconsin, South Carolina, and Alaska for not being able to speak first-hand about them yet--they are on my to-do-list, but I just haven't gotten to those ones yet!).  I'll include pictures.  Some have captions, giving an explanation.  Unless otherwise stated, these are my own pictures, taken with my camera.  A few of the states I've been to were pretty brief, and I don't have any good pictures taken there.  A few others were quite a long time ago, and while I took pictures at the time, over the years of prioritizing through life-changes, I let go of some (not very many fit this category, but a few).   For those states that I didn't get good pictures in (or any pictures in), I got some scenery photos online, and I will make it clear which ones are mine and which are not.  Consider this a photographic tour (with some encouraging scripture sprinkled in)!  If you've been to these places, share your stories in the comments.  You may want to take your time going through, but please enjoy a time of biblical meditations from Sea to Shining Sea

Alabama

Enjoying lunch at Annie's Comfort Kitchen in Elba, Alabama

     Alabama is special to me, as my maternal grandmother is from there.  I still have relatives in northern Alabama.  Traveling through the Deep South was a treat for us.  There was a mix of rural woods and beautiful cities.  As I think of Alabama and my family heritage, I'm reminded that we are called to remember what God has been doing in our lives, even before we came to be.

     Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.  -Isaiah 46:9

Arizona     

     Overall, Arizona has been a part of my life, as I grew up only one state over.  Arizona is special to me, because my husband and I honeymooned there.  As I consider this, I am reminded of God's promise in Psalm 37:4, Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

   

Walter and Janelle in the English Village at Lake Havasu, AZ.  We had honeymoooned there, and in this picture, we were returning for an anniversary trip later.  

 

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Lake Powell, on the Arizona and Utah state line

Arkansas

     Arkansas is home to us now.  For a few years, we moved quite a bit.  We made friends and had good experiences in several places, but we finally got to a place where we would put down roots as a family.  This reminds of me Psalm 37:3, one verse prior to the Arizona's verse.  Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Psalm 37:3 

California

     California is the state where God chose to create me, let me grow up, and come to know Him.  Acts 17:26-27 says, And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us.  This passage makes it clear God is intentional about where and when He placed us, with the purpose being that we would know Him.  That being said, God chose California to be that place where I came to salvation.  It was also the state where I graduated from high school and college, got my first job(s), saw spiritual victories in ministry, and married the love of my life.  That makes me happy.

Janelle and Walter's engagement photo, Yucca Valley California (see the Joshua trees)

San Francisco

Janelle and Walter Stoermer, Death Valley, California

Green Valley Lake, California

Redlands, California

Hurkey Creek, California

Lake Skinner, California

Fossil Falls, Inyo County, California

Janelle and Walter, at the beach in Carlsbad, California

Colorado

    Colorado is one of those states that I have been through many times, but seldom had it as the actual destination.  It is gorgeous, and I always enjoy going through.  One of my favorite things going through Colorado when we head West on a trip is that they start having Carl's Jr. restaurants, and I always have to go get a Santa Fe Chicken Sandwich at the first Carl's Jr. we run across in Colorado!  One of my favorite memories in Colorado happened in 2016.  Walter and I met some friends in Colorado Springs, and we went to Focus on the Family and out to eat.  Because I am always traveling when I'm in Colorado, I am reminded that all Christians are traveling through life, and that we are strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Hebrews 11:13).  We should enjoy the beautiful times, but keep our minds on the eternal.

Out to eat with good friends, Colorado Springs (Walter took the picture)

 

Focus on the Family Headquarters, Colorado Springs

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Connecticut

     We were in Connecticut as part of a New England vacation.  We didn't spend as much time there, but we did stop to take a tour of Yale University (pictured below).  Walter wanted to at least look at the campus, since we were there.  We got there at the exact moment they were starting a free tour.  It was unplanned, but perfect timing.  So much of life is like that.  God is really the one directing our steps.  A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps. -Proverbs 16:9

A tour we took of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut

Delaware

     Delaware was another pass-through state on our trip.  In addition to the picture I took (below, with the state sign), I've added a few from online, to give an idea how beautiful it is.  During our quick jaunt in Delaware, we met kind and helpful people, and were able to get some souvenirs.  It was evening while we were there, and I'm reminded that Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.  -Psalm 30:5b

My picture

Taken from https://www.americanrivers.org/river/delaware-river/

  

Taken from visualbuckscounty.com

Florida

     We spent a night and a day in Pensacola, Florida, during which time we enjoyed the beach.  It was gorgeous and sunny, even in November.  I'm reminded of the bright future for believers.  He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. Revelation 21:10

Walter and Janelle at Pensacola, Florida

Georgia

     We visited some good friends in Georgia last Thanksgiving.  It was a very scenic area, with a lot of woods and small town beauty.  It was a refreshing time to be with far-away friends.  Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.  Proverbs 25:25

In Monticello, Georgia

Hawaii

     In 2003, I attended a ministry conference in Honolulu.  It was the most boring conference I ever attended, but it was the most fun location I have been to!  I loved every moment we weren't in session!  The highlight was one day, when our group took a tour bus all over Oahu.  The driver must have known we were Christians, because he kept his jokes very clean, though still hilarious.  He told us stories of people coming to Hawaii and asking him how much it cost to mail a letter "back to the United States" (not realizing Hawaii is one of our 50 states!).  Incidentally, Hawaii is the only state I've been to that Walter has not (as I was only 21 and still single in 2003, when I went).  The only state he has been to that I haven't is South Carolina, so we have both been to 47 states.  We both need Wisconsin and Alaska, and then I need South Carolina and he needs Hawaii.  I had always wanted to visit Hawaii, and I was thankful to be afforded the opportunity as a result of my ministry.  We don't know where our journey of faith will lead us at times!  It could be the adventure of a lifetime.  As I consider all of this, I think of Hebrews 11:8, ...[Abraham] obeyed and went, even though he did bot know where he was going.  

Honolulu

Idaho

     I have been to Idaho multiple times, both before and since I've been married.  Our family friends moved up there years ago, and I had gone to visit them several times.  My parents retired up there a while back.  Walter and I go up for holidays when we can.  I have seen Idaho in its different seasons.  Idaho is a place of reunion for me, seeing friends and family I miss.  One day, all believers will be united in Heaven.  Philippians 1:21 reminds us, For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Minidoka County, Idaho

Rupert, Idaho town square

Sun Valley, Idaho

Janelle and Walter at the Magic Valley Mall, Twin Falls, Idaho

Illinois

     Illinois is one of those states I have been to, and once had pictures of, but I can no longer find them.  They are not in any of my scrapbooks from the time I was there.  So these pictures are not my own, but they can give an idea of the Land of Lincoln!  I would like to return sometime.  Abraham Lincoln came from Illinois (though born in Kentucky), so it is a state the has bred greatness.  My best friend from missionary institute was from Illinois as well (we are pictured together below, but this picture was taken in Missouri).  Her name is Jill, and we called her Jillinois.  That was partly her idea, because it helped people learn the correct way to pronounce Illinois (with the s being silent).  I once told someone "It Ill-annoys the people from Illinois when you pronounce it Illinois!"  Corny, I know, but it got a laugh at the time!  Below my picture of myself with Jill are some Illinois scenery shots taken off the internet.  Illinois is the sixth-most populated state, with its largest city, Chicago, being the third-largest city in the US.  With so many people, I am reminded of Jesus' words,  ...Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. John 4:35b

Taken from https://globalgrasshopper.com/destinations/north-america/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-illinois/

Taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/scenic-country-drives-il/

Indiana

     We spent a night in Indianapolis once, and enjoyed driving through the state.  The route we took was mostly peaceful countryside.  It made me think of Jesus' promise to us in John 14:27, Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful. 

Iowa

     Iowa has played a big role in my life.  It is my mother's home state, and I have family there to this day.  Also, I served in ministry in Sioux City, Iowa when Walter and I lived in South Dakota (but almost on both the Iowa and Nebraska state lines, about 20 minutes from Sioux City, Iowa).  When you've spent time sharing Jesus somewhere, that place takes on new significance!  And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation..." -Mark 16:15

Our evangelism team, 2018, in Osceola, Iowa (way down south--we spent two weeks down there)

Going for ice cream at the. Blue Bunny factory in Le Mars, Iowa, after doing a 5-day club

We did a 5-day club in the small town of Salix, Iowa.  Their town sign advertised us!

Kansas

     I think Kansas is the most underrated state.  It's all The Wizard of Oz's fault.  That movie shows Kansas in black and white, and the color only comes when Dorothy leaves Kansas.  In our several treks through Kansas, we have found it to be a beautiful state, with kind people and good food.  Some of our very good ministry friends now live in Newton, Kansas (we are pictured with them).  Like Bethlehem in the Bible, Kansas is underestimated.  But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. -Micah 5:2 (by the way, I don't use this verse as a wild claim that some prophecy will be fulfilled out of Kansas.  I just make the comparison that wonderful things are happening there that no one is expecting).  

  

Kentucky

     Kentucky is a charming state, with rolling hills and friendly people.  The Noah's Ark replica and the Creation museum are in Kentucky, reminding me that we as Christians are to be,  Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.  -Philippians 2:16

Dated info: Andy Beshear is no longer the governor

 

Louisiana

     Though I can honestly say I've been to Louisiana, I just barely dipped my toe in.  We briefly had lunch in Junction City, Louisiana while visited with friends in its twin city of Junction City, Arkansas.  I would love to explore a lot more in Louisiana.  The people I've met from Louisiana are friendly.  It took living in the South for me to realize that the phrase "Southern Accent" is sort of a misnomer, because there are many variations of what we call the Southern accent.  To me, the Louisiana dialect is by far the most sophisticated and attractive (and I love all of them!).  Louisiana strikes me as a hopeful place, with so much to see and do.  He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.  -Psalm 126:6

Maine

     I have been to Maine twice--once in 2001 on a New England mission trip, and again in 2022 with my husband.  Maine is a beautiful state.  While I am not usually that into seafood, I can definitely make an exception in Maine.  Both trips, I enjoyed authentic Maine lobster (in the same restaurant, though by 2022, it had a different name and owner, but it was in the same building).  The Maine ocean views remind me of Psalm 107:29, He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.  God is in control!

Maryland

     Walter and I stayed the night in Maryland while traveling.  It was a wonderful experience, and we enjoyed driving through parts of the state the next morning, eventually crossing into West Virginia.  I found Maryland to be pretty, and it's residents to be hospitable.  Proverbs 18:24, A man who has friends must himself be friendly

Massachusetts

     I have been to Massachusetts twice (I can say that about most New England States), in 2001 and 2022.  2001 was a mission trip when I was nineteen, and that was special, with eternal results.  However, I loved the 2022 trip far more, because I went with my husband, and we thoroughly enjoyed everything!  Both times, I got to see and do a lot. Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.  -Philippians 4:4

Massachusetts scenery

Boston Skyscraper, 2001

I am pictured with my childhood friend Vanessa, who is now married and living in Massachusetts.  We were able to visit with them fall of 2022.

 

Michigan

     We went to Michigan in 2021.  Our reasoning was sort of funny.  My husband and I love going to the few remaining Kmart stores, and there was one still open in Marshall, Michigan (though it closed later that year).  We just made it a fun weekend trip.  We found Michigan to be more beautiful than we ever imagined.  No eyes has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.  -First Corinthians 2:9

Minnesota

     Minnesota is sort of like Louisiana to me--I've been, but just barely.  When we lived in South Dakota, we lived in the far southeast corner, almost in Nebraska and Iowa, but about an hour from Minnesota.  One day, we went to Laverne, Minnesota and got ice cream before heading home.  I've known some wonderful folks from Minnesota.  My brief time there was fun (and the ice cream was amazing!).  Their winters are nothing to laugh at.  As I think of the strong weather they receive, I think of Isaiah 55:10-11, For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Mississippi

     I have been through Mississippi.  There is some pretty scenery, especially in wooded areas.  I was struck with the richness of the beauty.  The first picture, with the state sign, is my photo, but I added another one from the internet.  It looks exactly like the drive we had through Mississippi, so I almost feel I could have taken it.  Our God made it all--he is a rich God, and He supplies for us.  And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  -Philippians 4:19

 

taken from https://www.natcheztracetravel.com/natchez-trace-mississippi/canton-jackson-ms/3263-parkway-scenery.html

Missouri

    Missouri has played a big role in my life.  The ministry we serve with is headquartered there, and I have been there countless times in my adult life.  I have had some of the best and most difficult experiences of my life in Missouri (aka The Show Me State).  The only reason I share that part (since I'm committed to sharing only good things about each state in this post) is because it was good,   The Holy Spirit truly became my Helper in Missouri. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever. -John 14:16

The Precious Moments chapel was a very restorative experience

Walter and Janelle, visiting with friends in Springfield, MO, 2020

Missouri State Capitol, Jefferson City

Montana

    I have been to Montana a couple of times, but the photos below are from our most recent time, in November of 2021.  Believe it or not, they were only taken about twenty minutes (and about ten miles) apart, but the elevation was different!  Montana is a gem of beauty, and I just felt God's presence.  For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.  -Romans 1:20

 

Nebraska

     For two years, we lived in Vermillion, South Dakota, five minutes' drive from the Nebraska state line (and about fifteen minutes from Iowa), and we constantly crossed state lines.  Our favorite restaurant, Donna's Diner, was in Wynot, Nebraska.  Nebraska is a state with a lot of pretty scenery (especially in the springtime).  The smallest city hall in the US was there as well, in Maskell (a village of about 60 people).  A fun place in Nebraska is the Bakers Candy Shop, outside of Lincoln!  Aside from living so close to Nebraska for a while, we have also travelled through Nebraska many times.  Nebraska has some beautiful cities.  Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island and North Platte have all been enjoyed by us in our travels.  On the other hand, one of my favorite things about Nebraska was exploring little villages.  For example, Center, Nebraska is the county seat of Knox County, but only has a population of 73 residents!  It is huge compared to Obert, Nebraska, which boasts 23 people.  One town, St. James (current population 12) had quite a history, and was once a thriving community.  During my time in the area, I would go to the farmers market run out of their former Catholic church.  Old residents of the town were trying to hang onto the memories of what their city once was, from the 19th century through the 20th.  It made me wonder about the history of all these little towns, the people, and what became of all of them.  I think God calls us to remember.  I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you.  -First Corinthians 11:2

Smallest City hall in the US, Maskell, NE

Nebraska Capitol, Lincoln

 

Donna's Diner in Wynot, Nebraska--our favorite local restaurant 

Nevada

     When you say "Nevada" people often think of Las Vegas, but the state is so much more than that.  I admit that I like driving through Vegas at night, because all the lights make the drive easier than just driving through darkness.  But I especially like traveling through the Central and Northern Nevada, on both the East and the West ends of the state.  For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.  But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.  -Psalm 75:6-7

 

New Hampshire

     Like several New England states, I have been to New Hampshire twice, in 2001 as part of a mission trip, and in 2022 with my husband Walter.  Walter fell in love with New England in general, and New Hampshire in particular.  We spent more time there this time around.  New Hampshire is a beautiful state, especially in the Fall.  Even though New Hampshire is not a terribly congested state population-wise, we had a hard time getting a hotel room, because so many vacationers wanted to visit and see the leaves.  I'm reminded that we all need to make sure we make our reservation for Heaven by receiving Jesus and His gift of eternal life, so we can be welcomed in and hear Jesus say, Well done, good and faithful servant!  You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.  Come and share your master's happiness!  -Matthew 25:23

New Jersey

     I was in New Jersey briefly in 2006 in traveling, but spent a little more time there in 2022, during our East Coast trip.  During that time, we went to the Kmart in Westwood, NJ, one of the three remaining Kmarts in the US.  The Kmart picture below is mine, but I added a scenic NJ picture from the internet.  What I have to say is that every Christian I have met from New Jersey is amazing.  Truly amazing.  I have met many such residents of New Jersey through ministry.  Some truly amazing believers live in The Garden State.  New Jersey is the most densely-populated state, as well as the 11th most populated.  There are so many opportunities to share Jesus.  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.  -Matthew 28:19-20.

 

taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-jersey/nj-beautiful-scenic-byways/

New Mexico

     We lived in New Mexico for 13 months.  We had been to the Land of Enchantment (New Mexico's nickname) a few times prior, and have driven through it since we moved away.  Is is probably the most intriguing state.  I had my dream job there, teaching 5th grade at a Christian school.  I literally loved every minute of my time working there.  The food in New Mexico is amazing.  I remember the day after we moved to Albuquerque, I went into a Smith's grocery store, and I asked an employee where to find a certain item.  I turned out that this was the manager, and he not only showed me, but shook my hand and welcomed me to Albuquerque.  People in New Mexico are incredibly friendly and outgoing.  We should follow their example and Accept each other just as Christ has accepted you.  -Romans 15:7

Janelle and Walter in Old Town Albuquerque, NM

 

Roswell, NM (alien town!  Notice the alien head streetlight)

Walter and Janelle Stoermer at Four Corners, Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

New York

     I have been very close to New York City, driving over the Tappan Zee Bridge (where you can get a view of the city), but I haven't actually been in NYC myself.  So I have seen it, but not entered.  Kind of like Moses' relationship with the Promised Land.  I have, however, been through New York state, including the state capital city of Albany. It was a beautiful state, with friendly residents.  We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment. -Psalm 66:12

New York State Capitol, Albany

Janelle and Walter, Lake Erie, New York 

North Carolina

    Along with Illinois, North Carolina is a state that I have spent time in, and know I took some pictures of, but no longer have them.  As such, the photo below isn't mine, though that looks a lot like ones I would have taken.  My time in North Carolina was near Asheville.  I had been told before going that it was the pretty spot in the United States.  I personally can't pick one place that deserves that, but I know many that could tie, including North Carolina.  I lift up my eyes to the hills.  From where does my help come?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.  -Psalm 121:1-2

taken from https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/north-carolina/scenic-drives-nc/

North Dakota

     We went through North Dakota on I-94, entering  at night, but staying overnight, and spending the next day in Bismarck.  My camera broke after I took the picture below, so the other pictures I'm including of North Dakota are off the internet.  We enjoyed Bismarck, and then stayed  a second night in North Dakota's largest city, Fargo.  Due to some unforeseen circumstances, we actually changed our plans and spent more time in North Dakota than planned.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.  -Proverbs 3:6

Bismarck, taken from https://www.bismarcknd.gov/

 

Fargo, taken from https://www.forbes.com/places/nd/fargo/?sh=6a9f9ced3df8

Ohio

     We have been through Ohio a few times.  We once cut south on I-75 through the entire state, exiting at Cincinnati.  More recently, we entered at Cincinnati and cut northeast, through Columbus and Cleveland.  We enjoyed our time in Ohio, especially visiting family and friends.  Oil and perfume make the heart glad, So a man’s counsel is sweet to his friend.  -Proverbs 27:9

Janelle and Walter, Columbus, Ohio 

 

Janelle and Walter, North Royalton, Ohio (near Cleveland)

Oklahoma

     I have enjoyed every experience I've had in Oklahoma.  We had enjoyed time in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and other places around the state.  I think our favorite is Tahlequah, where the Cherokee Nation is located.  That is an especially pretty part of the state.  I remember when we bought a CD of Cherokee worship music.  They were familiar songs, but in unfamiliar words.  We sang along in English as we drove through the beautiful scenery.  Psalm 9:11 says, Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion; Declare among the peoples His deeds.  

Oregon

     I have known some great ministry partners from Oregon.  There's nothing quite like the Oregon coast.  The ocean views are very restorative to me, reminding me that,  Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.  -Psalm 26:3

Pennsylvania

     I have had great experiences with the residents of Pennsylvania, and I enjoyed the beautiful forests in this state.  For you will go out with joy And be led forth with peace; The mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, And all the trees of the field will clap their hands.  -Psalm 56:12

Rhode Island

     I love Rhode Island as much as the rest of New England.  As with several of the other New England states, I was there in 2001 and 2022.  Both times were pretty brief.  The autumn scenery was amazing, and we enjoyed a great restaurant.  Rhode Island is small but mighty.  For who has despised the day of small things? -Zechariah 4:10

 

A fun, delicious restaurant we were able to have lunch at

South Dakota

          We lived in South Dakota for two years.  We experienced all four seasons twice.  In one of the pictures below, we visited the state Capitol in Pierre (pronounced Peer, not Pee-air).  Our time in South Dakota was a time of growth for us.  But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ... -Second Peter 3:18

  

Tennessee

     As it currently stands while we're in Arkansas, Tennessee is our neighbor to the East.  We have been through Tennessee a couple of times, once staying the night in Cookeville, TN.  I would really love to see the Great Smokeys.  A verse that comes to me when I think about Tennessee is Isaiah 55:9, For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

Texas

     We lived in Texas for about nine months.  My husband had his dream job there, working for a PAC, registering people to vote.  I made some sweet friends at my job (First Baptist Church of Grand Prairie, TX).  We still talk to a lot of the people we met there in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.  Covid came along and redirected our lives.  God used that to move us to the ministry in Arkansas.  I think back on how we sought God's will in our Texas apartment, and I'm reminded of Psalm 32:8, I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

Utah

     Utah is a lovely state.  I've been through it many times visiting my family in Idaho.  Walter and I have stayed with friends in St. George (far southern Utah), and we have enjoyed time in Salt Lake City, the capitol.  Much of the scenery reminds me a lot of the best of California.  I once had a spiritual breakthrough in my life during a trip I took through Utah.  I was seeking the Lord about something important, and He met me in my inquiry.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13

Walter and Janelle Stoermer, at Four Corners.  In this picture, we are in Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico

Lake Powell, on the Arizona and Utah State Line

Vermont

     Unlike most of the New England states, Vermont (as well as Connecticut) was one I never did visit during my 2001 mission trip.  My first time in Vermont was in the fall of 2022, with my husband.  We had a wonderful time, and stayed with our friends in Lyndon Center.  Vermont is a beautiful place in the Autumn, with gorgeous leaves.  We also enjoyed visiting the state Capitol in Montpelier, and eating maple ice cream and candy.  It was a restorative time in the Lord.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.  -Matthew 11:29

 

Vermont Capitol Building, Montpelier

 

 

Virginia

     We went through Virginia, and spent quite a long time doing so.  We enjoyed a meal in the town of Christian, Virginia.  People were friendly (as they have been in all 47 states we've been to).  It was a good experience, and safe travels.  But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.  Second Thessalonians 3:3

Washington

     I am from the West Coast, and feel an affinity with the other West Coast states.  All the same, I have only briefly been in Washington State, and have no pictures at present.  The photo below is taken off the internet.  During my time in Washington, I was treated in a friendly and Christian manner.  I have Christian friends here in Little Rock who are from Washington, and they are very dedicated and devout in their faith in Christ.  The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.  -Proverbs 15:3

taken from https://www.jasminealley.com/most-beautiful-places-washington/

West Virginia

     Our time in West Virginia was a brief drive though, but we did stop, and I was overcome with the glory of the trees and nature.  God's presence was undeniable.  Psalm 104:31-31 says, May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works, who looks on the earth and it trembles, who touches the mountains and they smoke!

Wyoming

     I've been through Wyoming many times.  My first experience there was in 2006, when I was single in my mid-20's.  I went to Yellowstone National Park, followed by the Grant Tetons.  It was glorious.  Other trips were more recently with my husband.  We have spent time in Cheyenne, the capital city, as well as Green River, at the opposite end of the state.  Going back to my time at Yellowstone, Old Faithful Geyser (which I am pictured in front of below) did not go off the whole time I was there, which should have been plenty of time. I'm glad God is a lot more faithful than a geyser!  If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.  -Second Timothy2:13

Yellowstone National Park, 2006

 

Green River, Wyoming

Wyoming State Museum

Wyoming Capitol Building (under construction), Cheyenne, 2017

 

King Janes Only?

     Why are there so many version of the Bible?  Which one is the right one?  Is one of the English-language Bibles God's actual word, and other ones are not?  It can be confusing, can't it?  

     I grew up in the 80's and 90's, probably the last generation of kids to grow up memorizing verses out of the King James Version (aside from those who grow up at King James Only churches--also, I don't say this as a blanket statement.  I have met some my age who grew up memorizing out of the NIV).  I went to Sunday school, AWANA, youth group, Bible camp, and, as a teen was a summer missionary with Child Evangelism Fellowship (the ministry we currently serve with).  Even though most of these groups and ministries were not of a King James Only persuasion, the scriptures we memorized and taught others to memorize were King James.  It was just the norm.  Tradition.  Even though people hadn't spoken 1611 English for centuries, it was kind of accepted that it was Bible-speak.  While people I knew spoke everyday English, God had chosen to speak to me in thee's and thou's.  Most of the pastors we had preached out of other versions, such as the NASB or NIV, but memory verses were still King James.  That was just kind of normal.  In a way, the poetic language made it easier to memorize than just everyday English sentences, so I'm glad I had that growing up.  

     Around the turn of the century (when I was a young adult), many of these ministries started offering alternative versions of the Bible for memorization.  Child Evangelism Fellowship began offering an NIV option, and now offers English Standard.  AWANA started having a New King James option, and added others.  Suffice it to say, most people I meet who grew up in the 21st century didn't have God speak to them in thee's and thou's the way many of us 20th century folks did.  

     The truth is, though, even though children's memory verses seemed to be the last thing to change to other versions (at least in my experience), different Bible translations are nothing new.  Back in the 19th century, children and teenagers complained that the Bible was too old-fashioned and hard to understand, and this gave way to some attempts at newer versions.  In 1885, the English Revised Version was published.  The motive of this translation was to adapt the King James Bible to the current state of the English language (as language had evolved since 1611), and also to adapt to the present standard of scholarship.  By that point in time, manuscripts had been discovered that many held to be older and more accurate than those used to publish the original King James.  Throughout the 20th century, many versions were published.  So, it is almost unusual to consider that I grew up in the late 20th century still memorizing out of the King James.  

1990, I am pictured receiving an Awana award.  All the verses I learned to get that award were in the King James Version, and that's how I still know them today.

     But, really, why the change?  Why did we need new versions? 

     When I was in high school, I sat under a pastor who was King James Only (strictly speaking, he was probably more King James preferred.  I'll explain that more in-depth later).  This pastor really invested in me.  He took our youth group out witnessing, and when I would get involved in ministry, he would tell me he was proud of me.  He once told me I was his hero, and that really, really ministered to me in a deep way as a teenager.  Because this man was the real deal, I considered that maybe King James was the right Bible, since this pastor's life exemplified Jesus.  Maybe, I reasoned, it was because he read the "right" Bible.  

     Because of this pastor's loving influence, I dipped my toe into the waters of the King James Only position for a little while.  I tried it on for size.  But the truth was, I didn't have an educated reason behind it.  I liked what some people said, that the King James Version had served the English-speaking world for centuries.  It was proven.  Tried and true.  So why not stick with it?  And that's not a bad reason to use it.  I support anyone who wants to use the King James Bible.  I often use it now.  But that's still not a good argument against other versions.  

     I have seen some extremism in the King James Only camp.  As I said, the pastor who influenced me as a teen and young adult was more King James preferred.  I once visited a true King James Only church.  I was just out of high school, and wanted to visit a church that had a college-aged Bible study.  I called all the churches in the phone book, (that's how long ago this was!), and when I came to this particular church, their ad in the Yellow Pages said they were King James Only.  I thought, "Oh good, they're like my pastor.  I'll love this one!"  I found out they did, indeed, have a college Bible study, and I decided to visit.  When I arrived, the pastor was waiting outside and greeting people as they came in.  Seeing me as a visitor, he asked me flat out, "Do you own a King James Bible?"  I felt like I was being quizzed.  "Yes, sir," I replied, a bit nervously.  "Then you're probably saved.  You can come in."  I thought, Huh?  He didn't even ask me about my beliefs in Jesus.  He didn't even ask my name!  I also found myself wondering if I had said no, I didn't own a King James Bible, would I have been admitted entrance into their service?  I knew that Mormons also used the King James Bible, and they weren't saved.  This pastor had a weird priority.  I knew my beloved pastor at my home church would never, ever greet a newcomer like this.  

     I got to the college class, and the teacher told me, "We've been doing a study about New Age Bibles, like the NIV."  I expected everyone to laugh, because this sounded like a joke (my pastor jokingly used to say NIV stood for "Not Inspired Version"), but I realized after a second that he was serious.  If someone doesn't like the NIV, that's not a big deal.  It isn't my favorite version, but I definitely don't consider it to be New Age.  That sounded so crazy.  After the creepy greeting from the pastor, and then this weird introduction to the class, I wanted to leave, but I felt I was stuck.  So I waited it out.  The class was just spent comparing random verses in the King James and the NIV, and when they differed, the teacher would say, "See!  They're different!  That proves the King James is good and the NIV is bad!"  But he didn't go to any of the original languages to show which one was really more accurate.  He seemed to take as a given that the King James was right, and all others versions needed to conform to it.  Even as a first-semester college student, I knew this was poor scholarship.  And, even assuming the King James was more accurate in those verses, that still didn't prove the NIV was New Age!  I believe it is wrong to make such bold claims and then not give the information to back up said claim.  The teacher concluded the class by saying, "I think someone can own an NIV and still be saved [wasn't that big of him?], but I would hope that after he gets saved, God would convict him of using a false Bible."  

     Before I left that day, I was given a piece of paper that stated the church's beliefs (this was before the Internet, where you can now just look up that information on a church's website).  As I read the paper, I found that most of what they believed was normal Christian teaching.  However, they had a clause that they believed that the King James Bible was God's only inspired word for the English-speaking world.  That struck a chord in me, and made me realize I could never be King James Only--at least not this brand of King James Only.  The All-powerful God inspired a Bible just for the English-speaking world?  What about the 85% of the world that didn't speak English as their first language?  Of course, this church believed God had a Bible for them too.  He just inspired different versions in their various languages.  That seemed really off to me.  

     In James White's book The King James Only Controversy, he lists five types of King James Only proponents.  From least to greatest extreme, they are as follows.  The least extreme is probably what my pastor was, which is mainly just King James preferred.  These people like the King James the best, believe it is the best Bible out there, and should be respected for their preference. The next position would be those who believe the King James was translated from superior Greek and Hebrew texts.  They might be open to a better translation coming along in the future--they just don't believe that has happened yet.  This position is also reasonable and respectable.  The third position consists of those who are Texus Receptus Only--meaning they believe the Texus Receptus (the Greek New Testament from which the King James New Testament was translated) was divinely inspired, just like the original manuscripts were inspired by God.  This is the point at which I get off the bus, so to speak.  I think the Texus Receptus is accurate and worthy of respect, but I don't believe it was inspired the same way the originals were.  The next step is the group that holds that the English King James Version was actually inspired in 1611.  I don't agree with this either.  The final step on this continuum is those who hold the King James Version to be a new revelation from God, beyond anything that came before.  This sounds culty to me.  I could happily go to a church or sit under a pastor who was in one of the first two camps, but not the latter three.  My current pastor isn't in any of these camps, but preaches out of the ESV.

     I went on to get my BA in biblical studies, and I did a senior project where I researched this very subject of Bible translations.  I have come to believe that the Bible was divinely inspired of God in the original manuscripts.  God spoke, those He spoke to wrote down what He told them to write, and that truth has been preserved, and translated into virtually every language (though there are still Bible translators working on some).  God didn't re-inspire the King James Version in 1611, any more than He re-inspired the New American Standard Bible in 1971.  I do believe He has been at work, guiding the scholars who did the work, but he didn't inspire it the same way He inspired Moses or Paul, who wrote the originals.  In my studies at that time, I concluded that the most accurate Bible in English was probably the New American Standard (this was before the English Standard Version was published, which is now considered the most accurate by many).  

     In a nutshell, what I learned was that the King James was translated from the best and oldest manuscripts they had available at the time.  Those translators would have loved to have the manuscripts discovered later (which many believe to be older and closer to the originals), but they worked with what they had then.  Many of the "newer" translations are actually translated from what is believed to be older and better manuscripts, which means these "new" Bibles in English may be much older versions when you look at where they come from.  Also, it must be considered that some of the English translations are word-for-word translations, while others are dynamic equivalence--meaning they are idea-for-idea.  Sometimes word-for-word is better, but there are times when it is better to translate it as an idea, because that gets the point across better in English.  All of this was taken into consideration when translations have been made.  Admittedly, some translations are considered better than others.  What I find amazing, though, is that God has truly preserved His message to us.  No matter what English version you use--no matter what manuscripts were used to translate it--the message remains the same, and that is faith-building!  

     There are some versions I would advise avoiding, because those putting them together transposed their agenda onto it.  Others are very loose paraphrases, and one should be careful straying too far from solid translations (though I admit that I love The Living Bible).  Select a Bible that communicates God's truth through the ages.  

     These days, I tend to use the 1995 edition of the New American Standard, the English Standard Version (our church and ministry use that one), with the King James thrown in here and there.  Maybe you're the same, or maybe you're like my husband and prefer the New King James.  Or maybe you like another version out there.  Learn all you can about your preferred version, and keep in mind that God is faithful to preserve His word!