About The Author

As a man of God who has served in various capacities—clergy, educator, and now Head Elder—I’ve witnessed firsthand how many believers struggle with applying Scripture to their real-life challenges. We are warned about false teachers, and Paul urges us to “study to show ourselves approved” (2 Timothy 2:15), but without clear, daily guidance and spiritual mentorship, it’s all too easy to drift.

I think back often to my late grandmother, Emma J. Baliem. A woman of great faith, she instilled in me the importance of trusting and serving God. She used to say, “Son, open your Bible and read the 23rd Psalm.” As a young man, those words were just memorized lines— I knew by heart but not by experience. I saw how she lived, faithfully and humbly, but I didn’t yet understand that she was living out the very Scriptures she recited.

She faithfully took my sister and me to church, where she served in multiple ministries—as an usher, lay speaker, and member of the women’s choir. One memory I cherish is hearing her sing with the choir as they marched in:

That song always stood out to me. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what it meant to trust in the Lord. But seeds were being planted.

As I grew older and began to walk with God for myself, those seeds began to bear fruit. I started writing for the Lord, yet I was unsure of the process. I often questioned if I was on the right path or if I could even afford to pursue the calling. After trying different avenues without success, discouragement crept in. I felt like maybe this wasn’t God’s plan after all.

Then, one ordinary day at work, I had a conversation with a man named Andre C. Barnes. He listened attentively as I shared my hopes and frustrations. Moved by our conversation, he blessed me with an ISBN number for my first book. That unexpected act of kindness reignited my faith. Even then, the journey wasn’t easy—I still needed direction, and the process took time and effort. I trusted God, but like the man in Mark 9:24, I cried out, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.”

Now, as I look back over my life, I clearly see the hand of God working in my favor. I just needed to be patient and trust Him with all my heart (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I thank God for my grandmother—her life, her words, and her unwavering faith. She stood in the gap, planting seeds that are now flourishing. Just as she once blessed me with the Word, I am now charged to bless others in the same way.

To God belongs all the glory and honor.






In Loving Memory of Emma J. Baliem