by Cynthia L Simmons | Sep 1, 2026 | Blog, Encouragement
September arrives as a gentle turning point… a return to routines, cooler days ahead, and an opportunity to refocus our hearts on what truly matters. It is a beautiful time to embrace new beginnings, nurture the relationships God has given us, and look for His goodness in the ordinary moments of our days.
This month also feels especially tender as we remember our precious Dolly and celebrate a life that touched so many. As we step into September, may we carry gratitude for what has been, hope for what lies ahead, and confidence that God is present in every changing season.
Dear Holy Father, thank you for the privilege to enter your presence in prayer! May we always keep your name holy, and we humbly pray to act as your servants as long as we reside on earth. May all our choices forward your kingdom and bring honor to your name. Help us to love you more than ourselves and seek the good of others. In Jesus Name we pray…Amen
Below please access one of our most-loved encouragements to you and those around you. My team and I pray our calendar challenge will get you one step closer toward our God, the Ultimate Father, who controls ALL things, including justice, peace, and the nations. 
CLICK HERE for your monthly encouragement so you can download the September 2026 Calendar Challenge.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Sep 1, 2026 | Encouragement, Standing for your faith, Stress, wisdom
During the Revolutionary War, the fight between Patriots and Loyalists raged near the South Carolina home of eighteen-year-old Emily Geiger. Both Emily and her father ardently supported the Patriot cause. One day, Emily overheard her disabled father lamenting that General Nathanael Greene desperately needed a courier to reach General Thomas Sumter for reinforcements. Her father longed to volunteer, but his failing health made the perilous ride impossible.
Without waiting for permission, Emily rode straight to General Greene’s camp. She knew the backroads and river crossings, and she offered to carry the dispatch.
Two days into her journey, British scouts captured Emily and brought her to Lord Rawdon’s encampment. Suspicious of the young girl by herself, Rawdon locked her in a room while he sent for a local woman to conduct a thorough search. Emily knew that if the letter were discovered, she would be hanged as a spy. Acting quickly while left alone, she memorized Greene’s dispatch, tore the paper into small pieces, and swallowed them.
When the search yielded no evidence, Lord Rawdon released her. Emily pressed on and delivered the verbal message to General Sumter.
Like Emily Geiger, we face choices every day. Our daily decisions may not involve dodging enemy patrols, but our obedience still carries lasting weight. Eternity itself can be shaped by how you choose to serve today.
“…Present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness…” -Romans 6:13 (NASB)
by Cynthia L Simmons | Aug 29, 2026 | Devotion
Have you ever wondered what early 19th-century photographers were actually doing when they draped that heavy black cloth over their heads and cameras?
In the era of wet plate collodion photography, the chemical emulsion on the glass plate was light-sensitive only while damp. Photographers had to work against the clock, composing and focusing before inserting the negative.
Direct sunlight and ambient daylight washed out the faint, upside-down image projected onto the camera’s ground glass. To solve this, the photographer stepped beneath a dark cloth to block out the outside world. Once their eyes adjusted to the darkness, the faint, inverted scene suddenly came into sharp, brilliant focus.
Stepping Under the Cloth in Daily Life
Sometimes we need to “get under the cloth,” too.
We live in a fast-paced, media-frenzied world full of constant noise, opinions, and distractions. When life feels blurry, inverted, or chaotic, we often try to squint through the glare on our own strength.
Scripture gives us a different invitation:
“Be still, and know that I am God…” — Psalm 46:10
Stepping away into a quiet place with the Lord isn’t an escape; it is where our spiritual vision adjusts. In the stillness, the glare of the world fades, and God’s wisdom and guidance become clear.
Lessons from Moment in Time
This theme is deeply woven into my latest novel, Moment in Time.
Set during a season of great upheaval and change, the characters face sudden turning points and pivotal choices where every path seems fraught with uncertainty. Just like early photographers, they discover that true clarity doesn’t come by running faster—it comes by stepping back, quieting the heart, and trusting God’s greater picture.
This Week’s 5-Minute Challenge
Take just five minutes today to step “under the cloth”:
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Silence your notifications and set aside your phone and computer.
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Step away from the screens and find a quiet chair or corner.
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Sit in stillness with the Lord, opening your hands and asking Him to bring clarity and peace to whatever currently feels blurry or overwhelming in your life.
Join the Conversation
What is one practical way you can “step under the cloth” to find quiet stillness today?
Share your favorite routine or thought in the comments below—I would love to read your reflections!
Key Takeaway: 19th-century photographers used dark cloths to block ambient glare and bring faint images into focus. In the same way, taking intentional quiet time away from daily distractions allows believers to hear God’s voice and gain spiritual clarity in overwhelming seasons.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Aug 1, 2026 | Blog, Encouragement
August often brings a change of pace. New schedules begin, familiar rhythms return, and our calendars quickly fill. Yet in the middle of life’s activity, God gently reminds us that our greatest calling is not simply to stay busy—but to remain faithful.
Each day presents opportunities to be the hands and feet of Christ. A conversation with a hurting friend, a word of encouragement to a weary parent, a prayer for a stranger, or a quiet act of generosity may seem small, but God often uses ordinary moments to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
As you step into this new month, ask the Lord to make you attentive to the people He places along your path. Pray for eyes that see needs, a heart that responds with compassion, and a willingness to serve wherever He leads.
May August not only mark the beginning of a new season, but also a renewed desire to walk closely with Christ—bringing His light, His hope, and His love into every place He has prepared for you.
Father, thank You for the gift of new beginnings. As this new season unfolds, renew my heart to serve You with joy and compassion. Help me see the people You place in my path and give me the courage to love them as Christ has loved me. May my life reflect Your light in every ordinary moment. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.”
Below please access one of our most-loved encouragements to you and those around you. My team and I pray our calendar challenge will get you one step closer toward our God, the Ultimate Father, who controls ALL things, including justice, peace, and the nations. 
CLICK HERE for your monthly encouragement so you can download the August 2026 Calendar Challenge.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Aug 1, 2026 | Encouragement, Standing for your faith, Stress, wisdom
August is a month of fresh starts. Classrooms fill with eager students, calendars become busy again, ministries resume, and many families settle into new routines. As one season gives way to another, it’s the perfect time to ask, “Lord, how can I serve You faithfully in this new season?”
The early church faced a similar opportunity—not because life became easier, but because difficult circumstances revealed the power of Christ’s love.
During the second century, a devastating plague swept through the Roman Empire. Fear gripped entire cities. Many fled, leaving even family members behind. Yet followers of Jesus became known for something remarkable: they stayed.
Rather than running from danger, Christians cared for the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the grieving, and gave dignity to those who had been forgotten. Their courage wasn’t rooted in fearlessness—it was rooted in the hope of Christ.
Their quiet acts of compassion became a powerful testimony. In a world consumed by fear, believers reflected the love of the Savior who had first loved them.
As August ushers us into fresh routines and new opportunities, God invites us to live with that same spirit of faithful service. We may not be called to face a plague, but every day we encounter people who need hope, kindness, encouragement, and the love of Jesus.
This month, don’t simply fill your calendar—fill your days with purpose. Ask God to help you notice the person who needs a listening ear, an encouraging word, or a simple act of kindness. History reminds us that lives are often changed not through grand gestures, but through ordinary believers who faithfully say “yes” to God.
May this August be more than the start of another busy season. May it be the beginning of a deeper commitment to reflect Christ wherever He leads.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” -Isaiah 43:19
by Cynthia L Simmons | Jul 31, 2026 | Podcast
Behind the Story: The Real 1860s History Behind Moment in Time by Cynthia L. Simmons
Listen here
In this special behind-the-scenes episode, author and historian Cynthia L. Simmons shares the inspiration, real Reconstruction-era history, and darkroom secrets behind her historical mystery novel, Moment in Time.
Set in 1867 Marietta, Georgia, Moment in Time follows former midwife Helen and former Union surgeon Edward as they uncover hidden ciphers buried inside 19th-century wet-plate glass negatives.
What Inspired the Novel Moment in Time?
Every historical mystery begins with a single spark. Cynthia shares that spark for Moment in Time.
In the late 1860s, photographers had only minutes to coat, expose, and develop a glass plate before it dried. That natural race against the clock became the perfect setting for a story about hidden ciphers, high-stakes secrets, and second chances.
Real Cobb County History: 1867 Marietta & James B. Waller
One of the most rewarding parts of writing historical fiction is unearthing true local lore. In Moment in Time, readers get a glimpse into authentic Reconstruction-era Marietta:
🎧 Listen to the Full “Behind the Story” Podcast Episode
Click the player above to hear Cynthia answer reader questions about:
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How 1860s darkroom chemistry created center stage in the plot.
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Building authentic 19th-century medical perspectives into the main characters.
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Cynthia’s love of cats brought a feline detective into the novel
Frequently Asked Questions About Moment in Time
What genre is Moment in Time?
Moment in Time is a historical mystery novel set during the American Reconstruction era, combining rich historical detail, suspense, and clean fiction.
Where does Moment in Time take place?
The novel is set in 1867 Marietta, Georgia, exploring the town’s post-Civil War rebuilding period and local Cobb County history.
Who wrote Moment in Time?
Moment in Time is written by Cynthia L. Simmons, an author, historian, and host of Heart of the Matter.
Once you purchase the novel, a companion devotional is free. Click here.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Jul 16, 2026 | Podcast
Listen here
When a sudden crisis upends your life, the shock can leave you completely frozen. In this post, Cynthia L. Simmons shares her deeply personal journey of navigating a sudden lymphoma diagnosis, moving past paralyzing fear, and taking proactive medical action.
Drawing a powerful parallel to September 1777, she explores the dramatic evacuation of Philadelphia’s church bells—including the Liberty Bell—and how the patriots hid their most valuable treasures beneath the floorboards of a quiet church basement to keep them safe from the invading enemy.
If you are currently facing a health battle, grief, or an unexpected life storm, this message will help you reframe your struggles. Discover why a “hidden season” is never a waste of time, but rather a safe place of divine protection and preparation.
Plus, read a special preview of Cynthia’s upcoming historical mystery novel, Moment in Time, launching July 31st!
by Cynthia L Simmons | Jul 9, 2026 | Podcast
Listen here
Lately, I’ve been navigating the world of oncology—a completely separate reality from the “normal” we all know. The chemotherapy schedule completely takes over your life. Even with my background as a retired nurse, I have found myself having to look up medical jargon just to understand the sheer complexity of the tests, numbers, and drugs. All of it can be overwhelming and exhausting, not to mention dealing with the side effects.
Have you ever found yourself completely overwhelmed by the dizzying complexity of modern systems, technology, or unexpected life crises? If so, you are in good company with some of the greatest minds of the American Revolution.
Revolutionary War Era
James Lovell served in Continental Congress and he loved to decipher British Code. But Lovell didn’t just want to read the enemy’s mail—he wanted American diplomats to communicate in secure ciphers, too. The problem was that his new, highly complex cipher required a key, and Lovell refused to risk sending that key across an ocean. British spies might intercept it.
So, he decided to base the key on a personal riddle he assumed John Adams and Benjamin Franklin could easily solve based on past conversations.
It was a disaster. James Lovell’s complex mathematical grids left both men utterly puzzled. Over in France, a frustrated Benjamin Franklin finally packed up all the components, handed them to another diplomat, and confessed he had tried to crack it in vain. Meanwhile, John Adams wrote a blunt letter back to the Continental Congress stating that the instructions Lovell sent were completely “inexplicable.” Lovell’s genius had accidentally outwitted two of the most intelligent men alive.
Back to Living in Today’s World
But there is a striking contrast here that has brought me so much comfort in the middle of my chaotic oncology world:
There is no secret code required to access the Lord.
God does not hide his comfort behind complex systems or theological riddles. He fully understands the difficult seasons of our lives, and He already did all the heavy lifting on the cross to reconcile us to Himself. Instead, He gave us the Holy Spirit so we can understand spiritual things.
We have a High Priest who understands our weaknesses because He walked this earth and was tempted just as we are. When life’s complexities make you want to pull your hair out, God doesn’t hand you a cipher grid. He hands you an open invitation to run straight into His presence.
Father, we thank You that You are a God of perfect peace and clarity. When life feels like a confusing code that we just cannot crack, remind us that Your grace is beautifully simple. Help us to drop our own cipher grids today and simply rest in Your presence. Give my friends listening today a tangible sense of Your comfort this week. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thank you for joining me today. Until next time, keep your heart focused on the things that matter most.
by Cynthia L Simmons | Jul 1, 2026 | Blog, Encouragement
As we welcome July, our hearts turn with gratitude to God for the many blessings He has poured out on our nation. This month, as America celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we remember that throughout our history, the Lord has faithfully sustained us through seasons of triumph, trial, revival, and renewal. While our founders were imperfect, many acknowledged that our liberties ultimately come from God, not from man.
Today, our nation stands in great need—not merely of stronger institutions or better policies, but of humble hearts that seek the Lord. Scripture reminds us, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12) and calls us to pray, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face… then I will hear from heaven” (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Join us in praying this month for America. Pray for our leaders, our churches, our families, our schools, and the next generation. Ask God to awaken hearts to His truth, grant wisdom to those in authority, strengthen His Church to be a faithful witness, and bring spiritual renewal across our land.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness throughout America’s 250-year history. We recognize that every good gift comes from You, and we are grateful for the freedoms and opportunities we have been given. Lord, our greatest need today is not political, economic, or cultural—it is spiritual. Turn our hearts back to You. Bring repentance where there is sin, courage where there is fear, truth where there is confusion, and hope where there is despair. We pray for our nation’s leaders, asking You to grant them wisdom, integrity, and a desire to pursue justice. Strengthen pastors and churches to proclaim Your Word with love and conviction. Protect our families, guide our children and students, and raise up a generation that will know, love, and serve You wholeheartedly. May we, Your people, be faithful in prayer, bold in sharing the Gospel, and steadfast in living lives that honor Christ. Let America not simply celebrate its history but seek the One who holds its future. We place our nation in Your hands, trusting that You remain sovereign over every generation. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.
Below please access one of our most-loved encouragements to you and those around you. My team and I pray our calendar challenge will get you one step closer toward our God, the Ultimate Father, who controls ALL things, including justice, peace, and the nations. 
CLICK HERE for your monthly encouragement so you can download the July 2026 Calendar Challenge.
