Devotionals for the Heart: How to survive the battlefield in your mind

Don’t Waste Your Mind
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

—Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

This quote was the slogan for the United Negro College Fund that I heard on television commercials for years as a teenager. It stayed with me because the mind truly is one of the greatest places we can invest our time. Yet I am concerned when I see how many things can diminish the value of this incredible gift.

Our Creator (God) created animals, human beings, nature, and the entire world. When we consider the intricacies and details of how each part has been divinely created, it is astonishing. Take, for instance, the human brain. People spend years studying to become brain surgeons because of the complexity and importance of this remarkable part of our bodies.

A family friend once had a brain tumor, and as we walked alongside her and her family through that journey, we learned so much about the complexities of the diagnosis and the human brain. It was truly mind-blowing.

Our brain is like the hardware that houses our mind and thought processes that we cannot physically see. They are connected. When our minds become overwhelmed with stressful or negative thoughts, it can have a direct effect on how we function. During that difficult season of having a brain tumor, it became especially important for our friend to guard her thoughts.

I remain in awe of the way God created this part of the body. It reminds me that we need to be intentional about what we allow our minds to dwell on. We live in a world where our minds are constantly challenged to maintain balance. So, I’d like to encourage us to consider a few things in this daily battle:

Peace is a choice. We live surrounded by so many voices, opinions, and noises that can overwhelm us at times. Yet peace is something we can choose to pursue and enjoy. The Bible says in Isaiah 26:3 (NIV), “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” The key here is to keep your mind on the Lord.

Protect your mind. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul tells us to put on the armor of God because we are engaged in spiritual battles. One of those pieces of armor is the helmet of salvation. The Roman helmet was carefully designed to protect the soldier’s head and neck from attacks coming from different directions. When Paul tells us to put on the “helmet of salvation”, he reminds us that our understanding of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ provides protection as we face the thoughts, darts, and attacks of the enemy.

God has given us what we need to fight. We need to put on this armor through prayer, studying the Word of God, and meditating on Scripture daily.

Finally, the battle in our minds—with thoughts we didn’t invite, as well as the decisions and choices we have to make regularly—is an ongoing one. Yet it is one we don’t have to face in our own strength.

The battlefield of our minds is one we never have to face alone. We can withstand and push back against the enemy’s desire to overwhelm us and make us feel helpless, hopeless, and defeated. I can tell you that this is something I deal with on an ongoing basis. I have learned to stay alert and not rely solely on my own strength. Sometimes I need a supplement of positive self-talk, but I have found an even stronger dose in meditating on Scripture, praying, and stewarding my physical health.

Be strong. Be courageous. But remember, you were never meant to battle this battlefield alone. Call a friend who is willing to listen. Write in a journal. Pray to God. Take those thoughts captive, as the Apostle Paul exhorted us to do.

God loves you. He hears you, and He sees you.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You see us, You hear us, and You know our every thought. Help me to think on those things that give life and are uplifting. Thank You for hearing my every cry, even when the darkness feels overwhelming. Strengthen me even now and teach me how to encourage myself and worship You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Song of Reflection #1: “Trust in God” (feat. Chris Brown & Isaiah Templeton) | Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “You’re Not Alone” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Every Moment” by ForeverJones. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “God Loves You” by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “I’ll Give You Peace” by Sandi Patty. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “My Prayer for You” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Surrounded (Fight My Battles)” by Michael W. Smith. Listen to it here.

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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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: How to wear the Armor of God every day

Looking For a Source of Strength? Wear God’s Armor!
A devotional by Dr. Gladys Childs

“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” —Ephesians 6:13 (ESV)

Have you ever considered cloaking yourself with God's armor through prayer?

It is a potent practice that I use for myself and my family. A certain strength comes from envisioning the armor being put on each morning, setting the tone for the day—the assurance that God's protection enables me to face whatever comes my way.

The armor of God is crucial for Christians because it symbolizes God's spiritual protection and strength to believers. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Apostle Paul uses the imagery of armor to illustrate how we can stand firm against spiritual forces of evil. Each piece represents different aspects of our faith and readiness to face challenges. Imagine each piece of the armor of God as essential equipment for a soldier in a spiritual battle. 

Here's a deeper look at what each piece represents:

1. Belt of Truth: This signifies more than just honesty; it's about aligning our lives with God's truth (John 8:31-32). Living in truth makes us less vulnerable to deception and confusion. It secures our understanding of God's Word and protects us from being misled by falsehoods. Just as a belt holds everything together, truth holds our spiritual lives together. It's about living honestly and in alignment with God's Word.

2. Breastplate of Righteousness: Beyond moral purity, this breastplate represents the righteousness we receive through faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). It guards our hearts from feelings of guilt, shame, and condemnation. It's not about our goodness but Christ's righteousness covering us completely.

3. Shoes of Readiness: These symbolize our preparedness to share the gospel of peace (1 Peter 3:15). Rooted in the Gospel, we are ready to stand firm in our faith and bring God's message of reconciliation and hope to others.

4. Shield of Faith: This shield protects us from the enemy's attacks of doubt, fear, and temptation (Hebrews 11:1). It's not blind faith but confident trust in God's character and promises, deflecting the lies and schemes of the evil one.

5. Helmet of Salvation: This helmet guards our minds against doubts and false beliefs (Romans 8:1). It reminds us of our identity in Christ and the assurance of our salvation, protecting our thoughts and keeping us focused on God's truth.

6. Sword of the Spirit (Word of God): More than just Scripture knowledge, this sword is our offensive weapon (Hebrews 4:12). It's the living and active Word of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, used to discern truth, combat falsehoods, and effectively minister to others. It's not just knowing Scripture but applying it in our lives and using it to combat lies and temptation.

Putting on the Armor of God is not a one-time event but a daily practice of spiritual discipline and reliance on God's strength. It involves intentional steps to align ourselves with God's truth and protection and daily spiritual practices: prayer, studying Scripture, walking in obedience to God's Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance. It's about being spiritually equipped to face life's challenges with courage, wisdom, and faith in God.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, please help us as we seek to put on the armor of God daily. May we realize the benefits of this practice for ourselves and those around us. Help us live according to Your Word and be the light to those around us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Head to Toe (The Armor of God Song)” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Dr. Gladys Childs is an author, speaker, religion professor, pastor's wife, and mom helping others be F.R.E.E. to Thrive© for the abundant life God has for them. She serves as Chaplain at Texas Wesleyan University and the Women’s Director at LifePoint Fellowship. She brings 25 years of experience and knowledge to her ministry. 

Gladys is frequently called authentic, witty, and candid as she shares her journey through life’s ups and downs. Her passion is meeting people at the intersection of faith and life’s difficulties. No stranger to heartache herself, she grew up in a non-church-going family with an alcoholic mother and is a trauma survivor.

Gladys holds a Ph.D. in Foundations of Education, a Master’s in Religious Education, a Master of Divinity, and a B.A. with a double major in Counseling and Psychology. Also, she is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church.

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Connect with Gladys:
Website: https://www.gladyschilds.com/
Blog: https://www.gladyschilds.com/blog
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgladyschilds/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GladysAnnChilds
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GladysChilds
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gladyschildsauthor/

Devotionals for the Heart: Why you should let God fight your battles

When You Let God Fight Your Battles
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

—Romans 8:37 (NIV)

The negative words echoed in the dark corridors of my mind: “You can’t start your own business! You don’t have the experience.”

Just as I was able to silence the noise, more words came rushing in like a flood: “Why would you want to do that anyway? There are other things out there that are much more meaningful.”

I made the terrible mistake of announcing my goals to my family and friends—the people who I thought would be the most supportive. I told them that I wanted to start a non-profit organization in order to assist those in prison with their transition to society. I beamed with pride as I explained how I felt God calling me to do this and that it had been a passion of mine for years. I presented the findings of my research that detailed the benefits of such a ministry. The positive impact on the lives of those in prison would be exponential, causing a ripple effect to their families and to the surrounding community. I was determined to make a difference in this world, but right then, I felt like the world was against me.

When God gives you a dream or a vision, sometimes it’s not for you to share with everyone who has a listening ear. There are people around you who are not always for you. I learned this simple lesson the hard way. I was crushed with disappointment by the ones who tried to convince me not to proceed with this new venture. I felt overwhelmed with doubt, and I started to question my skills and abilities. I wondered whether this huge task was suitable for me.

The enemy uses negative thoughts and limiting beliefs to paralyze us. His objective is to stop us from pursuing our purpose. But we serve a God who has overcome the enemy, and we too are overcomers because we belong to the Most High God! When God says yes, it doesn’t matter who says no.

I had to remind myself of God’s promises and the power that was available to me in His Word (The Holy Bible). I had to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). I had to recognize that I was not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). I had to use the weapons of prayer and praise to defeat the enemy who saw my potential and tried so hard to shut it down before it even started.

We must look ourselves in the mirror daily and affirm God’s truth into our lives. Here are a few Bible verses that can help us in our endeavor to speak truth:

“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.” (Psalm 118:6 NIV)

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV)

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17 NKJV)

“If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NKJV)

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 NIV)

Once we know God’s truth, there will be no reason for us to believe the enemy’s lies. We can stand firm on the His promises and allow His light to dispel the darkest of any negative thoughts or beliefs. This is how we fight our battles, and with God, we win!

Let’s Pray: Dear God, Thank you for Your truth that reminds us who we are in You. We are grateful that You have given us the victory over the enemy. May we be transformed by the renewing of our minds so that we can hear Your voice and obey Your Word. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Battles” by The Afters. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Angela Anderson was born in Brooklyn (New York) and raised in New Jersey. 

She started writing at an early age and realized in elementary school that it was both a strength and a passion. She continued writing through high school, college, and into adulthood.

Angela is the author of a devotional book titled Just When I Thought I Knew God, and she is currently working on another devotional book that will be introduced in 2023.

This is Angela's third year as a devotional writer for Alexis A. Goring’s “God is Love” blog. In 2021, Angela was a winner of a devotional writing contest where the entry is featured in a book published by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The book is titled, Hope When Your Heart is Heavy. The following year, another one of Angela’s devotionals was published in another publication from Proverbs 31 Ministries, called Living Unbroken.

Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing and speaking.

Angela is a Mom Life Coach. She empowers mothers who want to identify their God-given purpose and live it fully while taking care of their family. Angela develops mothers into mompreneurs by providing them with the necessary tools to be successful and fulfilled in life. These tools equip them to see their value, understand their importance, and reclaim their identity.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson for 18 years. Together they have two sons: Thomas (age 10) and Ryan (age 5). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling.

She treasures spending quality time with her family.

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Connect with Angela:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelanderson1104/
Facebook (personal): https://m.facebook.com/angela.thomasanderson
Facebook (Author page): https://www.facebook.com/jwitikg/
Angela offers free consultations for mothers who want to pursue their dream while taking care of their family. Schedule here: www.ChatWithCoachAngela.com

Devotionals for the Heart: When you feel like you are fighting battles alone

You Are Not Fighting Alone
A devotional by Dr. Jessica B. Turner

“The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”

—Exodus 14:14 (ESV)

Think about the last time you felt wronged.

Perhaps someone said something about you that wasn’t true or maybe you were looked over for a promotion when you were the most qualified. Whatever the situation was, I would think it’s safe to assume that your reaction wasn’t to be silent. Instead, I would guess that you became more vocal, possibly even rudely opinionated, as a response to the discrimination. I know I would because there are enough examples in my past where that was my default.

I felt unjustly treated and so I made it my focus to make that known along with why I was correct. Looking back, I realize I let my flesh take over. My need to defend myself was an attempt at preserving my pride. I had to come out as the “right” party to come out on top no matter the cost. It was always about me. My ego. My efforts. My image.

I forgot that God was ever in the picture because I often forgot to invite Him in. It wasn’t until I really began to study God’s Word (The Holy Bible) that I understood I am never alone, especially when in the middle of a fight. The Lord will fight for me and He will fight for you!

Yet, sometimes that looks quite differently than what we picture. Instead of raising our voices, it’s choosing to bite our tongues. Instead of pressing for retaliation, we pursue peace. Taking such an approach goes against our natural state. It requires the Holy Spirit and offers us an opportunity to walk in the fruit of the Spirit.

But how does one fight in such a manner? By remembering who God is and trusting that He is fighting alongside you. He will go before you and make a way. He will send people to speak on your behalf. He will expose lies that need to be brought to light to restore your name. All while you remain silent.

What a beautiful promise to stand on when it feels as if the world is against you! Rest assured, my friend, even if it is, our Lord has already won!

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I am never fighting alone. You are always by my side and focused on what is best for me. Help me to walk in the fruit of the Holy Spirit when faced with conflict so that I can be a witness to Your power and love. I love You and I trust You. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Battles” by The Afters. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Jessica B. Turner is a wife, mom, and LSU graduate with a degree in veterinary medicine. 

After practicing small animal medicine for six years, she traded in her stethoscope to become an online wellness coach, motivational speaker, and writer with a passion for mental health advocacy. This major life change was sparked after Jessica struggled with postpartum depression soon after she birthed her twin girls.

Along with Jessica’s career change came the discovery of who Jesus Christ really is and how He was the missing piece for her to be able to move forward from past trauma that she had suppressed for decades.

Jesus walked alongside Jessica as she underwent a transformation like none other. God transformed Jessica’s life from a broken mom who struggled with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and PTSD from witnessing an attempted suicide, to using her experiences to make her a powerful vessel for Him. To this day, God enables Jessica to touch the lives of others through her often unfiltered, yet inviting, form of storytelling.

Throughout this process of refinement, Jessica has shared her life story with the world through her social media platforms, in-person events, blog posts, and podcasts. She values the gift of transparency and has discovered that what so many people need to know is that they are not alone. Jessica has walked in their shoes, and she wants the world to know that Jesus is walking with them as well.

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Connect with Jessica:
Website: www.jessicabturner.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicabturner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicabturner/