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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She makes her home on the coast of South Carolina.

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

Movie Review: Nothing is Impossible

My Review of Nothing is Impossible 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 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!

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, 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 movie Nothing is Impossible. I watched this heartwarming movie twice in the month of October 2022 because it was that good even though I think this story had a slow start. I’ll talk more about that in my review below. First, I’d like to describe the storyline in the words of talking points from Momentum (PR for PureFlix) then I’ll share my thoughts (review). 

Here’s what they had to say: 

“Nothing is Impossible” teaches us that times of uncertainty are when we should lean into our faith and trust God has a plan for our lives. Here’s the main story: Down on his luck, Scott Beck gets a second chance at his dream career of being an NBA player. After much loss, pain and regret, Scott Beck begins to seriously doubt his trials and tribulations are worth it. But now he has a second chance at both love and life. Will his dreams be realized? Can he let go of past pains and open himself to God’s purpose? Or will new challenges keep him from the future he always hoped for?

Scott was a high-school basketball star with dreams of playing in the NBA. Fast forward 20 years and he’s a janitor at the high school where he once played. Ryan, Scott’s high school girlfriend, is now in charge of her father’s professional basketball team, The Silver Knights. Financial woes leave her no option but to host open tryouts to attract media attention and bring new (and cheap) talent to the team. Nick, Scott’s best friend, coaches the high school basketball team and has dreams of being a pastor. He tries to mentor his friend who is stuck in the past instead of looking toward the future. Scott’s father needs a heart transplant but won’t quit drinking and doesn’t go to his doctor’s appointments.

As you can see from the summary above, life hasn’t been easy for the hero of this story—until life presents a surprising turn of events and opportunity for him! Get a clue when you read my review below...

My Review:

I think this movie had a slow start. I was ready to stop watching it after the first 10 to 15 minutes. But I hung in there and I’m so glad I did because after that 15 minute mark, the movie really captivated me and the story became very intriguing. Just like staying up late at night to finish reading a book because you cannot stop turning the pages, this movie kept me wanting to know what happens next! The actors did a splendid job of portraying the characters! I especially enjoyed the chemistry between Scott and Ryan. They really played their love interest role well. I found myself invested in the characters and their happiness. I was concerned about their health and well-being and I really wanted everything to work out for the good of these people. And every time the chaplain or pastor prayed over the basketball team in this movie, I found myself saying “Amen” because I was that into this movie! It was almost as if I were on the sidelines in this movie, rooting everyone on as they journeyed toward their dreams. Such a good film.

Here's a bit more from Momentum about the themes of this movie:

• “Don’t be afraid of losing because winning doesn’t teach you anything.”
• Despair causes us to distance ourselves from God.
• Don’t let the past dictate your future, trust in God’s timing, not your own.
• Dreams and aspirations, with prayer and discernment, can be messages from God on what our lives are supposed to be.
• You can’t blame God for your choices.
• We aren’t promised an easy life, free from trouble, failure or worry. We’re promised that we have God to lean on when troubles arise – our sufferings aren’t meaningless (Read the book of Job in The Holy Bible for a prime example of this point)
• God is faithful! He’s still working on each of us. We have to be open to the possibilities He has in store for us.

My Closing Points

I think that a lot of people can relate to this movie, especially if you’re older than age 30 and the dreams you had for your life have not yet come true.

Nothing is Impossible is a movie that will 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!

See the movie trailer for Nothing is Impossible here:

https://www.pureflix.com/movie/nothing-is-impossible

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 October 18, 2022.

Here is the Giveaway Contest link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c413/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. If you're participating in the giveaway for Nothing is Impossible, please note that we cannot accept winners that have won a Pure Flix subscription in the last six months.

#NothingIsImpossibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Devotionals for the Heart: Gratitude

A Grateful Heart
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory.” –Isaiah 61:3 (NLT)

A few weeks ago we went to see the local high school’s spring musical. This was the first live production we’ve attended since February 2020 and it was everything I wanted it to be: energetic, fun, funny. It was a hand-clapping, toe-tapping, hum-under-your-breath good time. We saw many people we knew and chatted with friends we hadn’t seen in more than a year. I was grateful to be there.

But the greatest wave of intense, almost overwhelming gratitude came to me at the strangest time that evening. When I left the theatre at intermission and stood in line—a relatively long line—for the ladies’ room, I was overcome. It felt so normal! I have stood in a lot of lines at concerts, conventions, supermarkets, or movies, but never have I ever thought it was a blessing in disguise. Usually it’s just a nuisance. But the normality of waiting in a long line with so many strangers was a beautiful thing and I admit that I breathed a prayer of gratitude.

I love it when a circumstance that could be a source of grumbling and complaint suddenly becomes something different. A change in perspective can take the mundane and possibly annoying and turn it into a holy moment. I believe shifts like those are the Spirit’s way of reminding us that He has always been in the business of turning ashes into “a crown of beauty.”

These verses in Isaiah were the prophet’s words to Israel at a time of exile, judgement and hardship. But these are verses of hope, letting the people know that God would not only bring them through their circumstances, He would ultimately bless them in ways they wouldn’t imagine.

Their ashes would not only be removed from their foreheads but He would put a crown in their place.

Their mourning would not just be over, but they would be given a “joyous blessing” instead.

Their despair would not just be gone, they would break out into “festive praise.”

Aren’t those wonderful promises? Our world has been through a lot over the last year and we might feel tempted to lose hope. But don’t. God sees us. Jesus knows us. We’ve been given the Spirit as the ultimate Comforter and He wants us to take advantage of it. Run to Him and He will give you the comfort, strength, peace, protection, and help that you need.

Let’s allow Him to walk us through these hard times, but never forget the last part of those verses: the Lord plants us as oaks “for His own glory.” He blesses us for His own glory. He deserves all of the “festive praise” for whatever blessings He gives us.

Especially the blessings that come when we least expect them.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank you so much for those quiet moments where You show up in unexpected ways. Thank you for blessings and promises we can hold onto on hard days and the ability to share those blessings with others. Allow us to be used by You every day. You deserve all praise and honor and glory always. In Jesus’s precious 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.

Interview with Emma Mae Jenkins (Part 2 of 2) about "Be Loved" (book)

Dear Reader Friends,

Today, as a continuation of yesterday's post, I have a special treat just for you! 

It is part two of the interview with Emma Mae Jenkins about her captivating nonfiction book, Be Loved. This is a pre-made interview created by the author's publisher. 

Please note that none of these words below are original words written by me
(Alexis A. Goring, founder of "God is Love" blog).

Enjoy your time with Emma Mae today!

~*~

Faith, Freedom and the Love of God

An interview with Emma Mae Jenkins, author of Be Loved

(Part 2 of 2)

…

A Message from the publisher (New Growth Press):

 

Being a teen is hard. Pressures to fit in, conform, and be the best push in from every direction, even from within. Yet, each and every person was uniquely created by a God who loves them. 

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young writer and social media influencer, wants to reach teens with exactly that message. She has inspired thousands of girls online with the freedom she has to be herself—a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God.

She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

In our interview with Emma Mae, we talk about her about her faith, the challenges she has faced, and the message she wants all teens to hear.

~*~

The Interview 

(continued from Saturday, June 13)

New Growth Press: Bullying is a major problem in schools today, in fact, you experienced your fair share as well. Why were you a target, and how did you handle it?

Emma Mae Jenkins: The bullying I experienced was online via social media, and it continues still in waves. I was and am because the One living in me was not understood, was not known. Sometimes people scoff at what they do not understand. It is no longer I who live, but Christ Who lives within in me and therefore, I cannot contain He Who is joy and peace and power and love and light. 

The people of the world would love me if I belonged to the world, but I am simply in the world, I am not of it. He said that if the world hates you, remember that they hated him first.

I handled it by surrendering it. When my heart is overwhelmed, God leads me to the rock that is higher than myself. I could not handle it on my own—I needed Him and always will. Through Him, it was handled, by me hiding His Word in my heart, trusting that He spoke over me before the world ever had an opportunity to. I had people in my life who walked with me and reminded me of truth. They continued to be the light of the world with me. We were not made to do life alone, so I needed my community. 

Through God’s eyes, I could simply see the people hating on me did not know how loved they were, so it was a beautiful chance to love them. God has said for me to love my enemies, pray for those who curse me, and bless those who persecute me. I can only do this when I know that He loved me first. When I begin to see myself the way that God sees me, I can then see others the way that He sees others too.

NGP: Why is it so important to start the day in prayer and in God’s word? How do you encourage teens to get into that routine, since most young people (and a lot of adults too) are not usually morning people?

EMJ: In Mark 1:35, Jesus rose very early in morning, went to a quiet place, and prayed. Jesus lived in such a way that we are called to live as He did. He set the example. In Matthew 6:33, God says to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, so this means that He is worthy of the first part of my day. How we begin our day determines the posture of our heart as the day goes on, so to be armed with His Word and encouraged in talking with Him in prayer sets myself up for success and deepens our relationship with Him.

As soon as I walk into the day, I know that there is an enemy who has a target on my back and is out to steal, to kill, and to destroy me. He is the father of lies and he is out to devour, so I am setting myself up for believing the lies and being attacked off guard when I do not prepare for battle by spending time in conversation with my Defender and hiding His Word that will not fail me in my heart.

I encourage everyone to cultivate this rhythm. We make time for what is most important to us, so if I truly am saying that God is most important to me, then spending time with Him is more important than the snooze button. It is more important than my feelings of tiredness or morning moodiness. He is simply more important, and the more I do it, the more I will grow in love with this time. Delighting in Him outweighs not being a “morning person.”

NGP: So much of life seems to revolve around being online. What are some tips for developing authentic relationships with those around us?

EMJ: Our generation is definitely immersed in a culture of technology, and there are so many beautiful things about it. I initially got an Instagram account for the purpose of staying in touch with my friends because I moved quite a bit growing up. 

Later, social media became a way to share the gospel with people all over the world whom I have never had the opportunity to meet. It is quite remarkable the impact that technology has provided.

Still, face to face, arms linked relationships are vital. Solomon said, “woe to the man who falls and has no one to pick him up,” and “just as iron sharpens iron, so does one man sharpen another.” James said that when we confess our sins to one another we will be healed. Paul said to continue to build up one another. 

Jesus said to love our neighbor as He loved us, and He prayed for us to be united. In the beginning, God said that it was not good for Adam to be alone. Our God is the God of relationships. We were made to be in relationship with Him and with one another.

Here are some tips for developing authentic relationships:
- Seek God first: When I seek His kingdom first, my relationships are going to reflect Him too.

- Be humble: It is important to consider others above ourselves and to have the heart posture of a servant when building relationships.

- Encourage others: Seek to build up your people. See the beauty in people and speak it OUT over them so that it may benefit them. Celebrate their victories and mourn with them when they are hurting.

- Be vulnerable: The level of vulnerability in what you share with whom comes from discernment the Spirit gives, but I cannot expect authentic relationships to go deep and bloom if I am not willing to be honest and vulnerable. I cannot expect deepening when I stay on the surface.

- Be intentional: In order for authentic relationships to be built, one must be intentional to work and invest into fostering that relationship. That may be sending an encouraging text, planning to get together for a coffee visit, or praying for one another.

NGP: What are some ways teens can be light in the lives of those they come in contact with at school? How can they be an encouragement to others?

EMJ: What we fill ourselves with is what we think about. What we think leads to how we act, and after a while that is who we become. As we think, so are we. Teens can make an impact in the lives of those they come into contact at school by choosing to be in the Word, being intentional about the music they listen, being thoughtful in regard to the shows they watch, and being purposeful in who they hang out with and allow to influence them.

Psalm 1:1-3 (ESV) says, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”

This is basically saying that we are blessed, and we are a blessing when we are particular about who influences us and by meditating on the Word always. I am a light and an encouragement to others when I fill myself with His Word. I cannot expect myself to be like Jesus in the lives of people around me when I am not spending time with Him and am listening to things and watching things that are against His heart.

I am also a light and encouragement to others when I am around those who glorify Him. If I hang out with the foolish, I am going to become foolish. If I hang out with the wise, I am going to become wise. Spending time with friends who encourage and sharpen me will equip me and build me up to be a bold light in the darkness to the precious people that do not yet know Him. When I am intentional about who I let influence me, I can walk confidently in how I influence others.

NGP: What is the secret to not being discouraged and comparing yourself to others?

EMJ: The secret to being content in who you are and where you are is to rest in the truth of what God says about you. It sounds so simple and some say that is cliché, but to say that is to forget the power of His Word. 

Who He says you are is unchanging and never ending. Who He says you are is personal and on purpose. When we begin to see ourselves the way that He sees us, we will then also see others the way He sees others too. God made each of us to be original and reveal His heart in a unique way, so to compare ourselves to one another only leads to discouragement.

Begin to praise God for the beauty that you see in someone else. Celebrate them in ways that they do not even see, such as how you think about them. Ask the Lord to help you be confident in who He made you to be and to also rejoice in how beautiful He made others to be.

NGP: Why is it important for each of us to embrace the unique person that we are?

EMJ: God says we are His masterpiece, so when we embrace who He has made us to be, we are embracing who He Himself made in His image and said was very good. For us to embrace all that He purposefully knitted within us, is to also embrace all that He has for us and wants to deliver through us. 

When I am embrace who God says I am, I am able to lead others to realize the true beauty that God placed within them. I cannot lead from a place I have not been. In this example, I cannot lead others to be who God has called them to be if I myself am not daily surrendering to embrace being who He has called me to be as well.

God wants to be glorified through every part of who we are. He wants to be praised through the strengths and gifts He has entrusted us with. The weaknesses in us are what He sees as opportunities for His glory to shine through. To not embrace all that I am in Him is to miss out on a lot of beauty and excitement that He wants to reveal to me and through me.

It is so important because it glorifies Him for me to embrace the unique person that I am.

NGP: What is the main message you hope young women will take away from reading your book?

EMJ: I pray that young women will receive and respond to the message that God is pursuing their hearts. He desires to be in relationship with them personally, and from an overflow of this relationship, they may they live boldly and freely in Who He says they are. I hope they love others just as they themselves have been loved. May they be loved.

~*~
Author Bio:

Emma Mae Jenkins describes herself as a lover of Jesus and people. 

She is a social media influencer, writer, speaker, and YouTuber with the sole purpose of leading others into a relationship with Jesus, sharing this chain-breaking freedom, and being a vessel of God’s Word. She is excited to share with girls and young women about how much God loves them and has called each to a unique purpose for his glory.

Jenkins began chronicling her journey through high school on social media and in doing so has inspired thousands of young people to live their faith freely and with courage. She is currently a sophomore at Liberty University where she is majoring in Women’s Christian Leadership.

The founder of Son Seeker Ministries, Jenkins’s vision is to lead her generation into having a genuine relationship with Jesus. Her new release, Be Loved, is her first book.

During school breaks, Jenkins makes her way back home to northwest Arkansas where her parents and brother live.

Learn more at emmamaejenkins.com and follow her via social media.

~*~

Blurb for Emma Mae's book, Be Loved:

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young Christian writer, has inspired many with the freedom she has to be herself a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God. 

 She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus Christ. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her holy Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

Readers will experience the chain-breaking liberty of knowing the Lord's presence and the freedom to be unique. This full-color, hardback book includes pictures from Emma Mae's life, along with key Bible verses that God used to strengthen and guide her through the ups and downs of her high school years as a young Christian. Readers will learn to face the challenges of their student years with religion, courage, hope, and lifegiving love for others.

~*~

Buy Emma's book, Be Loved online via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ChristianBook

~*~
Connect with Emma Mae:
Instagram (@1corinthians13_love) 

YouTube (Emma Mae Jenkins)
Facebook (@sonseeker.org) 

Twitter (@emmamaej99) 

Pinterest (emmamaejenkins)

~*~

Publisher info: New Growth Press publishes gospel-centered Christian books, small group, and children’s Bible resources for discipleship, biblical counseling, and missional ministry. For more information about Be Loved and other releases from New Growth Press, visit www.newgrowthpress.com.

Interview with Emma Mae Jenkins (Part 1 of 2) about her book "Be Loved"

     

Dear Reader Friends,

Today and tomorrow, I have a special treat just for you! 

It is a two-part interview with Emma Mae Jenkins about her captivating nonfiction book, Be Loved. This is a pre-made interview created by the author's publisher. 

Please note that none of these words below are original words written by me 

(Alexis A. Goring, founder of "God is Love" blog).

Enjoy your time with Emma Mae today!

~*~
Faith, Freedom and the Love of God: 
An interview with Emma Mae Jenkins, author of Be Loved

(Part 1 of 2)

…

A Message from the publisher (New Growth Press):

Being a teen is hard. Pressures to fit in, conform, and be the best push in from every direction, even from within. Yet, each and every person was uniquely created by a God who loves them. 

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young writer and social media influencer, wants to reach teens with exactly that message. She has inspired thousands of girls online with the freedom she has to be herself—a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God.

She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

In our interview with Emma Mae, we talk about her about her faith, the challenges she has faced, and the message she wants all teens to hear. 

~*~

The Interview:

New Growth Press: Be Loved chronicles your high school years. Junior high and high school are difficult years for everyone, but what are some of the challenges that made it particularly hard for you?

Emma Mae Jenkins: Walking through junior high and high school most definitely do have their difficulties as everyone is discovering who they are and making choices that truly do have a great impact on the future. For me, sometimes it was hard to have people respond to the joy that lives within me, the smile that I couldn’t help but share, and the voice that God has given me with confusion or laughter. 

This may seem small, but I really began to learn how to be who God had called me to be, even when the response was not the most inviting. It is really cool how we never actually know the beauty that God is growing within someone, so to plant the seed of a smile or to water someone’s soul with encouragement is to be obedient to the Father. The response of the person may not show what I would love to see, but I trust that God is doing in their heart what only He can do.

Moving during high school was also pretty tough. I was afraid of not making close friendships worried about what people were going to think of me. But God led me. His grace sustained me, and He gently reminded me that His love casts out all fear. 

Love is not self-seeking, so when I was worried about making friends and worried I was going to be thought of well, I was not operating out of love, but out of fear. I cannot love people that I fear. When His love is what I chose to abide in, I could not help but focus on how I could serve others.

NGP: You write that you tried to be gracious, kind and loving to others, but you didn’t treat yourself the same way. Why are we so hard on ourselves?

EMJ: We tend to be hard on ourselves when we misunderstand grace and misinterpret the voice of the Lord. For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith, and this is not by our own works (so that we cannot boast), but it is a gift from God. Grace is unmerited favor. It is a gift given to me that I do not deserve, so of course we are going to be hard on ourselves if we are living to earn something that cannot be earned.

My life is not a race to earn the love, attention and affirmation from God, but my life is a response of gratitude and obedience because Jesus died for me. This is why I work wholeheartedly. This is why I smile. This is why I don’t quit. This is why I write books and make videos, sing songs and post captions on social media. This is why, it is not to earn, but it is a response to His gift.

The voice of the Lord is a voice of peace and clarity and truth and order. He speaks to us in a way that does not bring us to shame but compels us to walk in the light as He is the light. 

When I am walking with a mentality of accusation, confusion, condemnation, chaos and defeat, I know that I am listening to the voice of the enemy, not of my God. Growing familiar with His voice requires time spent with Him. I am hard on myself in a way that brings me to shame when I am not listening and believing the voice of the Lord.

NGP: What’s so wrong about striving for perfection?

EMJ: To have the mentality of striving for perfection is to depend on ourselves to be enough for God to use us, love us, want us, etc. This completely disregards the beauty and power of why Jesus came. We cannot ever be good enough to get to God, that is why He came to us.

This does not mean that I stop working hard and doing my best. God says to live a life in a manner than is worthy of the gospel. He says to work out our salvation with fear and trembling as He gives us the power and the desire to do what is good and what is pleasing to Him. He says that whatever we do, we need to do it wholeheartedly because we are doing it for Him. He says to not grow weary of doing good. 

I am not saying that because I live in the works of Christ, I no longer have to be a hard worker. Not at all. But what I am saying is that I now work hard to glorify the Father, to bless His people, to show gratitude for His love for me. I no longer have to work hard to prove my worth because my worth is in Christ.

Many of us also strive for perfection in order to receive the approval of people. However, if you look at the life of Jesus, He truly was perfect, but there were still those who loved Him and others who hated Him. We are not here for the approval of people, but for God’s. It is only in Him that our worth and identity is solid and whole.

NGP: What are the first steps towards young people developing their own faith rather than the faith of their parents?

EMJ: I remember my dad simply telling me it was important that I personally know Jesus. So, the first step is to ask themselves if they know Him. Have you personally confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that He from the grave? Do you seek Him first and spend time with Him apart from simply going to church with your family on Sunday? Do you pray apart from mealtimes at the table? These are questions that I would encourage anyone to ask themselves because a relationship with Jesus is something that no one, not even my parents, can have for me.

No one’s faith can be lived through the life of another. People will walk alongside me, encourage me, challenge me, and sharpen me in my faith, but they cannot be the source of it. My dad told me that he will not be standing with me, holding my hand when Jesus comes back, it would be only me and Jesus.

... to be continued with Part 2 of 2 on Sunday, June 14. 

~*~
Author Bio:

Emma Mae Jenkins describes herself as a lover of Jesus and people. 

She is a social media influencer, writer, speaker, and YouTuber with the sole purpose of leading others into a relationship with Jesus, sharing this chain-breaking freedom, and being a vessel of God’s Word. She is excited to share with girls and young women about how much God loves them and has called each to a unique purpose for his glory.

Jenkins began chronicling her journey through high school on social media and in doing so has inspired thousands of young people to live their faith freely and with courage. She is currently a sophomore at Liberty University where she is majoring in Women’s Christian Leadership.

The founder of Son Seeker Ministries, Jenkins’s vision is to lead her generation into having a genuine relationship with Jesus. Her new release, Be Loved, is her first book.

During school breaks, Jenkins makes her way back home to northwest Arkansas where her parents and brother live.

Learn more at emmamaejenkins.com and follow her via social media.

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Blurb for Emma Mae's book, Be Loved:

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young Christian writer, has inspired many with the freedom she has to be herself a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God.

She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus Christ. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her holy Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

Readers will experience the chain-breaking liberty of knowing the Lord's presence and the freedom to be unique. This full-color, hardback book includes pictures from Emma Mae's life, along with key Bible verses that God used to strengthen and guide her through the ups and downs of her high school years as a young Christian. Readers will learn to face the challenges of their student years with religion, courage, hope, and lifegiving love for others.

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Buy Emma's book, Be Loved online via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ChristianBook

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Connect with Emma Mae:
Instagram (@1corinthians13_love) 

YouTube (Emma Mae Jenkins)
Facebook (@sonseeker.org) 

Twitter (@emmamaej99) 

Pinterest (emmamaejenkins)

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Publisher info: New Growth Press publishes gospel-centered Christian books, small group, and children’s Bible resources for discipleship, biblical counseling, and missional ministry. For more information about Be Loved and other releases from New Growth Press, visit www.newgrowthpress.com.

Interview with Melony Teague about her book "A Promise to Keep"

Interview with Melony Teague about her book A Promise to Keep:

Congrats on writing and publishing your debut book, A Promise to Keep! I thought it was a spectacular story, but that’s just my honest opinion! *wink* 

Let’s talk about it …

Alexis: When was this story created in your imagination? Tell me about your creative process.

Melony: I started writing the book in 2018. I wanted to write about a high school reunion and all the emotions that go with that, especially a 20-year reunion. Once I’d gotten past chapter three and got a sense of who the characters were, I fell in love with them. They pretty much took on a life of their own after that. Although I had a synopsis to start with, there were some surprises, and surprise characters that demanded an entrance along the way.

Alexis: Why did you write this book?

Melony: I wrote this book because I wanted to be able to take people on a journey for a few hours – an escape from the messiness of life, if you will. And, in the process I hoped to write a story that would not only entertain but be meaningful.

Alexis: Tell me about the heroine of your story, Savannah Sanderson. What does she look like, sound like and act like? What are her primary passions in life?

Melony: Savannah Sanderson is a research librarian and she was born in South Africa, but is now living in the USA. So she has a South African accent (just like I do.) She has caramel colored, long hair and blue eyes. Her passions are books and reading. She hasn’t had much time for anything else since she has been a caregiver for so long.

Alexis: Tell me about the hero of your story, Michael McCann. What does he look like, sound like and act like? What – or who – is his greatest dream?

Melony: Michael McCann is a technical rescuer. He is tall, and has longish hair – just above his shoulders. He has blue eyes. Michael is, well, you’ll find out more when you read the book. And as for his greatest dream, well, you’ll also have to read the book for that, but here’s a hint: he thinks his dream is unattainable.

Alexis: Why doesn’t Savannah recognize Michael when she reunites with him right before their high school reunion, even after he clearly has not forgotten her?

Melony: Michael McCann is not the boy he used to be in high school, and most of us can relate to this. Life changes you and teaches you lessons, sometimes hard lessons. Michael is no different and he struggles with his “who I was then” and “who I am now” persona.

Alexis: What is it about Savannah that makes her completely unforgettable to Michael?

Melony: Michael and Savannah were close friends, so he remembers all the things he liked about her back when they were both teenagers. He remembers her quirky ways and her South African accent. He has to deal with some regrets from their past, and reconnect and rekindle their friendship. I love this line from Michael as he describes Savannah: “Women were generally confusing enough—but this was Savannah, who took confusing to a whole new level.”

Alexis: Why does Savannah prefer to escape into happily ever after fiction stories than face the real world and deal with people who don’t live in books?

Melony: Savannah, being widowed, is trying to protect her wounded heart and needs to grieve and heal. It’s understandable that she’d rather risk her heart on a fictional hero, rather than a real life one who might break her heart.

Alexis: What was your favorite scene to write in this story? Why?

Melony: Oh goodness, I had so much fun writing many of the scenes in A Promise to Keep, but I think the ones I loved the most is the ones with a certain character who likes to watch the weather channel and his spat with Donovan Radcliffe. I guess I had so much fun with it because both of these characters showed up and staked their claim. I like characters like that.

Alexis: If you could sit down with Savannah at your local coffee shop for a girl talk, how would you take your coffee and what would be the first topic of your conversation?

Melony: I actually prefer a latte, with a shot or two of espresso. No sugar. I rarely drink straight coffee. I’d chat to Savannah about books. We share a love of romance novels and the classics, so there would be much to talk about.

Alexis: What do you want readers to remember the most about A Promise to Keep?

Melony: In A Promise to Keep, Michael McCann says this to Savannah: “The things in my life that bring regret are not so much things I did. More like things I didn’t do. Words I should have said. Moments I should have cherished. It’s funny, but in hindsight, I see them all clearly. It’s harder to recognize an opportunity you’re missing while you’re in it.”

We can all relate to this. It’s a reminder to us as readers to enjoy every moment and be present. Regrets are often about what we didn’t do as a result of fear or for other reasons. What hits home is the fact that we sometimes don’t see the opportunities right in front of us and we are always looking ahead, searching for that elusive thing that will make us happy. Sometimes, we already have it. I think we can learn from Michael’s mistakes.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Melony! Would you like to share closing thoughts?

Melony: In closing, I’d like to say thank you for hosting me here! I hope readers will be inspired when they read the book, and I look forward to hearing from readers.

~*~
About the Author:

Melony Teague writes contemporary romance with a dash of humor, she loves to inspire and motivate others through her written words, and she believes everyone has a story to tell.

Melony is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, and she is the co-author of As the Ink Flows, a devotional for authors.

Her fiction debut, A Promise to Keep, releases on Jan 21, 2020.

Melony was born in South Africa and now lives in Toronto with her handsome husband, their two teenagers, and does the bidding of her two adorable cats.

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About the Book:

Research librarian Savannah Sanderson wants nothing more than to escape into her happily-ever-after novels with their larger-than-life fictional heroes. 

But a promise to her late husband has her attending her dreaded twenty-year high school reunion, drinking ghastly punch, and taking desperate measures just to keep her vow, even if she has to hide behind the décor to do it.

Once a reckless troublemaker, Michael McCann fled town after graduation. Now a professional technical rescuer, he’s back for the reunion, but on his trip down memory lane, he soon comes face to face with unresolved issues, namely Savannah.

Before the night is over, a pact between these two old friends will lead them on an adventure into uncharted emotional territory where Michael must confront his past regrets and find the courage to reveal the truth. But can Savannah fly from her sheltered nest and risk her heart on a real-life hero? 

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Buy Melony's book on Amazon 

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Connect with Melony:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melonyteague/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelonyTeague

Devotionals for the Heart: How to live by the fruit of The Holy Spirit

Living by The Spirit
A devotional by Mirachelle Canada

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” 
— Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

I love being a high school teacher, but sometimes the workdays can be arduous. Like parenting a child, educating one also comes with challenges. During one particular start of a school year, I was having a hard time maintaining the right attitude. I dreaded each morning and became sad. I loved my students; I just didn’t love supervising them, and every moment of needed correction irritated me.

I prayed for God’s guidance and intervention. How was going to make it through when I still had months to go? Was it time to change jobs? Was I no longer cut out to be a teacher if I didn’t have the right attitude? I also knew that among my colleagues I wasn’t the only one struggling with this problem.

I turned to the Lord for help and He took me to 1 Corinthians 6:17 (ESV), which says, “He who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.” As I meditated deeper on the verse, God instructed me to approach each day through the power of His Spirit by first praying for and then enacting ways to show the fruit of His Spirit.

That next Monday, I started with love in heart and mind. I prayed to love my students unconditionally and sought out ways to show them I cared for them, whether through a genuine smile or a personal hello or asking how they were doing.

Tuesday, I went in prayed up with joy. I used every opportunity to show my enthusiasm and happiness for what they were doing and the fact they were there in my class. 

On Wednesday, I welcomed peace to guide us. If a conflict or issue arose, I was slow to react and remained as peaceful on the outside as I was on the inside. 

On Thursday, I relied on patience to help me with proper responses to guide my students through their own struggles. 

On Friday, I looked for every opportunity to show kindness to everyone I met. The results were incredible! I, along with all my students and even my colleagues, were notably happier people. The Spirit of the Lord had completely changed the atmosphere of my classroom!

The next week, I continued to welcome God’s Spirit through goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. In the months that followed, if I or my students reverted to bad habits or attitudes, I took every opportunity to reestablish the right Spirit, just as David prayed in Psalm 51:10 (ESV), “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Each time it worked! God’s method became so effective that I now write one fruit of the Spirit to cover an entire week on my calendar.

Are you in a situation that needs divine intervention? I encourage you to begin praying to be guided by the fruits of the Spirit. Start with God’s love that unites with your faith and hope. He won’t use His fruit to change things just for you and your situation. Unity with Him is meant to bring us all together in “one heart and soul,” as He says in Acts 4:32 (ESV).

The fruit of His Spirit are boundless! The power of your partnership with His Spirit will permeate and affect those around you too, so they may also be blessed.

We serve an awesome God! To Him be all glory and praise! Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Mirachelle Canada is a writer, playwright, screenwriter and theatre director/producer from Northern Virginia. She teaches television production at C.D. Hylton Senior High School. 

She earned her Master of Fine Arts in Script & Screenwriting from Regent University and is a member of Act One: Hollywood Film & Television Writing Program, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), ACFW Virginia Chapter, The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, and Your Novel Blueprint.

Mirachelle is passionate about awakening creativity and the gifts of God in everyone. She is currently working on her first historical fiction novel set during WWII, inspired by her time studying theatre education in London, England.

In her spare time, she also writes and directs Christmas and Easter passion plays at Christ Chapel Assembly of God in Woodbridge, VA.

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Connect with Mirachelle:
Website: www.mirachellecanada.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mirachellecanada/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mirachelle77/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/miracan

Christmas on My Heart: A Christmas Kiss by June Foster

Interview with June Foster about her book, A Christmas Kiss:

Alexis: Why did you write this book for a young adult audience?

June: I had never written a Young Adult (YA) book before, and I'm always ready to explore a new genre. I had plans to write a story about the heroine after she'd grown up, so I decided to first pen a story about when she was a teen. The story which features Haley Flannery all grown up and working as an RN is Someone to Call His Own. If anyone signs up for my newsletter on junefoster.com, I will send you a free PDF copy of that book!

Alexis: What inspired you to create this story?

June: Most of my stories contain difficult issues we encounter in our society today such as drug use, abortion, and uncontrolled anger. I decided to veer away from the heady problems my characters face and write a lighthearted story. 

Alexis: Tell us about Haley, your story’s heroine. What is she like? What does she not like? How does her personality affect how people interact with her?

June: Haley is a popular young woman who's active in her high school. She is raised in a Christian home but is not totally sold out to the Lord. In the story, she believes that the hero, Brett Sanford has a Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde personality. When she thinks he's lied to her, she wants nothing more to do with him. Her best friend loves Haley's enthusiasm about football and participation in the student council. Most people feel free to interact with Haley—all except Brett when he's in his Mr. Hyde mode.

Alexis: Tell us about Brett, your story’s hero. What is he like? What are his strengths, weakness, dreams and goals in life?

June: Brett is an unselfish, Godly young man who puts the Lord first in his life. He plays football and wants to help Haley when she asks him to play Santa Clause for the Christmas dance. Brett's primary strength is loyalty and unselfishness, but when he automatically assumes his brother will help him out, he's sadly mistaken. Brett wants nothing more than to serve God with his life.

Alexis: How does Brett being the quarterback for the school’s football team affect his relationship with Haley who is student council secretary? 

June: At first, Haley is afraid to ask him to help her with the student council dance. She's afraid he might tell her no because he's too busy with football and wouldn't have time for the likes of her. 

Alexis: Why does Haley ask Brett to play Santa for their school’s Christmas dance? 

June: She wants to get to know him better, and she believes this would be a good way.

Alexis: What is it about Brett that makes Haley want to kiss him? 

June: When Brett came to her house to pick up the Santa suit, he gave her a peck on the cheek. Later, Haley decides she's going to give Brett a real kiss—but it will be Santa she kisses, of course.

Alexis: How does Haley and Brett’s faith in God affect their outlook on life and interactions with each other? 

June: Brett is ready to forgive when others betray him. He's always ready to lend a helping hand, but when he does toward the end of the story, it gets him in trouble. Haley's faith is weak but when she witnesses Brett's Godly attitude, she's drawn closer to the Lord.

Alexis: If you could spend Christmas Eve with Haley and Brett talking over hot chocolate, what would the conversation center on and why? 

June: I'd love to ask Brett more about his faith and how he came to the Lord. I'd like to talk to Haley about her aspirations for the future since I wrote a book about what happens to her when she grows up.

Alexis: What do you want readers to remember most about A Christmas Kiss? 

June: Wrapped in a good story, the tale about Brett and Haley reminds readers that a life surrendered to the Lord is most important.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, June! Do you have closing comments?

June: Thank you, Alexis, for allowing me to share about A Christmas Kiss. I'd like to remind readers it is a short story. So if your holidays are busy, you'll have time to read this book.

~*~
Author Bio: 

June Foster is an award-winning author who began her writing career in an RV roaming around the USA with her husband, Joe. 

She brags about visiting a location before it becomes the setting in her contemporary romances. 

June's characters find themselves in precarious circumstances where only God can offer redemption and ultimately freedom. 

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Book Blurb for A Christmas Kiss:

When student council secretary Haley Flannery volunteers to find someone to play Santa for the school Christmas dance, she quickly decides to ask the football team's quarterback, Brett Sanford. 

But when he's Dr. Jekyll one minute and Mr. Hyde the next, she's supposed to believe his explanation that he has a twin brother. 

When Brett plays "Santa" at the school dance then shoves her away after she tries to kiss him, can she forget about the gorgeous guy and concentrate on the true meaning of Christmas?

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Buy June's book on Amazon

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Connect with June:
Website: junefoster.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/junefoster
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vjifoster
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjunefoster

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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:

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