Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to not neglect our physical body

Why God Wants Us to Take Good Care of Our Body
A devotional by Erica J. Hill

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”—1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NIV)

Honoring God is not just about praying and reading God’s Word (The Holy Bible)—it’s also about taking care of the physical body He gave us.

Too often, we prioritize convenience and comfort over care. We sit for hours binge-watching shows, scrolling through our phones, and ignoring the body's need for movement and strength. But if we truly believe that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, then caring for it is an act of worship. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NIV) tells us, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

When we neglect our physical bodies, we can sometimes find our energy and focus lacking as well. Not getting enough rest can make it harder to get up early and meet with God. Honoring our bodies doesn't have to begin with dramatic changes. Discipline may begin very simply: taking a walk, drinking more water, stretching, getting adequate rest, turning off the phone, preparing nourishing food, or consistently making time for movement. And when we add God into it, we are honoring our spirits as well. We can incorporate God into every walk, run, and workout—not only building our physical strength but our spiritual strength as well.

Ephesians 6:11 (NIV) tells us to “put on the full armor of God.” Let’s be real—armor is heavy. However, a soldier doesn’t show up to the battlefield unprepared. They go through rigorous training—what we call “bootcamp” today—to condition their bodies and minds for the weight they must carry. Training happens beforehand, repeatedly, until the body adapts. Similarly, we as believers carry burdens daily: the weight of our calling, the struggles of our families, and the challenges of standing for Jesus Christ in a broken world.

Like bootcamp, our faith walk with Jesus includes building physical strength through movement and discipline, spiritual endurance through prayer and Scripture, and combat readiness through spiritual warfare. We face trials. We lean on our community. We practice sacrifice. And through each of these experiences, God is developing our endurance. One workout cannot build strength, just as one morning of prayer cannot sustain an entire spiritual life.

Consistency doesn't mean we never miss a day or never struggle. It means we keep returning. It means choosing to spend time in God’s Word when we would rather scroll, praying when we don't feel particularly spiritual, and continuing spiritual habits even when immediate results aren't visible. We shouldn't wait until the crisis comes to develop discipline. We can pray consistently before the diagnosis, conflict, loss, temptation, or disappointment. We can study Scripture before we desperately need to remember what God said. We can strengthen our bodies before life requires stamina from us.

There will be mornings when we don't feel like exercising. There will be evenings when prayer feels difficult. There will be seasons when spiritual growth seems slow. Just as Paul stated in 1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV), “I discipline my body and keep it under control.” Discipline says, “My feelings don't get the final vote.” We aren't doing this just to win, but to give God the glory.

Hebrews 12:1–2 (NIV) reminds us (I am quoting part of these two verses, not all of it), “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” We may have difficult days, slow seasons, and moments when we need to begin again. But we can continue moving forward, trusting God to strengthen us along the way.

Following Jesus invites us into a life of growth and faithful obedience. Let’s honor God with our soul and our body. Move your feet in prayer. Stretch your faith and your limbs. Train for the fight. Not because we must prove ourselves, but because we want to steward well what God has entrusted to us.

And when we stumble, we don't have to stay there. His grace gives us the freedom to begin again. We don't have to get everything right. We can simply return to what matters, trusting God to meet us in the small, faithful choices we make each day.

The goal isn't perfection. It's faithful preparation. One prayer. One step. One healthy choice. One act of obedience at a time. And with God beside us, we can keep showing up.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for making my body a temple of Your Holy Spirit. Forgive me for the ways I’ve neglected this gift. Teach me to care for my body with the same intentionality I give to my spiritual life. Help me train like a soldier—strong in faith and firm in body—so I can carry the armor You’ve given me with grace and endurance.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “The Battle is The Lord’s” by Yolanda Adams. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Battle Belongs to God Praise Medley” by Nathaniel Bassey. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “I Will Follow Christ” by Clay Crosse, Bebe Winans & Bob Carlisle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Be the One” by Al Denson. Listen to it here.

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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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: How giving and receiving blessings creates joy

The Joy of Accepting Blessings
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”—James 1:17 (NIV)

I looked forward to attending a writer’s retreat where I would share writing ideas, fellowship with other writers, learn how to improve my writing craft as I sat in workshops, collaborate on devotions, meet with literary agents, and have other rich experiences. Every retreat I attended in the past was filled with laughter and a few tears. The relationships between these writers were strengthened by God.

However, my plans to attend the writer’s retreat changed when arthritic pain in my neck and back intensified. My heart ached when I decided not to attend. Through my decision to stay home, I soon learned the joy of accepting blessings. I sent emails and texts alerting my group of friends that I would not be attending our retreat. Immediately, the responses flooded my inbox: “Oh, Melissa, we’ll miss you. Are you sure you can’t attend?” “What can we do to help?” The compassion and love from the group warmed my heart. Each person covered me with precious prayers and blessings.

After that outpouring of love, I began to feel awkward about letting the group down. The plan was for a dear friend and me to share a room at the rental house. That would help with cost. Most of all, we love sharing time together. This special friend sent a message that she would refund the payment for my part of the room. I explained that she didn’t need to give any money back to me. My anxiety began to surface. I worried about accepting that check from my friend. I thought: “What if she needed that money?” “How could I accept her offer?”

But then, God began to speak to me in wonderful ways. He reminded me that sometimes we need to accept blessings from others. There is no need to feel awkward or embarrassed when someone offers to help. Yet, I am encouraged and inspired when I’m the person who is offering a blessing by helping someone in need. God reminded me through Scripture that every good and perfect gift is from Him. There are times when we can bless others with our words and actions. There are other times when we need to be blessed.

I accepted the check from my friend. That money was needed for an unexpected expense. God knew what was needed. My friend listened to God and blessed my husband and me. Accepting a blessing can bless the giver and the receiver. What a beautiful way to share God’s love and glory!

Today, I paused to think about different types of blessings. We bless people when we acknowledge them, look them in the eyes, and say hello. Listening and hearing what is being said can show God’s love to someone who needs to share about something happening in their life.

I also considered the Blessing Box that my husband and I fill at different times during the month. A team of volunteers from our church are assigned a week to fill the box with food and personal hygiene items. One of our team members recently shared that a man approached him while he was placing items into the box. The stranger thanked him for the food and toiletries.

I also remembered a time when my neighbor was exiting her vehicle this morning and sneezed loud enough to make us laugh. I said, “God bless you.” She responded with a smile and a “thank you”. She said that sneezing made her jump. A simple blessing over a sneeze allowed two neighbors to share a conversation.

I have learned the joy of accepting blessings, and it has encouraged my heart. Have you been blessed in a special way?

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for big and small blessings. Each one is provided by You. May we look for ways to bless others every day. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Counting My Blessings” by Seph Schlueter. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “So So Good” by Phil Wickham, Brandon Lake, Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Blessings Everywhere (Live from the Loft)” feat. Brandon Lake and Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Brighter Days” by Blessing Offor. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. 

With articles, devotions, and stories in print publications and online, Melissa shares her love for God and life. Some of the inspirations for her writing come from family life.

Melissa and her husband Alan have been married for over 46 years. Their son Mike, and daughter-in-love Christine have blessed the family with two precious children: Rowan and Eden. These precious souls bring laughter, love, and many funny experiences, which can often be found in Melissa’s writing. The family motto is: It’s Always a Story with the Hendersons.

Melissa is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter, AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), CWFL (Christian Writers for Life), and many other organizations.

Melissa’s books for children include Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator.

Melissa serves in Christian ministry as an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.

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Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissaghenderson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor
Twitter: https://x.com/mimionlife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahendersonauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ahenderson312/

Devotionals for the Heart: What God wants us to do when we are uncertain

Walking by Faith During Seasons of Uncertainty
A devotional by Sarah Cole

“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.”

—Hebrews 11:8-9 (NIV)

Fall has always been my favorite season.

Colorful leaves, cooler weather, and pumpkin spice lattes are a welcome change from the heat and humidity. I find nothing more satisfying than the sound of acorns under my feet as I walk through the woods.

Change is inevitable for us spiritually as well. God doesn’t want us to remain stagnant, so He takes us through seasons designed to prune us, promote us, and refine us. Not all seasons feel good, especially when God pulls us away from relationships, habits, and emotional attachments that can't go where He's taking us. When the landscape of your life feels unfamiliar and unsettling, God uses this divine disruption to move you forward.

We’ve all faced seasons of uncertainty when God’s plan seemed hidden. We question why prayers are still unanswered or when things will turn around. But God knows our faith won’t grow if He lays out the entire roadmap.

Imagine how Abraham felt when God called him to leave the comforts of home for a land God promised Abraham would inherit. Without knowing what to expect, let alone the roadmap to get there, Abraham stepped out in faith because he trusted God to keep His promise.

God didn’t expect Abraham to figure out how to reach the Promised Land, but to believe that He already did. Abraham’s faith in the midst of uncertainty reminds us that when everything feels chaotic and uncertain, we aren’t falling apart—we’re falling into place—as God positions us for the promise we’ve been praying for.

True faith isn’t about knowing how our story unfolds but trusting the One (God) who does. Every time we choose to walk by faith and release our grip on the outcome, we’re allowing Him to guide our steps, even when it’s uncomfortable.

God doesn’t keep us in the dark to punish us. He is preparing us for the future that He’s already planned for us. God knows that if He told us too much, we would continue to be burdened with anxiety and addicted to control and clarity.

When my lab tests showed some abnormalities last month, my doctor sent me to a hematologist as a precaution. The moment I realized his office was located at the cancer center, I immediately feared the worst. Later that evening, despite what my mind was telling me, the Lord reassured me I would get a clean bill of health. This experience taught me that instead of trusting my emotions, I must trust God’s voice and the promises He’s spoken over my life.

In the midst of uncertainty, we don’t have to be afraid of the dark, because the same God who led Abraham through the desert to the Promised Land in the Bible story is leading us too in our modern era. When we reach the destination He’s planned for us, we will look back and realize that every step He asked us to take was worth it.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

When I’m faced with uncertainty and my heart is overwhelmed with fear, help me remember to resist the urge to figure everything out myself. Because You are Sovereign, I don’t have to fear what happens next because You go before me, and Your plans for me are always good. I know You are with me, so I will choose faith over fear and prayer over panic as I trust You to take me safely to my next destination.

In Jesus’s name, I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Just Be Held” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #3: “Everything Falls” by Fee. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s passion to follow Jesus Christ is woven throughout her writing. She loves using words to encourage women to embrace their identity in Christ so they can experience victory in every area of their life. 

In 2024, Sarah was a featured speaker in the 28-Day Devotional Challenge. She also launched her new Substack newsletter, "A Peaceful Pace", which inspires her readers to let Jesus Christ set their pace in a world that values speed at all costs.

Sarah’s short stories have appeared in the St. Paul Almanac, and Mysterious Ways by Guideposts. Her latest short story is featured in a new book published by Guideposts, titled Too Amazing For Coincidence.

Her devotionals have appeared in David C. Cook’s The Quiet Hour and Devotions, The Secret Place by Judson Press, and Pray a Word a Day by Guideposts.

Sarah is a dog sitter who lives in Minneapolis with her dachshund Frank. Her hobbies include cooking and vacationing each year on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

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Connect with Sarah:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.cole.52

Devotionals for the Heart: God wants us to properly care for our bodies

Is Self-Care Selfish?
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”—Luke 12:7 (ESV)

Have you ever given a gift to someone and felt unreasonably protective about taking care of that gift before you gave it to them?

If I go to the store and buy something for myself, it can roll around in the back of my trunk until I get home, and I’m not terribly worried about it. But if I’ve bought a birthday gift for someone, I make sure it’s nestled carefully in my trunk so it won’t get trampled by the other things back there. Then when I get home, I keep it somewhere safe—preferably where the cats can’t massacre it—until I have the time to wrap it, topping it all off with a nice bow before I present it to them with love. I take care of that gift, making sure it’s in as good a shape as possible before it winds up in the hands of my loved one. After all, it’s a gift. It’s something precious, a tangible representation of my love and care.

But do we take care of ourselves, our bodies, with that same measure of care? Truthfully, not always. Perhaps we forget sometimes that our bodies are also a gift. Not only are they a gift that God gave to us—human houses for our souls, as well as the Holy Spirit who lives inside all believers—but also a gift that’s meant to be given away. We’re meant to lay down our lives for those we love (1 John 3:16), as well as to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to the Lord (Romans 12:1). We’re meant to die to the old so that we can embrace the new (Romans 6:5-6, Ephesians 4:22-24, 2 Corinthians 5:17, John 3:3).

That’s not because our bodies are worthless garbage. It’s because it’s a genuine gift. Our bodies are one thing we can fully offer to the Lord, whether that’s in service or in sacrifice, whether that’s offering our life by defending the weak and the “least of these” or in living sacrifice as we respond in the aftermath of disasters, or by visiting prisoners, tending the ill, praising the Lord through music or dance, or feeding and caring for those without homes or food. Our bodies are precious, meant to be used in love, service, and care.

However, many of us see self-care as selfish. Perhaps we think if we’re truly being sacrificial, we are supposed to push ourselves until there’s nothing left. We work our lives away as though our bodies mean nothing. We put junk food in our bellies, we don’t get adequate sleep, we don’t take time to move and stretch and build our muscles, and then to feel better—or numb our pain, or maybe because we think it’s fun—we expose our bodies to toxic chemicals like drugs, too much alcohol, or other substances. We allow our bodies and our minds to get consumed by stress instead of stopping to tend the houses of our souls, the physical homes of the Holy Spirit on earth.

And perhaps we think there’s nothing wrong with that. But just like plants need to be cared for in order to produce crops or flowers, just like churches need tending and financial support to be able to truly be the body of Jesus Christ in the world, our bodies also have needs. They need for us to take care of them properly in the world for the Lord.

If you think about it, our bodies are a gift from God. They’re meant to be used by us, yes. But they’re also meant to be given away by us to the Lord, whatever that looks like. And if we’re truly intending for our bodies to be a gift, we shouldn’t be treating them like trash. I wouldn’t let my mom’s birthday gift roll around in my trunk, getting crushed and mangled, only to present it to her with a sheepish grin, “Here you go! Sorry it’s a catastrophe!”

Our bodies are the same. We don’t want to present them to the Lord in poor shape. So no, self-care is not selfish. It’s stewardship. It’s an act of love care and respect for a gift that God gave  us in his perfect love.

If you’re struggling to see your body in this way, stop and consider how God might view how you’re treating yourself. If that’s difficult to wrap your mind around, then consider how you might react to a small child hurting herself, driving herself to the point of pain and debilitation. Wouldn’t you encourage her to take a nap, have a good meal, or slow down and rest? That’s how God feels about you and about every one of His children on this earth.

Our bodies are precious to the Lord. Every aspect of who you are is precious to the Lord. Remember this.

Let’s Pray: Lord God, sometimes I treat myself like an afterthought but I’m no afterthought to You. I was created in perfect love, handcrafted by You. Help me honor Your love in the way I treat myself and care for my body, mind, and soul. Help me care for the gift You gave with proper stewardship that honors You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Sanctuary | Alpha & Omega | Total Praise” by Israel & New Breed. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach. She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. 

Her two Christian contemporary novels, The Memory Garden and Tangled Roots, are Amazon bestsellers. Learn more about Jessica’s writing ministry and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com.

She has a YouTube devotional, and you can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to take time to be healed

Take Time to Heal
A devotional by Essie Faye Taylor

“A time to kill,

And a time to heal;

A time to break down,

And a time to build up.”

—Ecclesiastes 3:3 (NKJV)

As I sat in silence with my eyes closed, I opened my heart and ears to receive from God. I focused on four words mentally. Lord, please heal me.

I waited for the presence of God to wash over me. I calmly inhaled and exhaled as I practiced patience. I eagerly anticipated meeting God in this moment. I made time to stop my busyness and quiet the noise in my world to make space for a God encounter. It was my time to heal. At the feet of Jesus Christ, I knelt to bask in His healing presence.

Ecclesiastes 3:3 is a declaration of a wise man named Solomon. After having lived life as a king, he reflects on his life’s lessons. He emphasizes the importance of the cycles of life. There is a time and season for all things, he assures us. There is a time to kill. In order to birth new things many times, we must experience the death of the old. Dying makes room for life and new things. While we should never kill a human being (Exodus 20:13), we must kill anything that would inhibit God’s purpose in our lives. This includes toxic relationships, unhealthy or destructive patterns, negative or false beliefs, and bad practices in our lives.

Healing has its proper place in the cycles of life. Sometimes we are wounded by the ones we love and honor unintentionally. Sometimes we are the casualties of our life’s battles, or the battles of others. We hurt in different ways. We experience loss and disappointment. We are wounded physically, spiritually, emotionally, or psychologically. We experience some sort of trauma.

It’s easy to ignore the hurt and put on a brave face. It’s easy to refuse to grieve properly and become busy. It’s easy to drown yourself in work or in the care of others. But we must learn how to stop. We must make and take time to heal. As women—mothers and wives—we take on so much. As natural nurturers we are very much concerned with the care of others. So much so, that we sometimes neglect ourselves and our self-care.

If we do not care for ourselves, our body will cry out with warning signs. This may look like body aches, emotional turmoil, forgetfulness, insomnia, crankiness, depression, anxiety, isolation, increased stress levels, etc. Our bodies tell the story. Our bodies are our physical houses—we only get one, so we must care for it intentionally. King Solomon admonishes us that healing is essential to a healthy lifestyle. We can heal in several ways.

I’d like to discuss a few ways that we can heal today:

We heal ourselves with our diet. I’ve learned that food is the fuel that nourishes our bodies. Nutritious foods provide the necessary elements for growth and nourishment to our bodies. Water hydrates us and positively benefits all the systems in our body. Conversely, what we ingest has the power to destroy and break down our body systems. A diet high in sugar, salt, and fat can clog arteries, cause weight gain, and overwork organs. Obesity is a very real disease that causes other physical diseases and can shorten our lifespan. Take time to heal the body with a healthy diet.

We heal ourselves with rest. Rest encompasses sleep and awake time. Sleep plays an intricate role in our healing. During sleep, our bodies and minds reset for the coming day. Our body clocks set again and prepare for the work ahead. Our sleep patterns monitor our hormones and daily functioning. We should sleep for one fourth of our day to power up for the remaining 16 hours. During our time awake, we must also take mental and physical breaks. We can practice silence or Christian meditation. We can also sit and reflect and take time to rest our bodies and minds. Our bodies will thank us.

We heal ourselves with self-care. It matters how we treat ourselves. The first relationship that we have is one with ourselves. It is healing to truly love and accept yourself. We deserve love and to know how much our Maker loves us. We should ask God to help us see ourselves how He sees us. The Bible says we are beautiful and valuable to God (Psalm 139:14). He says that we are good and worthy of love (Genesis 1:31). We should treat ourselves as such. Encourage yourself and care for yourself. Treat yourself to a good life and new experiences. Take the trip. Eat your favorite food sometimes. Get the massage and take yourself on a date. You deserve it. Make time to be still and reflect on God’s goodness. Speak kindly to yourself. Journal and reflect on your wins and celebrate. Process the pain and talk to a licensed therapist. Deal with your trauma and heal your inner child. That is self-care. It is your time to heal.

We can heal our relationships. This includes your relationships with God and others. If you are far from God or angry at Him, reconcile with Him. God loves us more than we can ever know or understand. Express your anger and bitterness toward Him; He already knows how you feel. He’s waiting for you to come to Him and talk about it. He is not intimidated by our feelings. Deal with the relational hurt from family members and/or friends that has plagued you for years. Acknowledge and release the bitterness and resentment from years past. Face the woundedness from experiences of rejection and being misunderstood by people you love. Admit your struggle with misplaced anger and frustration. Mourn that loss and properly grieve instead of ignoring the pain or covering it with busyness. It’s time to stop and make space for your healing, for your health’s sake.

Remember: God has made us stewards over our temples (bodies), time, talent, and treasure. In order to be great stewards, we must prioritize our healing. This means that we must heal our temples through our diet. We must heal our temples with appropriate rest. We must heal our temples with appropriate self-care. And we must heal our relationships with ourselves, God, and others. Healing is a process that requires time and intention. It is your right. You deserve to heal and be healthy.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are the Lord our God who heals us. Help us to understand that healing is essential to our life and it is our right as Your children. Cause us to make time to heal. Help us to quiet the noise and stop our busyness for your purpose of healing in our lives. Cause us to see the signs in our lives that cry out for healing then help us to respond with giving ourselves rest and proper self-care. Help us to heal our relationship with ourselves, with You, and with others. Grant us the grace to take the first step in our healing journey. Teach us how to partner with You so that we may be healed and whole. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayers.

In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Healer” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Healing Has Begun” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

~*~
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 today.

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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/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/esther.tate.39
Read Essie’s YouVersion Devotion Plan here: http://bible.us/r/Abn

Devotionals for the Heart: Discipline

Gilligan’s Island
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” –1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV

In my younger years, I enjoyed Thursday nights when the 30-minute TV show Gilligan’s Island would be shown. It was a dramatic comedy about some people who were on a boat tour around a tropical island. Unexpectedly, a storm erupts. The yacht was blown off course and grounded on an uncharted island. The show chronicles the challenges and adjustments of the seven castaways.

I must confess that Gilligan’s Island conditioned my perspective on the “castaway” statement of the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:27. These people were lost and stranded with nothing but hope that someone might see their signal attempts. They had no assurance that they would ever be rescued. But they tried everything that they could think of to be found and saved.

If Paul, the prolific evangelist and prophet of the growing movement of Christianity, was not secure, then how could I be?

Back in the day, I tried out for the Track team at my school. I made it. My races were the long ones (the 880 and 1 mile meets). I was not fast, but I was steady and I had endurance. While the other athletes practiced their long jumps, high jumps and short races, we who were on the cross-country team, ran. When we returned from our two-or three-mile runs, the coach would bring us to the starting line. Once he knew that we could finish, he made us rehearse the start of the race.

If we jumped before the starting pistol sounded, we could be disqualified. If we started on a pace that was too slow, we would never catch up. If we came out of the starting blocks too fast, we would not be able to sustain the pace. He tested us, repeatedly, so that we would not be disqualified or flameout in the race.

The Greek word “adokimos” that is often translated in English as “castaway”, is more akin to failing a test of strength or not meeting a standard. The Apostle Paul does not say in this text that he would be put off the team or lose his relationship with God through Christ. However, Paul does want to maintain the confidence of the ultimate spectator of our lives, God. So, his daily regimen is to exercise his body and his mind so that he would be able to overcome temptations and rightly perceive distractions that could derail his profession of faith.

Paul wants to avoid the slippery slope of hypocrisy. He preached the love of Christ and virtues of morality, temperance, equality, and spiritual freedom. He did not want to slip into vortices of lust, gluttony, bigotry, misogyny, or abusive legalism. So, he lived a disciplined life.

In like manner, we should stay physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy. To do so, we must focus on the life and love of our Redeemer. Reading Scripture, noble books, and devotionals is healthy. Shifting focus away from the lusts of the flesh that many healthy believers still wrestle with. Redirect and reinvest your imagination. Choose the better diet. Choose to treat people better than how you wish to be treated. Disrupt abuse whenever you see it or feel it rising within you. Exercise grace and graciousness in all your interactions, especially the tough ones.

By doing this, you will meet the mark. If not, you will come closer to the center of God’s will. That really is the goal. God does not kick people off His team. There are those who might choose to quit. We are all free moral agents. Choose self-discipline and rectitude, daily. With God’s help, you can’t lose or get lost.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for this new day. As we go about our day, challenge us to do more and be more of who You have destined us to be. Guide us in all things and steer us around the sins that might beset and shipwreck us. Deliver us into the faith adventures and harbors of grace that You have destined us for. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Paul Anderson served for 20 years as a U.S. Navy Chaplain. Over 26 years of active duty, he was promoted through the ranks from Seaman Apprentice (E2) to his final rank as Commander (O5) in the Chaplain’s Corps. 

Prior to his Naval career, Chaplain Anderson pastored in the Allegheny East and Potomac Conferences of Seventh-day Adventists. His undergraduate preparation for ministry was completed at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Md.

He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Michigan, a Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and a Masters of Sacred Theology in Religion and Culture from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry degree was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Chaplain Anderson also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He also holds certifications in Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Civil Mediation, Alternative Workplace Dispute Resolution, Temperament Analysis, Marriage Enrichment, Workforce Diversity, and is a certified Life Coach.

You may connect with Chaplain Anderson via email at this address, psanderson75@gmail.com.

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: Why we need to say "Thank You" to God

Having an Attitude of Gratitude
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving;

go into his courts with praise.

Give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good.

His unfailing love continues forever,

and his faithfulness

continues to each generation.”

–Psalm 100:4-5 NLT

Just over a year, ago a very dear friend went through a serious health challenge.

She had to have what I consider one of the most dangerous surgeries on her brain.

The brain is the headquarters of our bodies. It’s the command post for our body functions. So, you know this was not just routine surgery. Family and friends prayed and prayed for her safety. She went for tests, researched, and asked questions as she juggled her ministry role as well as mothering a vibrant four-year-old and loving her husband. Week after week there still were no concrete answers until one test and an alert technician, she was finally able to receive a diagnosis.

The first prayer we offered was, “Thank you, Lord” because we now had a name, a label to put on the illness. We said thank you because she could name it and give it to God. We knew He could heal her chronic pain and discomfort which were the first signs she knew something was wrong. Many people go undiagnosed for years with illnesses and it is frustrating to know what the issue is and how can it be treated.

We trusted God, and we rejoiced when she went into the hospital and came out alive! She came out hopeful in trusting that the surgeon was able to remove the tumor which we would come to learn had been growing for several years.

Psalm 100:4 MSG reads:

Enter with the password: “Thank you!”

Make yourselves at home, talking praise.

Thank him. Worship him.

Thank you is the password to enter God’s presence.

Can you imagine coming into your friend’s home and saying thank you right away for having you over or allowing you to visit? What would that do to your heart and mind? I know for me it would tell me you’re grateful to come and be with me.

Gratitude and thanksgiving are what the Lord delights in when His children come into His presence with thanks. It’s like the red carpet rolled out for an award show. Is it easy for you to come before the Lord with a grateful heart or are you ready to unleash a grocery list of requests and concerns? Don’t get me wrong, prayer is all things communication. But just think about someone frequently coming into your home, to a meeting or a dinner opening the conversation with frustrations and all the things going wrong in their day. Would we look forward to being with them? I can say I would not.

I am so thankful that gratitude was taught to my siblings and I at a very early age. We were told to always be grateful. Our mother’s wish was that the gracious words, “Please” and “Thank you” would flow freely on our lips. My mom wanted us to live life grateful for everything we received and in everything wherever we found ourselves.

When my birthday rolls around in August, I am always grateful to be alive! The best gift I’ve received is life and I will be forever grateful. Knowing that I am loved, watched over and have access to the throne of the King of Kings. How great is our God! I’m deeply grateful to know Him as our Heavenly Father. Do you know Him? He loves you and wants to be in your life.

Let’s Pray: Father God, it is a good thing to give thanks to You for all You are and for all You’ve done. I’m so grateful for Your goodness and for all You’ve done for me. Even more, I’m so thankful for the best gift ever received through Your Son (Jesus Christ) coming to this Earth to die on a cruel cross for all mankind. Help us to always be grateful and to always find a way to praise You in every situation we find ourselves in. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is an encourager. She passionately uses her gifting as an author, speaker, pastor, recording artist, worship leader and coach. 

Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body & Spirit (a book that she wrote) was an Amazon Bestseller in October 2020.

Patricia sings! She has released two CDs titled Draw Me Nearer and Lord I Trust You.

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

When she is not ministering to save souls in God’s Kingdom, Patricia enjoys reading, writing and connecting like-minded people who can sharpen each other in the journey to their dreams and goals.

As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, her desire is to coach others to live life to the fullest by understanding their gifting from God and using it.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrussellonline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patrussellsings
Email: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Life Lessons Learned from the death of a friend

Present Absence
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die.” –Isaiah 57:1-2 (NLT)

The wise writer of the Hebrew wisdom book, Ecclesiastes, said that the day of our death is better than the day of our birth (Ecclesiastes 7:1). One of my friends died on May 31.

I am celebrating, even as I grieve. He is free now. We were classmates and colleagues in school and ministry for 40 years. He used to have a muscular, athletic body that had defended quarterbacks and wrestled giants but unhealthy habits led to heart failure.

He was not a perfect man. He was a rather simple man. Unremarkable. Non-confrontational. Easy to please. He was loyal. His imperfections, like our own, crippled him at times, but he knew the Lord and sought to lead others to know and love Him too.

I visited him last week. We talked frankly and honestly about life and death. He knew that his time was approaching. He told me that he was not afraid to die. He had some hopes and few regrets. There were a few things that he wished to do before dying, but if not able to do so, he was ready.

And so, it has happened. The inevitability of the mortal mutiny is now history. My friend is dead. His memory exists within the minds of everyone who knew and loved him. He is in that place between two distinct periods or eras. He is absent from the body, waiting for the resurrection that will give him a new healthy body and usher him into eternity in the presence of God.

Death is a present absence. He is gone, but forever present in our memories. For a righteous person, death is a divine gift. No more vulnerability to evil, greed, lusts, illness, dysfunction or age-related deterioration. For him and all believers, his death was the final blessing of God. Revelation 14:13 (KJV) says, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”

My friend’s absence is very present around us. His body lies in storage soon to be embalmed and buried. He died believing and confidently awaiting the Resurrection Day when the dead in Christ will rise first and we who are alive and remain will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air.

I am celebrating today because my friend, though fallible and mortal, was ready to die. Had he done all in life that he dreamed of? No! But he lived believing and teaching that Jesus Christ was Lord and that God raised Him from the dead. He had accepted Jesus as his Savior and lived in the confident knowledge that he was saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

He declared to his doctors that he did not fear death and was ready because death had already been swallowed in the victory of Christ’s resurrection. He died confident that one day he would awaken from the slumber of death and be reunited with Christ, his wife, sons and grandchildren. He died knowing that when he rises again his heart and entire body will be repaired and renewed to the creation standard. He was confident that his destiny was not the cessation of bodily function, the absence from his body. His destiny was post resurrection eternity in an immortal frame.

We too are destined to die. The key to life is not how or when we die. It is how what we believe guides our living. If we believe and live like my friend did, how and when we die won’t matter much, because, not even death can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39).

I shall grieve with his family as we prepare for the funeral. I shall celebrate my friend’s death because he was ready. Are you?

I challenge you to consider your life. If death came to you today, could you greet and embrace it fearlessly? Is your eternal destiny secure? If not, I challenge you to consider a leap of faith.

Make a commitment to order the rest of your life around the life of Christ and the grace of God. It will change you from the inside out. It won’t always be easy, but the process is simple.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, be with the person reading this devotional today. Move into their lives. Fill them with the love of Jesus and Your grace. Save them in Your Kingdom today, so that whenever their time to die arrives, they will meet it fearlessly, as did my friend. Secure them now so that they can have eternity in Your Presence. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson served for 20 years as a U.S. Navy Chaplain. Over 26 years of active duty, he was promoted through the ranks from Seaman Apprentice (E2) to his final rank as Commander (O5) in the Chaplain’s Corps. 

Prior to his Naval career, Chaplain Anderson pastored in the Allegheny East and Potomac Conferences of Seventh-day Adventists. His undergraduate preparation for ministry was completed at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Md.

He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Michigan, a Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and a Masters of Sacred Theology in Religion and Culture from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry degree was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Chaplain Anderson also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He also holds certifications in Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Civil Mediation, Alternative Workplace Dispute Resolution, Temperament Analysis, Marriage Enrichment, Workforce Diversity, and is a certified Life Coach.

You may connect with Chaplain Anderson via email at this address, psanderson75@gmail.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: When you need support and strength

Supplements!
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.”—2 Peter 1:5-7 (ESV)

A recent theme in my life is supplementation.

Supplementation infers a deficit in content or deficiency in ability. It may also warn of a dangerous depletion. To supplement is to add content for support and strength.

When I had my annual physical checkup, the doctor called me. I could hear concern and urgency in her voice. She had received the results of the blood tests that she had ordered. My cholesterol was very low. Good. My sugar levels were low. Good. PSA was low. Very good for a man my age. Then she said, “But”. Suddenly, my heart was in my throat.

“Do you have any chronic pain? How much sleep are you getting? You look strong, but are you exercising regularly? Are you moody and/or depressed, lethargic with brain fog?”

To the former, I answered “Not much”. To the latter, I said “My wife might say yes”. The doctor’s tone became very firm and cautionary.

“You, sir, are in pretty good health but you are developing symptoms that could cascade into a catastrophic event. Your weight, blood pressure and cortisol levels are too high. You are stressed with vitamin and mineral deficiencies. You have to get out in the sunshine and exercise. Then you need to supplement your Vitamin B and Vitamin D intake significantly, soon!”

I was sobered. Now B12, D3, zinc, magnesium, more sleep and exercise are regular supplements to my diet and daily schedule. Supplementation replenishes, restores and can be regenerative.

After my daily walk, in the morning sun, I sat down with my English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible and started to read the book of 2 Peter. There it was again—the word “supplement”.

The apostle Peter is not suggesting that his reader’s faith in Christ is anemic or weak. He is prescribing a regimen that will keep their faith and godly lifestyle strong, robust and growing.

Like whey and protein for a bodybuilder, the traits listed in this verse of scripture build and fortify the inner character. The items on the list below are the qualities that quantify the presence of faith and faithfulness in our lives:

• Faith from Peter’s perspective is the firm conviction or belief that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah who reconciled sinful humanity with divinity and secured abundant and eternal life for those who believe in Him.
• Virtue is moral excellence, modesty and/or purity of thought, intent and actions.
• Knowledge, in this context, is a deep and abiding moral wisdom and discernment that informs right doing. It is a supernatural level of discernment, an inner sensitivity that may or may not be explicable, until the danger is avoided or averted. It is inclusive of and more than conscience and intuition. It is a sense of prescience that serves as a moral guardrail.
• Self-control is about mastering the appetites—especially our sensual imaginations—into spiritual effectiveness. Redirecting our fantasy life from the sensual to the spiritual is the imperative here. Here Peter is urging the pursuit of spiritual, godly visions rather than satisfied senses.
• Steadfastness is akin to grit and resiliency.
• Godliness is a lifestyle of piety, reverence and respect for the presence and preferences of divinity. 
• Brotherly affection is simply an unflinching, unconditional positive regard for every man, woman, girl or boy.
• Charity—a sense of benevolence, philanthropy and personal investment in those around us. Love can show up as a smile, a word of encouragement, mentoring someone who needs to learn and grow, or helping someone at a pivotal moment in their experience.

Paying it forward is a supplement to faith. It is virtue in action that senses beyond sight, a divine moment that transcends rationale. Paying it forward makes a respectful investment into someone’s current circumstance, with implications on their destiny.

Ask God to strengthen your faith by directing you to do something that makes you the supplement that someone else was praying for.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for today and for the opportunities that will unfold before us to help someone else. Make us equal to the task so that we can be the supplement that someone else is praying for. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson served for 20 years as a U.S. Navy Chaplain. Over 26 years of active duty, he was promoted through the ranks from Seaman Apprentice (E2) to his final rank as Commander (O5) in the Chaplain’s Corps. 

Prior to his Naval career, Chaplain Anderson pastored in the Allegheny East and Potomac Conferences of Seventh-day Adventists. His undergraduate preparation for ministry was completed at Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, Md.

He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Michigan, a Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and a Masters of Sacred Theology in Religion and Culture from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry degree was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Chaplain Anderson also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He also holds certifications in Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Civil Mediation, Alternative Workplace Dispute Resolution, Temperament Analysis, Marriage Enrichment, Workforce Diversity, and is a certified Life Coach.

You may connect with Chaplain Anderson via email at this address, psanderson75@gmail.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Reset

A New Beginning
A devotional by Glynis Becker

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” –Lamentations 3:22-24 (NLT)

We are creatures of time. We need cycles, seasons, and delineations of days and years on a calendar. We need these things because God created us to need them. The moving forward of time, and the changing from one year to another, however arbitrary, gives us a chance for a reset.

We all need a reset. Over and over we need a chance to see our lives as a fresh start, whether that just means getting a good night’s sleep to feel ready to go in the morning, or a season of quiet before a new activity begins. We need cycles. The new year brings us a chance to start a new habit or get rid of an old one. We see it as a chance to get into shape or lose a few pounds. I’m using this year to read the Bible through, something I haven’t done for several years. It will be a chance for me to see God’s story in a fresh way.

As most one-year Bible plans do, my first readings have been the story of creation that starts in Genesis 1:1-5 (NLT). Read these verses with me:

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day” and the darkness “night.” And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day. 

These verses remind me that the very first thing God created was the cycle of day and night, before He created the sun and moon or even people! Those cycles of rest and activity have been around for a very long time, so it’s no wonder we need them so badly.

The creation account reminds me that God worked, then He rested. We need rest, but we also have work to do. God created the world from nothing, bringing order out of chaos. In this new year we need to do the same. The world needs light and peace and order and the only way to bring it is to allow Jesus into everything we do. Each of us has been given the task to help others hear the Good News and bring glory to God.

It’s a new year. Maybe He is giving you new work to do for Him. Or maybe this year will be a season of rest for you before a new activity. Spend time in prayer with Him today. He’ll give you a fresh word because that is what He does!

Let’s Pray: Lord you are a constant Creator. You bring order to a world that looks out of control and You bring light to darkness. Give me work to do and give me rest when it is done. Remind me that You are in control and that You are our hope in a world that can look hopeless. Your mercies are always new and You are always at work. Thank you, Father. In Jesus’s Name I pray. 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 the film 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.

Devotionals for the Heart: Mercy

Becoming Vessels of Mercy
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“What if God, desiring to show His wrath and to make known His power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, in order to make known the riches of His glory for vessels of mercy, which He has prepared beforehand for glory—even us whom He has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?” 

–Romans 9:22-24 (ESV)

Years ago, I was working toward the goal of becoming a Specialist in Fitness Nutrition. As a competing athlete, I was passionate about how the right nutrition could not only fuel but help shape the human form into a lean, powerful, performing machine. I put out my shingle for business.

Unbeknownst to me, grievous events would quickly alter my course. Personal injury brought my physical abilities to a halt and the business relationship I had built with a gym owner terminated. I was devastated.

Over a year later, out of the blue, I received a call from a local recovery center looking for a nutrition teacher for their program. It wasn’t what I intended for myself, but knowing it was an opportunity to work in my field, I accepted.

Within the Relapse Prevention Program, dozens of women were recovering not only from substance use, but, more sizably, traumatic life events. Their stories were filled with abusive horrors that were foreign to my life experience. Because of my naïveté, I did not understand why God would put me in a place so completely outside of my league.

These women taught me strength training of another sort and I became educated by their lessons. I felt as though I was being shaped for something completely different than expected.

That’s when news of sexual abuse within my family territory struck. The enemy hit my base. In the shock wave, I remembered the stories told to me by my students and I knew... I knew to my very core...that God had been preparing me beforehand for this, as a vessel of mercy.

In Romans 9, Paul addresses some of the very same questions that surface in the lives of believers of his time: 

“Is God fair?”

“Has God failed?”

“Am I just a puppet...a victim on the whims of God?”

Paul uses the metaphor of two vessels, one being an angry vessel (“vessel of wrath”) and the other a compassionate vessel (“vessel of mercy”), both of God’s making. Opportunity is given to both vessels to be tools for the Maker’s goodwill.

The Greek word for wrath in Romans 9:22 is ““orgé,” from the verb oragō meaning, “to teem, to swell.” This implies not a sudden outburst, but rather a growing agitation.

The vessel of wrath might be considered a crockpot of indignation, slowly breaking down its internal contents with constant heat. But, according to Romans 9:23-24, certain vessels have heeded God’s call and are filled with mercy. Like a bowl of fruit sitting on the counter, always available for the snacking.

Seeking God’s will can often look like letting go of the specific plans we have made and accepting with trust the opportunities that are offered. Being malleable under direction is a choice. Trust is a choice. And mercy might just be the consequence of accepting the offering.

I could have remained angry, stubbornly holding fast to my goal and demanding God be fair, but I would have been unprepared for what was ahead of me. Instead, I’m grateful for the very specific direction God was turning me toward, putting roadblocks on one path and opening up a new route. Without the job, without the broken ladies I was working with, I would not have had the mind frame of compassion nor the skills of grace for the marred ones in my personal sphere.

Look into the story of your life. Does it feel like God has failed you or been unjust? Is anger the temperature of your heart? God has mercy on you, my friend! His hand on you is compassionate. God knows your future and wishes to prepare you for it. Respond to His touch. You will be eternally grateful for His filling of mercy.

~*~
Author Bio:
Sharon Musgrove is a self-proclaimed sociologist. The opportunities opened to her, over the years, have led her on a fascinating journey observing human behavior.

She has a diverse background in business, fitness and health industries. This background led her to a unique position writing curriculum and teaching for two private, Christ-based, residential recovery programs. Both recovery programs served women primarily from the homeless community.

Sharon has traveled multiple times to Kenya, serving on medical teams and teaching in the rural Maasai communities. She's been privileged to participate in Leadership camps for maturing young women. These annual camps have a mission of encouraging and empowering the impoverished, underprivileged, and often abused young Maasai girls.

Easily identifying personally with the brokenness of the women she's served, Sharon now sees all people as needing more encouragement regardless of cultural or socioeconomic status. Within these ministries, Sharon has witnessed the transformative power of loving words spoken to the broken-hearted. Sharing God’s love and witnessing its transformative power has become her passion.

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, make their home in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is writing her first Christian historical fiction novel utilizing her study, experience, and understanding of self-destructive behaviors.

Devotionals for the Heart: Focus!

Focus
A devotional by Temeka Borden

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” 

– Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)

One day, as I was doing one of my live Biblical teachings, I asked viewers what were some of the greatest challenges they have faced or are facing right now. One of the most common answers to my question was remaining focused. In other words, many are becoming distracted while trying to meet their goals.

Allow me to begin this devotional by writing the following: When God assigns you a task (or sets a goal for you to meet) don’t think the path to completing that task will always be easy. However, remember that “not being easy” can be a good thing because if everything we attained was always easy to get, we would not have the opportunity to grow and become stronger spiritually. There is a benefit to encountering resistance.

Recently, I gave up some things so that I could better “focus.”

In January of 2020, I announced my sabbatical from Biblical teachings, which later became a sabbatical from posting on social media, which most recently became a sabbatical from even logging into my social media accounts, except when absolutely necessary. Why? I’m trying to avoid as many potential distractions as possible while I’m on this journey of becoming as mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepared as possible for when I resume my postings and teachings.

As a sidebar, I have spoken at length regarding the importance of taking care of ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually in the past, and I intend to talk about this topic even more upon my return to the social media world as I know the pandemic we are currently facing has impacted so many in a variety of ways, including mentally and emotionally.

During the time of my sabbatical, I have begun running again, including long-distance running, and not only that, how often I run have changed. I run almost every day now; I have never done that before in my life.

I’ve (unintentionally) become vegan again, and most importantly, I’m spending much time in the Word, in worship, and in prayer. I’ve established a reading schedule that will allow me to read the entire Bible before my social media return in August, and I’m listening to certain Biblical sermons frequently.

All I can say is that doing all of these things is making a difference. Now, there have been days when I got that “itch” to log into my social media account and post something not necessarily spiritually related (or just take a peek at what is going on in the social media world), and then the Lord would kindly remind me of why I’m on my social media sabbatical in the first place (in His own very unique way).

I must say that when I “focus” on God and His Word, I am better able to “focus” on continually becoming the person He wants me to be. Sometimes we must temporarily remove ourselves from certain people, certain situations, and/or certain environments so that we can be strengthened in Christ.

However, I also want to caution you regarding the spirit of “guilt” when doing what I mentioned above. Because I’m not posting encouragement, I experienced moments of feeling guilty because of this. I felt as though I was not fulfilling my Christian duties by being there for others. However, as I’ve mentioned so many times before, you must feed and fill yourself before you are able to adequately feed others.

Ultimately, what I want you, the reader, to get out of this devotional is to do all you can to avoid potential distractions while working toward your goals, and you will see a difference.

God has given each of us an assignment, a purpose, and the enemy (Satan) knows this and will do all he can to stop you from fulfilling that purpose. Still, remain focused. Remember why you are doing what you are doing. Commit to it. See it through to the end, and know that a reward awaits you for your faithfulness.

~*~
Author Bio:

Temeka Borden, better known by her pen name “Positivity Inspires,” is an author, speaker, minister, PharmD, multi-state licensed pharmacist, founder and owner of Positivity Inspires, LLC, and most importantly, a servant of the Lord. 

She was introduced to Christ at a very early age and was raised in the church. Her ministry focuses on encouraging Christians to love God first, to love all people, to continually strengthen their bond with Christ, and to study His Word, and live His Word daily.
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Dr. Borden has been blessed with a variety of gifts, and she has gained much professional experience in a variety of settings. She also has served in administrative roles in the professional and church settings.

In addition to obtaining her PharmD, she also obtained her bachelor's degree in biology (minor in English), and she is working on her third degree. What's more, as stated in her words, “I completed a specialty pharmacy residency that prepared me for the workforce and made me a force to be reckoned with.” She is a long-distance runner, a drummer, a singer, and she has a strong “fashion sense.” She also can read and type at almost supersonic speed in some instances.

Dr. Borden loves to learn and is constantly looking for new ways to challenge herself.

She loves God and she loves people. She is “crazy about her family,” and she adores her friends. She strongly encourages others to show kindness, respect, and love to everyone. She loves and welcomes diversity and flourishes in culturally diverse environments.

Dr. Borden loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh. She also is passionate about giving back to the community. Her favorite sayings are “Speak Up!” and “Watch God Work!”