Devotionals for the Heart: When God calls you into a season of silence

Words and Wonder
A devotional by Anthea Kotlan

I am a logophile. I love words of all kinds and sizes, and seldom can I say I am at a loss for words. Hence my love of writing. When I was in school, word limits seemed so unfair. I want to write more, not less. I also love conversations where words are exchanged in all the best possible ways.

It is not surprising that the Lord would have me raise two daughters who are also lovers of words and communication. Ironically, when they were growing up, my two girls feared one punishment most of all. To be given “a silence” and instructed not to speak. If either of them could not communicate for even five long minutes, it got their attention in ways that very little else did.

During December, many Christians around the world participate in Advent. The four weeks leading up to Christmas allow believers to anticipate the nativity and spend time in quiet contemplation and wonder. Many people prepare for Christmas by re-reading the stories surrounding Jesus’s birth. I can relate deeply to so many of these characters.

In these Bible stories, God used angels to tell certain critical people about what He was about to do. One man, who is given an essential assignment, is a priest named Zechariah. The apostle Luke describes him as “righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all commandments and statutes of the Lord” (Luke 1:6 ESV). He seems uniquely qualified for whatever God is going to entrust to him.

One day Zechariah was serving in the temple, and suddenly, everything changed. Let’s read about it in Luke 1:11-12 (ESV): “And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him.”

Zechariah reacted to the angel with fear. The story continues in Luke 1:13-17 (ESV): “But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”

Luke also explains that Zechariah was older, and his wife was barren. Imagine how surprising this news must have been. Let’s read more of this story in Luke 1:18-22: And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute.”

When Zechariah expresses both doubt and fear in the face of God’s messenger, he receives an opportunity to be quiet. His sentence of silence would last nine long months while his wife carried an exceptional child. Eight days after the birth, Zechariah would regain his speech just as his son’s name was declared John.

What was God doing for Zechariah during this season of holy hush? What wonders did God reveal during this set-apart time?

Perhaps God used this season of silence to strengthen Zechariah’s faltering faith. He likely spent more time in quiet anticipation than he ever had. Can a silent servant hear more from God?

How might God use silence in your life? Could you practice just five minutes in the presence of the Lord without any words? Could you stretch it to 10 minutes or even more?

How might God speak into our lives if we listened and stopped talking? What wonders would He reveal to each of us?

Let’s Pray:

Lord, help me to seek you in silence in this season. Help me attune my heart to You and what You tell me. Help me to be quiet before Your throne and listen to Your voice. Allow me to hear the assignments You have for me. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “I'm Listening (Lyrics) Ft. Hollyn” by Chris McClarney. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Born in the highlands of Scotland, Anthea Kotlan made her way to Texas as a third grader. 

After studying the new language at length and mimicking the Houston locals, she found ways to blend in. Years later she floated down the San Marcos River, attended Journalism classes, and completed an undergraduate degree in in Journalism.

After getting married to Bill, she completed a graduate degree in English at Texas A&M. Ever the multitasker, she had two daughters and carried one of them into her graduation ceremony hidden under her billowing graduation gown.

Over the years she has served as a women’s ministry leader in several churches, spoken at women’s events, taught college freshmen English, lead various Bible studies and writes whenever she can on her blog.

Anthea makes her home in Conroe with her husband Bill, a bi-vocational priest and engineer, and spends all the time she can with her two grandchildren, Ian Michael and Margaret Yael.

~*~
Connect with Anthea:
Website: www.antheakotlan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthea.kotlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antheakotlan/

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to spend time with God

The Fine Art of Tuning into God's Frequency
A devotional by Sarah Cole

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

—Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

Last week I tuned into my favorite Christian radio station, and instead of a worship song, I heard rap music playing on the same frequency. The raunchy lyrics and deafening beat reminded me how many things can interfere with my desire to listen to God.

When I get out of bed each morning, I fully intend to have my quiet time, but after I pour myself a cup of coffee and pull out my study Bible, my attention span gets hijacked by the notifications on my phone, the neon pink post-it notes on the table, my to-do list, and…you get the idea.

Friend, the enemy of your soul knows how threatening you are when you tune into God's Word, so he works overtime to put one distraction in front of you after another. You are of no use to God's kingdom when you have one foot in Satan's territory, tuned to one of his frequencies.

In today’s passage, God called Joshua after Moses died to lead His people into the Promised Land. But Joshua knew he would not have victory unless he meditated on the Word of God day and night. The same applies to us. We won't have victory over the challenges we face if we allow distractions to steal the blessing of spending time with God. Five minutes a day doesn't satisfy our need for His love, comfort, guidance, and peace.

That's why having a practical strategy gives you the best opportunity to eliminate unnecessary distractions so that you can make the most of your time with Him.

Here are some suggestions you might find helpful: 

• Find a prayer closet, a quiet place in your home where no one will disturb you.
• Ask a trusted friend to check in with you periodically and ask what you're learning.
• Try using a prayer journal, a devotional coloring book, or a Bible app.
• Subscribe to a devotional magazine or buy a devotional book.
• Find a podcast, a radio, or a television show that inspires and encourages you.
• Appreciate your efforts, however small at first. If you set the bar too high, your expectations can cause you to get discouraged and give up.
• View your time with God as your most important appointment and the best part of your day. Remember how much God loves you, and allow His grace to release you from the burden of perfectionism.

In our fast-paced culture, the distractions we face are endless, but with some practice, we can gradually put these strategies into place so that spending time with God no longer seems like an impossible feat.

The next time your feet hit the floor in the morning, my friend, remember you're not on this journey alone. God will help you redirect your attention so His frequency will be all you hear.

Let's Pray:
Father God, thank You for giving me Your Word so that I have victory over every challenge I face. As I walk through this day, help me set aside distractions and tune into Your eternal truths. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Part of Your Story” by Cheri Keaggy. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s interest in writing began in grade school when her poem was published in the local paper. As she got older, her mother’s chronic illness inspired her to design a line of greeting cards.

Since then, she has written for her college newspaper and two community newspapers where she wrote restaurant reviews and articles for their “Best of” spread.

Her experience as an administrator in the marketing field gave her the opportunity to write ads for a local business journal.

After a 20-year detour and a three-year season of adversity, God reignited her passion to write. Two divine appointments later, the short story she wrote about her father appeared in the St. Paul Almanac, and a short story about her cocker spaniel Gigi was published in Guideposts (magazine) Mysterious Ways. She believes her adversity was worth the lessons God taught her.

During this year (2022) and the next (2023), Sarah’s devotionals will be published in The Secret Place by Judson Press, as well as David C. Cook’s Devotions and The Quiet Hour. To this day, she smiles, pinches herself and gives God all the glory.

When she’s not writing, Sarah enjoys watching cooking shows, designing cards and mugs, and taking day trips.

~*~
Connect with Sarah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smittyc65
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@SarahCo45835279
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.cole.52

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to rely on God's Holy Spirit

Relying on Flesh Instead of the Spirit
A devotional by Monique M. Anderson

“I say, then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don't do what you want.” –Galatians 5:16-17 (CSB)

This was the second time she told me. It took two mentions before I listened and moved on the word God told her to say to me. My close friend told me months prior that God wanted me to attend her church. I had visited her church several times over the years and never felt a pull to join. Therefore, hearing this didn't excite me. I didn't “feel” led.

After the second time, I sought God for myself. I said, “Lord, if you truly want me to attend this church, please tell me for yourself.” Hours later I found myself on the church's YouTube channel watching a sermon series. I don't remember what led me to it. However, I would receive my confirmation here.

The series was called "Time to Make a Change". It’s about transforming into who God wants you to be. Before watching these sermons, God told me I was in a training season to prepare me for what He wants me to do for His Kingdom. I had no idea joining this church was a part of that call from God.

The Holy Spirit fire hit me while I watched part two of the series. Something the pastor said shot through me like lightning. I started speaking in my heavenly language and heard God say, "This is where you will continue your training."

The tears and the tongues would not stop flowing. God has spoken. What else could I do but obey? So, I started attending my friend’s church.

When I started my walk with Jesus Christ years ago, the Lord told me He wanted me to disciple new believers. Back then, I didn't even know what the word “disciple” meant. It would be years before that work would begin.

After a few months of attending the new church, I started to waver. Lord, where is my training? I didn't see it nor “feel” it. I stood in the middle of service one day, questioning the Holy Spirit-filled confirmation I had months prior.

The following week, I received the answers I was seeking. The church announced they needed volunteers to join the prayer team to disciple newly saved believers. I almost fell off my chair. I thought about the question God asked me years prior, “Will you disciple new believers?” I thought about my Holy Spirit-filled confirmation, “You will continue your training here.”

It all started coming together. Everything fuzzy and out of focus was beginning to come into focus. This is where I would train to disciple those who had just given their life to Christ. To think I almost missed it because I didn't “feel” it.

I was looking for things to feel right to affirm what my friend said. I was looking for my flesh to confirm what the Spirit was doing. We often look for a feeling to verify whether or not we've made the right decision or are heading in the right direction. However, when situations are spirit-led and filled, we cannot look to our flesh to confirm anything.

When the Holy Spirit guides you into something new, it may not feel right or make sense to you. For example, I was looking for a new church home, and because I had visited this church several times and it never “felt” right, it didn't make sense to me that it would be a place for me to join. I didn’t realize at the time that’s where God was calling me to be.

I allowed a feeling to lead me to disobedience. It took my friend two times to get me to heed God's instructions. Delayed obedience is still disobedience.

Coming to this church didn't feel right. It didn't make sense. I had tried it out before, so what would be different this time? Well, this time, I am in a different life season. I am in a season where it is “time to make a change”.

The scripture above describes the tension between the flesh and the spirit perfectly. They are both constantly at odds. I encourage you to seek God's confirmation if you feel that your flesh is telling you one thing but the Holy Spirit is telling you another.

We cannot rely on our feelings when God tries to do something new. Believing the feeling can lead you to disobedience. Instead, seek God, repent, then obey.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, forgive us for believing our feelings more than the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Forgive us for seeking confirmation outside of You and Your will. Father God, we desire You and You alone for direction and all of the instructions we need as we journey through this life. You are our only reliable source! We thank You, and we love You, Lord. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Monique M. Anderson is a writer, creator, wife, and bonus mom. She was born and raised in Mount Vernon, NY, where she still resides. She released her always present yet hidden talent of writing to the masses in June 2019.

Monique always felt like God was chasing after her but was never ready to surrender. Finally, she reached a point in her life when things started going left, and she no longer felt in control. At this point, she was ready to hand over the reins to God. After forming her relationship with God, she always felt compelled to share the revelation’s that His word gave her. She felt the Holy Spirit prompting her to write but was afraid of what people might think. So, her writing started in her journal. The journal turned into a book and the book into a blog.

Her obedience provided more opportunities. In late 2021, Monique became a partner with the notable YouVersion Bible App as a Content Creator. With her first Bible plan debuting in December of 2021, she will continue to provide content for the app as long as God allows her to.

In 2021, God revealed her prophetic gift and how He wants her to use it. Monique always felt compelled to pray for others but had no idea God would use her in this way. Through this gift as a prophetic intercessor, she’s not just writing about what God can do but showing what God can do.

Since God has shown her who He created her to be, she now feels it is her life’s work to help those taking their first steps in their walk with Christ. She is doing so through her blog, prayer, and soon-to-be-published works. She is excited to extend her reach to YouTube, podcasts, and speaking engagements soon.

Her blog is the stepping stone to fulfilling the vision God gave to her – “Sharing God’s revelations so we can all better reflect his image and fulfill His purpose.”

~*~
Connect with Monique:
Website: www.yourstrulymoe.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourstruly__moe/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Yours-Truly-Moe-140255684101423

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning how to embrace life's obstacles

Embracing Life's Unexpected Obstacles
A devotional by Sarah Cole

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer, and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” 

–Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV) 

Life's obstacles are notorious for bad timing. 

For months God had blessed me with good health until I got out of bed one morning, and my spine was so out of alignment it resembled the straw with all the loops I loved as a kid.

Excruciating pain made it impossible to stand for more than a few minutes, and the timing couldn't have been worse. The next day I planned to take part in an obstacle course to raise money for charity, and the last thing I needed was back pain slowing me down. 

As I sat on the sidelines watching my friends race without me, I realized my injury was the pause I needed from the frantic pace my life had taken. I was moving so fast that even my trainer told me to slow down. As I lay in bed praying one night, God said in a still, small voice, “If you don't slow down, Sarah, I will do it for you.”

When we least expect it, an unwelcome obstacle such as illness or job loss disturbs the places in our lives we would never admit should be off limits. But what if an obstacle is precisely the course correction we desperately need? 

I wish I could tell you that God will hand you a two-week notice before the next setback takes your breath away. But life is more an obstacle course than a fairy tale, and the way we navigate it reveals where our security lies. Before my back went out, I felt entitled to as few limitations as possible. Once my defenses were down, God finally had my attention.

Sometimes, when we have the world at our fingertips, our pride fools us into thinking we're unstoppable and can manage just fine on our own. But God hates pride (James 4:6), and He will do whatever it takes to remind us He's in control and we need Him desperately.

Whatever obstacle you're facing today, I encourage you to embrace it by asking yourself the following questions:

1. What is this situation revealing to me about myself? 

2. What weaknesses or strengths is this uncovering?

3. What can I learn about God, and how can I grow in my faith?

4. Is there a purpose in this that God is revealing to me?

5. What is the silver lining I may have missed?

Friend, God loves you too much to let you settle for a comfortable life. Obstacles build the character necessary to help you reach your full potential (James 1:2-4) and teach you valuable lessons you would never learn otherwise.

So, the next time you find an obstacle in your path, remember it's not there by accident (Lamentations 3:37-38), and God will use it for your benefit and His glory (Romans 8:28).

Let's Pray:
Father God, You love us too much always to let us have our way. Your goodness and faithfulness are reasons to praise You forever. When we feel entitled to a comfortable life, help us remember that Jesus Christ’s obedience led to The Cross. May we also remember that His suffering and death bought our eternal salvation. Thank You, God! In Jesus's Name, I pray. Amen. 

Song of Reflection: “Great is Your Mercy” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s interest in writing began in grade school when her poem was published in the local paper. As she got older, her mother’s chronic illness inspired her to design a line of greeting cards. 

Since then, she has written for her college newspaper and two community newspapers where she wrote restaurant reviews and articles for their “Best of” spread.

Her experience as an administrator in the marketing field gave her the opportunity to write ads for a local business journal.

After a 20-year detour and a three-year season of adversity, God reignited her passion to write. Two divine appointments later, the short story she wrote about her father appeared in the St. Paul Almanac, and a short story about her cocker spaniel Gigi was published in Guideposts (magazine) Mysterious Ways. She believes her adversity was worth the lessons God taught her.

During this year (2022) and the next (2023), Sarah’s devotionals will be published in The Secret Place by Judson Press, as well as David C. Cook’s Devotions and The Quiet Hour. To this day, she smiles, pinches herself and gives God all the glory.

When she’s not writing, Sarah enjoys watching cooking shows, designing cards and mugs, and taking day trips.

~*~
Connect with Sarah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smittyc65
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@SarahCo45835279
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.cole.52

Devotionals for the Heart: When you learn how to find comfort in silence

The Comfort of Silence
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”—Psalm 46:10 (KJV)

There is something beautiful about the comfort of silence.

I love just sitting in the car with my sister or a friend and simply enjoying the other’s company without having to say anything unnecessary or forced. It is in this place of familiarity where I am most relaxed and able to be myself.

Comfortable silence is a special feature reserved for those who are closest to us. When we are with our family and close friends, we don’t feel the need to fill in the pauses in conversation. A lull in conversation with friends who understand us, does not evoke us to sift through our thoughts for something to say or ask.

Oddly enough, as Christians, we don’t invite God to enjoy this special feature of comfortable silence with us. This past Autumn, I dove headfirst into a deeper relationship with God. It felt like He was speaking to me through everything, about everything…until He wasn’t.

There were days, sometimes weeks, where God did not say anything. He was silent. Naturally, I drowned myself in a spiral of negative thoughts. What have I done wrong? Why isn’t God speaking to me anymore? Maybe I did something to upset Him. I should pray more. I should read my Bible more. God, please say something. Anything. Can He even hear me?

After months of back and forth—from God’s speaking to His silence—I attempted to find the formula. I thought that maybe since I was reading my Bible more, God would be pleased with me and speak to me more often. Or I thought that if I prayed for a whole hour that day God would dramatically make Himself known to me. Like a vague acquaintance, God’s silence made me uncomfortable, and I wanted to fill the pauses in conversation. I wanted my time with God to mean more, but I didn’t know what that looked like.

I listened to a podcast about the desert seasons in our life when God is silent and investigated other great resources on the topic. Slowly, I came to realize the truth behind God’s silence. I did not do anything wrong. True, sometimes we willingly run away from Him and ignore the Spirit. Sometimes, we do things that grieve the Spirit, and we create a breach in the relationship. But I wasn’t running away from God. In fact, I was running toward Him, and when we diligently seek God, He always reveals Himself to us.

God was not upset with me for failing to read a whole book of the Bible in a day. He simply wanted me to be still—to still my movement, my thoughts, my assumptions. He wanted to meet me without words. He wanted to sit with me in the silence and simply enjoy my company. Take a moment and consider how humbling that is, dear reader. Sometimes, God simply wants to join you in the silence and enjoy your company. Because He loves being with you.

God’s silence is a gift. When we are given this gift of silence it proves our growing relationship with Him. He promises to never leave us. His silence is not evidence that He is not present, but rather, evidence that He is becoming a closer friend to us who can share in and enjoy the silence. God wants to meet you in the silence, dear reader. Learn to be still. Learn to know Who He truly is. Learn to enjoy the silence.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for these seasons of silence. Often, we become discouraged or frustrated when we believe You no longer hear our prayers and answer only in silence. Allow our relationship with You to deepen to the place where we find comfort in simply being still and knowing who You are. You are our Savior, our Comforter, and our Friend. Bring us to the place of contentment and acceptance of silence. Help us to find comfort in Your silence. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Note from Alexis: Tessa’s devotional message today reminds me of the song “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

Tessa Huckstep grew up in rural Illinois to Christian parents and has known Jesus personally since the age of five.

She is currently attending community college and majoring in elementary education. In the future, she plans to teach in the public school, hoping to bring the love of God with her.

God’s dream of Tessa becoming a writer was revealed to her at the age of sixteen and she hasn’t been able to stop since. Though she has not yet been published, Tessa enjoys writing historical romance novels and speculative fiction.

Tessa believes God loves stories, and through her writing, she wants to reveal the happily ever after God dreams of for each of his daughters—one where Jesus is the knight in shining armor.

Tessa loves all things Georgian/Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size. When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, Tessa can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the mixing bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

~*~
Connect with Tessa:
Blog: https://beautifulbeloved937002841.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beloved.bookworm/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/101227159

Devotionals for the Heart: Listen

Listen to God 
A devotional by Erin M. Handley

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

– Romans 8:14 (NIV)

As Christ-followers, we strive to fulfill our purpose. To do so, we must take the necessary steps to get us exactly where we should be. We know the destination, but we don’t know how to get there. As many of us have learned, we listen to God to use Him as our GPS. We know His instructions ultimately guide us to the ordained steps specifically created for each individual.

Sometimes on this path, the steps ahead seem obvious. It is a straight path and God’s directions are clear. But sometimes we find ourselves at a crossroad, and suddenly we can’t hear His voice anymore. The path is no longer obvious, and the GPS seems out of range. At this crossroad, a decision must be made. We fear making a choice without direction as it could put us on the wrong path which would ultimately keep us from reaching the destination of fulfilling a purposed-filled life.

Have you ever found yourself in this pickle?

On a ‘spur-of-the-moment’ grocery trip, I realized I needed pickles. I made a beeline to get them first so I wouldn’t forget. I grabbed a jar but felt compelled to get two. I wrestled with rationalizing two jars of pickles. Why? Do I need two? What’s the purpose of getting two jars?

Here I was, standing in the middle of the aisle having an internal dialogue…about two jars of pickles. I convinced myself that I didn’t need two jars and walked away.

When I reached the end of my grocery list, I felt like I needed to go back for a second jar of pickles. At this point, it was comical that this second jar of pickles was so significant. I went back, grabbed the second jar, and headed to checkout.

My arms were so full of groceries, I had to put them down so I could begin checking out. After placing the groceries down, the only thing left in my arm (which would be the first thing I would scan) was the first thing I grabbed when I walked in. Pickles. I went to scan the jar but couldn’t find the barcode. I stood there entirely too long looking for the barcode, and eventually had to ask for assistance. The cashier was just as perplexed as I was about why the jar didn’t have a barcode on the label, but quickly reminded me that I had a second jar of pickles.

For the next twenty minutes, I focused on this ‘wrestle about pickles’ I just experienced. At that point I was conflicted by feeling like I was in a season where I wasn’t hearing Him like I did before, but in this moment, He wanted to take the time to talk to me about pickles. It was then that I was reminded that sometimes His voice doesn’t always sound (or look) how we anticipate that it should. He speaks to us. He never stops speaking to us. But we have to be comfortable with the fact that sometimes His voice doesn’t appear in the way that aligns with how we choose to hear to Him. His voice doesn’t always fit our method of listening.

We have to be willing to lean into Him and become in tune with the various ways He may choose to communicate with us. In order to be in tune with God’s voice, sometimes we have to properly adjust our posture. When we adjust our posture to be in tune with God’s voice, we force our flesh to become quiet as we allow our ‘spirit man’ to take the lead. In the flesh, many of us have become accustomed to hearing from the Lord in only one way.

When the Holy Spirit that lives within us is allowed to facilitate that commune with God, the Holy Spirit will draw our attention to whatever the Lord choose to use to speak to us – be it a book that is about the exact season you find yourself in at that moment, or a song that ministers to your soul in a moment of despair, or maybe it is a conversation with a stranger who answers the prayer you prayed moments before you met them for the very first time. He will speak to you in any way He knows will get your attention. Make sure you listen for the message and not solely rely on hearing the messenger.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank you for loving us and allowing us to be in your presence. Thank you for speaking to us and doing so in a personal way that we cannot deny experiencing you. Father, we pray that even amongst chaos and confusion that we are able to hear your voice and recognize your presence. We pray that when we feel like we can’t hear your voice, that your presence become more obvious than the audible voice we have trained our hearts to respond to. We pray that we become more in tuned with how you choose to commune with us so that we adjust our posture appropriately to hear exactly what you want us to receive from you in that moment. We ask all these things in Jesus’s Name. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

With an ever-growing desire to continually learn the Word of God and present teachings based on Biblical principles, Erin M. Handley is committed to her calling of teaching and inspiring others to ‘be more by doing more.’ With this in mind, Erin mentors young women and appreciates seeing the growth and change in the lives she impacts. 

While she sincerely enjoys mentoring and speaking to young people, she is most passionate about educating and empowering women from various stages of life about biblical womanhood and how to live out those principles in today’s world.

For over 15 years, Erin has worked with youth and adolescents in the fields of mental and behavioral health, education, and ministry. 

When reflecting on her experiences in ministry and non-ministry settings, her most memorable encounters have been those that allowed her the opportunity to teach the Word of God in a way that is most relatable to the audience she served in that moment. She has enjoyed writing since her youth, but only recently felt the call to share her writing with the world.

With an undergraduate degree in English and a graduate degree in Ministry and Pastoral Counseling, Erin M. Handley has been fortunate to be able to leverage her gifts and her passions throughout her career in Education. 

Aside from reading, writing, and mentoring, Erin enjoys dancing, interior design, cooking, and most other activities which allow her to utilize her creativity.

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Will

Remaining in God’s Will
A devotional by Temeka Borden

“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” 

– Matthew 6:9-10 (KJV)

One of the most common questions I receive is, “What is God’s will for me?”

Typically, when I am asked this question by my readers and viewers, they are asking in regard to a major decision they must make such as a relationship/marriage, a career opportunity, et cetera. To questions such as these, I typically respond by encouraging the reader to invest in some real “God time” so they can get the answers they need, although I know some are looking for me to give them a more specific answer. 

In fact, I remember one reader telling me her entire situation regarding her boyfriend and asking what she should do. It’s almost as though she knew the right thing to do, but she was hesitant to do the “right thing.” I felt as though she wanted me to give her an answer different from the “right one.” However, I responded by saying, “I can’t answer that for you, but if you pray about it, God will show you the answer.”

God Time 

I know it’s not easy making certain decisions, which is why I constantly discuss the importance of prayer, worship, meditation, and studying our Bibles. Doing so helps “unclog” our ears so that we can hear the truth. Doing so helps soften our hearts and humbles us so that we obey God. Doing so helps clear our minds so that we are not deceived and distracted by our freshly desires.

Prayer, meditation, and Bible time (God time) is not a chore. God time is not something we just check off our list. This time is precious. It shows God that He is first in our lives, that we truly love Him, and that we are committed to continually developing our bond with Him.

Prayer

You may notice I keep mentioning “God time.” This precious time may entail various things to various people. However, for me and as already mentioned, it involves prayer, meditation, and studying the Bible.

Regarding prayer, another question I commonly receive is, “How should one pray?”

Well, I wrote a separate post regarding that topic, and one thing to note is that we should always ask that God’s will be done, as stated in Matthew 6:10. God knows what is best and it is in His will that we find continued protection and direction. Our flesh can get us into trouble. Allow me to write that again. Our FLESH can get us into trouble!

Our flesh clouds our vision of what God wants in our lives, and it is so important that we keep our flesh under subjection. God sees things that our flesh (or natural eyes) cannot see, including any hidden dangers. For example, we may be presented with an opportunity, and to the natural eye, that opportunity may seem perfect. However, behind that opportunity may be much grief, pain, and sorrow. Again, there may be hidden dangers that we did not see or consider, and we place ourselves in positions where we face hurt that could have been avoided had we listened to God. Thankfully, we have a compassionate, forgiving Savior who rights our wrongs, but also expects us to learn from our mistakes.

Look, we have all been there at one point in our lives. We allowed flesh to dictate our decision. We rushed into a decision. We allowed people to pressure us into a decision. We wanted something so bad that we convinced ourselves that something was God approved (and it wasn’t), and we ended up making the WRONG decision. However, hopefully, we learned. We healed. We allowed the hardship we endured as a result of our decisions make us stronger, and we committed to working on getting better aligned with God.

Remember, if we receive a “no” from God regarding something our flesh wants, His intent is not to hurt us. Quite often, it’s His method of protection. So remain under God’s protection. Remain in the will of God. Trust His wisdom and let Him lead you in all things!

~*~
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.
​
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!”

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should always listen to God's direction

Go Right
A devotional by Alexis Newlin

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)

Since COVID-19 started, I now take drives to explore the mountains in my town so I can satisfy my travel bug and connect with God through nature. I’ve lived in California for almost seven years and there is still so much I haven’t discovered yet. That is one positive in this quarantine time.

I am so thankful that I am surrounded by so many places that I can explore in under three hours. Each time I take one of these drives, I come back feeling grounded and refreshed, having spent a bit of time out in nature with God.

Last Saturday, I revisited one of the backroads that my friend mentioned to me a few weeks ago. The mountain road is curvy, tree-lined and covered with wildflowers before it cuts through a beautiful valley. The sights on this road are absolutely breathtaking, and because of its sharp curves, you have to go slow or you will plunge off the edge of the mountain. The slow speed allows you to really take in all the beauty around you: wildflowers, large oak trees, birds singing, cattle grazing in the hillside. It’s now one of my favorite places to go.

At the end of this drive, there is a fork in the road. If you choose left, that will lead you back to town in about 20 minutes. I’d gone left three weeks ago and it was a beautiful drive. Now there was an option to go right, but I’d never gone that way before. I was a little afraid of getting lost and I didn’t want to accidentally end up three hours away from home.

I heard a whisper from God. “Go right.”

I was scared to go right. I knew what was to come if I went left since I’d gone that way before. So I went left.

The urge to go right became stronger. I felt like God was saying, “Alexis, if you turn into this turnout, you can still U-turn and go right.”

I knew that urge would not go away until I decided to go right. Swallowing my fear, I pulled into the turnout, made a quick U-turn when it was safe and headed right.

I am so glad I did.

Not only was the drive beautiful, it ended at a marina of a very large lake I’d never seen before. I couldn’t go onto shore because the lake was closed, but from my parking spot I got to take in a beautiful view: crystal blue water with mountains as a backdrop.

If I had listened to my fear and continued to go left, I would have missed out on discovering this lake. Taking a different path, the one that God chose for me, ending up being better than my original plan.

That often happens in my Christian walk. I don’t know about you, but I am not a big fan of the unknown. I like routine, I like to know what lies up ahead so I can plan and weigh my options. I like to be in control.

However, none of that exists in the unknown. Walking in the unknown plans that God has for us, takes a lot of trust and faith.

Faith that God knows what is best for us.

Faith that He is always with us, especially when things are hard.

Faith that although we think we may know the way, God always has a better way.

When God calls you to take a new path or leads you into the unknown, remember these verse from Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV):

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make straight your paths.

We may think we know the best way, but friend, God always knows better.

Trust Him.

~*~
Author Bio:

Alexis is a 36-year-old lover of Jesus, loose leaf tea, roller coasters, writing stories and going on adventures. Originally from Marietta, GA, Alexis now resides in Fresno, CA.  

You can always find Alexis outdoors enjoying a walk in her neighborhood, scoping out the newest food truck, hanging out with friends or planning her next trip.

Her church, The Revival Center, and family mean the world to her. They have supported her through the loss of her mother and her own cancer diagnosis.

Alexis enjoys encouraging others by reminding them not to look at what they see, but to always look to God, who is working in the unseen.

Alexis currently writes for several online ministries and launched her first podcast – The Brave Podcast – in January 2020.

~*~
Connect with Alexis:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apeachincali/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/apeachincali
Podcast: http://thebravepodcast.buzzsprout.com
Website: www.apeachincali.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Listen

God Still Speaks
A devotional by Heather Martin

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

— John 10:27 (NASB)

Listen.

God still speaks.

But the question is, “Are you listening for His Voice?”

Reading the Bible sometimes used to make me envious of the direct contact others had with God.

He walked and talked with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. He spoke to Moses and helped him write the Ten Commandments.

God was always showing up and during His time on earth, so many people had the opportunity to talk to Him, touch Him and directly, and rather tangibly feel Him. However, as I’ve grown older and my relationship with Him has grown deeper, I’ve realized that God is always speaking to me too, even if I cannot see Him face-to-face.

Sometimes it’s easy to recognize His voice and other times I question if I’m listening to myself.

There have been so many incidents that I can recall Him speaking and interacting with me! One such incident happened about three years ago.

My husband and I were casually looking for a bigger house for our growing family. I say “casually” because we were praying about it but not in any hurry, unless it was just the right house and situation.

We saw a house that we both were interested in and decided to go have a look. Within moments of stepping into the house I’d already written it off!

All of the flaws stood out: I didn’t care for the traditional style of the house. It was too outdated. The wallpaper was all over the place. It had a gaudy fireplace, green walls, carpet in the kids rooms, etc. By the time we’d walked through the whole house, we were sure it was not going to work for us. This was on a Friday afternoon. By Saturday morning, my husband and I brushed our teeth in silence and then looked at each other with these crazy grins.

He said, “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” I said, “That house?!” He said, “Yes!”

Since we both couldn’t get that house out of our minds, we decided that we had to go see it again!

They were having an open house the next day on Sunday, so we contacted our realtor that night to tell her that we wanted to go see this house.

Based on the area and some other biases, she tried talking us out of it. She sent us at least 50 other homes to look at instead! We insisted and told her how we felt led to that house and would like her to come with us. She agreed and met us there.

This time when we walked through the front door I still noticed the flaws, but when we got to the kitchen, I saw it with new eyes. I had this feeling that something important and special would take place there. I can’t explain it, but it was as if God was speaking directly to me and I found myself asking Him questions aloud, right there during the open house.

I said aloud, “But I don’t really like the finish on the cabinets, and do you think we could change the countertops?”

Our realtor was quick to answer and quiet me because she feared that our serious inquiries would cause the other people to take interest in the house too.

Looking back on this time, I realize that God was speaking to my husband and I as He set us up for the next phase of our lives…especially concerning our children.

All four of our children have severe food allergies. I cook and bake special recipes everyday to keep them healthy and safe. Therefore, I spend a lot of time in the kitchen and since we moved into this house, God has impressed me to use this kitchen as a stage.

I not only prepare meals for my family there, but I started a YouTube Channel called, “Chef Mommy.”

Each week I share with hundreds of people via my YouTube Channel, recipes and tips to cook healthy meals that are allergen friendly.

It turns out that the kitchen was perfect for taping because the stove is on the island, which allows me many angles to video the cooking.

Although I did end up changing the countertops and painting the cabinets, it has been such a blessing not only to my family and I, but to so many people.

When I get discouraged about communicating with God and wondering if He hears me, or still speaks, I remind myself of this time and so many other times when He’s spoken to me so loud and clear!

What about you? How has God spoken to you?

I’m so glad that God still speaks!

We just need to listen and recognize when it’s Him.

~*~
Author Bio:

Heather Martin was born the last of six siblings in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was raised by an amazing single mother (Rebecca Trotter) and was taught at an early age to love God and how to sing! 

She graduated from Oakwood University with a Bachelor's Degree in Language Arts Education and later received a Master’s Degree in Education from Kaplan University.

Shortly after graduating she followed God’s call to minister. She joined the Stellar, Dove, and Grammy-nominated gospel group Virtue, which was founded by her two older sisters Ebony Holland and Karima Kibble several years prior. Virtue has used their talents to spread the love of God across the world! They have recorded 7 studio albums and have been the recipients of numerous awards.

God has not only blessed Heather professionally, but personally. She met her husband, Dr. Colin Martin, and they have been married for 14 years. They have four children: Colin Jr. 11, Harper 10, Clark, 7, and Charleston 5.

In 2016, Heather started an online blog and vegan and allergen-friendly cooking channel called “Chef Mommy.” Heather (Chef Mommy) has cooked with numerous celebrities and top chefs to spread the news of healthy cooking and lifestyle.

In addition to this busy schedule, Heather enjoys, running, reading, writing and spending time with her family.

~*~
Connect with Heather:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherTMartin
Instagram for Heather: https://www.instagram.com/thechefmommy/
Instagram for Virtue (Heather’s singing group): https://www.instagram.com/virtuegirls
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chefmommyhm

Devotionals for the Heart: When God speaks, will you listen?

What Did He Say?
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 3

When I was young, my favorite Bible story was about the little boy Samuel. Dedicated and mentored at the behest of the national prophet Eli, Samuel dutifully served. Day in and day out, even at night, if necessary, he attended the needs of the aging and blind prophet.

Then, it happened. Samuel heard the voice of God! It being a new experience, Samuel misinterpreted the voice of God. He thought that Eli was beckoning him. Quickly, Eli understood what was happening and told his young mentee that the next time he heard the call, to respond by saying “Speak Lord for thy servant heareth.”

When God spoke again, Samuel responded appropriately. Samuel and God had a conversation. In the morning, Eli (the old prophet to and through whom God had spoken and led a nation), asked of the boy Samuel, “What did He say?”

Eli and God had already talked about some things. When Samuel shared the vision, it was confirmation of what God had already told Eli. He and his sons would not live to establish a prophetic dynasty in Israel. Samuel was the heir, apparently. It soon became evident to all of Israel that Samuel was the anointed prophet for the new era.

Throughout the Bible are stories of God speaking to individuals and others asking what He said. Moses had that experience. When God appeared to the Israelites as they transitioned from slavery to nationhood, His presence overwhelmed the populous. They asked Moses to speak with God and then tell them what He had said. The Israelites knew when Moses had spoken directly with God because his face would shine. They would gather to hear from him what God had said.

Elijah, the Tishbite prophet, also talked with God. After his zenith experience at Mount Carmel, he descended to the nadir of his career while hiding in a cave. God spoke to him there and directed that he move to the brook Cherith. He heard God again while at the brook. He was told to find an apprentice—that would be Elisha.

Elisha, like Samuel, attended his prophet faithfully. He learned a lot by seeing and doing what his mentor directed. Soon he and all of the other prophets knew that Elijah was going to be taken away by God. They asked Elisha several times if he was aware that a transition was coming. He was. He stuck with Elijah all day. Before the moment of transition Elijah asked Elisha what he wanted. The younger man responded, "I want to be twice as powerful as you have been."

Elijah promised that if Elisha was present and saw him taken, God would grant his request. Elisha was present and God did not disappoint. Even though the other prophets knew what was to happen, when Elisha came back across the Jordan alone and visibly empowered, they still wanted to go looking for Elijah. But God had delivered to them another leader with another mandate.

What did He say? By delivering Elijah’s mantle to Elisha, God declared that Elisha would be twice as prolific as his mentor had been.

Biblical expositors have attributed 14 major miracles to Elijah. In his lifetime Elisha’s miracle count was 27. But the promise that he would have twice the prominence and power of Elijah was not to be frustrated. God has promised that His word will not return void, but shall be accomplished and prosper in its purpose. (Isaiah 55:11).

Elisha was so anointed with the power of God that his 28th miracle occurred after he died. The Bible book of 2 Kings 13:21 tells the story of a group of Moabites who were burying a dead friend. During the funeral, they saw a group of men from another tribe. Rather than risk a violent encounter, they hastily cast the corpse into the sepulcher of Elisha. The story says that when the new corpse touched the bones of Elisha, that the man was revived and stood on his feet. Imagine that!

The lesson here is that when God speaks, His word lives. His word brings life to our existence. Chances are great that God has spoken to you a time or two. Did you hear Him? Did you listen? What did He say? Did you do what he said to do? It may not be too late! If it is too late for a former vision, God still speaks! I believe that if we are His and we humbly ask, He will speak again. If He does, when He does, will you listen?

Listen for the word of God in your life. Then be clear and prepared to answer the most meaningful question after epiphany moments: What did He say?

~*~
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 Columbia Union College (WAU) in Takoma Park, Maryland. He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees–a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, 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.

Devotionals for the Heart: Silence

Silence
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken.” ~Psalm 62:5-6 (NASB)

Silence can be a hard commodity to come by in this day and age. I don’t know about anyone else, but when it comes to either finding a place to sit in silence or the ability to shut my mouth when I should, neither is easy.

One night during our last family vacation I fell asleep listening to a mediation app while wearing a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. I’m not sure how long I slept but I woke up, suddenly, in the dark, heart racing, terrified. It occurred to me later how much we use our sense of hearing to orient ourselves and when I awoke in an unfamiliar place with no background noise, I had no sense of connection to anything and it was a terrifying feeling.

So if we, consciously or not, use noise as a natural orientation to the chaotic world around us, isn’t it possible that God uses our intentional silence and stillness to orient us better to His?

I understand that for many people who have hearing disabilities silence is not a choice. Though, I think physical silence is only one aspect of what David addresses in this psalm. Getting our bodies and voices to settle down is one thing, but obtaining a quiet spirit and a settled mind is something else.

Raise your hand if the minute you decide to pray or meditate, a thousand new ideas that have nothing to do with prayer or meditation immediately flood into your thoughts: Don’t forget to put bread on the grocery list. I need to get through all those papers on my desk at work. What should we do about next summer’s vacation? 

Anyone else? Please tell me I’m not the only one!

I think that silence — physical, emotional, or mental — is so opposite our nature that finding it can only come as a part of seeking God. Notice in this verse, how David is actually addressing his own soul and commanding it to “wait in silence for God only.” He even spells out why he knows he should do this: “for my hope is from Him.” 

When we, like David, wait in silence with quiet minds and quiet lips, we will find connection with Him. In turn, that connection with the Lord gives us hope, another commodity in short supply it seems these days.

Find a moment or two to be silent before God. For most of us, this will take effort, but ask Him to help you. I believe every time we sincerely seek Him, with an honest heart and a open hand, He will meet us exactly where we are. And it will always be a blessing.

My Prayer: Father God, settle my heart today in silence, so that I can hear You and feel Your presence. Allow me to see Your hope in my life and in the world around me. And give me opportunities to share that hope with someone who needs it. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio: 

Glynis Becker writes fiction, devotions, and screenplays. 

She is a wife, mother of teenagers and a part-time administrative assistant.

In her spare time she likes to read, try new recipes, crochet, and cheer on the Minnesota Vikings. 

You can find her at www.glynisbecker.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Abide

Abide in Me
A devotional by Gail Kittleson

The fifteenth chapter of John used to baffle me. What did “abide in Me” mean? If I could just figure that out, I’d be set. But the instructions seemed so contrary to my natural bents.

I read these verses in awe and puzzlement. How could I abide in One so holy, so mighty?

Let's read John 15:4-6 (KJV) together: "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned."

Decades have passed, and I’ve realized how the short book of First John clarifies this concept of abiding. Basically, it’s about living in love, living in God, and allowing God to live in us.

Living in becomes a bit clearer as the years go by, too. It means a friendly relationship and camaraderie (mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together). Since my husband and I celebrated our fortieth wedding anniversary in May, we’ve both learned a lot about this concept.

Living in implies listening, asking, receiving giving, honoring, waiting for, considering the desires and wants of another. And waiting. Yes, waiting for the other to reveal their wishes, desires, and passions instead of trying to force events to happen.

Ah, waiting. Don’t we just love that? No wonder this idea felt so unnatural to me in my early twenties, when my driven nature, grounded in shame if I failed to perform, railed against allowing things to unfold in due time or embracing the moments as they appeared.

No, I had to plan, protect, research, and always be at the ready. I had no clue what “going with the flow” meant. In short, I was a control freak, although I never would have admitted to it. I thought I was just doing my best to obey, and being as loving as I could. I didn’t realize my rescuing and fixing efforts often robbed my loved ones of chances to explore their own emotions and learn from their mistakes.

Thankfully, time gives experience and tempers our natural instincts.

My Prayer:  “Oh Lord, You have shown us such infinite patience. Grant us grace to live in You and grow in trust.”

~*~
Author Bio:

When Gail Kittleson's not steeped in World War II research, drafting scenes, or deep in an edit of her 1940’s novels, she does a limited amount of editing for other authors. 

She also facilitates writing and creativity workshops, both in Iowa and Arizona, where she and her husband like to spend part of the winter in the amazing Ponderosa pine forest under the Mogollon Rim.

Favorites: spending time with grandchildren, walking, reading, meeting new people, and hearing from readers who fall in love with her characters.

Devotionals for the Heart: On Waiting

The Power of Waiting
A devotional by Patrick E. Craig

Judy and I worked in our garden a lot last fall, cleaning out the finished plants, burning piles, adding amendments and turning the soil over. We collected all our grass and leaves over the summer and laid them down as mulch on the beds to keep weeds down and get the garden ready for spring. Now the beds are all tucked away waiting for those first warm days to stir the life in the soil. It got me to thinking...

Fall is the time in Idaho when the agricultural community slows down and the fields all over the valley are waiting for spring. By the time the first snow falls, we will be spending a lot of time indoors by a warm fire, doing catch-up work around the house and generally just waiting for spring to come. Sometimes we get anxious to get the winter season over and get onto the activity of spring and summer. But I say, wait.

Fall and a winter are a great parallel to seasons in our lives. There are times when the Lord speaks to our hearts and sets us out on great adventures. Our hours are filled with activity and doing. Then sometimes He has us wait and the waiting time is just as valuable as the "doing" time. It is during the waiting time that the Lord refreshes and renews our lives. As we sit with his word, wondering, "What's next, Lord?" we find new strength and wisdom just sitting at his feet. Mary discovered that secret long before Martha did.

So my counsel is this: don't let this fall and winter season be a time where the limitations of inactivity make you anxious or unsure. The Lord always has something new for us, and it often takes a season of waiting to give us the strength to go on. So rest in this time and know that He's got something for you just around the corner. And when it happens, you will run and not be weary, you will walk and not faint, and you mount up on eagle's wings.

"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." 

~Isaiah 40:31 KJV

~*~
Author Bio:

Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful songwriting and performance career in the music industry to follow Christ in 1984. 

In 2011 he signed a three-book deal with Harvest House Publishers to publish his Apple Creek Dreams series. His current series is The Paradise Chronicles. The first book in the series, The Amish Heiress, a romantic suspense novel, was published by Patrick's company, P&J Publishing, in August of 2015 and remained on the Amazon Top 100 best sellers list in three categories for seven months.

The second book in the series, The Amish Princess, a historical romance novel, was released in December of 2016 and was on Amazon's Hot New Releases for over a month. Harlequin recently purchased the print rights for both books for their Walmart Amish series. Patrick also just released Cracking The Indie Egg—A Recipe For Publishing Your Own Book and it is available in most major digital bookstores.

Patrick and his wife Judy, make their home in Idaho. They have two married children and five grandchildren. Patrick is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.

~*~
Connect with Patrick:
Website - www.patrickecraig.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PatrickECraig
Twitter - https://twitter.com/PatrickECraig
Amazon Author page - http://tinyurl.com/n6sfagg