Devotionals for the Heart: How to survive the battlefield in your mind

Don’t Waste Your Mind
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

—Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

This quote was the slogan for the United Negro College Fund that I heard on television commercials for years as a teenager. It stayed with me because the mind truly is one of the greatest places we can invest our time. Yet I am concerned when I see how many things can diminish the value of this incredible gift.

Our Creator (God) created animals, human beings, nature, and the entire world. When we consider the intricacies and details of how each part has been divinely created, it is astonishing. Take, for instance, the human brain. People spend years studying to become brain surgeons because of the complexity and importance of this remarkable part of our bodies.

A family friend once had a brain tumor, and as we walked alongside her and her family through that journey, we learned so much about the complexities of the diagnosis and the human brain. It was truly mind-blowing.

Our brain is like the hardware that houses our mind and thought processes that we cannot physically see. They are connected. When our minds become overwhelmed with stressful or negative thoughts, it can have a direct effect on how we function. During that difficult season of having a brain tumor, it became especially important for our friend to guard her thoughts.

I remain in awe of the way God created this part of the body. It reminds me that we need to be intentional about what we allow our minds to dwell on. We live in a world where our minds are constantly challenged to maintain balance. So, I’d like to encourage us to consider a few things in this daily battle:

Peace is a choice. We live surrounded by so many voices, opinions, and noises that can overwhelm us at times. Yet peace is something we can choose to pursue and enjoy. The Bible says in Isaiah 26:3 (NIV), “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” The key here is to keep your mind on the Lord.

Protect your mind. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul tells us to put on the armor of God because we are engaged in spiritual battles. One of those pieces of armor is the helmet of salvation. The Roman helmet was carefully designed to protect the soldier’s head and neck from attacks coming from different directions. When Paul tells us to put on the “helmet of salvation”, he reminds us that our understanding of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ provides protection as we face the thoughts, darts, and attacks of the enemy.

God has given us what we need to fight. We need to put on this armor through prayer, studying the Word of God, and meditating on Scripture daily.

Finally, the battle in our minds—with thoughts we didn’t invite, as well as the decisions and choices we have to make regularly—is an ongoing one. Yet it is one we don’t have to face in our own strength.

The battlefield of our minds is one we never have to face alone. We can withstand and push back against the enemy’s desire to overwhelm us and make us feel helpless, hopeless, and defeated. I can tell you that this is something I deal with on an ongoing basis. I have learned to stay alert and not rely solely on my own strength. Sometimes I need a supplement of positive self-talk, but I have found an even stronger dose in meditating on Scripture, praying, and stewarding my physical health.

Be strong. Be courageous. But remember, you were never meant to battle this battlefield alone. Call a friend who is willing to listen. Write in a journal. Pray to God. Take those thoughts captive, as the Apostle Paul exhorted us to do.

God loves you. He hears you, and He sees you.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You see us, You hear us, and You know our every thought. Help me to think on those things that give life and are uplifting. Thank You for hearing my every cry, even when the darkness feels overwhelming. Strengthen me even now and teach me how to encourage myself and worship You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Trust in God” (feat. Chris Brown & Isaiah Templeton) | Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “You’re Not Alone” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Every Moment” by ForeverJones. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “God Loves You” by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “I’ll Give You Peace” by Sandi Patty. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “My Prayer for You” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Surrounded (Fight My Battles)” by Michael W. Smith. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology "Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit", as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com

My Review of the CSB Teen Study Bible for the teenagers in your life

When Momentum Influencers Network (MIN) asked me to review the CSB Teen Study Bible, I readily agreed because I love reading God’s Word (The Holy Bible) and sharing it with everyone! This version of the Bible is unique because of the way it caters to a teenage audience.

But before I share my review with you, I’d like to share a word from Momentum Influencers Network about this innovative product:

Build resilient faith in the next generation with the new CSB Teen Study Bible.

Featuring a unique Q&A style study approach, devotionals for personal growth, and topical articles on complex faith questions, this Bible equips students to connect Scripture to their everyday life. Robust study helps and practical devotions make this Bible great for students who want to go deeper in Bible study.

Endorsed by Shane Pruitt, the CSB Teen Study Bible is an ideal study Bible for student ministries to buy in bulk, with three economical hardcover editions available. This Bible is the perfect gift for every student—it’s durable, a convenient size to carry, and includes content written specifically for their generation.

Students are growing up in a world in which AI and social media parade as truth. There’s no more vital moment than now to present Scripture’s truth in a way that is easy to find for teens, preteens, and their parents. Push back on deconstruction by equipping your students to search God’s Word on their own, starting today.

What are the questions keeping your students up at night? This Bible can help.

~*~

My Review of the CSB Teen Study Bible

The first detail I noticed about the CSB Teen Study Bible is the color of the cover. It’s a serene blue that’s darker than the sky but lighter than the sea.

I like how there is a wraparound cover over the hard cover. This material has the name of this Bible written in a lime color and bold, bulky font. I think the cover designer had teens in mind as they created these details and put these design elements together. It’s definitely youth-friendly in its presentation.

The words “Asking & Answering Questions about God’s Word” are written in smaller font beneath the name of this Bible on the front. I find this feature helpful. It is a way to draw teens who have questions about the Bible, Christianity and God. This feature will help the target audience know that they can receive answers to their questions if they open this Bible and read it with the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

The wraparound cover has more intriguing information on the backside of this Bible. I like how it features this line at the top of the summary: “Real Questions. Real Answers. Real Faith.” Again, the publisher knows how to reach teens who are thirsty for truth that can only be found within the pages of this beautiful book.

When I opened this book, the first thing I noticed was the bright lime color that coats the first two pages. The material feels smooth to touch. And these colors complement the lime colors in the text on the front cover and back cover of the wraparound material. Well done! The only issue is that sunglasses might be needed because the lime color on those two interior pages is so bright!

As I turned the next few pages, I noticed the dedication page that’s in most Bibles. The Table of Contents was neatly outlined but the font was a bit too small for me. However, I do appreciate how the page that follows the Table of Contents, talks about how the publisher utilized “Optimal Type” for the words in this Bible. They wrote, “The Bible is the most important book ever written, and every element of its design should enhance the reading experience. Optimal Type is a new typeface designed to improve readability, making Scripture more approachable, clear, and engaging for all readers.” As I continued turning the pages of this Bible, I found this to be true.

The next two pages contain information that shows the reader how to use this Bible. These two pages are set to a dark gray background and have a few snapshots of the pages within as well as labels over each snapshot that point out interior features such as: articles, devotionals, maps, charts and infographics. I found this to be intriguing. It made me want to keep reading and find all these features.

The next 10 or more pages are purely instructional, giving the reader more information about what to expect as they read this Bible. It also teaches the reader to understand and interpret the Bible well as they turn the pages of this sacred book. A few pages are dedicated to introducing the reader to the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) which is the translation provided from Genesis (the first book) to Revelation (the final book) in this Bible. I found that to be educational.

After a brief note about commonly used abbreviations in this Bible, the reader can begin their Bible reading journey starting with the first book of The Old Testament (Genesis). But before this journey begins, there are two pages provided that focus on providing a proper introduction to Genesis. I thought that was helpful.

As I scanned the pages of this Bible, I was in awe as I saw all of the helpful extra features that were outlined on the first several pages of this Bible: articles, devotionals, maps, charts, infographics and more are spread throughout the pages of this Bible. After the final book  (Revelation) that is in The New Testament, there are a few more features to help the reader: CSB Concordance, CSB Dictionary and about eight colorful maps on glossy pages. These maps show the reader where the stories in this Bible were set in real life many centuries ago, reminding the readers that the Bible is not a work of fiction; the characters were real people who lived and walked on this Earth.

Overall, I think this Bible was produced very well and that the content is truly comprehensive. It is presented perfectly in a way that will touch the heart of teens.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#TeenStudyBibleMIN

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Order the new CSB Teen Study Bible for the teens in your life! Here is the purchase link, https://bhpub.org/ur7yB

God bless you!

Devotionals for the Heart: When you allow God to cover you with His love

His Covering of Love
A devotional by Maureen Miller

“Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love.”

—Song of Solomon 2:4 (NIV)

“She’s…” Our son choked on his words. “She’s here.” Ian paused, then added, “But she’s in the NICU. Please pray she’ll be okay.”

After hanging up from that 3:00 a.m. phone call, my husband Bill and I lay there in the dark. There was nothing we could do but pray. And pray we did.

The next day, we were permitted to visit our third granddaughter. Our son and daughter-in-law named her Maci Lynn. She was born six weeks prematurely. The precious one we knew rested in the loving hands of our Heavenly Father (God).

Entering Maci’s cubicle, we witnessed the tubes and contraptions that kept her lungs pumping and her heart beating. I marveled at the medical miracle. If not for these scientific masterpieces, Maci’s life likely wouldn’t last, at least not this side of heaven. I breathed a prayer, “Thank You, merciful Father.”

Not able to hold her, all Bill and I could do was sit with Ian, offering support with our presence and silent petitions. Our daughter-in-law was hospitalized in a separate unit. She’d lost a lot of blood prior to the emergency C-section. Though stable, she’d not yet been released.

Only a few feet away, Maci lay under a strong, protective plexiglass covering, a sterile shield from germs. It was in the quiet of that space, with only the repetitive, rhythmic ticking of a monitor, when I heard God’s whisper: I’ve promised you My protective covering too. Each element is for you and the safety of those who you love. Pray for My full armor of protection for Maci Lynn.

Of course. The full armor of God. I’d recently become familiar with a song by a favorite Christian artist. On her music album, “Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved”, Christy Nockels sings of this particular truth: the armor that’s ours, covering our loved ones and us from head to toe. I searched for this melody on my cell phone, then—holding my device just over the plastic dome—hit play. Maci’s tiny body rose and fell as the lullaby filled the cubicle, Christy’s lyrics reminding us of God’s promised protection, that which Paul describes in Ephesians, chapter six.

Let’s read about God’s armor in Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV):

Belt of Truth (Verse 14a)

I asked God to help me remember His Truth as the enemy whispered lies into my mind such as:

“She’s not going to make it. Look how frail. How peaked.”

I shook the snide voice from my mind, replacing it with truth from Psalm 23. Quietly, I personalized that Scripture for my granddaughter: The Lord is her Shepherd. The Lord is her Shepherd.

Satan is a liar, but this piece of God’s protective covering wields truth—the opposite of what our enemy offers. In Maci’s situation, we could be overcome with fear, held captive by Satan’s insidious lies, leading to discouragement and despair, threatening our intercession. In a broader sense, Satan’s lies are everywhere. One can’t turn on the television without being bombarded with both subtle as well as overt deceptions that tell us we’re not enough. 

We need our belts of truth to discern what is biblically right and wrong that we might stand protected against Satan’s lies.

Breastplate of Righteousness (Verse 14b)

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” A breastplate protects one’s heart.

Regarding Maci, Bill and I were susceptible—as were Maci’s parents—to discouragement. In some manner of speaking, her situation broke our hearts. Seeing her struggle, wondering if she’d pull through, was wearisome. But God called us to intercede on her behalf, and nothing hinders one’s prayer life more than feeling overwhelmed and afraid.

How about you? Have you been called to petition but feel stuck, bound by fear and anxiety? Put on your breastplate to guard your heart from discouragement, then press on. Find passages of scripture that become your anchor in this difficult season, replacing wrong thinking with right thinking. Yes, righteous thinking.

As the Apostle Paul exhorts in his letter to the Philippians 4:8 (NIV), “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace (Verse 15)

Our footwear not only protects our feet; it carries us to those with whom God intends our paths to cross.

As Bill and I spent time with our granddaughter over those six weeks, we had opportunities to be light to others. Jesus Christ’s peace shines through His children, and I believe our presence made a difference. Though there were times we felt afraid and lacked peace, our dependence on the Lord was our source of strength. Perhaps other frightened parents with little ones in the NICU heard Christy Nockels’ song as I played it time and time again. Maybe they saw us praying over Maci Lynn. I hope it made a difference, bringing encouragement.

And in our peace-depleted world, how can we continue to carry God’s peace to others? In our workplaces? In our children’s schools? In our communities? Yes, even in our churches and in our homes?

Put on your footwear and walk, praying about all the places God might be calling you to offer His peace.

Shield of Faith (Verse 16)

How we needed to hold on to our faith in God as we waited and wondered regarding Maci. Some days, it seemed like we white-knuckle-gripped our shields. However, on other days, we were able to hold more loosely.

In ancient times, a shield wasn’t merely a small piece of protective metal; it was a full-length covering from head to toe. When gathered, soldiers would create entire domes of protection from the enemy’s flying darts, crouching together in military formation.

We know faith isn’t holding to that which is seen but what is unseen (Hebrews 11:1). Like the soldiers behind their collective shields who couldn’t see the racing arrows aimed their way but trusted their armor to do its job, we need to hold on by faith in life’s battles too.

Bill and I couldn’t see what was ahead regarding our precious Maci, but we trusted her caregivers, believing they knew what they were doing. And we knew her Heavenly Father loved her immeasurably more than us, and He had a plan. God has a plan for each of us. So, hold tight to your faith, His protective shield surrounding you in all seasons, even in the dark when you can’t see ahead.

Helmet of Salvation (Verse 17a)

During this difficult time with Maci, it was easy to allow our thoughts to turn toward fear rather than stand in faith, trusting God with our sweet granddaughter. But He reminded me I needed to take thoughts captive, making them obedient to Jesus (2 Corinthians 10:5). Furthermore, I needed to apply the words from a favorite children's song about being careful what we allow our eyes to see. If I simply looked at teeny-tiny Maci, my mind was flooded with what ifs, but when I chose instead to put on my helmet by singing songs of praise or claiming scripture promises, I was saved from what often felt like a pit of despair.

The same is true for you, friends. Your helmet of salvation is your protective head covering—helping guard your thoughts, despite what you see. It’s amazing what happens when we take our worrisome, troubled thoughts captive, replacing them with truth from God’s Word—whether spoken or in song, even long-ago Sunday School tunes that we sing in church.

Sword of the Spirit (Verse 17b)

Bill and I were promised protection from the enemy who came to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Not only did Satan want to steal our precious newborn granddaughter; he desired to kill our faith and destroy our peace. But God called us to be light where Satan wanted darkness in the NICU of the hospital where so many were hurting, anxious, and afraid. Only by walking in truth—truth from God’s Word—could we allow our suffering to be used for good.

When we hold out our swords, wielding them in every battle by applying biblical truth to our circumstances, we will be victorious. This is a strategy unlike that which the world appropriates, but it won’t go unnoticed. When others see and hear a Christian’s method of warfare, they can’t help but wonder from where such courage comes. Then we get to testify to the goodness—the faithfulness—of our loving, ever-present Father (God).

God’s Covering of Love

More than two years have passed since our regular visits to the NICU. Maci Lynn is two years old now and thriving in every way. Looking back, that season is surreal, but I’m so thankful for it. It taught me more about trusting God, especially when things are out of my control.

I’ll continue praying for the full armor of God to cover Bill, myself, our children and grandchildren. After all, we need it more than ever in this dark age where Satan lurks, knowing his time is coming to an end.

Recently, I was reminded. In Song of Solomon, the bride professes her love, adding that the king has brought her to his banquet table—a place of abundant joy. More beautiful than this, however, is the king’s covering, the protective banner he places over his bride. Indeed, his covering of love!

How beautiful! To think Yahweh-Nissi (“The Lord is my banner” defined in Exodus 17:15) was there in that NICU cubicle as Maci Lynn lay under her protective, plastic cover, hooked to tubes and monitors. It was Him who spoke to my heart that day, asking me to play “Head to Toe” over our sweet grand-girl, covering her with His full armor through scripture song.

And Yahweh-Nissi is with us too, promising never to leave us. God’s Word is our weapon, and His protective banner is ours until the day when we’re with Him, face to face. Yes, His covering of love.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Thank You, merciful Father. Thank You for Your constant presence and Your promise to never leave. Thank You for Your Word which is our light in all darkness, a sword in every battle. And thank You for Your full armor—each element for our protection and our good. May we be courageous in all life’s battles, bringing You glory until You call us home. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Head to Toe (The Armor of God Song)” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Warrior is a Child” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “His Banner Over Me” by Cheri Keaggy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Battles” by The Afters. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Maureen Miller is an award-winning author with stories in more than twenty collaboratives.

 

She contributes to "All God’s Creatures" published by Guideposts, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, including the award-winning Arise Daily and Inspire A Fire.

Married for 36 years to her childhood sweetheart Bill, she enjoys life with their three born-in-their-hearts children and three grand-girls, not to mention a variety of furry beasts. They live on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina.

Maureen is a speaker, as well as the chaplain of her local Word Weaver critique group. She writes posts online via the “Windows and Wallflowers” blog where she tells of God’s extraordinary character discovered in the ordinary things of life.

Her favorite thing is to encourage others in their journey with Jesus Christ.

Maureen’s debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is now available.

~*~
Connect with Maureen:
Email: Maureen.miller913@gmail.com
Website: https://maureenmillerauthor.com

Devotionals for the Heart: How to support people experiencing grief

You Lost Her Baby Too: A devotional for Grieving Grandparents
A devotional by Patti Schultz, Ed.D.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

—2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)

I have lost more babies than I have fingers.

I said goodbye to every one of them before I ever got to hold them. Each time, well-meaning people filled the silence with something, anything, to make the moment feel less unbearable. Words like these: “She's in a better place” and “At least you know you can get pregnant.” And “God needed another angel.” I nodded because I didn't have the strength to do anything else, and I tucked those words away in the same box where I keep the ultrasound pictures and the tiny hospital bracelets. The words are still there and they still sting.

What I wish someone had known, what I wish I had known, is tucked into two Bible verses most people skip past. In the Bible story about Job, his friends heard what happened to him and they rushed to support him. Job’s friends sat with him on the ground for seven days and seven nights. Scripture says, “No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was” (Job 2:13 NIV). Seven days. No talking script. No Bible verse tucked into a frozen meal. Just three men sitting in the dirt beside a man who had lost everything, letting his grief be the only thing in the room.

When I experienced grief after the loss of each of my babies, I didn't need anyone to explain why. I needed someone to sit on my kitchen floor with me while the chicken noodle soup went cold on the counter.

In the Bible, the Apostle Paul writes that God comforts us in our troubles so that we can turn around and comfort someone else with the very comfort we received (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). That verse means something different to a grandparent than it does to almost anyone else in your daughter's life. You are not just a bystander to her grief. You have grief of your own, comfort of your own, scars of your own from griefs long before this one. That comfort you were given, however it came to you, however long ago, is exactly what she needs from you now.

You may not know quite what to say to your daughter, or what to do with your own grief in all of this. You lost a grandchild too—sometimes more than one—and you are watching your own child carry a weight you cannot lift for her, no matter how much you wish you could.

Here is what passing that comfort forward can look like, in the ordinary hours of an ordinary week: Let her say the name out loud, even at year six, even at year sixteen. A due date will still ache. A song on the radio will still catch her off guard in the grocery store parking lot. Let it. Skip the reasons. Skip the plan, the purpose, the silver lining. Just say, “I don't understand this either. I'm here.” God never gave Job an explanation for his profound suffering. He gave him presence instead. That is still the better gift, and it is the comfort you can hand down.

Remember with her, not just for her. Ask about the memory she keeps returning to. She has already noticed who says the name and who changes the subject. Be gentle around other grandchildren. “At least you have the others” cuts deeper than silence ever could. Show up in the small, unglamorous way: A thoughtful text message on the anniversary. Sitting on the floor when there is nothing left to say. That kind of silent support is like Job's friends, all these centuries later, still sitting in the dirt beside someone they love.

You are grieving too, in your own quiet way. That matters to God as much as your daughter's grief does. The comfort you were given somewhere along the way was never meant to end with you. Stay close, stay soft, and let her know that whatever she feels, however long it lasts, she does not have to carry it alone. Neither do you.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Be near to my daughter (or daughter-in-law) in the way only You can. Help me love her well while I grieve this too. Let the comfort You have given me somewhere in my own losses become the comfort I hand to her now.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Songs of Reflection #1: “Blessings” by Laura Story (ASL cover by Meg W). Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #2: “Sparrows” by Jason Gray (ASL cover by Amber Shorter). Listen to it here.

Songs of Reflection #3: “Draw Me Nearer” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “My Prayer for You” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it here.

~*~
Note from Patti for you: If you or someone you love is walking through the loss of a grandchild, know that you are not walking alone. Feel free to share your own story or a memory with me at pattischultz.com. Our community is here to weep, and to hope, together.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Patti Schultz’s inspiring journey weaves a tapestry of compassion, resilience, and divine hope. 

Formerly a public school principal, professor, teacher, and interpreter for the deaf, she now dedicates her life to a heartfelt ministry rooted in her personal experiences.

As a mother to three miracle boys here on Earth and a member of a heavenly soccer team, Patti’s story is one of unwavering faith and profound love. Her decade-long battle with infertility and recurrent loss fuels her deep compassion for grieving mothers, guiding them toward healing through the comforting embrace of Jesus Christ’s garment.

Patti’s gentle wisdom offers a safe haven for women navigating pain, reminding them they are never alone. Through her ministry, she seeks to envelop grieving mothers in divine comfort, encouraging hope, renewal, and the reassurance that God's love is always near, wrapping them in His compassionate hem as they walk the path to healing.

Living in northern Michigan, she cherishes precious moments with family and community, drawing strength from faith and connection.

~*~
Connect with Patti:
Website: pattischultz.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.pattischultz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Patti.Schultz
Email: dr.patti.schultz@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should seek God's Kingdom first

Seek First: What Has to Move Before Everything Else Falls into Place
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”—Matthew 6:33 (KJV)

There’s a word most of us skip right past in our anchor text above: first.

We read it in Matthew 6:33 the way we read a stop sign we've driven past a thousand times—technically registering it, not actually stopping. Seek first the kingdom of God? “Sure. Of course,” we may think. Then we go right on seeking whatever we were already seeking, with God added somewhere near the top of the list instead of in first place at the very top.

I've read this verse more times than I can count. But sitting with it again recently, I got stuck on that one word in a way I hadn’t before. Not “seek God” in general. The word first, which means everything else in me has to be willing to move.

The verse was never really about what to add. It's about what needs to be reordered. When we read The Holy Bible, we see that Jesus Christ doesn't hand this verse about first seeking the kingdom of God to His disciples out of nowhere. Prior to the “seek ye first” sermon, Jesus spent several verses talking them down from anxiety. According to Matthew 6:31–32 (NKJV), Jesus said, “Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.”

I want you to notice something here: Jesus doesn't treat worry and misplaced priority as two separate problems. He treats them like the same problem. The anxious questions “What will I eat?” or “What will I wear?” or “Will I be okay?” are really questions about what’s sitting on the throne of a person's heart. Worry is what happens when something other than God has been quietly put in charge of your security. His prescription isn't “worry less.” It's “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, NKJV). Not “Manage your anxiety better.” Reorder what you're seeking.

What Was Actually Sitting There

This is where it stopped being theoretical for me. I had to ask myself honestly: What have I been seeking first? Not what I’d say out loud in church. What my calendar says. What my mind drifts to the moment nothing else demands it. What I reach for when I'm anxious.

Jesus had already named the competition a few verses earlier, and I think it’s easy to read past this one too: “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20–21, NKJV).

Treasure isn't only money. It's whatever I've quietly organized my life around protecting. And most of us have treasure we've never actually said out loud. Treasures like comfort, approval, control, the appearance of having it together. Seeking the kingdom first was never about adding God to a list that already has a king on it. It's about letting Him remove whoever's currently sitting there, even when what's sitting there feels harmless.

A King Who Actually Did This

While I sat with this passage about seeking God first, I kept coming back to the Bible stories about King Solomon. God gave him about as open an offer as a person can receive ask for anything. He could have asked for wealth, long life or the defeat of his enemies. Instead, King Solomon said, “Give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9, NKJV).

He sought something aligned with what God had actually called him to, not just what would make his own life easier. And Scripture tells us exactly what happened next: God gave him the wisdom he asked for and the wealth and honor he never asked for. Remember: King Solomon didn’t seek riches and hope wisdom would tag along. He sought rightly, and the rest was added.

What Actually Gets Reordered

Here’s what I needed to hear myself: Seeking the kingdom first was never about abandoning the rest of life. Jesus says those things are added, not stripped away. But they need to come second. Paul puts it in slightly different words when he says this in Colossians 3:2 (NKJV), “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”

That’s not a call to disengage from work, family, or responsibility. It’s a call to hold all of it with an open hand instead of a closed fist to let God's kingdom be the thing everything else gets organized around, instead of squeezing Him into whatever space is left over after I’ve secured everything else first.

Where I Landed

I walked away from sitting with this passage less concerned with what I needed to add to my life, and much more aware of what needed to move. Seeking God's kingdom first was never about doing more for God. It’s about letting Him take the first place that something else—comfort, control, approval, even things that are good—has been quietly occupying. The Bible says in Psalm 37:4 (NKJV), “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

Reordering costs something in the moment. It always does. But it's the only way the rest of it ever actually falls into place. Think about what needs to be reordered in your life. Write it down. Don’t condemn yourself. Allow God’s Holy Spirit to show you what’s out of order. Ask Jesus, “Lord, what am I still holding on to that You are asking me to place on the altar?”

You don't have to have it all figured out before you come to Him. He’s not waiting for a perfect response, just an honest one. Whatever comes to mind as you sit with that question, don’t push it back down. Bring it right here, right now, and let this be the moment you lay it down. Let’s turn that honesty into prayer.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

I confess that I haven't always sought You first. I've let comfort, control, approval, and a dozen smaller things quietly take the place that belongs to You. Forgive me for the ways I've managed my own life instead of surrendering it for the times worry revealed exactly who, or what, I was really trusting.

I don’t want to just add You to what I’m already seeking. I want You to lead. Take the throne of my life back: my time, my decisions, my fears, the things I hold too tightly. Where I’ve built my own house while Yours sits unattended, forgive me, and give me the courage to trust You to reorder what I’ve let drift.

I trust that as I seek You first, You will take care of the rest, just as You’ve promised. Have Your way in me, Lord. Lead me, Lord, and I’ll follow.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “O Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Withholding Nothing Medley” by William McDowell. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Just Want You” by Travis Greene. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Nobody But Jesus” by Kelly Price (feat. Vanessa Bell Armstrong). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “First” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “First Things First" by Consumed by Fire. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Lead Me Lord” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Heidi Lewis-Ivey is an affirmed prophet and an internationally acclaimed speaker. 

She impacts audiences with her authenticity and bold style of delivery. She has had the opportunity to minister in Trinidad, St. Thomas USVI, Manchester and Liverpool (England).

Heidi is an award-winning and bestselling author. She is the author of Can I Rest Awhile? and Black Girl Cry: What Black Women Need to Know to Amplify Their Voices. She is a co-author in Soulful Prayers (Volume 1 and Volume 2) and Soulful Affirmations. Heidi is the convener of the Encountering the Courts of God movement and the founder of Visions International, a training ground for five-fold ministry gifts.

She holds a Master of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from Norwich University and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Boston University. Heidi is the CEO of Nael & Associates Inc and franchise owner of Patrice & Associates recruiting firm. She is a member of the Pentimenti Women Writers Group, a former mentor with Year Up, former board member for Friends of Young Achievers, and a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategist.

Heidi is the proud aunt/great aunt of 14 nieces and nephews and two bonus nieces. They are her joy. The older nephews have become her protectors.

Heidi is an NFL football fan. As a child, she taught herself the game. In 2017 she won her NFL.com fantasy football league. Heidi is an avid reader (Audible listener) of romance novels, a lover of purses and handbags, and a tea snob who believes bling is always appropriate.

She lives in Boston, MA.

~*~
Connect with Heidi:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamheidi01
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/heidi-lewis-ivey

Devotionals for the Heart: Are you ready to meet Jesus Christ?

Are You Ready?
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“And just as each person is destined to die once, and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.”—Hebrews 9:27-28 (NLT)

It is easy to believe we have time on our hands. When asked about doing something, we usually say, “Tomorrow,” or “I will think about it and let you know tomorrow.” But what if tomorrow never comes?

The Apostle Paul tells us in Hebrews 9:27-28 that Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He reminds us that each of us has an appointment with death, and that after death there will be a judgment. These words were not written only for us to read and not respond; they call for a decision. This decision is a life-and-death one, and the choice we make determines our eternal resting place. We are living in a time when so much is happening that it seems our soul destination is not uppermost in our thoughts.

I think of our Heavenly Father’s great love for us: He sent His only Son (Jesus) to die for us (John 3:16). Our response to that love is revealed in the choice we make. We can say yes today or postpone the decision until tomorrow. The question Jesus asks us is the same for everyone: “Will you choose Me today?”

Yet our answers differ. The recent tragic flooding in Nepal that claimed many lives was painful to witness and a powerful reminder of the anchor Scripture (above). What people fail to realize sometimes is that tomorrow isn’t promised. When asked if we choose Christ, it is important to not delay that decision because the Bible says tomorrow is not promised (James 4:13-14).

This question of “Are you ready to meet Jesus?” has been lingering in my thoughts for the past couple of weeks. Some of my closest friends have lost their loved ones within the last two months either tragically or without warning. Some had put off their decision to choose Jesus until tomorrow. Others made the decision to choose Christ today.

“You can’t speed up nor slow down death.” The Holy Spirit spoke these words to me in my mind as I mourned with my friends through their loss and mourned the loss of one of my best friends. I heard the next question in my heart: What did these deaths have in common? “They all passed suddenly,” I responded. Then God gently said and they all had time to decide. Because we can neither speed up or slow down death. We cannot know when we will die. Therefore, what we do with our lives matters and the choices we make in either saying yes or we want to wait until tomorrow to decide has eternal consequences now.

The Bible says in Hebrews 3:15 (NLT), “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.”

I don’t know where you are in your faith walk with Jesus Christ. Maybe you have said yes to Him or may still be on the fence, or you may be waiting for tomorrow. Wherever you are, I encourage you to take this decision very seriously.

None of us know when we will die. Therefore, the best response to the Holy Spirit’s tug on your heart should be to say yes today. It will be the best decision you will ever make in your life, as not only will all your sins be forgiven, but you also have the assurance of eternal life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Nothing else is more important than this life-changing decision because it determines where we will spend eternity.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for sending your only Son who was sinless, to die on Calvary’s cross to pay the price for our sins. Lord, I pray for every person reading this devotional today. Remind them of your love, and that your plan for us to spend an eternity with you. Wherever they are in their journey with you—whether on the fence or waiting on the “right” time—I ask that You will impress on them the urgency of deciding to follow Christ. Lord, have your way in their lives and let your plans and purpose for them be accomplished. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Tomorrow” by The Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Can You Reach My Friend” by Helen Baylor. Listen to it here.

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

~*~
Author Bio:

Colette Christopher is an empowered woman who inspires women to be who they were created to be. Her core message is empowerment. She is an author, certified life coach, podcast host, and trainer with the Maxwell Leadership team. 

Colette believes that an empowered woman empowers others and is powerful in knowing who she is and what she can accomplish. Colette is on a mission to impact the lives of the women assigned to her, whether she is their coach or trainer or shares a word that will transform their lives.

Colette utilizes her Christian principles as the base of all her engagements. She is passionate about fulfilling her life purpose of empowering women to know who they are, rebuild their confidence, and use their voices as tools to uplift themselves and others.

​​She is the founder of the M.E.E. Movement L.L.C., a faith-based empowerment ministry business that helps women of faith rebuild their confidence and use their voice to walk in their purpose through life coaching, mentoring, and empowerment speaking. Colette believes in using the gifts God has given her to help women be who God has called them to be and ultimately fulfill the purpose for which they were created. She lives by Romans 8:28 (NIV), that promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

A native of Jamaica, Colette resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is the mother of two beautiful young women, a son-in-love, and two grandsons. Colette enjoys reading, writing, watching good movies, and chatting with her daughters and friends.

~*~
Connect with Colette:
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2367935
Email: Colettemarieonline@gmail.com

"Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer" (book) by Dr. Lauri Hogle

The Story Behind Dr. Lauri Hogle’s book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days:

Several years ago, after a second brain surgery that brought only partial relief, I lay in bed wrestling with unrelenting chronic pain.

Kind friends, wanting the best for me, would say they were praying for God’s favor and blessing so that the suffering would finally stop. Their words were full of love, yet each time I heard them I felt an anguished cry rise within me: But I already have His favor and blessing!

In the quiet of my tears, God reached into my hurting heart. He flooded me with the rich truths of Scripture and the voices of faithful hymn writers who had walked through their own valleys. Songs like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Blessed Assurance” became lifelines. Ephesians 1:3 exploded into living reality: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” I began to see that the greatest blessings are not the absence of pain but the presence of Christ Himself—pardon, peace, adoption, eternal life, the indwelling Spirit, and a guaranteed future glory.

These truths did not remove my affliction, but they reframed it. They gave me language to pray when words failed and songs to sing when sorrow threatened to drown out hope. That experience birthed this book, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer. I wrote it because I desperately needed these truths myself, and I know many others do too.

Too often, Christian teaching on suffering focuses primarily on asking God to take it away. While there is nothing wrong with crying out for relief, Scripture invites us into something deeper. Even in the darkest nights, we are called to remember what God has already given us in His Son (Jesus Christ). The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, could still praise God who “has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing.” If that was true for Paul in chains, it is true for us in chronic illness, grief, disability, or any form of ongoing tribulation.

This book is not a theological treatise or a step-by-step guide to “victorious living.” It is a lament prayer book. Each chapter draws from God’s Word and pairs it with hymns and prayers that help us speak Biblical truth to our souls when pain, fear, or doubt scream the loudest. Each chapter is filled with the honest tension many of us feel—prayers for earthly comfort colliding with the deeper reality of spiritual riches we already possess.

I wrote this book for fellow sufferers who know Jesus as Savior and Lord. Whether your pain is physical like mine, emotional, relational, or the heavy burden of watching a loved one endure hardship, these pages are for you. I also wrote it for those nearing the end of earthly life who wonder if greater tribulation awaits.

My prayer is that this book will function as a healing balm and a gospel trumpet for weary souls. I hope readers will discover, as I did, the power of praying Scripture back to God—thanking Him for His past faithfulness, His present mercies, and His future promises. I want sufferers to be able to sing with fresh confidence: “Blessings all mine and ten thousand beside!”

I hope the book helps shift our gaze from what we lack to what we possess in Christ. When chronic pain flares, when grief feels crushing, when the future seems frightening, may these prayers and songs anchor us in the unshakeable reality of our union with Jesus.

One of the old hymns included in the book says it beautifully: “Ten thousand blessings it contains/Divinely rich and free/or helpless, wretched, ruined man/Though vile and base as we.”

That is the heart of the gospel. It is not a message for the strong or the comfortable only. It is especially sweet for the weak, the afflicted, and the needy. I pray this book helps readers feel welcomed at the throne of grace, not as those who must first “prove” their worthiness or “fix” their circumstances, but as those already purchased by the blood of the Lamb.

Writing this book has been an act of worship born out of my ongoing chronic pain. It has forced me to preach the gospel to my own soul day after day. Some mornings I can barely whisper the prayers; other days I sing them through tears. But every time I return to these truths, my heart finds rest. My hope is that your heart will too.

If you are suffering today, know that you are not alone. Bring your tears and fears to the Lord. Let His Word wash over you as you pray. May you leave these pages more deeply convinced that you are blessed in Christ—truly, eternally, and presently—whatever your circumstances may be. And may we together “bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits” (Psalm 103:2).

That is why I wrote Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer: Scripture Prayers for the Hardest Days. Not to offer false hope of earthly ease, but to point us to the living Hope who holds us fast. May He use these prayers to comfort, strengthen, and sustain you as you walk through the valley, until we see Him face to face.

In Christ’s love,

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD

~*~
Author Bio:

Lauri A. Hogle, PhD, music therapist, music educator, and church musician, heads Singing Christ's Hope, a nonprofit ministry found at singchristhope.org. 

Her words and musical offerings have touched lives across the globe. 

Lauri's Bible study prayer books, including "Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer," "Near to God," "Praying God's Promises Into Suffering," "Singing the Gospel to Job," and a children's book, "In the Valleys of God's Love," are complemented by weekly playlist gifts for suffering Christian women.

Her lifelong passion is to glorify God through music, teaching, research, and writing. By God's gracious blessing, in many years of serious illness, her great joy is as wife, mother, and Nana.

~*~
Back cover copy for Lauri’s book: 

Amid chronic suffering, tribulation, or our life's final days, where does a Christian find hope? This poignant and powerful book invites you to discover the unshakable blessings already yours in Christ, within your deepest suffering and pain.

Written during Lauri’s journey of severe, chronic physical affliction, this book weaves together short lament prayers, Biblically grounded hymns, and Scriptures about God’s unending favor toward His beloved in Christ. This 90-day devotional is a tender companion for anyone facing trials, offering a pathway to sing and pray of God’s past, present, and future blessings to those united with Jesus.

Whether you’re enduring chronic suffering, fearing future tribulation, or seeking peace in life’s final moments, Praying God's Blessings in Christ as We Suffer is a healing balm for your soul. Let it lead you to cry, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2 ESV), as you rest in our faithful Lord’s continual blessings in Christ.

~*~
Connect with Dr. Lauri:

Website: singchristhope.org

Substack: https://lauriahogle.substack.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@singingchristshope?si=cYHRjf5fA1Y9_gyE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SingChristHope

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