Devotionals for the Heart: God can lead you through unfamiliar seasons

When God Leads You Through Unfamiliar Seasons
A devotional by Erica J. Hill

“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.”—Isaiah 42:16 (NIV)

There are seasons in life when the path ahead feels unfamiliar.

We don't know where God is leading us, why He is allowing certain changes, or what waits on the other side. Yet Isaiah 42:16 reminds us that God specializes in leading His children down roads they have never traveled before. He promises to guide us through unfamiliar places, bring light into our darkest moments, and never forsake us. Those promises do not remove the transition, but they assure us that we never walk through it alone.

Transition is rarely easy. We hope life will move smoothly from one season to the next but often transitions feel more like roadblocks than bridges. They interrupt our plans, force us to slow down, and redirect us in ways we never expected. Instead of releasing what God is asking us to leave behind, we cling to what is familiar—not because it is still good for us, but because we fear what we might lose.

Yet God often asks us to empty our hands before He fills them with something greater. We cannot receive the new things He has in store for us while refusing to release the old. God declares in Isaiah 43:18–19 (NIV), “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Sometimes, receiving the “new thing” begins with letting go.

Transitions come in many forms. Some are joyful, while others arrive through heartbreak: a personal loss, financial hardship, an unexpected diagnosis, or caring for aging parents. Change is inevitable. The question is not whether transitions will come, but how we will respond when they do.

Scripture is filled with people whose greatest seasons of growth began with unexpected transitions, and the Bible story about a man named Job is one of the clearest examples. In what seemed like a moment, he lost his wealth, his children, and his health. Yet even in his suffering, God had not abandoned him. Job could not see what God was accomplishing, but God never stopped working on his behalf.

Although my circumstances have never matched Job's, I understand what it feels like when hardships arrive all at once. As I have grown older, I have found myself navigating unfamiliar territory—shifting responsibilities, aging parents, and questions I never expected to ask. Those seasons have reminded me that while we experience transition externally, God’s greatest work is taking place internally.

Romans 12:2 (NIV) tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Before God changes what is around us, He often changes what is within us. His primary concern is not simply altering our circumstances but shaping our hearts to reflect the character of His Son (Jesus Christ).

Some transitions leave us feeling as though God has gone silent. We continue to pray, yet heaven seems quiet. We wonder if He has forgotten us because we cannot hear His voice as clearly as we once did. But silence is not abandonment. 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.”

Here’s what I have learned: Even when we cannot see the next step, God is faithfully directing our path. I have also learned that faithfulness often looks ordinary like my daily routine. I wake up. I pray. I read my Bible. I go to work. I worship God. I trust Jesus. Then I do it again the next day. Sometimes God does not give new instructions because He wants us to remain faithful to the last ones He gave. Ordinary obedience prepares us for extraordinary purpose.

Every transition is an invitation to deepen our dependence on God. If we trust Him enough to release what was, remain faithful in what is, and follow Him into what will be, we will discover that every unfamiliar season has been preparing us for greater intimacy with Him and greater usefulness in His Kingdom.

One day, you'll look back and realize that the roads you never would have chosen became the very paths God used to make you more like Christ.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for leading me through every season of life. When the path feels uncertain, help me to trust Your guidance, release what You are asking me to leave behind, and remain faithful where You have placed me. Strengthen my heart, renew my mind, and remind me that You will never leave or forsake me. Teach me to abide in You and follow wherever You lead.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

~*~
Songs of Reflection #1: “Take Courage” by Kristene DiMarco | Starlight. Listen to it here. 

Songs of Reflection #2: “He’s Been Faithful” by Vicki Yohe. Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #3: “Order My Steps” by GMWA Women of Worship. Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #4: “Thank You Lord (For Being There For Me)” by Fred Hammond. Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #5: “Seasons Change” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Erica J. Hill is a wife, mother, and proud grandmother living in Georgia. 

With a career spanning both elementary education and higher education, she has served as an elementary and middle grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher and now works as an administrative assistant in higher education. Currently pursuing her master’s degree in Instructional Technology and Media Center Specialist, Erica’s love for learning and teaching runs deep.

Raised in the Southern Baptist tradition, she has faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and now as one of the youth directors at her church. A lifelong writer at heart, Erica once set her passion aside to pursue other career goals—but recently felt God’s undeniable tug to pick up her pen again, this time to write for His Kingdom.

She is currently working on her first book, Worthy. Whole. Woman. It is a devotional that she hopes will be an encouraging resource created to uplift and empower women—especially women of color—to walk confidently in their God-given identity.

Through her words, Erica blends faith in God, personal reflection, and practical wisdom to inspire women to heal, grow, and embrace the fullness of who God created them to be.

Originally from Atlanta, Erica now calls Macon County home, where she lives with her husband and children. In her free time, you’ll usually find Erica curled up with a good book, working on DIY projects, or planning her next travel adventure.

~*~
Connect with Erica:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahsgrace2931/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahsgrace2931/

Devotionals for the Heart: How to find peace and contentment in this life

Finding Peace and Contentment in All Circumstances
A devotional by Jennifer Hamill

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. —2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)

Sometimes life can throw some circumstances at us that are not particularly fun, easy, or things we would have chosen ourselves. When this happens, our minds are filled with questions like “Why?” or “What if…” and “How long, O Lord?”

Have you ever been there? Have you ever struggled with finding peace and contentment in life because of the hard and undesirable circumstances you were facing? In these challenging moments, we easily begin trying to depend on ourselves to muster up enough strength to not be anxious, to be content, to rejoice in everything, and try to count it all joy, as several Bible passages instruct us to do. However, Scripture is clear about the fact that we, in and of ourselves, cannot muster up the strength to persevere or the peace to keep our souls and mind at ease.

We can learn a lot when we read a dialogue between the Apostle Paul and the Lord in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (ESV). Let’s look at what it says: “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

What I find interesting is Paul understands that his struggle, the “thorn” in his flesh, was to keep him from becoming conceited. It is evident he was not thrilled about the hardship it brought upon him. Paul was desperately pleading with the Lord to take it from him. However, God did not respond by saying, “Okay, let me take this from you.” No, instead, He reminded Paul of the truth that in his weakness, God’s power would be made perfect, and He would be his strength. This truth is what brought peace and contentment to Paul’s life.

Recently, I have been challenged by this thought, “What does it look like to delight in the Lord in this circumstance?” All throughout Scripture we read that our delight should be in God. His Word is healing to our souls and bones. However, in the moments of suffering, struggle, and hardship, the last thing my hopeless heart wants to do is to delight in is the Lord. Why is that? Why is it so easy for us to turn away help and hope from the Lord? I believe it is because of the deception we easily walk in where we think we can get through it in our own strength or because we are questioning why God would let this happen to us and/or why He is not removing it from our life.

We must surrender this pride. We must take our eyes off ourselves and off our circumstances and fix them on Jesus Christ. We need to trust and rely on the hope, peace, and strength that we have in Christ alone. We must dwell on the truth found in God’s Word (The Holy Bible) and remember the character of God.

In moments of hardship, when we are desperately seeking peace and contentment, we must remember that God is sovereign, and He is good. He allows us to walk through various trials and circumstances to conform us into the image of His Son (Jesus Christ) and to bring glory to His Name.

It’s not an easy journey. The struggle to find peace and contentment in difficult circumstances is real. But it is in these moments that we need to turn our eyes upon Jesus and trust that the God of the universe sees you, hears you, cares for you, and loves you. He will strengthen you in your weak state. God will teach you how to be content in all things. You can truly find hope, peace, and contentment as you delight in Him and in the fact that He has saved you and made you His own.

Remember: There will be a day this life here on Earth is no longer your reality and you will be healed and whole with God in glory (Heaven) forever.

Let’s Pray:

Father God,

Thank You for the Truth of your Word, and for the peace, joy, and life it brings. Thank You for being my strength when I feel so incredibly weak and my peace no matter what I am walking through. Please help me keep my eyes fixed on You. Help me to remember Your promises and Your good and faithful character. May I find help and hope from You alone and bring You glory in all that I do.

In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “In Christ Alone” by Michael English. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Turn Your Eyes” by Sovereign Grace Music. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jennifer Hamill obtained a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Ministry in Intercultural Studies, and a certification in Biblical Counseling. 

Her educational training has afforded Jennifer the opportunity to work with various populations—such as foster care and adoption, refugee women, homeless, under-resourced youth, international students, and local churches. It has been through these experiences that she has seen a need for women of all ages to understand their true identity as a child of God in order to experience the promised abundant life and freedom.

By working as a Biblical Counselor and Coach, Jennifer focuses on helping others discover who God is and to know their true identity in Jesus Christ. Through her professional work and ministry, she helps people learn how to carry out their specific purpose and calling in building God’s Kingdom that is not of this world.

~*~
Connect with Jennifer:
Website: www.rootedandfixed.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rootedandfixed
Email address: rootedandfixed@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: How to survive life's storms and hardships

Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus Through Hardships
A devotional by Heidy De La Cruz

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”—Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

I am currently reading the Bible study, “Create in Me a Heart of Wisdom” by (in)courage ministries. Week three talks about how wisdom is learned through experience. For day three, they ask for you to read the verse above and answer, “How do we not lose heart in the midst of hardships?”

My answer is: We must fix our eyes on Jesus Christ.

This is a difficult task when we are in the middle of a storm and cannot see the sunlight creeping through the dark clouds. But once the storm passes and we look back at our hardship we can clearly see that Jesus was with us the whole time. How do we remind ourselves that Jesus is with us during the storms? We can list all the previous storms of life we’ve been through and remember how Jesus helped us through them.

I want to provide encouragement today to whoever may be in the middle of a storm. Please know that you are not alone in this storm. Jesus is sitting right there with you, surrounding you, and providing comfort. You are going to overcome whatever situation you are in and you are going to be stronger. You’ll gain wisdom and will help others who may have gone through similar storms later on in life.

The Bible study reminds us that, “Wisdom is gained in suffering when we turn our eyes to look for God in our circumstances—even when we can’t seem to see Him or hear Him.” So, if you are in the middle of the storm, I challenge you to search for God. Where do you see Him in this situation? Ask Him, “What wisdom are you trying for me to gain in this season?”

I know this isn’t easy but God is always there.

Let’s Pray: Lord, You know everyone’s circumstances. You know what we need before we ask. I pray for the reader of this devotional who may be in the middle of the storm. Please provide comfort for them. Show them that You are there in the storm with them and remind them that they are not alone. Lord, help them see You. Teach them how to seek You when it feels like their circumstances are too much. You are a great God! Help us to remember when we face the storms of life that, as the Bible says, “This too shall pass.” Thank You for Your wisdom, Lord. And thank You for your comfort. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Eye of the Storm” (feat. GabeReal) by Ryan Stevenson. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Heidy De La Cruz is daughter of Christ, a wife, and a mother.

She writes poetry and encouraging spiritual blog posts.

Heidy shares her faith and life in hopes of encouraging women. She hosts the podcast, "The American Dream in The Eye of Immigrants" where immigrants share their stories about moving to the United States of America.

Heidy holds a master's degree in Healthcare Administration and bachelor's degree in Psychology. She works as a Medical Coding Specialist.

In her free time she enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, watching movies, and spending time with her husband and two kids.

~*~
Connect with Heidy:
Blog/Newsletter: https://intomythoughts.substack.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidy.delacruz13/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidyreynoso13
Podcast: https://anchor.fm/intheeyesofimmigrantstheamericandream

"Divine Influencer" movie review

My Review of Divine Influencer movie

Today, I have another movie review for you and a giveaway contest at the end of this post! In case you didn’t know, Pure Flix (now “Great American Pure Flix”) is like the faith-based version of Netflix. It works the same way the difference is in the content that points you back to Jesus Christ and shows you how much The Creator of the Universe loves you!

Great American Pure Flix is a one-stop shop for faith and family-friendly movies and shows where you can confidently stream in your home with the entire family. With new premium and exclusive original entertainment choices every week, Great American Pure Flix streaming service has the largest variety of high-quality, curated, positive, encouraging, wholesome movies, series and kids' content in one service.

Great American Pure Flix VIP Ambassador program asked me to review the movie Divine Influencer. I watched this thought-provoking, cleverly crafted, beautifully told, life-changing movie a few weeks before it was made available for viewing on Great American Pure Flix today (Sept. 15). I admired so much about this movie! I’m eager to share my review with you. First, I’d like to describe the storyline in the words of talking points from Momentum then I’ll share my thoughts (review).

Here’s the synopsis of the movie with words from Momentum and me: When an entitled influencer loses everything, she must humbly trust God to understand what the meaning of true influence is. Desperate, she takes a job at a homeless shelter only so she has a place to lay her head and quickly realizes the joy and purpose that comes from serving others. Divine Influencer is such a timely movie as the world of social media expands at a rapid pace. The message of this film is a reflection on how easy it is to live for the likes, the shares and the comments instead of living our lives for God or to serve others.

The opening scenes of this movie show the viewer that Olivia, a social media influencer, is celebrating her birthday and she’s behind on her rent. Then the scene that starts making the Olivia's world unravel happens: Olivia accidentally posts a video of her bashing a product she represents and that results in her being fired. Making matters worse, Olivia’s best friend moves into her position as an influencer for her former boss. As the story progresses, Olivia hears an interview with Andrew Geller, a top marketing executive, and she quickly realizes she doesn’t have her own sense of purpose or direction. All hope seems lost in the next few scenes when Olivia’s parents call and tell her they are selling all their belongings and are creating a nonprofit to further God’s kingdom. Olivia’s parents tell her she’s on her own and they are no longer going to pay for her apartment and lifestyle.

After wallowing in despair and briefly staying at a friend’s house, Olivia runs into Ryan, a high school classmate who she hasn’t seen in 10 years. He invites her to help serve dinner at the Rescue Mission he works and he ends up hiring her to work there. But to work there, Olivia must live there. So she moves into the shelter and her life along with the life of everyone who she influences, starts to change!

Now for my review:

I was happy to see that Shari Rigby, a renown Christian actress, directed this movie. She definitely is a natural behind the camera and knows how to tell a story.

The producer of this movie, Shawn Boskie, did a wonderful work in producing this story and bringing it to life.

Lara Silva who you may recognize from the popular Bible story series titled, “The Chosen”, did a fabulous and very convincing job of playing Olivia Golden who has been wealthy from birth because of her parents.

Jason Burkey, who played Ryan in this movie, did a great job. He was always in character and the way he interacted with Olivia was adorable.

Jesse Metcalfe, who played Andrew in this movie, is no newbie to acting. He delivered a stellar performance every time he was part of a scene.

All of these main actors and those in supporting roles collaborated wonderfully well in telling this story. From the start, these characters drew me into the movie and made me want to know what happens next. I found the storyline to be very real and reflective of real-life. I remember hearing about similar stories on popular talk shows on television years ago which is why I believe this movie conveys a message that is very relatable and yet also very inspirational.

The director, producer and cast really brought God into the picture. Seeing how the characters grew in their faith journey with God was really inspiring. Watching Olivia transform from self-absorbed to focusing on others and helping make their life better is a note we could all take and apply it to our daily life because people are struggling and we all need Jesus Christ. They say, “You may be the only Bible that some people read.” And I think that so many storytelling elements in this movie reminded me of that truth.

I must say that having a five-star chef work in the kitchen of the homeless shelter was an unexpected and very nice touch and the food she fixed looked delicious!

My takeaway from this movie was how important it is to count your blessings, help others and encourage everyone you meet because we’re all fighting battles—some silent and some obvious—and we all need Jesus who is the answer to it all.

If you need a dose of hope and encouragement, watch Divine Influencer. It will help you in so many ways and it may make you hungry too! Hungry for a closer walk with Jesus Christ, and hungry to fill your stomach with some good food.

Themes of this movie included: 

• Self-centered vs. serving others
• Entitlement
• Sense of purpose and direction
• Not taking responsibility for your actions
• Hardship is a humbling experience
• Second chances
• God sees us and knows us in all circumstances
• Rely on Jesus
• Power and importance of prayer
• Asking God to use us for His will and purpose
• Our past does not define us, our identity is in Christ

Divine Influencer is a movie that will introduce you to Great American Pure Flix, prompt you to join and watch it again and again! And once you’re a member of Great American Pure Flix, you’ll find more content to view that will encourage your heart. So don’t delay, join today!

Here's the website link to where you can watch Divine Influencer:
https://www.pureflix.com/movie/divine-influencer

See the movie trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrNifHNYZ7s

Watch the Momentum Influencers interview conducted by Jean Thomason with Lara Silva, who plays the lead in Divine Influencer. Here’s the link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQCxAtrPdJA

Bible verses illustrated by this movie: 

“But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” – Luke 12:48 (NIV)

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

Recommended Reading related to the messages in this movie:

OUR FAVORITE & MOST IMPACTFUL QUOTES FROM 'DIVINE INFLUENCER'

15 POWERFUL BIBLE VERSES ABOUT THANKFULNESS AND GRATITUDE

HELPING OTHERS: 13 BIBLE SCRIPTURES ON GIVING

INSPIRE GIVING AND SERVING OTHERS WITH THESE PURE FLIX MOVIES

Before you go, enter this contest for your chance to WIN one 3-month Pure Flix subscription!

Please note: This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only. The giveaway starts today and ends on Sept. 21, 2023.

Here is the Giveaway Contest link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c468/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. #DivineInfluencerMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

PureFlix Review: Saved by Grace

My Review of Saved by Grace series:

Today, I have a review of a new show for you that is coming to PureFlix starting this Nov. 6! In case you didn’t know, PureFlix is like the faith-based version of Netflix. It works the same way but the difference is in the content. PureFlix content always points you back to Jesus Christ and shows you how much The Creator of the Universe loves you!

Pure Flix is a one-stop shop for faith and family-friendly movies and shows that you can confidently stream in your home with the entire family. With new premium and exclusive original entertainment choices every week, Pure Flix streaming service has the largest variety of high-quality, curated, positive, encouraging, wholesome movies, series and kids' content in one service. Pure Flix is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment, alongside AFFIRM Films.

Pure Flix VIP Ambassador program asked me to review the new series "Saved by Grace." I watched every episode in the month of October 2022 before it was made available for viewing on Pure Flix this Nov. 6. This show is incredibly well-done, engaging and amazing! I’m eager to share my review with you. First, I’d like to describe the storyline in the words of talking points from Momentum then I’ll share my thoughts (review). 

Talking Points:

Angels are amongst us and God has sent them on a mission to intercede on behalf of whispered prayers. Every encounter presents a new opportunity to change your approach to life. There are no chance meetings or coincidences in life.

The new Pure Flix Original Series “Saved by Grace” is sure to inspire and encourage with its message of hope that there is a larger plan at work through God’s handiwork and that we are not alone in our struggles. There’s a lesson for everyone in “Saved by Grace” because it explores different seasons of life and how our reactions and actions can ultimately change the path we are on. 

“Saved by Grace” shares stories from everyday life and shows what happens when we offer and accept forgiveness. This show explores the kind of impact that day-to-day interactions can have, even if we don’t realize it at the time. In each episode, viewers will see how we can heal and overcome the past and that change in our hearts is possible to move forward. 

Now for my review: 

Reminiscent of the hit TV show, Touched by an Angel, this new PureFlix series "Saved by Grace" offers a fresh and unique spin on how God sends His Angels from Heaven to be His hands and feet here on Earth. This show will remind you that you're never alone, God loves you and He will always provide for your every need.

The actors for "Saved by Grace" who star in every episode are: Jennifer Taylor (Grace) and Cameron Arnett (Jeremiah). They do an amazing job playing the angels "Grace" and "Jeremiah"... a job so good that you might for a moment actually believe they are the real deal!

Each episode of "Saved by Grace" presents its own challenges in the storyline and brings about unpredictable plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eager to know how it will all work out. All of the actors (not just the angels) deliver a superb performance in each episode. I felt drawn into the story from the start of each episode an invested in the characters. 

Food is a favorite feature in each episode, so much so that it made me hungry. The producers really paid close attention to every detail that makes up this wonderful new series and it shows!

"Saved by Grace" is a series that will touch your heart and resonate with you long after it's over. It will also introduce you to Pure Flix, prompt you to join and watch it again and again! And once you’re a member of Pure Flix, you’ll find more content to view that will encourage your heart. So don’t delay, join today!

Here's the website link to where, starting Nov. 6, you can watch Saved by Grace:
https://www.pureflix.com/movie/saved-by-grace-series

See the "Saved by Grace" trailer:
https://youtu.be/YeDQ4ZaOh28

Watch the Momentum Influencers Interview conducted by Jean Thomason featuring Cameron Arnett who plays the angel named "Jeremiah", and Jennifer Taylor who plays the angel named "Grace". Here's the link: https://youtu.be/0-MvRwVTk80

#SavedByGraceMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Romantic Reads: Chasing Her Dream

The Story Behind Jennifer Slattery’s story Chasing Her Dream:

In the spring of 2019, landowners across Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota experienced perhaps the worst devastation of their lives. Ranches that had been in their families for generations, destroyed. Cattle swept away. Homes desolated. Decades of investments, consumed, leaving many wondering if they’d find the resources to rebuild.

But as hard as all that was to see, those things aren’t what stand out most in my mind. When I think back on the floods, I most remember the every day heroes that stood beside their neighbors. The hours upon hours that volunteers invested, digging through the rubble, praying with the hurting, or simply sitting beside them as they processed it all.

During times of crisis, that’s often when the best of humanity rises up to offer a hand, a kind word, a gentle smile. To offer themselves.

That was the spirit I wanted to capture, and perhaps even inspire, in my latest novel, Chasing Her Dream. I wrote the first draft while parts of my state remained inundated, while articles still circulated of extreme kindness and generosity. Of community members shouldering one another’s burdens in tangible, memorable ways.

I wanted to portray, and perhaps even inspire, that depth of care in my latest novel, Chasing Her Dream. Through the sacrificial actions of Rheanna Stone, the single mom who opens her already struggling Texas ranch to a large number of abused and neglected horses. Through Dave Brewster who risks losing his flooded Wyoming ranch aside to help her. And through the community that sacrificially and steadfastly come alongside them.

Demonstrating the beauty and healing that can occur when we seek to love one another.

We’ve probably all heard the phrase, “It takes a village.” Admirable words, right? Inspiring?

But may that catchy slogan do more than inspire. May it motivate and mobilize us all to find little ways to spread joy, offer a hand, and be the friend that our neighbors, coworkers, and fellow residents need.

And I’m speaking to myself here, because it’s all too easy for me to remain tucked in my office, oblivious to the world, the struggle, occurring without me. I experience joy and intense fulfillment, however, and the pleasure of God, when I widen my view.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jennifer Slattery is a writer and international speaker who’s addressed women’s groups, church groups, Bible studies, and other writers across the nation. 

She’s the author of six contemporary novels maintains a devotional blog found at http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com.

She has a passion for helping women discover, embrace, and live out who they are in Christ. As the founder of Wholly Loved Ministries, she and her team partner with churches to facilitate events designed to help women rest in their true worth and live with maximum impact. 

She is also the host of the podcast Faith Over Fear, which you can listen to at LifeAudio.com.

~*~
Blurb for Jennifer's book, Chasing Her Dream:  

She needs his help…

But can she trust him again?

After she inherits her uncle’s mismanaged ranch, single mom Rheanna Stone’s not sure she can also handle saving abused horses from a nearby property. 

So when rancher Dave Brewster offers to stay in town to help, she can’t say no—even if he left her once before. 

As they grow closer, old secrets are uncovered…but can they heal past heartbreak to give themselves a new beginning?

~*~
Buy Jennifer's book on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Target or Walmart

Devotionals for the Heart: Giving Thanks to God in All Circumstances

Giving Thanks for Trouble
A devotional by Amy Odland

He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. – Job 2:10 (NIV)

As I sat at the computer reading and researching about COVID-19 back in the beginning of March, I knew this year was going to be hard, but like many of you probably, I never could’ve imagined all the battles we have faced since then.

Shortages of supplies we used to take for granted, misinformation about COVID-19 and an election, racial injustices, political unrest, family and friends quarreling, and so many deaths – deaths experienced in isolation because we can’t mourn gathered together like we usually get to – are all things we’ve been battling on top of just trying to do daily life. We may be arguing about a lot of things right now, but one thing we can all agree on is the fact we are having quite a bit of trouble in the US right now.

Job, a man of integrity who served God faithfully, knew trouble as well. He lost seven sons, three daughters, seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred donkeys, and several servants all in one day. Shortly after, he developed painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then he had three friends show up who tried to comfort him by telling him it was all his fault, that he or his kids or ancestors must have messed up bad. There’s a whole book of the Bible telling his story aptly named “Job.”

After going back and forth with his “miserable comforters” and arguing his innocence, Job finally got to the point where he demanded from God a reason for his suffering. God answered and Job was humbled and realized he didn’t know everything. It is interesting to point out that like Job, most of us don’t question our faith when things are hunky-dory. We start asking the big questions when things are hard.

Jesus Christ warned us that things would be hard, even after saying his yoke was easy and burden was light (Matthew 11:30 NIV). Following Him wasn’t going to be the Disney Fast Pass religious equivalent for helping us skate through life. He said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NIV). The “things” He’d told His disciples right before saying this included why He had to leave, how the Holy Spirit would be coming to help them, and that they’d mostly likely be killed by those believing they were serving God – not exactly comforting thoughts.

Not comforting, that is, until we get to the last thing he says in that verse and also if we were to continue reading in John 17—He has overcome the world. He has overcome everything … loneliness, anxiety, depression, abuse, cancer, persecution, quarreling, war, ignorance, stubbornness, doubt, and death via his dying on the cross and raising again three days later.

Like Job, we can have doubt creep in during our difficult times, doubt that causes us to question God with endless why’s. Commentaries say that Job’s faith was stronger after his tribulation but does that mean our trials and struggles are purposed to test our faith, to make it, and us, stronger? Or are they for bringing us to God because we have been resisting Him despite all the signs of His existence all around us? Maybe it is sometimes for both but either way, Jesus says He has overcome all the horrible things we will experience.

While we may not know the “why” behind the current turmoil created by COVID-19 in 2020, we can listen to Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (NIV):

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt 

but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil. 

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. 

May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our 

Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”

Paul had been through boat wrecks, arrests, beatings, and hosts of other physical and mental trials during his ministry, yet he says to give thanks in all circumstances. He had experienced far worse than struggling to find toilet paper or wearing a mask or waiting 17 weeks for a specific part for a broken dishwasher to finally be in stock so it can be repaired. If he could say to give thanks in everything by that point in his life, we should listen carefully to his words.

Many of us have seen hardships this year far more serious than what we used to think were hardships, yet Job could still probably one-up us with his personal story of “This one time...”

Despite his suffering, Job was kept blameless because he was obedient. Giving thanks for the hardships is our act of obedience that also strengthens or renews our faith and keeps us blameless until the coming of our Lord. The one who calls you is faithful to keep you blameless and He will do it if you continue to hold on to what is good and give thanks in all circumstances.

Let’s Pray: Lord, thank you for your faithfulness to all generations. Thank you for remaining the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow no matter what is happening in the world. Help me with my doubt. Give me strength to continue believing You and Your promises. Help me give thanks for all things, even the bad, as they are things You can rework to bring about a good I don’t understand right now. Guide me and give me wisdom in all things so I may remain blameless until the time of Your return and thank you for making me blameless despite my sins and shortcomings. In Jesus’s Name I pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Amy Odland has been serving in church ministry as a volunteer leader for over 16 years, in various worship, prayer and women’s ministry roles. 

Her passion for helping women stems from her own struggles and lessons learned in her journey as a Christian since first deciding to follow the Lord in 1994.

Amy’s priorities after her faith include her family — husband Rick, and their four kids — as well as extended family who all live close in proximity and the many friends she’s made over the years.

In addition to a love of teaching and helping her husband with the bookkeeping for their many businesses, Amy has recently expanded her stay-at-home work to include leading author’s book launch teams for publishing companies like Baker, Revell, Barbour, and Lifeway.

She also enjoys teaching new authors about platform building, self-launching, and online marketing.

~*~
Connect with Amy:
Facebook: https://facebook.com/amyodland
Instagram: https://instagram.com/amy_odland
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amy_odland
Website: https://amyodland.com

Thankful Thursdays: My thoughts on the power of prayer

It's Thursday and I'm thankful for the power of prayer!

Earlier today, I prayed for a woman in the parking lot of the grocery store. She asked me for money and shared her story of hardship. I told her that I didn't have money to give but I could pray for her. So then and there, I placed a hand on her shoulder, we both bowed our heads and I prayed. I asked God to send her people who could help her and to help her and her family through this tough time.

Hours later, I've already forgotten her name but I know that God knows her name and He heard my prayers for her and He'll answer those prayers according to His will because God loves ALL of His children so I am certain He will send help.

This Thursday, I'm doing something different with my routine "Thankful Thursdays" post. I'm going to share a video of a sermon by Dr. Tony Evans. The sermon is titled, "Prayer That Works." After you watch his message, I ask that you please pray for him and his wife Lois. She is battling a rare form of cancer. You can learn more about her situation by reading this article (click here).

I believe in the power of prayer and I believe that God always answers every prayer that we pray to Him. God's Word (The Holy Bible) advises us in Hebrews 4:16 (KJV), "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

Read more Bible verses about the power of prayer by clicking here.

As promised, you can watch the sermon by Dr. Tony Evans by pressing the play button on the video below. 

Be encouraged, friends! God loves you!

Love,

Alexis A. Goring
Founder of "God is Love" blog

Devotionals for the Heart: The Struggle is REAL, but so is GOD!

The Struggle is REAL
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” ~ Isaiah 41:10 (NASB)

A few years ago a phrase became popular as a sort of punchline to funny pictures or ridiculous, first-world problems: “The struggle is real.” You can laugh when it’s attached to a picture of a puppy that can’t quite make it up the stairs or a toddler in a high chair asleep with food on his face.

But the truth is, sometimes the struggles are very real and sometimes they are not at all funny. At different points in our lives, each of us must deal with things we’d rather not. Some are a result of choices we’ve made. Sometimes they are simply circumstances of life in this world.

No one I know has ever asked for more struggles. I know I certainly never have. I think human nature is to make our lives as comfortable as possible. Just like water and electricity find the path of least resistance when flowing from point A to point B, we humans aren’t much different.

People try all sorts of things to make their lives easier. Some manipulate others into doing their work for them. Some use alcohol or drugs to make their lives feel smoother, even if that really creates more problems in the long run. Some pour their hearts into things that don’t really matter to avoid doing the more important, but harder, things.

God knows this. God created human nature, just like He created water and electricity. He knew how it would all turn out. Our laziness, our struggles, our dysfunction, our choices are never a surprise to Him.

But what He does with those things can definitely surprise us. God can use the struggle of an addict to show His power and strength and compassion. God can show the world His provision to one who can’t make ends meet. God can show grace through someone and to someone struggling with a family relationship.

As believers, we need to be open in sharing our struggles with each other and with people seeking the faith. When others see how God steps into our hardships with us and carries us through, we have the most powerful testimony there is.

Our weakness, our difficulties, prove to ourselves and others that God is near and that He cares about our lives. Often in those times, our faith becomes real. Why wouldn’t we want more of that?

I’m certainly not saying that I’m ready to pray for more difficulty in my life. But when the hardships come, and they will, I pray that I see them less as a punishment and more as a journey to a new glimpse of God’s power in my life.

My Prayer: Father God, help me to bear my struggles with confidence and peace, knowing that You are in them with me. Help me to be vulnerable with others, sharing my testimony of Your goodness to me through all the circumstances of my life. Show me how to help carry someone else’s burdens, to encourage others, and to love the people You’ve placed in my path. Thank You for Your faithfulness, love, and care for me. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume.

She has co-written several screenplays, including Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming. 

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two teenage children. 

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting. 

You can find her at www.glynisbecker.com.

Cozy Christmas Reads: Linda's story

What Would You Give?
A guest post by Linda Shenton Matchett

In times of war sacrifice is expected not only from the troops, but from those who remain on the home front. During WWII, Americans tightened their belts as food, clothing, rubber, metal and more were rationed. Women entered the workforce, and men left for parts unknown with the armed forces. Children played with toys that mimicked their parents’ lives and participated in air raid drills at school. However, the thousands of miles that distanced us from the conflict buffered the U.S. from the privation and challenges experienced by the European countries.

With only four miles separating France and England across the Straits of Dover on the English Channel, British citizens lived in fear of invasion. Street and subway station signs were removed to confuse possible raiding soldiers, and people were cautioned not to give directions to strangers. Anxious to win the war, the population was willing to do anything to further the cause.

One of the ways civilians helped was to give up their homes. According to Requisitioned, a book by John Martin Robinson, “the majority of houses of large size in Britain were requisitioned by the government…for use as barracks, homes for evacuees, schools, hospitals, works of art stores, strategic and military headquarters, billets and training premises, even prisoner-of-war camps.”

My story, “A Doctor in the House,” (part of The Hope of Christmas collection) takes place on a requisitioned estate north of London and explores what life was like for the homeowner to have his house converted to a convalescent hospital. Because the requisitioned homes were centuries old, they lacked central heating and other modern conveniences. Constructed of stone and brick, the structures held a constant chill during the cold winter months. Residents had to get creative to provide heat for themselves, and reports abound about furniture, paneling, and even staircases being broken up for firewood.

Nearly everyone used cigarettes at the time, and countless fires occurred due to careless smokers. Episodes are told about soldiers using priceless art work as dart boards, and at Tottenham Park in Wiltshire, the grounds were used as an ammo dump. An accidental explosion blew out every pane of glass in the house and the conservatory. Arundel Castle’s herd of red deer was hunted for food, and at Brocket Hall soldiers carved their names, addresses and phone numbers in the balustrade of the park bridge.

Hatfield House and Heath House served as the inspiration for my story’s setting. Hatfield House was used as a hospital and POW camp, and Heath House was taken over by the Red Cross as an auxiliary hospital for military personnel. The sheer volume of individuals stationed on these properties that previously housed several dozen people at most, created extensive wear and tear, but they did not suffer irreparable damage as so many others did.

Because of hard use or maltreatment, more than one thousand ancestral homes were destroyed or torn down after the war. In 1946, building materials were still rationed and taxes high. Repairs to country homes were done on a shoestring, make-do-and-mend basis, which meant bigger issues were covered over to be dealt with at a later time. But the generations who took over after the war were determined to make a go of it, and thanks to grants, opening their homes to the public, and the use of second-hand furnishings, thousands more homes have survived.

How would you feel about giving up your home?

~*~
Author bio:

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

Born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, Linda has lived in historical places most of her life. 

She is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and a Trustee for her local public library. Linda is active in her church where she serves as treasurer, usher, and choir member. 

~*~
Blurb for Linda's novella, "A Doctor in the House", part of The Hope of Christmas story collection:

Emma O’Sullivan is one of the first female doctors to enlist after President Franklin Roosevelt assigned to England to set up a convalescent hospital, and she leaves behind everything that is familiar. 

When the handsome widower of the requisitioned property claims she’s incompetent and tries to get her transferred, she must prove to her superiors she’s more than capable. But she’s soon drawn to the good-looking, grieving owner. Will she have to choose between her job and her heart?

Archibald “Archie” Heron is the last survivor of the Heron dynasty, his two older brothers having been lost at Dunkirk and Trondheim and his parents in the Blitz. After his wife is killed in a bombing raid while visiting Brighton, he begins to feel like a modern-day Job. To add insult to injury, the British government requisitions his country estate, Heron Hall, for the U.S. Army to use as a hospital. The last straw is when the hospital administrator turns out to be a fiery, ginger-haired American woman. She’s got to go. Or does she?

~*~
Buy Linda's book on Amazon

~*~
Connect with Linda:
Website - www.LindaShentonMatchett.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/authorlindamatchett
Pinterest - www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/authorlindamatchett
Goodreads - www.goodreads.com/author_Linda_Matchett
Amazon Author Page - http://amzn.to/2yozXb3

~*~

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: 

SaveSavea Rafflecopter giveaway