Devotionals for the Heart: God can bring you through deep waters

Deep Waters
A devotional by Adriana Watt

“Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.”—Psalm 42:7-8 (NIV)

When someone gives a name to a city, a business, or a person, the giver of the name chooses intentionally. The name has significance. This city I find myself in is named Deep Waters because it is near a spring with an unknown depth.

That name, Deep Waters, brought so many scriptures to mind about water cleansing and protecting us. Several examples from Scripture about this include but are not limited to: When a person professes faith in Jesus Christ and wants to be baptized, they are immersed in the water. This is an outward sign of their new life in Christ (Acts 22:16). God sent a flood to cover the earth to cleanse “the wickedness of the human race” (Genesis 6:5). God’s power was displayed for the people of Israel to be rescued and protected through the parting of the Red Sea so the Israelites could walk to the other side on dry ground. After His people were safely on the other side of the Red Sea, God returned the waters to their normal state, causing the Egyptian Army to be covered and drown (Exodus 14:21-29).

There is another side of water though and it’s dangerous. A few examples in Scripture about this include but are not limited to: The dangers of the roaring seas in the storm when Jonah disobeyed God (Jonah 1:4). Paul was shipwrecked on one of his missionary journeys (Acts 27). Peter reaching out for Christ walking on water, then sinking as his faith doubted (Matthew 14:29-31).

There are numerous symbolic meanings for water throughout the Bible and in our modern-day life: We will make our way through deep waters with waves crashing over us. There will be no reprieve from the waterfalls that overwhelm us. This can be in the form of financial challenges, illness, relationship struggles, and more. We need to be able to find our footing while in deep waters. We need a strong anchor to steady us as we ride the waves that threaten to take us under.

These are the anchors that sustained me in deep waters and can do the same for you:

Anchor #1: God’s Love. He cares about every detail of your life: the suffering, the accusations, the overwhelm that you are experiencing while in those deep waters (Jeremiah 31:2-4).

Anchor #2: God’s Promises. He is a faithful God. Remind yourself of His faithfulness throughout all the days of your life and praise Him. Hope will rise within you (1 Corinthians 1:9).

Anchor #3: God’s comfort and kindness. He is near even in the waterfalls of pain and when the waves feel like they may carry you away. The tenderness and presence of God is like a cozy blanket enveloping you. He will hold your hand through the raging storm (Psalm 91:4).

Anchor #4: Focusing on God. Fix your eyes on Him. Let your thoughts and affections be consumed with your Lord. Let your actions demonstrate love for Him with all of who you are (Deuteronomy 6:5).

Anchor #5: God’s justice. God promises He will return to take us home to Heaven and bring an end to all the pain, tears, and suffering. We can wait expectantly (Philippians 3:20).

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

We praise You for being our powerful provider. We praise You for being our peace and comfort in the deep waters of life. We praise You for your kindness and promises that the waters will not consume us. We praise You for your justice to bring an end to the struggles we encounter. Your face, Lord, is what we seek. We fix our eyes on You to overcome doubts, despair, weakness, and weariness. You alone can fill us with hope, defiant joy, and praise. You alone are anchoring us through these deep waters. Thank you, Lord! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Waterfall” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong UNITED. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Anchor Holds” by Ray Boltz. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Don't Give Up On Me” by Brandon Lake. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Adriana Watt, founder of “Framing Your Health in Christ” supports Christian women who find themselves running on empty from pouring themselves out in caring for others struggling with mental and emotional exhaustion and chronic stress because they have forgotten to rest and prioritize their health. 

She helps them to live a guilt-free, nourishing, full, and sustainable life by helping them climb out of the trenches to see the bigger vision of their calling and God’s purpose for their lives.

Adriana is a gentle and encouraging author and speaker with a critical message for the current caregiver crisis. She is a living testimony of how it is possible to rest in Christ for your strength, healing, and to serve others well without sacrificing your health to feel fully alive again.

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Connect with Adriana:
Website: https://www.adrianawatt.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adriana_watt_wholehealth/
Email address: Care@adrianawatt.com

Devotionals for the Heart: A true love that is always committed to God

Committed Love
A devotional by Essie Faye

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.”—Deuteronomy 6:5 (NKJV)

There are so many people who don’t truly know what love is.

People use the word “love” without deep meaning and care. They attach it to manipulative actions. Others use it emptily without actions of support, care, or concern. Some people swear they love you while behaving in unloving ways and causing you pain intentionally. It is hurtful to realize that you’re not loved by someone who either professed their love for you or should love you.

Scripture defines “love” as incredibly good. The Bible says that God is love (1 John 4:8). Scripture also says in 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (NIV), “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

God’s love for humankind is limitless. We cannot measure His love for us, but we have evidence of His love each day. He preserves our lives. He cares for us. He provides for our needs. He gives us good things. He comforts us when we are sad and heals us when we are hurting. He gives us joy in sorrow. God always shows up for us. Our Heavenly Father (God) constantly communicates His love for us. He does this through His creation, Scripture, our life circumstances, our relationships, and through prayer. He deserves our love in return.

Deuteronomy 6:5 commands us to love God with every fiber of our being. With everything that we are and all that we have, we should love Him. What does this look like? This looks like committing to make God the center in our life. Committed love for God means deciding to honor God in our daily living. We honor Him by adopting His views about life and obeying His commands. We chose to follow Jesus Christ (God’s Son) all the way to Heaven.

Loving the Lord our God with all our heart means that we align our passions with His. We love what God loves and we hate what He hates. We are sensitive to issues that concern Him. This means that we act with compassion toward others. We express our sympathy and speak with empathy. We refuse to be insensitive, hateful nor rude to anyone. In essence, we exemplify the characteristics of Christ. We are not perfect, but we are striving to be Christ-like every day.

Loving the Lord our God with all our soul means that we discipline our emotions and thoughts so that they align with God’s standards and perspective. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, the Apostle Paul says that we must bring into captivity every thought and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself above the knowledge of God. He often teaches about the importance of disciplining our mind as we follow Christ. We must have a paradigm shift and renew our minds daily. We must examine our thought life and make changes so that we develop the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).

Loving the Lord our God with all our strength means using our efforts to love God. It is using our energy and time to actively and intentionally love Him. Our actions toward ourselves, God, and others should demonstrate our love for God. Loving God takes work—faith and work to be exact. Love is more than lip service; love is action. 1 John 4:20 (NIV) says, “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” Our relationship with ourselves and others is a direct reflection of our love for God.

Call to Action:

1. Examine your definition of love.

2. See God’s love in your life daily.

3. Love Him in return.

4. Demonstrate your love for God by obeying His Word and living according to His standards.

5. Remember: God’s love deserves to be reciprocated. Will you choose to love Him in return?

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us. Cause us to experience the reality of your love each day. Give us the desire to love You in return. Cause us to see your love daily. Help us aim to love You, ourselves, and others. Expand our capacity to love passionately and intentionally. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayers. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Love God Love People” by Danny Gokey. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Essie Faye is a woman of faith. 

She’s a bilingual author, educator, speaker, psalmist, and interpreter.

Essie is the author of the “Finding the Love You Deserve” series for women and teens. She is deeply committed to motivating minorities, women, and youth to heal themselves, love and accept themselves, and pursue God while chasing their dreams and carving out their life’s path.

Essie is a Chicago native.

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Connect with Essie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/
Read Essie’s YouVersion Devotion Plan here:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/58980-grow-through-it-7-healing-practices-that

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should always put our hope in God

Hope in God
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word.”—Psalm 130:5 (NLT)

The verse above brings comfort to my heart and hopefully to your heart as well.

This Psalm begins with the author pleading from a hard place for not only God to hear his pleas for help but that the Lord would be attentive to his pleas for help. How often have you been in this place of deep despair, knowing that it is only our Eternal Father (God) who can deliver you?

I have been there in the past and I am in a season right now where I am pouring my heart out and desiring miracles that I truly know only He alone can give. But in this hard season as I plea for help, I am reminded of the goodness of Almighty God.

I can tell you that in these difficult moments, we need to remember where we have been and what God has done for us in the past. Counting our blessings from God and expressing gratitude to Him is not the place where the enemy (Satan) wants us to be. He would rather we place our focus on the urgency of the situation before us rather than on the God we know who makes the impossible possible. Sometimes, we fall into that trap from the enemy instead of seeing his plan as a distraction to where we should truly fix our gaze (up to Heaven where God sits on His Throne).

The author of Psalm 130 started with a plea and a desire in the first few verses. But when he got to verse 5, I can hear him saying to God (I am paraphrasing here): “Lord I am counting on you. Yes, Master, I am counting on You. I know You as the unfailing God. You are the One who calls dry bones back to life and make the impossible possible. You cannot lie and You always honor your Word. Today I choose to trust You despite what’s happening in my family, in my community, and in the world. Your Word gives me hope. I can trust what You say because I know that in your time, you will fulfill that every word You have spoken.”

Sometimes, we have to speak to our souls and say as we’re advised to in Psalm 42:5-6 (NLT), “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God.”

When we are in a hard place, hope doesn’t come easy. However, it’s in these times that we go to God and ask for the Holy Spirit’s help. It’s in these times that we need to open The Holy Bible and look to what God’s Word says. The noise in our head if we allow it, can seem to be louder than the Word of God and in those trying times, we tend to forget the evidence of what He has done for us in the past. We are encouraged by Psalm 130:5 to rely on God. Why? Because He is trustworthy and He is faithful.

My encouragement to you today is simply this: Count on and hope in God and His words in The Holy Bible and the words He speaks to you. This hope is what will keep you as you navigate life’s twists and turns. Reflect on seasons you had before when it seemed God was distant. What did He speak into your spirit and what was the outcome of the problem you faced? We can hold God to His Word, remind Him of what He said He would do then recount His goodness and relax in His care.

Let’s Pray: Father in the name of your Son (Jesus Christ), I lift up to You my friends who are reading this message. Spirit of the Living God, fill us with your peace that surpasses all human understanding, give us grace and strengthen us in our moments of weakness. Lord, help us to rest in You and the knowledge of your Sovereignty. Teach us to wait on You. As we wait, fill us with anticipation and expectation because we know You will fulfill your words in your own time. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Spirit of the Living God” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Colette Christopher is an empowered woman who inspires women to be who they were created to be. Her core message is empowerment. She is an author, certified life coach, podcast host, and trainer with the Maxwell Leadership team. 

Colette believes that an empowered woman empowers others and is powerful in knowing who she is and what she can accomplish. Colette is on a mission to impact the lives of the women assigned to her, whether she is their coach or trainer or shares a word that will transform their lives.

Colette utilizes her Christian principles as the base of all her engagements. She is passionate about fulfilling her life purpose of empowering women to know who they are, rebuild their confidence, and use their voices as tools to uplift themselves and others.

​​She is the founder of the M.E.E. Movement L.L.C., a faith-based empowerment ministry business that helps women of faith rebuild their confidence and use their voice to walk in their purpose through life coaching, mentoring, and empowerment speaking. Colette believes in using the gifts God has given her to help women be who God has called them to be and ultimately fulfill the purpose for which they were created. She lives by Romans 8:28 (NIV), that promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

A native of Jamaica, Colette resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is the mother of two beautiful young women, a son-in-love, and two grandsons. Colette enjoys reading, writing, watching good movies, and chatting with her daughters and friends.

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Connect with Colette:
Blog: https://www.colettemarie.online/blog
Website: https://www.colettemarie.online/
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2367935
Email: Colettemarieonline@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: The kind of life Jesus Christ wants us to live

How to live a fruitful life
A devotional by Cherie Mendez

“But the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.”— Mark 4:19 (NIV)

We live in a world where distractions are everywhere.

Our attention is pulled in many different directions every day. As believers, we are called to be light in the darkness. The worries, cares, and distractions we encounter can not only slow us down; they threaten to derail us altogether.

When I got the opportunity to move to New York, I was so excited to go full speed ahead with my acting career. Everything was falling into place, and I was so thankful to the Lord for opening doors.

After my first few months living in the city, I was thrilled to be booking work and building all the right relationships to succeed in the business. Several years later when the COVID pandemic hit, the entertainment industry shut down, and I lost almost everything.

One of the greatest lessons I learned in this experience was that distractions can cause us to neglect relationships and things that matter most, especially our time with God. As Christians, when we are too preoccupied with success or our own concerns, we might fail to notice the people around us who need prayer or encouragement.

Shortly after the pandemic started in late 2019, I was asked to share my testimony on social media. I am so thankful for that opportunity because it really showed me where my heart was and that experience got me back on track.

Here are four ways to live a fruitful life:

1. Start each day with reading God’s Word (The Holy Bible). Psalm 119:105 (NLT) says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” If we don’t start each day with the word of God, it leaves our spiritual tank empty, making us less equipped to handle life’s challenges.

2. Pray to God every day. Psalm 145:18 (ESV), “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” In our fast-paced world full of distractions, one of the hardest things to do is to sit quietly before the Lord.

3. Put your faith into action. James 2:17 (NIV) “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Every day God has something for us to do. Keeping our eyes on Him can keep us aligned with His purpose.

4. Fellowship with people who believe in God and are following Jesus Christ. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” It is so important to surround ourselves with a community of believers who encourage us to keep moving forward in our faith walk.

There is nothing greater than living a life that is aligned with God’s purpose in our fast-paced, hyper-connected world. All the endless scrolling on social media can leave us empty, but keeping in step with the Holy Spirit brings life and peace.

Let’s Pray:

Father, thank You for giving us your Word and for guiding us through all of the challenges we face every day. We thank You for all the opportunities You give us to serve You and to live an abundant life. Please enable us to be fruitful in this life on Earth and not be choked by the cares and distractions of this world.

In Jesus’s name I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: "Be the One" by Al Denson. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: "Make Room" by Jonathan McReynolds. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: "Go Light Your World" by Kathy Troccoli. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Cherie Mendez is a professional actress and photographer. 

Her passion is to help women understand their true worth and walk in their God-given purpose. After many years working as a Christian in the entertainment industry, she is thankful to be able to share all her learning experiences in her blog posts and on Instagram.

Some of the topics Cherie loves to write about are:

· Coping with rejection

· Finding your purpose and using your talent for God’s glory

· How God always looks at the heart and the meaning of inner beauty

· Understanding that we are all a work in progress and God is not done with us yet

Cherie’s TV credits include The Equalizer, Bull, and Blue Bloods (CBS). She also appeared in the PureFlix film Revelation Road 3: The Black Rider.

Cherie and her husband Jimmy live in Texas. They are thankful to have been married for 30 years. In their free time, they enjoy traveling, photography, and movie night.

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Connect with Cherie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheriemendez/

Devotionals for the Heart: What a Bible story about a harp taught me

Lessons from a Harp
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“There on the poplars we hung our harps.”

—Psalm 137:2 (NIV)

This verse in the anchor text above gives us such vivid imagery to the point where we can feel the weight of Israel's depression.

In verse Psalm 137:1 we are told that they would sit by the rivers of Babylon and remember Zion. Why were they in Babylon to begin with and not in Jerusalem that was known as God's holy city and was their home? It was due to disobedience.

God spelled out quite clearly in His Law, reminding them again in Deuteronomy 28 about blessings and curses, and encouraged them to choose life. God sent prophet after prophet with dire warnings for His people. But to no avail.

Recently, I read Deuteronomy 28, 2 Kings 23-25 as well as Jeremiah 25 in preparation to teach an overview for a Bible study on the book of Daniel. It was within these scriptures that I saw many reminders of God's mercy, grace, judgment, anger and mankind’s struggles with sin.

But I also saw that these scriptures speak well of God's love because what other god would give the standard as well as the solution? What other god would care to warn or make a way to righteousness? No other god!

God is a loving Heavenly Father who disciplines His children when they disobey to course correct their path from destruction and save their souls—just like we who are parents do with our own children. Did you catch that? We are His own children! God’s children. He made us, claims us, and bought us with a price—His own Son (Jesus Christ) died so we could have the right to be in God's family. Read more about that true story in John 3:16-17. This is quite remarkable to me!

Are we in a place of exile at the moment, remembering where we once had a sweet relationship with God but now we are hanging our harps on a poplar tree? Do we feel isolated from others? Are we experiencing a season of affliction? Are we here because of disobedience? If we are then what's the solution? Repentance.

Are we in exile because God has us here for a time of teaching and testing our faith? Just writing these words makes me nervous because of my very recent long-term affliction and exile season that lasted for five years before God healed me.

But guess what? God can use us in exile! Read the Bible stories about Queen Esther and Daniel in the lions’ den for prime examples of this truth. We are strangers in this land, exiles on Earth (1 Peter 2:11) while we wait for Jesus Christ to return and take us home in Heaven.

Therefore, instead of hanging our harps, let’s play them! Let’s seek how to honor Christ even in the exile, even in the affliction, even in the moments of waiting. This is not easy, but it is sanctified by God because of His sovereignty, He knows and acts according to His will for our good and His glory. God orchestrates our lives to give us opportunities to grow, draw close to Him and to choose Him, as well. He desires us to see these times of affliction and exile as training grounds not only for the ‘now’ but for the future.

I am here with you. And with God all things are possible.

Let’s Pray:

Father God,

Here I am, in exile, in affliction and I am sad because I remember what used to be. Life was different then. Maybe better. Maybe not. But honestly, I am longing for the familiar—even if it was in Egypt (so to speak). However, You are calling me to play my harp with remembrance and thanksgiving. To play with joy because You are with me. You use seasons of affliction, exile, deserts, mountain tops to grow us, challenge us, convict us and get us on the track You want us on. May I repent, accept and step out in faith, knowing You are with me. I want to play a new song on my harp—a song for You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Even in EXILE” by Crowder. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Kerry Sue’s life is very full because she is a wife and Marmee to three adult children—two of whom are married—and a new grandson. 

Kerry Sue met her husband in college and served on the mission field with him for a few years before settling down back in the United States of America to raise their family.

Kerry Sue’s family was a homeschooling family for 20 years and they enjoyed it immensely. For the last 24 years they have lived on a small farm in Northern California where they have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving their food. Kerry Sue’s family farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings. She maintains an open-door policy for dear friends—old and new.

Following and serving Jesus Christ is an integral part of Kerry Sue’s life as well as her family’s. Whether it’s singing in the church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, Kerry Sue loves to demonstrate her love for Jesus by giving to Him in service. She’s been a blogger for more than eight years, a Bible study writer for four years, and a devotional writer for more than two years.

Kerry Sue feels led to write about finding God’s Sovereignty in our suffering because of her own ongoing journey of more than four years, with the hope to encourage others.

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Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovereignblog

Devotionals for the Heart: When Jesus Christ calls you into ministry

Answering the Call from Jesus Christ
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”—Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

I was lying on my bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to fall asleep, but my thoughts wouldn't stop circling.

My mind was filled with questions. I asked myself: Should I continue with the ministry? I thought God called me into ministry. Ever since I met my Savior (Jesus Christ), there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to dedicate my life to serving Him, in whatever field He called me into to serve His people.

Over the years, God has shaped my heart for ministry through real-life experiences. Twenty-five years have gone by since I surrendered myself to God and not a day goes by that I want to try to run away. Instead, I want to equip myself to do His work.

When Jesus walked on this Earth gathering His disciples, it didn’t seem to me to be a complicated process. He used a personal approach that required a radical and sometimes immediate commitment from those He chose. Jesus didn’t conduct a lengthy interview with each disciple. He didn't ask about their educational background, their ministry portfolio, or any references. Maybe that was because Jesus knew all about them? One thing I believe is that He calls out ordinary people who are willing to serve Him, regardless of the circumstances, because ministry is a personal invitation from God.

For many years, I waited to be in the ministry. I try to equip myself by being involved in a church and belonging to one. But after many years, I am facing rejection and being overlooked, and I have no idea why. However, one thing I’m certain of is that my unique approach to loving broken people makes me feel left out.

After my husband passed away, I pursued the coaching profession because I wanted to help as many people as possible to find their purpose in life. So, I became a certified coach. After many years of practice, I thought I could start helping in ministry. I enjoyed being asked to preach or share my story about my brokenness and talk about how God restored and helped me during my dark moments. I tried to join a mission organization and obtain a scholarship through an organization but found that I am not qualified.

I’ve learned that an organization may have rules and boxes for you to check, but God’s Kingdom doesn’t run on man-made checklists. Ministry is not limited to pulpits or titles; it happens in daily life, in homes, in workplaces, in conversations.

What qualifies someone for ministry isn’t institutional approval but faithfulness to God. Faithful ministry is fueled by love, humility, and a spirit of obedience. Read 1 Samuel 16:7, Micah 6:8 and 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 for details. If I want to wait until I can meet every organizational standard, I will continue to chase approval and validation from humankind then I might never experience serving God.

I believe that God will open new doors for me. I will carry out my ministry in my personal life, at my job, through my writing, and in my coaching. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” I strive to achieve that Biblical standard of ministry.

Maybe you too feel rejected by people. But remember: God has not rejected you. Read Christ’s words to His disciples in John 15:16 (NIV), “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Maybe people have rejected you, but God hasn’t. If He called you into ministry then that calling cannot be taken away by human qualifications. Ministry is not about where you serve, but who you serve.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your mercy and grace in my life. Your never-ending love gives me the strength to survive and thrive. Thank You for reminding me that ministry is not about human qualifications but about Your calling. Even if people reject me, I know You have chosen me. Help me to live faithfully for Christ and to minister in every place You send me, with humility and courage. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “The Potter’s Hand” by Darlene Zschech. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Nobody” by Casting Crowns ft. Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Cause of Christ” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: The power of our testimony about Jesus Christ

What’s Your Testimony?
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”—2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

A friend and I agree that for many years, we felt like we had no testimony. She was saved at age 3. I was saved at age 5. What was there to tell?

Later, when I thought about it again, I realized there is so much to tell. I can share about the way God has guided and protected me, keeping me from crossing a thousand boundaries that I would’ve crossed if it were not for His gentle (and sometimes not so gentle) presence with me. I know the pain from the curveballs life has thrown my way was blunted—not prevented—by God’s hand.

Even in the seasons of my life when His protection was not so gentle and He had to keep me in line through many painful pruning sessions (due to calamities of my own making), God was there, keeping me for the purpose He had for me. It was a future only He could see. But I learned that His plans for me are good, just like He promises in Jeremiah 29:11.

It is true that I came to know Jesus Christ when I was five years old, but it is also true that if it weren’t for His presence in my life, I would’ve been dead by fifteen.

As our Heavenly Father, God lays out a path for each of us. Like a wise and talented author of books, God has plotted our entire story, and we are walking through it, discovering it for ourselves. That is not to say there are not plot twists and turns along the way. Some, God has planned in advance. Other diversions are ones we have chosen, and He has allowed. While they may not be His best for us, He uses them to add color and depth to our story. Our pain may be self-inflicted, but it contributes to a more beautiful conclusion and makes God more precious to us because we see His beauty, His purity, and His care in a way we didn’t before.

As we are open about our past, our lives, and our choices (good and bad), He will use our experiences to speak to others. Perhaps we’re not the one getting up on a platform and sharing about a miraculous shift from darkness to light, but those things that seem like minutiae as we share them over a cup of coffee might be just what another person needs to hear.

Dear friend, please take a moment to reflect on all God has done for you. Remember that His power was (and is) at work in your life in ways you could not see and may not see now. Those changes might have been small, but they may have effects that far outweigh a momentary, drastic salvation story. Both types of testimony have eternal value. Both are precious in His sight. When you have finished reflecting, please join me in prayer.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You that You had Your eye on me throughout my life. Whether I was aware of it or not You were preparing me. Thank You for every scar, for every one of my mistakes which You have used for good, and that You never gave up on me. It may have been a bumpy, winding road that brought me to You, or it may have been a path that was relatively straight. Either way, I am glad that You have brought me this far, and I pray that I am drawing ever nearer to the purpose You have for me. Please use my story to encourage someone else today.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “In Christ Alone/The Solid Rock” by Travis Cottrell. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Know the Plans (Audrey’s Song)” by Damaris Carbaugh. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Mercy Said No” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Scars” by I Am They. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

As a child, Aubrey spent countless hours creating characters and writing stories. 

Thirty years later, she took up her pen again, uniting her fascination for history with her passion for redemption. The stories she creates are a unique brand of gritty, honest wartime sagas, written from the German perspective.

Aubrey is the mother of three children, and she is married to her best friend Brian.

When she’s not writing or taking care of home and family, she can often be found making music, reading, or spending time with friends.

~*~
Connect with Aubrey:
Website: www.aubreytaylorbooks.com
Blog: www.aubreytaylorbooks.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aubreytaylorbooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aubreytaylorbooks/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/aubtaybooks

Devotionals for the Heart: Walking my dog taught me how to trust God

Why We Need to Let Go of Control
A devotional by Terry Overton

“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, ‘Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.’ But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.”—Jonah 1:1-3 (ESV)

Each morning before the sun inches over the horizon, I bounce eagerly from my bed and dress quickly to partake in an adventure!

I do not travel far on this journey, just a mile or two. My morning itinerary includes taking my dog Bella—a miniature gray and white Schnauzer weighing exactly twelve pounds and two ounces—for our early morning walks. I use this time to praise God for His countless blessings of creation. His handiwork surrounds me on my walking path. The busy sound of chattering squirrels, the deep calls of the hooting owls, budding flowers of spring, trees changing to their fall colors, the rising sun reflecting yellow and orange on the water of our lake. All these wonders in God’s creation proclaim the glory of God and showcase His majesty!

More than once, I have returned from our early morning walk inspired to complete the tasks of the day with renewed strength and joy.

My walk with my dog is not always enjoyable or predictable. My adorable pooch is one of the most stubborn pups I have ever had. She does not realize the direction she wants to travel is in the path of an oncoming car or a 150-pound unruly dog. Bella tugs the leash in the opposite direction from where I am leading her, with more force than expected for a tiny dog. I often find myself wondering if I might be like Bella, guided by God and on a safe path, but with ideas of my own. Do I pull the other way and resist the path He wants me to take?

How often have I failed to let Him be in control? How frequently have I fought against what He asked me to do? Just as Jonah in the Old Testament, have I ignored God’s call and gone in the completely wrong direction? I must confess I have. I have fought for control, I thought I knew better, and became impatient, and subsequently, I have run into challenging circumstances or situations.

When I take control, grow impatient, or ignore His guidance, I end up in painful consequences and only then do I ask God, “Why?” Just like Jonah found himself in the belly of a big fish (kind of like God’s version of a “Time Out” for Jonah to be still and reflect about his bad choices and actions), I land in the center of a disaster when I go my own way. And only then do I look back and retrace the steps I took. Why did I take a particular step? Why did I skip that step? Why did I refuse to step forward or turn backward? Why did I resist or ignore? The answer is simple: I thought I was in control. This is an illusion. We are never in control! Our God is always in charge. We might wish for control, but our reasoning is faulty.

The Bible says in Proverbs 16:9 (ESV), “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” God guides us through Scripture and His actions. We see evidence of His control through the unpredictable events of our lives that He allows: illnesses happen, jobs are lost or obtained, financial crises surface, relationships are found or lost, babies are born, and our loved ones die. These are all beyond our control.

I think that the reason why we strive for control is because when we try to surrender our perception of control, it leads to anxiety. We develop fear when we do not know how our situation will end. A lack of power, feeling helpless or hopeless about events in our lives increases our worry. But through prayer and developing a closer relationship with God, we can choose not to become anxious. He has instructed us to hand our anxiety and worry over to Him.

The Bible advises us in 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV), “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” The Word tells us we can let go of the anxiety by letting God handle our worries. He cares for us and does not wish for us to be burdened with fear and worry.

Jonah learned his lesson, and from the inside of the giant fish, he prayed to God, acknowledging how God had blessed him in the past. He told God he would follow His will. Once Jonah found himself on dry land again, he went to Nineveh, obeyed God, and Nineveh was delivered. God had a plan, and nothing Jonah could do would stop the plans He established.

When I struggle for control, the story of Jonah serves as a valuable example. When I am anxious for control, I must remember to thank God for all He has done and turn over my worries to Him. We don’t know the plan or the answers. But God does and that is all we need to know.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

In my weakness, I confess I try to take control instead of resting in Your power. Please forgive me when I forget that Your plan is best. Remind me each day that You alone are in control, and Your ways are higher than mine. Teach me to trust Your guidance so that I may grow closer to You and walk in Your will.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “I Surrender” by Hillsong. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Give You My Heart” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God Has Another Plan” by Babbie Mason. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. 

Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean.

She has two children, seven grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Her previous writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She now seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals.

Over the years, Terry’s books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.

Terry’s background in teaching adults and children shine through her stories that often include a character with educational or learning challenges. Her Christmas series, The Oddball Ornaments, features a box of misfit ornaments who first learn the meaning of Christmas and then discover the meaning of forgiveness. In The Underground Book Readers series, one of the main characters is on the autism spectrum yet is one of the leaders of the group of teens. Book one of a new series, The Messiah Brigade, features an awkward middle school nerd who helps his school turn around a bully gang of kids. Adoption and family issues are the focus of her new book, Charlotte McMaster and the Messenger Angel.

Terry lives in Texas and enjoys reading, taking pictures for devotional posts on social media, visiting with her family, playing golf, and writing.

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Connect with Terry:
Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com
Blog: https://terryovertonbooks.com
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Devotionals for the Heart: Being part of God's family is a game changer

Game Changers
A devotional by Colleen C. Howard

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”

—1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV)

Have you ever been part of a team?

I’ve been a member of quite a few teams in my life. I’ve served on musical theater teams, dance teams and planning teams. I’ve been part of worship teams and Bible study teams. And, as long as I live, I’ll always be an active member of my family: Team Howard!

Most successful team leaders do the following:

● Select team members who have specific gifts, talents, and skills to offer the team.

● Inspire team members to work together in harmony to accomplish their goals.

● Encourage and support each other.

But here’s an important part necessary for every team to succeed: Every team needs a leader who is gifted in a specific area to support the team. Sports teams have coaches who’ve studied the game and know how to lead the team to victory. Music directors understand the nuances of the music and know just the right words to use in communicating with the orchestra in order to blend the instruments to create a pleasing sound.

God can do all of these things and more! He’s in the transformation business and has provided a firm foundation for creating successful teams. He’s the coach, manager, and Chief Executive Officer rolled into one. The best part is He doesn’t charge any fees for these services. Ponder that for a minute.

In my role as the K-12 STEM Specialist for our local school district, I was a team member in the Science Department. Each of us had an assignment, and my job was to work with community leaders and school principals to enrich student learning by combining science, technology, engineering and math as a cohesive, collaborative experience. It was a bit of a rocky start, but I quickly learned that relationships are the glue that holds the team together. Getting to know the principals and teachers was key to helping them achieve their desired outcomes. Seeing their success was the very best part of my job!

However, accomplishing profound change isn’t easy. We have to work hard at our craft and be dedicated to the goal. It takes courage to climb the professional ladder and get that promotion and perseverance to cross the finish line. Romans 12:2 ESV says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

We are members of God’s Family! Therefore, we have the privilege to proclaim His marvelous light and share it with the world. This is a game-changer.

Being a member of God’s family flips our agenda. Our relationship with God changes everything—how we see others, how we view the world, and how we approach the trials in our lives. For me it was coming to the conclusion that relationships unlock the power of team efforts. When we realize we live every moment of our lives in the presence of God, and know how much He loves us, this truly changes everything.

Let’s Pray: Gracious God, we are so thankful for the privilege of being on your team. You send the Holy Spirit to guide our steps and encourage us to work in harmony for your good and glory. You are the conductor of our lives. Blend our talents and gifts to reflect your light to the world. Praise be to God. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “People Need People” by CAIN. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Colleen C. Howard is a Jesus follower, wife, mom, mimi, educator and author. 

She lives with her husband in the beautiful Arizona desert where the sunsets are spectacular, the summers are hot, and the winters are a little slice of heaven. Her two adult children and their families live nearby. She considers it a joy to spend time with her family members!

She is a lifelong educator and co-founder of an educational professional development business. After spending her professional life in education, Colleen retired as the STEM Specialist for a large public school district. As she approached the end of that season, God placed a strong desire in Colleen’s heart to shine a light on God’s presence throughout ordinary days and encourage women in their faith-walk with Jesus Christ.

When asked what makes her faith walk real, Colleen replied, “It isn’t just one thing, but a million little things. Although some days bring trials and others bring joy, it’s never just another day.” She says when you give your heart to Jesus, each new day is another opportunity to walk hand-in-hand with Him and begin to know the heart of God. As you become more aware of His presence, stop, take a breath, and watch what God will do.

Colleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.

She has been published online via these websites: Inkspirations, Her View From Home, and Inside Out Worldwide.

~*~
Connect with Colleen:
Website: https://www.authorcolleenchoward.com/

Devotionals for the Heart: How to discover the power of letting go

The Power of Letting Go
A devotional by Suzanne Felton

“Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.”

—Jonah 2:8 (NIV)

Perhaps you’ve heard the story—attributed to various tribes depending on who tells it—about how a hunter can catch a monkey using nothing but a hollowed-out coconut and a piece of fruit. The hunter places the fruit inside the coconut through a small hole in the shell and secures the trap to a tree. When a hungry monkey comes along, it reaches through the hole, grabs the fruit, and tries to pull it out, but can’t. Its fist is too big for the hole.

But wait, you might be thinking. All the monkey has to do is let go of the fruit, slip its hand out of the coconut, and run free. You would be right, but what the hunters know is that monkeys will not let go of the fruit, even when their captors come to take them away. They keep holding on until it’s too late.

Aren’t we all like those monkeys sometimes? Humans have a hard time letting go. Maybe it’s an innate survival instinct, or a mindset taught by culture, or a combination of both, but people tend to grab hold of things within their reach and cling tightly to them. “Mine” is a word children learn early, use often, and carry into adulthood. We humans love to obtain, collect, and accumulate as much as we can, building bigger barns or renting more storage units to keep it all in. It’s what we do.

In a world that is constantly telling us that we can have everything we want, and that we deserve to have it all right now, it’s hard not to grab onto things that bring us instant gratification, especially when we’re hungry or in pain or facing difficult circumstances. The fruit in the coconut can seem like the solution to our immediate problems, so we grab onto it. With our fists closed around the wrong things, however, we cannot receive God’s greater blessings.

The Bible tells of a time when a wealthy young man approached Jesus Christ and asked him what he needed to do to have eternal life (Matthew 19:16-22). Jesus told him he must sell all his possessions, give to the poor, and then follow Him. Instead of jumping at the chance to do what was necessary to get what he’d asked for, the Bible says the man went away sad. He was not willing to let go of what he had in the here and now, so he could not receive God’s eternal blessing.

The things we cling to in the moment aren’t necessarily bad things. God knows we need food, money, and material possessions in our earthly lives. It’s when we hold on too tightly, when we begin to trust in the things themselves instead of the One who gives them to meet our needs, that those things become idols that turn us away from Him. With our focus on idols, we become trapped and fail to see the danger that’s coming because of it.

Jesus understood human nature. He was tempted in the desert by the devil to seize things that might have brought him temporary satisfaction in the here and now (Matthew 4:1-11). Later, facing death, He asked his Father (God) if there was any way to avoid the pain and suffering He knew was coming (Matthew 26:39). Each time Jesus chose not to take the easy way out—to grab the fruit in the coconut—but said instead, “Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39 NIV).

Jesus knew the power of letting go. He set the ultimate example of avoiding the trap of instant gratification. We can read about it in Philippians 2:5-9 (TLB) that says, “Your attitude should be the kind that was shown us by Jesus Christ, who, though he was God, did not demand and cling to his rights as God, but laid aside his mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men. And he humbled himself even further, going so far as actually to die a criminal’s death on a cross. Yet it was because of this that God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name which is above every other name.”

When God asks us to let go of our idols, He’s not just trying to take away things that make us happy. He wants us to open our hands and our hearts to receive His blessings that bring eternal joy.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, help me to recognize the things in my life that I’m holding too tightly and taking my focus off of You. Help me let go of my idols before I become trapped by them. Thank You for Jesus, who set the example for us. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “First Things First” by Consumed By Fire. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Suzanne Felton has been a writer for most of her life, even before she realized it. 

She has worked in a wide range of settings, from non-profits to science labs to government contracts to educational classrooms, all of which involved writing in one form or another.

Suzanne is amazed by the power of words and now uses her passion and experience to help authors and students as a writing coach. Encouraging others to find the words and the courage to share their stories is one of her greatest joys.

Suzanne’s devotionals have been published in periodicals and blogs including The Upper Room, The Love Offering, Keys 4 Kids, and The Swallow’s Nest. She is also a two-time finalist in the Cascade Christian Writing Contest for poetry.

She is a wife, mother, writer, reader, teacher, deep thinker, and sinner saved by grace. Suzanne and her family reside in Northern Virginia, but Suzanne will always call her native South Carolina home.

Married to her best friend for twenty-five years, Suzanne is active in her church, where she and her husband have served as deacons for over a decade. They enjoy watching sports and visiting national parks with their two teenage sons. Suzanne is also an avid birder, easily and happily distracted by anything with feathers.

~*~
Connect with Suzanne:
Website: https://suzannefelton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l_suzanne_felton
Email address: suzannefeltonwriter@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Don't give up during difficult times, look up!

It’s Time to Arise!
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.”

— Isaiah 60:1 (KJV)

For anyone who has lost a loved one through death or divorce, you understand that there is a season of grief that can be challenging for us to walk through.

This time can seem long to others, but time stands still when you are the one grieving. No one can really put a timer on how long that season will last. Whether days, months or years, there is a portion of your heart that knows a deep pain that is like nothing you’ve ever felt before. And then, like turning pages in a book, there is a day when the pain changes, opening a space for joy to take some space and help you to sit up a little stronger. I know this to be true when my father died on a sunny Friday afternoon.

My Dad and I exchanged wishes to have a great day, not knowing it would be our last morning seeing each other. I still remember taking the phone call where I was told of his passing and crying out in shock. Yet the Lord had been with me throughout the day, not only in my thoughts but like a warm blanket that I felt wrapped in the comfort of His presence when I needed it most. Perhaps you’ve known this feeling and pain too—whether a sickness leading to death or the stress of a strained relationship that ends up broken. When the pain hits, our heart feels weak but it's right then we can stretch our hands up and worship with our whole heart. It’s painful and the weight of the pain is heavy. We don’t have to carry it alone. He is present, even in the darkness.

Israel had been in captivity for many years. They obeyed then disobeyed repeatedly yet God had promised deliverance and there came a time when He spoke through his prophet to tell them to “Get up and arise.” The wise king Solomon told us “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV). At this time, the nation of Israel was entering a new season, and it was time to step out of the ashes of the past sin. God wanted them to step out of the memories of repeated disobedience and reconnect with the only One who could save them, deliver and comfort them: their Creator (God), who had called them to be His special people.

King Solomon learned that everything has a time. Wherever you are in life right now you may be wondering, "When will things change? When will the clouds of darkness dissipate? How long will God allow certain things to go on and on? Does He not think it’s time to turn things around? Does He not believe it’s time to bring judgment down on the wicked people?"

You may know this, but I’ll say it anyway: God knows. He is fully aware of everything that is happening in our town, city, county and country. God knows we don’t know everything, but in those times, He wants us to look up. He wants us to get up. He wants us to arise! He wants us to look up to Heaven and look forward in faith. God knows our past, and He has plans for our future. It’s a future filled with hope and promise (Jeremiah 29:11). It’s time to rise.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, I know You are fully aware of where I am and how I’m feeling right now. I look to You in faith believing You see what’s happening in my present, but You also hold my future. So, I trust You and look to You, dear God. Thank You for the light of hope that shines bright because that light is You! In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “I Lift My Hands” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “He Knows” by Jeremy Camp. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Reason for the World” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit, as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Movie Review: Light of the World

Momentum Influencer Network (MIN) invited me to watch an early screening of Light of the World movie about Jesus Christ’s ministry and mission on Earth. Of course, I said yes! Before I share my review of this movie, let me share a few words from MIN:

This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today!

Light of the World movie opens in theaters on September 5, 2025.

If you are a fan of the 1990s golden era of 2D, hand-drawn animation, you will love this movie! This is the first movie from Salvation Poem Project, a ministry committed to sharing Jesus with the world. Director John Schafer was the producer of the beloved program Superbook. It truly is a family movie the whole family will love!

Show your support by going to the opening weekend (Sept. 4-7 ... special early showings on Thursday). If you have a group of 10 or more people, you can get group tickets for just $7.50 a person. #LightoftheWorldMIN

~*~

My Review:

This movie, Light of the World, is such a beautiful portrayal of the life and ministry of our Savior (Jesus Christ)! The Bible says that Jesus is Light of the world. According to John 8:12 (ESV), “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This movie does a wonderful job of bringing that Scripture alive through a very creative yet Biblical style of storytelling.

This is the first 2D, hand-drawn animation that I’ve seen in my lifetime thus far. I was a bit skeptical at first but the storytelling won me over in the first few minutes. I loved the personal touch of telling this story through the perspective of Apostle John. I appreciated the family-oriented nature of this film. I like how the faith journey of the main characters in this movie was realistic showing not just the highs but the lows of being a disciple of Jesus Christ and getting to know Him as your Lord and Savior. I especially appreciated how at the end of this movie, there was an altar call as well as a QR Code for anyone watching the movie who wants to give their life to Jesus Christ and trust Him with their heart. Such a beautiful opportunity!

If you are a new believer in God, an experienced follower of Jesus Christ or someone who doesn’t read the Bible and never heard about our Savior then this is a movie for you to watch! It’s family-friendly for all ages. I highly recommend it!

~*~

Learn more about this movie by opening the links below:

Light of the World official movie trailer
https://youtu.be/rGd9zO_lvU4?si=hP6Vfqi4ynAVp5yK

The Heart of Light of the World
https://youtu.be/Vime_hl3KLE?si=DT8qK2PFslBt6wxj

Visit the movie’s official website for more information:
https://lightoftheworld.com/

Watch Jean Thomason interview Brennan McPherson who is the producer of this movie:
https://youtu.be/MreyQlPq-VQ?si=NesG36u7ihkX7-MK

~*~

Disclosure: Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Devotionals for the Heart: How God used teenagers to help save my life

When God Saved My Life
A devotional by Joyce M. Averils

“I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please’.”—Isaiah 46:10 (NIV)

In 1989, I was teaching a Sunday school class for high school-aged students in my church. Those Sunday mornings were the highlight of my week. I loved pouring into those teens, laughing with them, praying over them, and walking beside them as they grew in their faith and navigated life. We weren’t just filling our traditional role as teacher and students. We were family.

One Sunday, I noticed that a pair of 16-year-old twin sisters hadn’t been there for a few weeks. Concerned, I asked the class if they knew what was going on. The students told me that one of the twins had developed a serious alcohol addiction and was now in treatment. Her sister had chosen to stay home until they could come back together.

My heart broke. I reached out to their parents, who confirmed everything the class had said. That following Sunday, I brought the situation up with the teens and asked how we could support the girls. One student said, “We should pray for them.” Absolutely. But then another teen quietly offered, “Maybe we could sign pledges not to drink alcohol until we’re adults.”

I was floored, but in the best way. These kids wanted to stand in solidarity and to commit to something hard as a sign of support. I told them I’d write up pledges and bring them next week. Then someone asked, “Are you signing one too?”

Before I could answer, another student chimed in, “But she’s already old! She can drink if she wants to!” We all laughed. But I said, “You know what? I’ll sign a pledge too. I won’t drink alcohol until each one of you has graduated from high school.”

One by one, they graduated. And I kept my word. For years, I completely gave up alcohol— I had no celebratory glass of wine and no fruity drink at a wedding reception. But then something unexpected happened. When I could finally drink again if I wanted to, I realized that I no longer wanted to.

Fast forward to 2020. At my annual checkup, my doctor sat me down to go over my lab results. My liver enzyme numbers were alarmingly high. A specialist visit and liver biopsy followed that appointment. The diagnosis: autoimmune liver disease. The doctor gently explained that if I hadn’t stopped drinking back in 1989, my condition would have progressed far more rapidly. In fact, he said, best-case scenario, I would have needed a liver transplant, and worst-case scenario, I could have died years earlier.

I sat there stunned, but so thankful. What I thought was a simple act of solidarity with some teenagers turned out to be the very decision that saved my life.

Here’s what I know now: God knew. He knew what was coming even when I didn’t. That’s the beauty of His omniscience. He sees the end from the beginning. Isaiah 46:10 (NIV) reminds us, “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’”

When I made that pledge, it felt like a small sacrifice. But now I know it was God nudging me through the Holy Spirit to do something that didn’t just bless others, it protected me. It wasn’t a rule or restriction. It was grace. Divine foresight wrapped in love.

Sometimes we don’t understand the “no” we get from God. Sometimes the door that closes feels like a loss. But often, God’s “no” is a “yes” to something better, something life-giving or even life-saving. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

That Sunday School classroom was holy ground, not just for the students, but for me too. I look back and see how God used their pain, their courage, and their ideas to plant something in me that would bloom decades later in the form of protection and healing. What a faithful, loving God we serve.

If you’re in a season where God has said “no” or asked you to release something that doesn’t make sense, I want to encourage you: He sees what you can’t. He knows what’s ahead. His plans are always for your good (Jeremiah 29:11), even when the steps don’t feel good in the moment.

That pledge wasn’t just for a moment. It was for a lifetime. And through it, God wrote a story I never could have imagined, a story of obedience, healing, and grace. I’m still in awe, as I’m reminded that God’s answer is always the right answer at the right time.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing the end from the beginning and lovingly guiding our steps, even when we don’t understand the “why”. Thank You for the unexpected ways You protect us, often through small acts of obedience that carry great purpose. Help us to trust Your “no” as much as we celebrate Your “yes” because we know that Your plans are always for our good. Teach us to lean into Your wisdom, rest in Your timing, and remain faithful, even when the road ahead is unclear. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Thank You” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Master’s Hand” by Annie Herring. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Joyce M. Averils is an attorney by education and a retired judge who currently works as a Life Purpose and Business Empowerment Coach. 

She attended the University of South Carolina where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities and Social Sciences, with a concentration in Political Science in May 1981. Upon graduation from the University, she attended The Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law, where she graduated with a Juris Doctor degree in June 1984. Joyce was admitted to the Georgia Bar in November of 1984.

During her legal career, she served as the legal advisor for an episode of the American television program “Designing Women”. She also successfully argued a zoning case before the Georgia Supreme Court.

Today, she is the founder of Averils Omnimedia, LLC, which includes Her RICH Life Coaching, where she helps high-achieving women of faith create a purpose-aligned life and business through coaching programs, workshops, and retreats.

She recently launched 26th & Alden Paper Design House which will release its first paper product in 2025.

Joyce believes that God created women to do extraordinary things by walking fully in their purpose, calling, and assignment. She knows that each woman has a unique calling that only she can fulfill, and if she doesn’t answer it, that work may never be done. Joyce is deeply aware that there are people waiting for the help only God can give, and He often chooses to work through His people to meet those needs. That’s why Joyce is committed to answering God’s call on her life and inspiring other women to do the same, so together, we can be of greater service to God and one another.

Her life verse is John 17:4 (NIV), “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.”

She makes her home on the coast of South Carolina.

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Connect with Joyce:
Website: www.herrichlife.com
Facebook Ministry: www.facebook.com/groups/thepurposealignedwoman
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/coachlabforaspiringchristianwomencoaches
Facebook: www.facebook.com/@HerRichLife
Instagram: www.instagram.com/herrichlife
Email address: joyce@herrichlife.com

Devotionals for the Heart: What it means to follow Jesus Christ's example

Modeling Faith Like a Mama Bear
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.”

—2 Thessalonians 3:7-9 (NIV)

Have you ever seen a wild black bear rather close to you?

I have a few times, and it’s such a beautiful experience—beautiful, that is, when relative safety is within reach.

Last weekend, we went to the Great Smoky Mountains, and black bears frequently roam the little neighborhood around the cabin where we stayed. On a couple of mornings while we were there, a mama bear startled me by walking right down the center of the neighborhood’s main street.

She swaggered like she owned the place, which she clearly did, acknowledging me with a head nod as if to say, “Hey, weak human. Stay out of my way, but I mean you no harm. And good morning to you.” Following closely behind her were her two older cubs.

She sauntered down the street and nosed in the bushes for a few minutes, then—as my daughter and I watched safely from our Jeep—she casually walked right next to us and down the grassy hill right next to our cabin. Her cubs followed faithfully behind, learning at her feet, watching her every move, following and obeying with rapt attention. One of the cubs fell a little behind, checking something out on his own, and clearly Mama Bear told him to hurry up, because after a minute, he went barreling down the hill right after his mom and brother, as if saying, “Sorry! Wait for me!”

The next day we drove around Cade’s Cove and spotted another mama bear and two cubs, this time in the woods. She was showing her children how to roll over a massive downed tree to look for food, her strong arms moving the log this way and that as branches and leaves shook with might. Her cubs watched, following along when it was their turn to pitch in.

It reminded me about the people in my own life who I have watched and followed on the Christian journey. I’ve seen them, a bit farther along in their faith, sometimes significantly more, modeling for me how it is to live the Christian life. They’ve shown me how to respond with grace and mercy, how to lead with wisdom, how to have joy even in suffering, how to weather storms with hope. I’ve watched as they’ve stood apart from the crowd, content to walk with Jesus Christ rather than the ways of the world. Even if I didn’t know it at the time, they modeled for me what I’m supposed to do too. Now in turn, I model that for others. Now, it’s my turn to be that “mama bear.”

It’s hard sometimes when we’re walking in the world not to cave to temptation or behave like others around us. It’s hard sometimes not to lean into our own selfish fleshly desires. For me, it’s become a far more natural way of living over time, both out of force of habit and because I’ve trained my mind to do what the Apostle Paul advised—to keep my sights on heavenly things (Colossians 3:2), to remember always that I am a citizen of heaven and not of this world (Philippians 3:20). Yet still, it’s hard sometimes.

That’s because there is a war going on all around us. It’s a war between our sinful world and God’s heavenly kingdom, a war for our souls, a war that evil tries so desperately to win. We know evil will never win, but still … the war persists. For those on God’s team, it requires each of us to do our part in the daily battle.

Sometimes that means looking to godly leaders and mentors in the faith for what to do—and sometimes it means that we must become those godly leaders and mentors ourselves, those older brothers or sisters showing the younger ones how to behave. Consider how the Lord is calling you to be one of those mentors today. Consider their eyes upon you, even if you don’t know they’re watching.

Remember that for someone, you might well be that mama bear in the wild world, teaching her cubs what to do and how to live right. Amen, and thanks be to God.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation. Help me to remember that just as those helped me to grow in faith, I can be that model for someone else. Help me shine your light and draw others to you in all the ways I live. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “I Will Follow Christ” by Clay Crosse, Bebe Winans & Bob Carlisle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Find Us Faithful” by Steve Green. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio: 

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach. She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. Her Christian contemporary novel, The Memory Garden, released this spring; book two in the series releases this fall. Learn more about Jessica’s writing ministry and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com. She has a YouTube devotional, and you can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.