Devotionals for the Heart: There is hope for when life looks hopeless

Seeds of Hope
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”—Romans 5:3-5 (NLT)

“Life has been hard,” I said silently as I slowly picked up my Bible.

I paused in midair with my Bible in my hands. I could barely open this book without tumultuous thoughts tumbling through my mind as I reflected on my journey through life. I wanted to see evidence of God’s handprint over my life. I realized that hardships were common but wanted to see if God walked with me in these trials. I needed to know if anything had changed in my walk with Him.

My mind focused on thoughts about my marriage that ended in divorce, fears I had as I struggled to raise my daughters alone, and the financial stress I faced. I couldn’t help but think how the pressures of those situations that I thought would have broken me, didn’t. I’m still standing. I’m still here. But there were times when my heart started hardening towards the Lord. I asked him, “How could You allow those situations to happen to me?” And gently just above a whisper, the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit asked me to look deeper.

My body slowly began to relax as I closed my eyes and invited the Holy Spirit to bring to my mind the scenes of those times when I doubted His Presence. As I looked at the story of my life, a single tear rolled down my face as I marveled at what I saw: God walking beside me.

The Apostle Paul wrote these verses (Romans 5:3-5) based on His experience as a way of encouraging us in times of hardship and trials that we as believers we will face. But it is important how we will allow them to work in our life. Will our trials and tribulations produce endurance within us, the ability to stand under pressure flatfooted knowing that our God will keep us no matter what and we will not let go? Or will we let go because we doubt God’s ability to keep and preserve?

I saw something that I missed all these years, life was hard yes, but I endured. I saw myself on my knees, praying for God to strengthen me. It was then that I realized that where I am now was only because I was forged in the fire. Standing strong in the intense heat and flames and allowing God to see me through those tough times produced a strength within me that I didn’t know I possessed. But it was only through God’s love, grace and mercy.

I looked at my heart and with tears rolling down my cheeks, I fully saw that the woman I was then isn’t the woman I am now. God worked on my character because she stood up under the trials. I bent under pressure, swayed with the tide but didn’t let Him go—even when I wanted to—I held on for dear life.

I gently placed my Bible on the bed, wiped the tears from my eyes and thought of the seeds of hope that has been sprinkled throughout my life. The ripple effects of tribulations produced within me perseverance and strengthened my trust in God. I realized how Jesus Christ carried me through these years when I was so heavy-hearted and overwhelmed with despair that I could barely walk. These realizations brought a fresh sense of hope surging within me. Is saw how Jesus has been my hope who has always been there, carrying me in the most difficult of times.

I remembered the prayers I prayed for my children and the days I toiled for them. As I meditated on the goodness of God, I lifted my hands in worship to my God who is my Heavenly Father. I committed my current struggles to the Lord in that moment. God gave me renewed knowledge that there is purpose being birthed in the hard places, and He will use it all for His glory. I opened my Bible to Romans 8:18 (NLT) and read aloud this verse: “Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.” Next, I read aloud Romans 8:28 (NLT): “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.”

Today you may be in a place of trials and challenges. I want to encourage and remind you that it’s impossible for God to fail you. You may be going through some difficult days and you may be wondering where God is in the middle of this. But the question to ask God during this tough time is, “What is it that you are producing in me through this my Lord?”

I know it’s not easy to ask that question. If it was possible we would avoid hardships if we could, but seeds of hope are planted in the hard places. They spring up strong and tall when we allow the Lord to simply have His way in your life. But first you have to choose to remain in the fire and let God forge you. Remember, God is always with you just like He promises to us in Psalms 23:4 (NLT): “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”

Let’s Pray: Spirit of the Living God, I pray for the person reading this today. May You strengthen their heart, fortify their resolve to stand resolute in you when they come under fire from the enemy. I pray that endurance, character and hope will be built up within them like a wellspring, and they will look back over this time and not only see your handprint, but what you have allowed to keep them. Give them a strong hope in your ability to not only save, but to deliver. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Deserved” by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Spirit of the Living God” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

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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: 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.

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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: Hope and healing for the brokenhearted

God Heals the Brokenhearted
A devotional by Essie Faye

“I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners.”— Isaiah 57:18 (KJV)

I stared blankly into space in my dimly lit bedroom and prayed to God saying, “Here I am Lord, once again. I’m going through divorce. Again. How did I get here a second time?”

I was numb, speechless, and shocked. Thoughts of the life I once envisioned—a future full of hope—rushed through my mind. There are so many lingering unfulfilled dreams and expectations. There was the loving marriage and true partnership that was never realized. The spiritual covering and God-centered true partnership that I ached for never materialized. Joyful children of legacy that I desperately desired were unborn. Yet again these dreams escaped my grasp, no matter how I prayed and tried to capture them. And, believe me, I tried—even to my hurt and almost to my demise. The disappointment and embarrassment—the pain of loss is real. And so is God. He is here with me, in the face of grief. Especially in my brokenness, God is present to heal me again and again.

In Isaiah 57:18, the prophet shares the heart of God with His people. God is near the hurting. God is present to heal our brokenness again and again. He is the Lord who heals us. Healing the brokenhearted is one of His many specialties. In this text God promises four things to His children who are hurting. As I hold fast to these promises, I have hope to move forward and grow through the pain. I pray that you too will find solace in them.

God promises that He sees the ways of his people. God sees you. All things are naked before His eyes. He promises never to leave or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). God is with us in good times and bad. He sees your pain, frustration, and loss just as He sees your joy, jubilation, and triumph. Not only does God see you, but He empathizes with you and He is moved to act on your behalf. He says, “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know” (Jeremiah 33:3 NIV). This brings me hope that God will heal my broken heart.

God promises to heal. He will repair the broken places of your life. He will help us to put the broken pieces of our hearts together again. He will heal our hurt and turn our mourning into dancing. He is our God who heals. He heals the brokenhearted and sets captives free. My shattered heart is safe in the Master’s hand. He will repair it. This brings me hope that the pain will end and the sun will shine again in my life.

God promises that He will lead us. He will take us by our hands and lead us in the way that we should go. He leads us beside quiet waters. (Psalm 23:2). He will lead us in peace when chaos is all around us. He will still our emotions when the storm within us rages. He will lead us by His Spirit, with His voice, and His Word when we don’t know which way to turn. We can trust Him. He knows the way. What’s even better is that if there is no way, He will create a way of escape, so we are able to endure our situation, by His grace. This gives me hope that peace will once again rule my heart.

God promises to restore. He will restore the things that you lost in your struggle. The joy that turned to sadness and the peace that fled for anxiety–God will restore. He will reset order in our lives plagued with chaos. He calms life’s most ferocious seas because He is God. He will cause you to recover time you thought lost and dreams you’ve given up on. God is faithful. Even from a place of woundedness I have a hope unperishable as I hold on to my faith. I know my God. He always wins and so do I, even in the face of adversity.

Call to Action:

1. Acknowledge your brokenness. Stop pretending that everything is okay–be honest with yourself, before God, and with others.

2. Lean into your pain. Experience the loss and learn the lessons which are blessings in disguise.

3. Lean into your loving community. Access your safe relationships often as you heal.

4. Partner with God and do the work to heal. Take an active role in your healing. See a counselor, reflect on your experience, change toxic habits and patterns, and reestablish boundaries in your relationships. Care for yourself and be kind to yourself–especially during this time.

5. Remember, God sees you. God loves you. God will heal you. God will lead you on a plain path. God will restore. Only trust Him.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, You are incredible. You know all things. You trusted us to experience the pain and loss that we now feel. We have the opportunity to know You as a Healer of broken hearts. We thank You because Your healing is sure. Father, we thank You that you see us and You are moved with compassion to heal our brokenness. By the stripes of Jesus Christ we are healed. Help us to acknowledge our brokenness and bring it to You. Even when our circumstances seem unbearable, give us grace to believe that we are being touched by Your healing hands. See us through this trying season and help us to hold onto our faith and Your exceeding precious promises. We thank You for hearing us, healing us, and answering. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Fragile Heart” by Yolanda Adams. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Essie Faye Taylor 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 where she lives with her husband Donald Taylor II.

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Connect with Essie:
Website: www.essiefayetaylor.com
Amazon Author Page:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Essie%20Faye%20Taylor/author/B09XF3TC22
Listen to Essie’s music at https://on.soundcloud.com/X6DeoRXra7YoKcC2A.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/ on Instagram
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esther.tate.39
Read Essie’s YouVersion Devotion Plan here: http://bible.us/r/Abn

Devotionals for the Heart: A lesson on how to love everyone and yourself

Love Yourself, Too
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

I first saw the words on a T-shirt 12 years ago: “Three priorities in life: Number one, God. Number two, others. Number three, self.”

I was new on the job as editor of a Christian newspaper, the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the job I’m still blessed to hold today, and after an entire career spent in the secular journalism and marketing industry, I welcomed this priority list. To me, it encapsulated exactly where my heart and mind needed to be. I was done putting myself first in a culture that seems hardwired to drive us to do just that. God must always come first, and after that, I needed to be concerned with the well-being, care, and love for other people.

Self came last.

But I might have taken those words a little too literally—so literally that self-care not only took the back burner but went off the stove entirely.

That phase, the start of my job at the Advocate, soon also kicked off one of the hardest periods in my life. My marriage unraveled, and soon I became a single mom of two very young kids. I was existing on four hours of sleep a night, lost so much weight my size-small pants were swimming on me, and soon became plagued both by migraines and by horrible stomach pain that started around noon and didn’t stop until nearly midnight every single day. It was a miserable time.

Eventually, life evened out and became steadier. I remarried and was no longer a single mom, and I began getting more sleep. My stomachaches finally subsided, and my migraines dwindled. I began spending regular time in God’s Word (The Holy Bible), learning to sit and simply be still, basking in God’s presence. My finances got under control.

And I finally learned that thing that had eluded me my entire life: I started to actually like myself. To enjoy time with myself. I appreciated who God had designed, flaws and all, and owned my quirks and talents. I strived to be the woman God wanted me to be, and it was liberating.

While I still value that priority list—God first, others second, self last—I’ve come to understand that perhaps the self isn’t actually meant to be last at all. God didn’t actually say put ourselves last. In fact, Jesus’s exact words from the Sermon on the Mount were, “Do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12 NIV). He also said the first and greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:39).

He didn’t say love your neighbor more than yourself, he said love your neighbor as yourself. Care for your neighbor as though you were caring for yourself.

In order to do that well, I think we need to love ourselves too. It shouldn’t be neighbor over self, or self over neighbor—it’s equal. We are all together in this. When I feed my neighbor, I should be feeding myself, and vice versa. When I extended a kind word to my neighbor, I should be extending that same kind word back to myself. When I love on those in my inner circle, those who feel like an extension of myself, such as my spouse or kids, I should be loving my neighbor in the same way.

Sometimes we get our priorities skewed, but God should always come first. Still, it’s important to keep in mind that Jesus commanded us to love others as well as ourselves. Think on that. Pray on that. What does this mean to you?

If you are struggling with self-care, feeling exhausted, feeling burned out or depressed or down on yourself, ravaged with guilt or beating yourself up, remember to extend yourself the same kindness, love, appreciation, and forgiveness you do others. You’re part of the equation, too.

Let’s Pray: Lord God, thank You for the blessing of life. Thank You for the people around me. Help me to love myself and love others in a way that honors and glorifies You, pointing to You always. In Your holy and precious name I pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach and the recipient of the 2018 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for her novel, The Memory Garden. 

She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. Learn more about her fiction and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com.

Jessica has a weekly YouTube devotional and podcast. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, 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.

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Unconditional Love for Humankind

Embracing the Unconditional Love of God
A devotional by Cyndi Staudt

“We love because He first loved us.”

—1 John 4:19 (NIV)

As the calendar turned to February my sigh was audible.

It was the first February after my divorce, and for all intents and purposes, Valentine's month had snuck up on me. Valentine's Day was never one of my favorite holidays to begin with. But after my marriage had crumbled around me, it was really the last holiday I wanted to be reminded of. My capacity to love and to be loved seemed to have been dismantled as divorce papers were signed. After two failed marriages, I found myself taking an honest look in the mirror and whispering—really whimpering—to God, “Point out any offensive way in me.” His answer came in the still, small voice that simply stated, “Cease striving.”

Even though I had been a Christian for many years, I came to realize I was still a baby drinking spiritual milk when it came to an understanding of God's love for myself and others. I felt like I was always trying to balance a scale between “He loves me” and “He loves me not”. Unfortunately, the scale always seemed to be teetering toward the “He loves me not” direction.

I would “perform” for Him and wait for His applause and approval. Was He pleased that I lead the small group Bible study? Would He be happy that I served on the prayer team? Would I earn a reward for sharing my faith with a friend? It was stressful and it was exhausting. And it certainly was not Biblical. I decided to venture out on a journey of searching the scriptures for all God said about love and pleading with God to help me truly understand what they all meant, so I could treasure them in my heart and cease striving once and for all.

God is love. So it goes without saying that His Word (The Holy Bible) has a lot to say about love.

As I searched and studied His Word, praying for God to remove the scales from my eyes, He tenderly led me into many truths about love and, sadly, many lies I was believing about His love. What I discovered was I needed to truly experience God’s love before I could ever hope to love and be loved properly. Without allowing myself to be loved by God, I would never be able to fully love Him or others. I had turned receiving God's love into a competition I was constantly performing to earn. But God loves me just because He loves me. Not because of any awesome things I do or spectacular things I say. His desire is to completely overwhelm me with His love. My job is to simply receive it. It sounded simple, yet my mind had an easier time wrapping itself around that concept of work leading to reward.

Over the next few weeks my prayer became simple. I prayed, “Lord, help me understand and receive Your love.” When I felt myself slip onto the performance path, which happened far more often than I realized, I pulled back and pressed into His presence. I sat still before Him until I felt His peace and became immersed in His love. I began to become acquainted with what it felt like to just be loved without seeking to earn it.

Receiving God’s love was freeing and fulfilling. I came to experience Him in a deeper, more intimate and fully authentic way. I brought Him all the broken pieces of me and He stitched them together with His unfailing love. I ceased striving, sat still before Him and He stirred a desire deep in my soul to simply receive His love.

In doing so, I discovered God’s love leads to a multitude of other qualities, all rooted in an understanding and experience of His unconditional love. His love empowers and establishes. His love drives out fear and fuels faith. His love kills comparison and cultivates compassion. His love demolishes doubts and ignites delight. His love is extravagant and eternal, doesn’t need to be earned and is for everyone.

He showed me that love never stops loving and as He continues to pour it in, I can allow it to flow out to those around me and the reservoir only grows larger.

Let’s Pray: Loving Lord, thank you for the way you love us and the example you set for us in loving others. Help us to willingly receive your love, be filled with your love and fully experience your love. Let us be a vessel that allows your love to pour into us, freely flow through us and spill over into the world around us. May those who we have an opportunity to meet and mingle with experience your love through us, giving them a desire to know You as the source of love and Savior of their souls. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

~*~
Note from Alexis: Cyndi’s devotional message today reminds me of the song “Your Love Never Fails”, performed by Chris Quilala / Jesus Culture. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Cyndi Staudt is a Jesus-loving, adrenaline junkie who is devoted to living her life for Jesus Christ until the day she is living with Him. 

With a passion for cultivating a craving for God’s Word, her devotions and Bible studies are saturated with faith and hope to stir your soul to connect with God in deeper, more intimate ways.

Through her writing she hopes to ignite your desire to read God’s Word, invite your heart to experience God’s love, and inspire you to live your live life “souled out” to the One whose love has no limits.

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Connect with Cyndi on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/souledoutcyndi/

Romantic Reads: The Reluctant Billionaire by Carol Underhill

Interview with Carol Underhill about her book, 

The Reluctant Billionaire:

Alexis: What or who inspired you to write this book?

Carol: I’m not sure what inspired the original idea, but I do remember thinking about a couple who’d been friends for a long time. While he had a major crush on her, she never knew it. Then the story started to develop from there.

Alexis: Tell me about the heroine of your story, Jessica Palmer. Describe her looks, personality and heart. What is her greatest need and her deepest desire?

Carol: Jessica is a 30-year-old nurse who struggled with an eating disorder in the past. She’s tall, slender and very pretty, but her ex-husband always found reasons to criticize her. Even though she tried to be the perfect wife, she never felt like she was good enough for Paul. Her greatest need is to be loved and accepted as she is. Her deepest desire is to have children and be a mom.

Alexis: What dreams did Jessica have for her life before they went up in flames?

Carol: She wanted what her husband had promised her: She’d worked to put him through law school and once he made partner, they were supposed to buy a home and start a family.

Alexis: In what ways did her husband’s betrayal and resulting divorce, help Jessica (as oftentimes God works everything together for our good an redeems our pain)?

Carol: She was able to see that her ex-husband controlled and criticized everything from the way she did her hair to what she did or didn’t eat. She realizes she is free to be herself and make her own choices.

Alexis: Why does Jessica think she can rebuild her life by moving back into her parents’ house?

Carol: Her apartment in Chicago was too expensive after her divorce. She moves in with her parents so she can save the money she would have paid in rent. She wants to buy a home of her own and needs to save for a down payment.

Alexis: How do Jessica’s parents feel about her leaving her independent life in Chicago and moving back into their home as their grown adult daughter? What tensions, if any, does this create?

Carol: They haven’t seen Jessica since she filed for divorce, so they couldn’t comfort her face-to-face with hugs the way they wanted to. They are glad she came home so she isn’t alone in Chicago and they can show her their support.

There is some tension because her mom is concerned that Jessica has lost weight that she can’t afford to lose. Jessica doesn’t like to be reminded to eat and it causes some tension. Her mom doesn’t say much, but her tight-lipped disapproval makes Jessica feel guilty.

Alexis: Let’s talk about the hero of your story, Liam Engstrom. Describe his looks, personality and dreams. What is his greatest strength and his worst weakness?

Carol: Liam has dark hair and a beard that always looks like a few days’ shadow. He’s just short of six feet tall, broad shouldered, and muscular from both his job and his home gym. He’s 28 years old. He likes to tease and remind Jessica that she’s older than he is. Although he’s a billionaire, Liam prefers working at his construction job instead of taking life easy. He’s content with his life and the only thing that would make it better is if Jessica were his.

Liam’s strength is that he treasures Jessica. He thinks she’s perfect the way she is. His weakness is that his billionaire status has made him withdraw socially. He tends to shut out everyone but Jessica and her family.

Alexis: Why and how does Jessica draw strength to hold herself together, from Liam?

Carol: Liam doesn’t bad mouth her ex-husband or tell Jessica she made a mistake. He looks out for her and anticipates her needs. The care that he shows her is so different from the way her ex put her down. She gains confidence in herself again because Liam values her.

Alexis: What is it about Jessica that inspired Liam to feel love for her since they were teens?

Carol: Liam was shorter than other boys his age when he started high school. Jessica was two years older and popular. Liam was bullied and Jessica stopped it. He was already crushing on her because she was pretty, and then she became his champion.

Alexis: Why does Jessica only see Liam as a platonic friend, not a romantic partner?

Carol: Jessica grew up with Liam, who was the same age as her younger brother. She used to play tag and baseball with them when they were kids, until she became a teenager. Then her focus was on friends her own age. Her ex-husband asked her out when she was sixteen, and after that, her life centered around her relationship with him. He didn’t like her to spend time with Liam, so their friendship fell by the wayside.

Alexis: What lengths does Liam go to convince Jessica that there is hope for lasting love after divorce?

Carol: Liam tells Jessica that he is willing to wait and take their relationship at her pace, giving her time to heal before making a commitment to him.

Alexis: What inspires Liam and Jessica to give their not so platonic love a chance?

Carol: Once Jessica is aware of how Liam truly feels about her, she allows her little crush to flourish. Their attraction won’t be denied.

Alexis: What brings Liam together romantically and what (or who) threatens to tear them apart?

Carol: She attends a fundraiser ball with him. They are in awe of each other’s appearance and have a great time dancing. Afterwards, they have dinner at a restaurant and open their hearts up to each other. Jessica’s ex-husband keeps tabs on what she is doing and tries to interfere in her life.

Alexis: What role does faith and forgiveness play in this story?

Carol: Jessica and Liam are both trying to figure out God’s purpose in their lives. Liam needs to make decisions about his inheritance, and Jessica has to discover who she is after her divorce. They’ve made mistakes in past relationships and they want to honor God as they move forward as a couple. Jessica has to forgive Paul for his betrayal before she can move forward with Liam.

Alexis: What do you want readers to remember most about The Reluctant Billionaire?

Carol: God can take our shattered dreams and piece them back together with love and acceptance, often giving us greater blessings than we had before.

Alexis: Complete this sentence: If I were not an author, I would try to be _______________ because ____________________________________________.

Carol: If I were not an author, I would try to be a chef because I love to create new recipes.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Carol! Do you have closing comments to share?

Carol: The Reluctant Billionaire is my first full-length published novel. I also have a Christmas novella with a sequel coming out called next holiday season.

~*~
Author Bio:

Carol Underhill lives in rural Michigan a few miles from the farm where she grew up. She is mom to three adult children and a spoiled Lab. Her household also includes several rescued cats.

She likes finding new authors on Kindle and binge-reading all their books.

Carol rewards herself for meeting deadlines with a cup of fudge-flavored coffee.

She enjoys quiet mornings and spending time with her family.

~*~

Blurb for The Reluctant Billionaire:

With her husband’s ultimate betrayal, and the finalization of her divorce, Jessica Palmer’s dreams for her life go up in flames, leaving her devastated and lost. Now, she’s leaving Chicago and moving back into her parents’ house in an effort to rebuild her life.  

Longtime neighbor and friend, Liam Engstrom, is the only reason she hasn’t completely fallen apart, but the closer they get, the more she realizes the depth of his feelings.

Liam has loved Jessica since they were teens, but she never noticed him as more than a friend. Now that she’s single, he’s determined to show her how much he cares and that not all men are like her ex-husband--if she’ll let him.

Jessica is reluctant to trust again after what her husband did to her, and Liam refuses to be the rebound guy, but their attraction is hard to deny. So, together, with a little help from God, they decide to give love a chance. But between Liam’s recent inheritance and an unwanted public billionaire status that has people lining up with their hands out, and Jessica’s ex-husband monitoring her every move, their relationship is off to a rocky start. And when tragedy strikes, Liam pushes everyone away—including Jessica.

Can they both learn to forgive and grow, or are they doomed to be alone?

~*~
Buy Carol’s book on Amazon or Anaiah Press

~*~
Connect with Carol:
Facebook: https://facebook.com/authorcarolunderhill
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@carolunderhill7
Website: https://authorcarolunderhill.com

~*~
Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of Carol's book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: 

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Devotionals for the Heart: God's Music

Then Sings My Soul
A devotional by Wendy Wilson Spooner

“My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed.”– Psalm 71:23 (KJV)

You know those days, or even an entire week when you feel like you’re barely making it? When everything seems to come crashing down on you at the same time? Like watching elderly parents suffer, losing a job, a flat tire on the freeway, rude people, your struggling teenager, and that last piece of cake you ate when you’ve already had two servings.

And then you’re in your car worrying about everything and on auto-pilot, you switch to a Christian music station.

MercyMe’s song, “I Can Only Imagine” blares into the air, and before you know it, you’re singing at the top of your lungs while tears pour down your face, as you bask in God’s love while enveloped in His music.

The Scriptures give us some major clues that music can heal us and renew us, and that glorifying Jesus through song can give us the strength to start over and remind us to lean on Him again. It can even bring us pure JOY.

“O Come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.”

–Psalms 95:1 (KJV)

A lot of people listen to music on a daily basis. But what kind of music? Is it your habit to listen to songs that lift you and make you feel better? Even whole?

As I’ve grown older, my soul yearns for songs of peace and praise. Not songs of angst, anger, and sadness or inappropriate content.

Music about the Gospel of Jesus Christ can lift your mood, make your problems seem surmountable instead of insurmountable, and feed your starving soul at its very core.

Not only can Gospel music lift a weary heart, but it can strengthen our faith in God and bring us closer to Him. It can keep us aware of choices we are making and deliver the perfect message at the perfect time, helping us to maintain our connection to Him.

I remember when I was going through a divorce with my two little girls. My worries for them without a father in our home was extremely tough some days. But those were also days—years actually—when we listened to the same uplifting Christian albums over and over and sang our favorite songs that kept us savoring the love of God.

I remember those times so warmly. Even though they were super hard in many ways. And I know it was because of the closeness we felt even as a broken family. Although the father of our home was no longer with us, we were close to our Heavenly Father.

So, the next time you feel like giving up and all is lost, take a car ride, and drive while listening to His music, singing at the top of your lungs until you’re healed enough to go home and start over.

Let the Savior of the world (Jesus Christ) save you through His music. Even though you may already have chosen to be saved in the long run, let Him save you every day through His songs of praise. Through His hymns. Through the love that overcomes you when singing words of His infinite atonement and hope.

Because Jesus came to Earth, lived and died for us, so we can live again with Him!

~*~
Author Bio:

Wendy is a professional Genetic Genealogist by day, a writer by night, and an artist in between. 

Her first book, Once Upon an Irish Summer, is a YA crossover historical fiction novel, the first in a trilogy, traditionally published by Ambassador International, set to release on April 3, 2020 in five countries.

Wendy’s love of history compels her to write the true stories she unearths during her research, and she’s found that truth is indeed, stranger, and way more exciting than fiction.

Wendy writes about family, faith, grief, art, and overcoming the obstacles in life by coming to know who we really are—a child of God, and, the descendant of incredible people who paved the way for us to have the lives we have now—even if they really struggled. She believes in learning from ancestors, honoring them, and then standing on their shoulders to become someone even better.

Wendy is an award-winning author of professional articles and poems, who turned to novel writing to share what she knows with more people.

To learn more about Wendy, her interests, and writing, visit her website at WendyWilsonSpooner.com.

~*~
Connect with Wendy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy.w.spooner
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Wendy_W_Spooner
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyspooner/

Devotionals for the Heart: Flowers

Comfort Flowers
A devotional by Wade Webster

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
– 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)

“Keep them coming.”

“Please keep them coming.”

This has been the most popular response to something I've been posting on Facebook recently. I knew it would help folks get through this virus quarantine. That's why I do it.

Most of these friends are either family members or folks I went to school with in Michigan. Winter is depressing enough. Early spring isn't much better. When my mom was alive she said April was her least favorite month because the snow melt leaves everything dirty until things begin to grow in May.

I moved to Texas to get away from the long, cold days that seemed to never end. October was my favorite month to drive in Michigan because of the abundance of color on display from the fall foliage. April is my favorite month to drive in Texas because of the incredible wildflower show on the roadsides.

We had a mild winter this year with plenty of rain. That makes for an especially vibrant flower show So now I stop when I safely can and take pictures of these marvels of God's creation. People are now longing for my next exposition...even Texans who are cooped up in their homes.

As a truck driver, I get paid to get out to see this color show. I know I shouldn't hog it all to myself, especially with the technology available to me these days. There were too many times in my youth I longed for a camera. Now I have one built into my phone that I carry with me. Life is good.

I know how therapeutic the flowers are to me so I share it to apply 2 Corinthians 1:4 in a very real way. God comforts me with His beauty. I then in turn comfort others with the same flowers.

This is only one way this verse can be applied. There are several hardships we endure that give us an audience that will listen to us only because we've gone through the same thing they're going through.

I'm in a couple of Christian divorced groups where I can encourage others going through this same life stage that we never expected. My encouragement is accepted because of the stories I share about my divorce.

Nothing is wasted in God's economy. God will use your pain to comfort others after you learn to trust Him more. Jesus Christ’s disciples were only beginning to grasp His resurrection the day after it occurred. Their stories now inspire us in remarkable ways.

Find those who need to hear what you've endured. You can help build their faith now.

Let’s Pray: Dear Heavenly Father help us pass along the hard lessons you taught us through this life. Don’t let anything go to waste. In Jesus's name I pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Wade Webster lives with his best friend (Jesus Christ) in Plano, Texas.

He attends Stonebriar Community Church and derives most of his income from driving 18-wheelers.

He enjoys running, dark chocolate and being in nature...but not necessarily in that order.

He's the author of 100 Prayers of a Writer and blogs at http://wadewebster.com.

12 Days of Christmas Book Giveaways: Mary Manners' Christmas story

Let's welcome my author friend Mary Manners to the blog today!

She's here to give away one e-book copy of her story, Christmas in Miracle Cove: A Heartwarming Holiday Romance.

Meet Mary:

Author Bio:

Mary Manners lives in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee with her husband Tim and their rescue dog Axel, mischievous cats Colby and Rascal, a flock of rambunctious chickens, and an aquarium teeming with fish.

Mary writes small-town family romances laced with faith, hope, and humor. Her books have earned multiple accolades including two Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, the Aspen Gold, the Heart of Excellence, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award.

Mary loves long sunrise runs, Smoky Mountain sunsets, flavored coffee, and chocolate … lots of chocolate.

~*~

Here's the blurb and cover for Mary's book:

TWO BRUISED HEARTS SEARCHING FOR A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE …

Down on her luck after budget cuts claim her job, art teacher Hope Casey returns to Miracle Cove to raise her five-year-old daughter, Sydney. While working at the local diner, Hope is befriended by Noah Armstrong, the youth director at Miracle Cove's Community Church. 

Noah is dealing with issues of his own—a painful divorce following confirmation that he'll never be able to father a child. Noah longs for a family of his own, but fears it may never come to pass.

When Noah and Hope team up to direct Miracle Cove's Christmas Pageant, they are both searching for a little holiday cheer. What they discover is truly a Christmas miracle.

~*~
Connect with Mary:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mary-Manners-author-303173983043284/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaryManners1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunriserun63/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-manners

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Manners/e/B004AL16YY/

~*~

Enter this e-book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN Mary Manners' book, Christmas in Miracle Cove: A Heartwarming Holiday Romance, by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below:

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Book Review: Hope in the Hard Places

Today, I'm sharing a review I wrote about a book by Sarah Beckman called Hope in the Hard Places: How to Survive When Your World Feels Out of Control.

Hope in the Hard Places: How to Survive When Your World Feels Out of Control is a wonderful, practical and inspiring book!

The back cover copy of this book says that it is about how to survive when your world feels out of control. After reading it, I think that the author, Sarah Beckman, accomplished her mission of writing an “encouraging guidebook for the weary soul looking for hope in dark circumstances.”

Throughout this book, the author shares encouraging messages that comfort everyone who is facing a trial whether it is cancer, chronic illness, loss of a loved one, divorce…the author leaves no stone uncovered when addressing situations that cause people to feel without hope and help.

Hope in the Hard Places is divided into four parts:

- Part 1: Terrain

- Part 2: Preparation

- Part 3: Journey

- Part 4: Destination

Each part has several chapters (except Part 4, which has only one chapter) and each chapter touches on a key concept like hope, detour, first aid, seek the source, remove the boulders and the one concept in Part 4 is called “Hard but Holy.” A Bible verse starts each chapter.

The author’s writing style is smooth and her tone is calm. This entire book is thoroughly written. It leaves the reader with a full and satisfied feeling like eating a good meal at your favorite restaurant. It’s an experience that you want to share with everyone.

Throughout this book, Beckman shows the reader how they can survive pain by applying Bible-based truth and principles. She shares stories and insight from real-life people who have been through tough times.

Hope in the Hard Places truly is a light that will shine into your darkness and help you survive the storms of life.

*I (Alexis A. Goring) received a complimentary copy of Hope in the Hard Places: How to Survive When Your World Feels Out of Control. My opinions in this honest review are my own.

Devotionals for the Heart: Sara's story

He is There
A devotional by Sara L. Foust

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)

My faith is thin. I am not gonna lie. I am physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually exhausted. It has been that kind of year. You know, where you have wave after wave slam into you and by the eleventh month, your snorkel is the only thing above water. And that, just barely.

I am not the kind of person who has usually done a “word for the year” challenge. But this year, without even really thinking about it, the word “Courage” came to me very early on. I knew I would need immense amounts of courage to go on my mission trip. I thought that would be the biggest obstacle I would face. I was wrong.

My son has been diagnosed with autism.

My daughter has begun mental health therapy.

My marriage has come to the beginning of the end.

My TMJ needed joint surgery with a disc removal and skin graft.

My church isn’t my church anymore.

And the year hasn’t come to a close yet. What I’ve learned is this: Through it all, God loves me. No matter what decisions I make. No matter what mental state I am in. He loves me. Unconditionally. Unendingly. Unblamingly. Just love, like pure spring water. Clear, unaltered, unhindered love. And it is the only saving grace I have, the only beacon of light when things look dark. It is real. It is honest. It is time-tested and true.

So, rather than the above list in the cons column, here’s what I’m choosing to focus on:

My son spoke to his Pre-K teacher for the first time a few weeks ago. And he’s learned a ton of new words that he uses freely at home.

My daughter is sleeping through the night, most of the time in her own room, and she is confident and happy and growing.

My marriage produced three beautiful children and I learned immense amounts about myself.

I only have two TMJ joints, so, even if the other one goes caput, I’m halfway through surgeries.

My church family, though I am not able to be present with them, loves me still, and God will bring me to another church home.

God is never going to leave me. He is never going to leave you. And more than anything in this world, He wants us to cry out to him in the middle of that black ocean called worry, fear, dread, sickness, divorce, temptation . . . whatever your ocean is called, He is there. He is always there.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sara writes Inspirational Romantic Suspense from a mini-farm in East Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and their five homeschooled children. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Tennessee Mountain Writers.

Her debut novel, Callum's Compass, won second place in Deep River Books' 2017 Writer's Contest. She also has a story, “Leap of Faith,” in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone. Sara finds inspiration in her faith, her family, and the beauty of nature.

When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family. To learn more about her and her work or to become a part of her email friend’s group, please visit www.saralfoust.com.

Book Review: Love Life Again

I've spent the last few months serving on an author's launch team for their new book. The author's name is Tracie Miles and her new nonfiction book Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard, releases tomorrow (Wednesday, August 1)!

Today, I'd like to share my review of her book and a nice meme that she created (see it toward the end of this blog post).

Enjoy! 
~*~

My Review of Love Life Again (book) by Tracie Miles: 

Rarely do I read a book from beginning to end in one sitting. Oftentimes, I read a few chapters then start scanning for the main message. But Tracie’s writing commanded my attention from the Acknowledgements through the Conclusion and the stories in between really tugged at my heartstrings.

Bible verses are intertwined into each scene shared from Tracie’s life in every chapter. A “Love Your Life Challenge” wraps up each chapter, complete with an imperative written in bold font followed by a reflection question which leads to a call to action, leading to a prayer written by Tracie for the reader and concluded by a short list of activities you can do to make you smile.

As an author, Tracie is very transparent in how she shares her heart. She’s unafraid to take you behind the scenes of her life from her dealing with the aftermath of her divorce, to a teachable moment on self-esteem that she shared with her daughter, to talking about a time when she was driving on the road and she felt God call her minister to a pregnant woman who was considered by most as what the Bible calls “the least of these”. Tracie also shares stories of other women that she’s known along the way.

Each story that Tracie shares is touching and teaches a life lesson to the reader. Her writing style is warm in the midst of her personal heartache, informative like a news reporter, kind like the heart of a minister, and seasoned like a veteran creative storyteller.

As a woman of faith, Tracie does not leave Jesus Christ out of the picture. She weaves in themes of salvation, hope, and healing throughout the book! It was delightful and very encouraging to my heart because she reminded me that God is with me no matter what I go through in this life. There’s always hope for your heart when He is in the picture…and the good news is, God I always in the picture. The Bible says that He will never leave you or forsake you even in your deepest despair.

I truly enjoyed reading this book! Not only because it was hard to put down but because I related to so much of it. This book is well-deserving of a five-star rating and I’ve already thought of two people who I believe will benefit from reading it. Well, done Ms. Miles. Bravo!

*I, (Alexis A. Goring), received a complimentary copy of this book (Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard) from the author’s publisher for me to read. My opinions in this book review are my own.

~*~
Author Bio:

Tracie Miles is a national speaker and author with the internationally known Proverbs 31 Ministries and has spent the last ten years inspiring women to live intentionally for Christ.

Her newest book is Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live. It was released in April 2017.

She is also the author of two best-selling books, Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future and Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World. She is also a contributing author to the popular Zondervan NIV Women's Devotional Bible, and the Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional Book.

Tracie is a monthly contributing writer for the Proverbs 31 Ministries Encouragement for Today daily devotions, which reach nearly one million people per day around the world with encouragement from God's Word.

Connect with Tracie at her blog at www.traciemiles.com, or on any social media platform.

Let Love Bloom: Second Chances

Do You Need a Second Chance?
A devotional by Linda Shenton Matchett

I love miniature golf, but I know very little about “real” golf. However, one term I am familiar with is “mulligan.”

Several years ago I worked with a man (a golf-pro) whose wedding ring was engraved with the word mulligan because he and his wife had remarried after divorcing many years before. According to Wikipedia, “a mulligan is a second chance to perform an action, usually after the first chance went wrong through bad luck or a blunder. Its best-known meaning is in golf whereby a player is informally allowed to replay a stroke (though this is against the formal rules of golf). The term has also been applied to other sports and games and to other fields generally. The origin of the term is unclear.”

This couple was getting a “do-over” for the marriage. As someone who has made her fair share of mistakes, I appreciate the opportunity for a second chance. Perhaps that’s why many of my stories include that theme.

People don’t always give us the benefit of a second chance, but the good news is that our Father in Heaven does. He is a God who regularly provides His people with a mulligan, a “do-over,” if you will. For example, Rahab was a prostitute, yet is part of our Lord’s lineage. Or consider Paul who persecuted Christians, yet became a great missionary. Then there was the prophet Elijah who fled in fear and asked God to let him die. But God sent an angel to refresh Elijah before telling him to anoint Hazael king over Aram.

Have you ever needed or wanted a second chance? Did you make a poor first impression? Did you say or do something you instantly regretted? Or perhaps you are arguing with God over something He’s calling you to do. It’s not too late for a mulligan. Your second chance may be less dramatic than that of these Bible characters, but it is no less miraculous. And it’s available. With today being Easter, what better time to ask.

"Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."~Hebrews 4:16 (NASB)

~*~
Author Bio:

Linda Shenton Matchett is an author, journalist, blogger, and history geek. 

A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry and has lived in historic places all her life. 

When she is not writing or researching, she is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and a trustee for her local public library. 

To find out more about her and her books, visit 
www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

~*~
Book blurb for "A Love Not Forgotten" (Part of the Let Love Spring collection):

Allison White should be thrilled about her upcoming wedding. The problem? She’s still in love with her fiancé, Chaz, who was declared dead after being shot down over Germany in 1944. Can she put the past behind her and settle down to married life with the kindhearted man who loves her?

It’s been two years since Charles “Chaz” Powell was shot down over enemy territory. The war is officially over, but not for him. He has amnesia as a result of injuries sustained in the crash, and the only clue to his identity is a love letter with no return address. Will he ever regain his memories and discover who he is, or will he have to forge a new life with no connections to the past?

Buy Linda's book on Amazon.

~*~
Connect with Linda:
Website - www.LindaShentonMatchett.com
Group Blog - www.StitchesThruTime.blogspot.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/authorlindamatchett
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett/
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/authorlindamatchett
Amazon author page - https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Shenton-Matchett/e/B01DNB54S0
Goodreads - www.goodreads.com/author_linda_matchett

~*~

Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: SaveSaveSaveSave

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A New Year's Devotional for your heart

Today marks the first day of a new year! Welcome into 2017!

Are you looking forward to this new journey? I am hopeful, for many reasons.

Please welcome a new face to the blog, Lynn Kinnaman! She's an author and ministry leader with a heart for Jesus Christ. Today, she's here to share a devotional about taking a fresh start in life.

I hope that your heart will be encouraged by her message.

God bless you!

~*~

A New Beginning – A Fresh Start

A New Year 2017 post by Lynn Kinnaman

I’m not much for resolutions, but I do feel a renewing with the beginning of a new year. After all, we’ve just come off the season of the birth of Jesus, the hope of the world, and we know the promise of salvation that He brings.

However, one January many years ago found me desolate. I felt no hope and couldn’t imagine a future. My life, as I’d known it, had disappeared.

I was getting a divorce.

I’d met my husband at church when I was 15, and on my 16th birthday he gave me a ride home from a youth event and we became an item. A little over three years later we got married and a few years after that we were blessed with two children.

Having a family meant everything to me. As an only child of divorced parents, I’d never really experienced the closeness and warmth I’d read about in books, and I relished the idea of building new traditions.

Then it was gone. After 28 years of marriage I had to begin again. The problem was, having gotten married so young and identifying myself as a wife and mother, I didn’t think I was anyone by myself.

In addition to the divorce, we’d also gone through bankruptcy. I had no job, no credit and no ideas.

Stripped of all the things that I thought had defined me, I was forced to figure out who I was and what I should do with the rest of my life.

I could crawl under the bed and hide, which was very appealing, or I could make some changes.

I knew I wasn’t alone. Through the darkest times of the divorce and bankruptcy I prayed and God sustained me. I was angry, I was frightened, I was hurt, I was shattered. I went to church and cried. Yet He never left me.

I felt unloved. He loved me and rejoiced over me (Zephaniah 3:17).

I felt betrayed. God was constant and He keeps His promises (Deuteronomy 7:9).

I felt abandoned. God is faithful (Deuteronomy 31:6).

I felt tired. God gave me the strength I needed (Isaiah 40:31). 

I moved, for the third time in months, and stayed with relatives in another state. I found a church, got a job, and learned a new skill, building websites.

It’s been years since I had to make that massive new start, but I haven’t forgotten the lessons I learned about how to do it.

First, I needed to get grounded. I needed to reconnect with God and find a community of friends who would support my faith and encourage my focus on Him.

Then, I needed to honor my losses but also go beyond myself so I could begin to count my blessings. This wasn’t immediate, it’s a process, but I got a job working with an organization that used animals for therapy for people who had injuries or other disabilities. It was a daily reminder of healing potential.

Finally, I wanted to help others. In 2 Corinthians 1:4 it says that God is the father of compassion and all comfort, “who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” I wanted to make that a reality so I took a coaching course and later becoming a Divorce Care Facilitator.

I’ve written books on divorce recovery, comfort verses and began a group called Solo Sisters to create a community for women, who are single for any reason, to support and encourage each other.

My fresh start opened a new path for me, but it worked because I committed it all to Him. As I remember that dark January long ago I realize God has blessed me beyond my imagining. Today I appreciate this new year, and feel full of joy and possibilities.

You don’t need a life-changing event to create a new beginning. If you don’t like where you are, imagine where you’d like to be, commit it to God then put one foot in front of the other. Before you know it, you’ll be on your way.

~*~
Author bio: 

Lynn Kinnaman is a published author and website designer. She’s a Stephen Minister and founder of SoloSisters.com, welcoming women who are single for any reason. 

She’s been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul. You can see a complete list of her books and publications on her official website, LynnKinnaman.com.


~*~
Connect with Lynn:
Website - LynnKinnaman.com
Ministry - SoloSisters.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LynnKinnamanAuthor/