Devotionals for the Heart: The Wait

In the Waiting Room
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.”

–Romans 8:25 (KJV)

What type of person are you while you are in the waiting room?

I have been a receptionist at a doctor’s office for four years now and I have seen a wide range of people come through the waiting room. Some people keep to themselves and read a book or are on their phones. Some people chat with the other people in the waiting room, often finding an old friend and having a reunion, making the receptionist almost feel bad about interrupting when she calls one of the friends back. And some people mumble about the waiting time and wish the doctor would hurry up.

The waiting room can be an unexpected test of patience. Where I work, the doctor occasionally runs behind seeing the patients on time, which means patients can be sitting in the waiting room for nearly an hour or more. Some people know that it is worth the wait and that they will feel better once they are seen by the doctor. But others give up and leave before it is their time.

I feel as though I am often in a waiting room in my life. Waiting for this trial to pass. Waiting for God to answer my prayer. Waiting for things to get better. And the thing about waiting in this life is that all of life is a waiting room. We will never truly arrive until we have made it to Heaven. So, how are we to patiently endure the endless seasons we spend in the waiting room?

I pray you will trust me when I say you can’t simply wish away a waiting season in your life. God has something for you to do in this season. Whenever hard seasons of waiting come into my life, I find myself begging God to just get it over with. But instead, I should be asking God what He would have me do while I wait. Maybe there is someone here in this season that simply needs someone to listen. Maybe there is someone who needs encouragement. Maybe God simply wants to build my patience.

God planned this special waiting room season in your life. Please do not grumble about how long it is taking. It is worth the wait if you are simply patient and trust that God is never late. He is always on time in His perfect time. Trust Him with your time and ask Him what He has for you in this waiting season.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for giving us seasons of waiting. Please help us to wait on You and be patient in Your timing. Grant us the courage to never walk out on Your perfect will for our lives. This world is our waiting room and we desire only to glorify you until our waiting seasons are passed. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “We Wait” by Juanita Bynum. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

Tessa enjoys being active in her local church. She serves as a co-teacher for the two-to-five year old class where there is never a dull moment.

It is Tessa’s passion to be a girl after God’s own heart and through her studying of God’s Word, Tessa longs to draw closer to her Savior. Through her writing, she longs to take others with her on this journey of faith.

Tessa loves all things Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size.

When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, she can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

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Connect with Tessa:
Blog: https://beautifulbeloved937002841.wordpress.com/

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when peace is missing in action

Chasing Peace
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.”—Isaiah 30:15 (NIV)

It’s official. The polls are in. People are stressed out. Mind you, it is my own man-on-the-street poll, but it is valid, nonetheless. All one has to do is watch, listen and read the cues.

People are in full swing with the new school year. Children are signed up for every activity, parents are rushing to and fro with children in tow, eating, grabbing and snatching dinner, catching conversations, ending up exhausted at home later than expected and trying to do homework when everyone is tired.

Those same parents may both be working, juggling complicated clients, schedules, and parents of their own. Friends are there, sort of. Church is there, but only if it fits in and joy is elusive. Peace? Missing in Action.

It’s no one’s fault. It’s everyone’s fault. It is life and it is at a breakneck speed.

In quietness and trust is your strength. These words are like a blanket for our souls, hearts, and minds. And they are spoken from the Sovereign Lord Himself. He does not mince words, nor waste them. He speaks clearly, on time and for our good (Romans 8:28).

What does quiet look and sound like? A day in the woods with only wind blowing, birds chirping and rivers flowing? Could be. Or the roar of an ocean? Or the cooing of a newborn baby?

Quiet could be the settled place in your heart in which surrender has just happened. Many times we struggle against God and the very thing He wants and has for us. But we resist, fight, ignore or walk away. Peace is chased, but never found. God wants us to chase Him, and the result of the chase is meeting and receiving Jesus Christ who is our Prince of Peace.

Can peace be had solely by chasing, or does it wash over us in a gentle embrace? There is something to be said about stillness and God has much to say about this.

“Be still and know that I am God.”—Psalm 46:10

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”—Exodus 14:14

“And after you have done everything, stand.”—Ephesians 6:13

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him.”—Psalm 37:7

These are just a sampling found in Scripture. Chasing the word “still” in Scripture is a good practice and gets our minds settled on how important God sees stillness, quiet, trust and patience.

Oh, that word patience. Not many embrace it. Not many talk in a positive light as it seems to be the crushing enemy of a vibrant walk with Jesus. But God does not deem it so. We have one enemy, and his name is not patience. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit and is the evidence of a walk lived filled with the Spirit.

Missing patience and peace? These are not something we conjure up but are given to the believer as a demonstration of the Spirit working in our lives—and fruit for all to see. Peace comes in the complete trust and abandon to God. Patience comes with finally letting go and letting God. It is being still before Him in assurance of this truth: God is for us.

Instead of chasing, let us rest. Instead of fretting, let us trust. Instead of busyness, let us put God first and all these things will be added to us (Matthew 6:33).

What things will be added to us? As our Heavenly Father, God will provide everything we need in His perfect time. Matthew wrote down Christ’s words for us. The words are part of His Sermon on the Mount. These words set the world on fire then and they still have that same affect today.

Let us rest in Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Let us hide ourselves in Him and rest between His shoulders (Deuteronomy 33:12).

Let’s Pray: Father God, You alone are holy, good, and my Peace. Please forgive me for chasing the things of this world instead of stopping and being still, resting in You. I long for more of You and I see how by not stopping, I am actually pushing You away. I do repent and ask You to give me more of Jesus, my Prince of Peace. I am here, between Your shoulders and I am secure in Your love. And Peace. Hope. Rest. Salvation. In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “First Things First” by Consumed By Fire. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to three adult children and one brand new daughter-in-love, Kerry Sue’s life is very full. She met her husband in college and served in the mission field with him for a few years before settling down back in the United States of America to raise their family.

Kerry Sue’s family was a homeschooling family for 20 years and they enjoyed it immensely. For the last 23 years they have lived on a small farm in Northern California where they have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving their food. Kerry Sue’s family farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings. She maintains an open-door policy for dear friends—old and new.

Following and serving Jesus Christ is an integral part of Kerry Sue’s life as well as her family’s.

Whether it’s singing in our church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, Kerry Sue loves to demonstrate her love for Jesus by giving to Him in service. She’s been a blogger for more than eight years, a Bible study writer for two years, and a devotional writer for about one year.

Kerry Sue writes about finding God’s Sovereignty in our pain and suffering.

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Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/

Devotionals for the Heart: God's promise to always be with you

A Promise of God’s Presence
A devotional by Essie Faye Taylor

“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

 –Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

I was in awe and utter disbelief as I stood before a small group of teens. I was teaching a lesson about integrity and hope. I’d asked if anyone in the group knew the story of Adam and Eve. One teen vaguely knew the details of the creation story. That fact struck a chord within me. To think that these teens experienced the absence of the presence of God’s Word in their lives was devastating. I could not imagine a life absent of God’s presence. I never want to imagine that.

My faith journey began as early as I could remember. I was practically born on a pew, surrounded by and steeped in faith. As a child, I knew God was present. His Word was present as I memorized Bible verses and by faith, believed them. The presence of God’s Word in my life has brought me great comfort and security. God’s presence in my life has always assured me of His provision. As the ninth child of fifteen, I saw God’s hand provide for our family daily. Because of my faith in God’s promise of His presence I knew that He would provide all of my needs. Philippians 4:19 (NIV) declares,“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” His provision for me is certain because of His presence.

God’s presence brings me peace amid life’s storms and despite my personal fears. His presence gives me hope that everything will be okay because God is in control of my world and I can trust Him with my life. I want all of my students to embrace the promise of God’s presence because in His presence we experience joy, hope, love, peace, and pleasures forever. I am a witness. I want teens to experience joy and hope in a world where depression runs rampant, destroying lives and families. I want them to experience true love and peace amid a world filled with those practicing hatred and environments full of chaos. I want them to know the pleasure of growing to know an incredible God who loves them unconditionally, just as they are.

God’s presence invokes His Deity. God is sovereign. He is the Creator of the Universe. He called this Earth into existence from nothing. He always has been and He always will be. He is omnipotent and omniscient. He is in a category alone. He is preeminent. There is no one comparable to God and there are no other living gods except Him.

God’s presence invokes His character. He is holy, sinless and without error. He is integral, faithful, and true. He makes no mistakes and He watches over His Word to perform it. He is morally pure and righteous. He is love and His mercy are everlasting. His truth endures to all generations.

God’s presence invokes His provision. The Earth belongs to Him, along with everything and everyone in it because He is the Creator. The cattle on a thousand hills are His. He named the stars and flung them into space. Heaven holds His throne and the Earth is His footstool.

God’s presence invokes His covenant. His promises are sure. He keeps His covenant throughout all generations. He watches over His Word to perform it. God’s Word shall last forever.

In Deuteronomy 31:8 (written by Moses) and Hebrews 13:5 (written by Paul), they testify that God will never leave or forsake His people. This is a promise that God will invoke His deity, His character, His covenant, and His provision in order to demonstrate His love and commitment to a people who were finicky at best. God’s children of Israel repeated the toxic cycle of faith and doubt throughout their course of history. Yet, God promised them His presence. They were given access to the all-powerful God who even called them His “child”.

In Matthew 28, Jesus Christ declares the same promise to His disciples just before He leaves them physically. God incarnate affirms His commitment to His followers, even in His physical absence. He is with us, by faith, always–even to the end of the age. We can rest in His presence and all that comes with that. God’s presence signifies that He will indeed take care of us. Of this we can be sure.

Call to Action:

Action #1: Believe that God is present with you, even in the face of adversity. 

Action #2: Embrace all the benefits of God’s presence in your life and be grateful. 

Action #3: Acknowledge God’s presence in your life by doing the things that honor Him and getting rid of those things that displease Him. 

Action #4: Remember, David the psalmist begged God not to take His presence from Him because that meant that His life would be void of goodness. Enjoy God’s presence and never take it for granted.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for being present in my life. Your presence brings love, peace, joy, goodness, and mercy. Your presence brings Your essence, Your character, Your power, and Your provision. Thank You for assuring me that you are with me always. You’ll never leave me nor forsake me. I’m not worthy of such a gift, yet you extend it to me. I thank You. Help me to remain grateful for your love and mindfulness toward me. Thank you Father for hearing and answering me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Your Presence Is A Promise” by Mack Brock. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Essie Taylor is an author, educator, minister, youth advocate, recording artist, podcaster, and improviser. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rockford College.

She is a veteran educator of Bilingual Education, English as a Second Language, and Spanish Language Acquisition with National Board Teacher Certification. She is an advocate of lifelong learning, language learning, and multiculturalism.

Essie is the CEO of KenMar Press, an author agency, and The Essie Faye Collection. Essie is the author of Finding the Love You Deserve: 30 Lessons in Self-Love & Acceptance, and Finding The Love Your Deserve: A 60-Day Healing Journal For Women of Faith.

She is deeply committed to motivating minorities, women, and youth to pursue God while chasing their dreams and carving out their life’s path. She loves God, people, and helping others.

Essie has been a Christian for nearly all of her 39 years. She was born again at 15 years old. She has been a bilingual worship leader and interpreter for 10+ years. By the grace of God, Essie helped to establish bilingual ministries at five churches in her young life. She is a survivor of domestic violence (verbal and emotional abuse) and marital abandonment in a prior marriage.

Essie is a Chicago native. She lives in Chicago with her husband Donald Taylor II.

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Connect with Essie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/
Website: www.essiefayetaylor.com

Devotionals for the Heart: When God is protecting you in the waiting room

When God Places You in Protective Custody
A devotional by Sarah Cole

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”—Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)

At times, we all have felt the pain of seeing everyone else enjoy what is achingly out of our reach, and we wonder if God has forgotten us.

I'm a dog sitter. When I watch Frank—a ravenous dachshund—he runs into the kitchen to devour my dog Zoe's food, his nails clicking on the hardwood flooring. I wouldn't be a good pet parent if I didn't protect Zoe, so she stays behind a gate in the kitchen. Out of ignorance, she misinterprets my good intentions as withholding the freedom Frank enjoys.

As a single person, I share Zoe's frustration. Living in a couple's world often makes me feel like an outsider. Sometimes, being in God's waiting room can be lonely. However, I remind myself that I have fewer distractions keeping me from a deeper walk with God.

In today's key verse, the psalmist reminds us that in our time of need, the best place to dwell is not in a state of discouragement or complaint but in God's protective custody, where He assures us of His watchful care and provision.

Trusting God when we don't know when He will move on our behalf requires courage and faith that He is good and faithful to meet our needs regardless of His timing. And if we're honest, His timing can feel cruel and inconvenient. But there’s a lesson to learn when we consider some of the heroes of the faith in the Bible—Jacob, David, Hannah, Sarah, and Abraham—who all waited on God. We learn that no matter what happened, they leaned on their faith in God’s character and sovereignty. Did they do it perfectly? No, and neither will we.

Sometimes, God will cause a delay not to deprive us but to protect us from what's merely enough so that we experience His best. His waiting room doesn't have to be a prison sentence but a time when our trust muscles grow and our faith matures.

As flawed human beings, we tend to think we know what's best for us, but only God, in His omniscience and perfect love, knows the best time to answer our prayers. He knows the downside of giving in to our demands and He knows the benefit of making us wait.

We can rest when we realize that even when there's no evidence God will fulfill our desire, He is already working behind the scenes, preparing us for our breakthrough. In Isaiah 64:4 (NIV), the Bible says, “Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.” My prayer for you today, friend, is to find hope in the truth that God hasn't forgotten you. Instead, He's anxious to see you smile when His answer arrives and exceeds your expectations.

Let’s Pray: Dear Father God, as I recall how You've protected and provided for me, Your beautiful love causes my heart to worship. Being in Your waiting room tests my faith, but I trust You will provide out of Your unlimited resources at the perfect time. In Jesus's Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Wait on the Lord” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

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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 Gigi (her Cocker Spaniel) was published in Guideposts (magazine) Mysterious Ways. She believes her adversity was worth the lessons God taught her.

Since 2022, Sarah’s devotionals have been 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.

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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: Reasons why we should not overthink things

The Danger of Overthinking
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

—2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

The other day I caught myself thinking about a particular topic for an extended period of time. 

Not only did I think about it for a few moments, but I also hung on to that thought, and then that thought led me to think about other thoughts that were unrelated to my original thought. By the time I snapped out of it, I realized how unproductive it was to sit there thinking about the same thing and not even come to a conclusion.

I often wonder how many others suffer from overthinking—dwelling on a thought repeatedly and then allowing that thought to needlessly consume your time.

There are numerous reasons why people tend to overthink. People are genuinely afraid of making the wrong decision. Once they start overthinking, they are intimidated by all of the possibilities to consider. Instead of making a decision, they would prefer not to have that responsibility, so they just let someone else deal with it.

Another reason for overthinking is fear of failure. If it’s a business venture, opportunity, or a fork in the road, people will overthink it to the point of talking themselves out of it. In the end, they never pursue their dream.

Overthinking can be self-destructive. The root cause can be traced back to insecurity, low self-esteem, stress and worry. If overthinking gets out of control, it can become a hindrance to your life, your relationships with people, and even your relationship with God.

The good news is that God gives us a solution to overthinking in His Word (The Holy Bible). He wants us to surrender all of our worries to Him and allow Him to solve our problems. He cares about everything that concerns us and He has mercy on us when we are wrestling with our relentless thoughts. He doesn’t want us to be anxious about anything. Instead, He wants us to experience peace that surpasses all human understanding. We never have to fear when we allow God to take control.

The next time you start to overthink, turn your thoughts over to God, and watch Him make a difference in your life.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, Grant us peace and calm our troubled minds. Send Your Holy Spirit to abide with us, so that we may think on things that are of You. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Anxious Heart” by Jeremy Camp. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Angela Anderson was born in Brooklyn (New York) and raised in New Jersey.

 

She started writing at an early age and realized in elementary school that it was both a strength and a passion. She continued writing through high school, college, and into adulthood.

Angela is the author of a devotional book titled Just When I Thought I Knew God, and she is currently working on another devotional book that will be introduced in 2023.

This is Angela's third year as a devotional writer for Alexis A. Goring’s “God is Love” blog. In 2021, Angela was a winner of a devotional writing contest where the entry is featured in a book published by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The book is titled, Hope When Your Heart is Heavy. The following year, another one of Angela’s devotionals was published in another publication from Proverbs 31 Ministries, called Living Unbroken.

Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing and speaking.

Angela is a Mom Life Coach. She empowers mothers who want to identify their God-given purpose and live it fully while taking care of their family. Angela develops mothers into mompreneurs by providing them with the necessary tools to be successful and fulfilled in life. These tools equip them to see their value, understand their importance, and reclaim their identity.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson for 18 years. Together they have two sons: Thomas (age 10) and Ryan (age 5). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling.

She treasures spending quality time with her family.

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Connect with Angela:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelanderson1104/
Facebook (personal): https://m.facebook.com/angela.thomasanderson
Facebook (Author page): https://www.facebook.com/jwitikg/
Angela offers free consultations for mothers who want to pursue their dream while taking care of their family. Schedule here: www.ChatWithCoachAngela.com

"Divine Influencer" movie review

My Review of Divine Influencer movie

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now for my review:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Themes of this movie included: 

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

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

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

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

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

Bible verses illustrated by this movie: 

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

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

Recommended Reading related to the messages in this movie:

OUR FAVORITE & MOST IMPACTFUL QUOTES FROM 'DIVINE INFLUENCER'

15 POWERFUL BIBLE VERSES ABOUT THANKFULNESS AND GRATITUDE

HELPING OTHERS: 13 BIBLE SCRIPTURES ON GIVING

INSPIRE GIVING AND SERVING OTHERS WITH THESE PURE FLIX MOVIES

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Knowing and embracing your true identity

Our Identity is in Jesus Christ
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. –2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

Dear friend, your worth is not determined by what you do. Does that come as a surprise to you?

As someone whose personality is rooted in uniqueness and identity, I can tell you that I struggle with this frequently. It can go two ways: I am either proud of “who” I am based on what I do (as an actress, writer, daughter) or sickened by it (I’m a sinner who has made mistakes, which can lead me to believe that I am a mistake).

Do you see the problems with that way of thinking? For example: If my identity is tied to my job, then if someone critiques my performance at work or my choice of a career, then I might begin to think they are critiquing me. I may think if they don’t approve of my career choice then that means they don’t approve of me.

At least for now, I believe that God has put me on an unconventional career path. It doesn’t make sense to a lot of people, and sometimes, I can question it myself. But even when I wonder if this really is God’s will for my life, He provides in the most unexpected ways, reminding me that He cares for me.

The other day, God impressed on my heart this message of our identity being separate from what we do. While I am sharing it with you now, this was a message that I needed to hear first.

I thank God for this message because I often need the reminder that my identity is separate from my career, my ministry, my hobbies or even the wrong things I’ve done.

Dear friend, the same goes for you. What do you take pride in? Awards? Accomplishments? Titles? God has given them to you as a gift! But they don’t define you.

What happens if you lose your job, if the title is given to someone else or when your children have left the nest? Who would you be if all that was stripped away?

If you are a child of God, then that is your identity. Doesn’t that make you feel so much better and lighter knowing you don’t have to carry the burden of “who” you are anymore? Take a moment and let this truth sink in: You aren’t responsible for your true identity and it isn’t tied to your performance or the titles you may or may not have.

Rest in the knowledge that He who made you calls you the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8), His beloved (1 John 3:1), His chosen one (Ephesians 1:4).

No other sense of identity will truly satisfy. One day, titles will be stripped away, awards will tarnish, accolades will fade. But you can rest in knowing that God’s love for you will never be stripped away, it won’t tarnish, and it certainly won’t fade.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Father God, thank You that I don’t have to be enough on my own. Because of You, I am enough. You love me, despite all my failures, and You love me whether or not I have a title. Please help me to rest in that knowledge and to surrender to You my “identity”. Please help me to know in my heart that what I do does not define who I am. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Who I Am” by Ben Fuller. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Hannah Benson is a Jesus-follower who’s passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others. 

From the time she could hold a pen, she was writing. But it wasn’t until she was sixteen that she began to seriously follow God’s calling to write a novel. Hannah is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has at least four novels in the works. For the past five years, she has been involved with her local Biblical theater company. She wants to show others the love of Jesus through the creative arts.

When she’s not acting or working on her upcoming novel, you can find Hannah laughing with her siblings, cuddling her little fluffy dog, or reading books (usually historical fiction or fantasy stories). You can read more of Hannah’s writings on her blog or on her Instagram where she strives to write content that leaves others feeling encouraged.

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Connect with Hannah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahlbensonwrites/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hannah-Lynn-Writer/100073790792576/
Blog: www.loveunconditional.blog

Devotionals for the Heart: When Jesus Christ Fought to Save Your Life

Gethsemane: The Price Jesus Christ Paid to Save Your Life
A devotional by Cherie Mendez

He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” –Matthew 26:38-39 (NLT)

The Garden of Gethsemane is one of the most moving scenes in all the Gospels (these books in the Bible: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John).

I have studied this passage many times, but when I read it this morning, one thing really stood out to me: the simple fact is that Jesus Christ had a choice. His choice was to either carry through the plan of salvation to save our souls and reconcile us with our Creator (God) or give up on humankind. If He chose to give up on us then that would result in our eternal death (Romans 6:23).

I can only imagine the temptation to turn from the horror of dying on the cross and let the world perish instead of Himself. The mental and spiritual suffering Jesus endured as He asked three times if His Father (God) would “take this cup” from Him. Even though His spirit was strong, His body trembled at what was to come. This showed His humanity.

Though Jesus was fully God, He was also fully human. Jesus was still committed to His purpose to be the Savior of the world it was in that moment He faced the cup of God’s wrath against our sin. The intense suffering He faced caused Him to turn to His Father for help just as we might pray when confronted with overwhelming emotional or physical pain.

I’ll never forget when I first moved away from home to start modeling in Europe. All the friends I thought I had were not really friends. I eventually found myself feeling very empty and lonely. One night I was sitting in my room staring at the wall, devastated over the fact that I did not have one friend I could call. Although I was raised in a Christian home, I turned my back on God as a teenager. So I didn’t think to turn to Jesus.

However, it was in that moment of deep pain and loneliness that the Lord met me right where I was at. All the pain I was carrying inside was healed in an instant by one simple prayer. I didn’t say much, I just asked God to heal my broken heart and for the first time in a long time I felt His immeasurable love and peace wash over me.

It says in John 15:13 (NLT),“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” I am so thankful that today we still see and experience the choice Jesus made on that lonely night in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Here are three reasons Jesus chose to die for us:

Reason #1: To reconcile us to God. Romans 5:10 (NIV) says, “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!”

Reason #2: To pay the penalty for our sins. Romans 6:23 (NLT) says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Reason #3: To give us eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV) says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Jesus died for us as our most faithful Friend. We can trust Him in our suffering because He has been there and can relate to us. Hebrews 4:15 (NIV) says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.”

So, today I encourage you: If you have been carrying physical or emotional pain, if you have been suffering in silence, please know that you have a friend in Jesus. Read what He says in Revelation 3:20 (NIV) which says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”

Jesus walked a lonely road, forsaken by all so that we might never be alone. He has been longing for our friendship since the beginning, in the Garden of Eden. He longs for us to stay near to Him and to abide in Him. Always remember: If we come near to God, He will always come near to us (James 4:8).

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for your love and mercy. Thank You for sending your precious Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins and to make a way for us to have eternal life. There is nothing we can do to earn our salvation. Only Jesus led a sinless life. Only He could pay our debts. Thank You, Jesus, for loving us enough to lay down Your life for us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “All For Love (Gethsemane)” by Worship Central ft. Luke & Anna Hellebronth. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Cherie Mendez is a New York-based actress.

Her passion is to help women understand their true worth and walk in their God-given purpose. After many years working as a Christian in the entertainment industry, she is thankful to be able to share all her learning experiences in her blog posts and on Instagram.

Some of the topics Cherie loves to write about are:

· Coping with rejection

· Finding your purpose and using your talent for God’s glory

· How God always looks at the heart and the meaning of inner beauty

· Understanding that we are all a work in progress and God is not done with us yet

Cherie’s TV credits include The Equalizer, Bull, and Blue Bloods (CBS). She also appeared in the Pure Flix film Revelation Road 3: The Black Rider.

Cherie and her husband Jimmy live in New York City. They are thankful to have been married for 30 years. In their free time, they enjoy traveling, photography, and movie night.

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Connect with Cherie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheriemendez/

Devotionals for the Heart: Our need to stop striving and start trusting God

Stop Striving
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“Stop striving and know that I am God.”

—Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

There are times in our life when God calls us to work toward something. There are also times in our life when we realize we have done all we can, and God calls us to rest so that He can work.

When the Israelite army marched around the walls of Jericho, they did so obediently, but there was nothing in their marching that caused the walls to fall down. That work was God’s and God’s alone. Even their shouting could not have been a sound loud enough to cause the stone masonry to crumble to bits.

Sometimes, God wants it to be clear that He is the one who has done this. He wants us to stand back and say, “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23 ESV).

This is when we look to Him. This is when we rest from our work. We’ve done all we can, to no avail. This is when, hopefully, we realize that it feels good to rest.

My mother used to love to quote the NASB’s rendering of Psalm 46:10: “Stop striving and know that I am God.”

Why should we stop striving? Because striving is stressful. It causes frustration when we don’t see the change we long for, and causes others to become frustrated with us. Yes, take steps of faith, but a continued, sensitive walk with God will alert us when it is time to cease from our labors and rest.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul asks this question in Galatians 3:3 (NIV): “After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?”

Paul is saying the standard was set in the outset. If God initiates something, He wants to be the power behind it from beginning to end.

Have you been striving and wondering why nothing has come of your efforts? Perhaps is it time to rest. That may not mean idleness. It may mean letting the issue rest while you attend to the other things He has given you to do. There is always much to be done in His kingdom. Or maybe, it is truly a time of stillness. A time of preparation and drawing near. Setting the foundation in your spirit for what lies ahead.

Tune out the loud, clamoring voices of this world and tune into God. Learn to hear His voice.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, I ask you to show me if I have been striving, and if you are calling me to rest. I ask You to be the power behind the work You’ve begun, knowing that You will be faithful to complete it. Most of all, let me hear Your voice and prepare me for the next steps. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

The only child of a single parent, Aubrey Taylor filled her younger years by creating characters and writing stories. This ended around age sixteen when music, friends and part-time jobs began to fill her time. After that came college, work, marriage, and children.

It wasn’t until the world was beginning to come out of the COVID pandemic that God led her back to her love for writing, coupled with a passion she’d always had for history. It was time to start a new adventure! Her current long-term project is Gott Mit Uns, a German-perspective 20th century historical fiction series.

Aubrey lives in Upstate New York with her husband and three children. She’s busy keeping the home, caring for her family, doing research for and writing her books.

Aubrey enjoys music and is involved with the worship ministry at her church as well as a German choral group. She also plays gigs occasionally with friends as a singer and acoustic guitarist. After all that, she finds time to sketch, craft, and hike.

She is a lover of Jesus Christ, The Holy Bible, history, German culture, tea, and cats.

Aubrey has a special heart for those who struggle with severe anxiety, depression and PTSD.

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Connect with Aubrey:
Website: https://www.aubreytaylorbooks.com
Blog: https://www.aubreytaylorbooks.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aubreytaylorbooks/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/aubtaybooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aubreytaylorbooks/

Devotionals for the Heart: The most important law to live by in this world

Loving Others As You Love Yourself
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. ... Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” –Mark 12:30-31 (NIV)

If you had the opportunity to ask a judge which law is the most important one to uphold, how do you think they’d respond? Don’t murder? Don’t steal? 

Due to all the crazy antics they are required to adjudicate, I suspect any seasoned justice of the peace would give an answer that is broader than the specifics of any single law. They might just give the same answer Jesus Christ did: Love.

It doesn’t take watching more than watching a couple episodes of the TV show “Judge Judy” to understand people can be very self-serving and believe that loving others is contradictory to loving themselves. But this is deceived thinking. Have they never experienced the joy of seeing a family member smile when they gave a gift? Have they forgotten the healing that comes from the mutual squeeze of a hug?

What we often misunderstand when it comes to love is when we give it, we receive it. Unlike money, which only stays with the one who holds it, love is a commodity that grows exponentially when planted within another person.

Have you ever tried the smile game? Go out into public and collect smiles by offering smiles. See who responds to this little show of love. You’ll notice time and again that people soften when they receive social niceties. You get a smile when you give a smile. Just playing the game will improve your day!

Loving others is not mutually exclusive to loving yourself but is meant to happen simultaneously. Each time the command is given in the old or new testaments of The Holy Bible it is stated we are to love your neighbor as yourself. This two-letter word “as” is a conjunction in the English language, meaning one event is happening while the other is also in progress.

This is not to say that every person you show kindness to is going to behave similarly. Not all people will smile back. But when you give, you know within yourself that you are doing a good thing. You know the behavior pleases God. And that connection to our Creator is far more important than looking to please people. Loving God comes first.

To please God, whom we are to love first, we’ve been asked to love people. This is a command that heals us as we put it into practice. Love is mutually beneficial because by doing what God asks of us is to love Him. It’s like when your parent asks you to be kind to your sibling. That show of love creates a peace within the home that rewards everyone.

God is described in 1 John 4:16 as being love. So, if God wants us be loving, it is going to be good for us. Love is simply the fuel that His kingdom runs on. We need to quit thinking that giving is losing. Instead, we need to believe that love is prolific and abundant, multiplying itself when put into action! We are filled with love as...or while...or at the same time as...or in conjunction with loving others.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, we bow to Your will in love. We ask for open eyes that we might see how living out love is producing more love, that we might be more motivated to fall in line with Your ways. In asking for Your kingdom come, we humbly note our blockade of fear in the way. Remove our fear of insufficiency and renew our hope in the abundance of Your love. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Love God Love People” by Danny Gokey. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, divide their time between Oregon and Hawaii. They have two grown children.

Currently, Sharon is encouraging others via her inspirational blog, but prefers sharing face to face. Additionally, she is studying Christian fiction writing.

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Connect with Sharon:
Website: Sharonmusgrove.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sharon-Musgrove-Untethered-102208978041060
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonmusgrove_untethered/

My Review of CSB's Life Counsel Bible and a special giveaway for you

Momentum Influencers Network sent a copy of the CSB Life Counsel Bible to me and asked me to write a review of it. Before I share my review, read these words below from the professionals of Momentum:

Whatever you’re facing, the Bible has something to say. The CSB Life Counsel Bible contains articles from leading biblical counselors that will give you the tools you need to take action and find hope through all of life’s storms.

Featuring over 150 articles on topics related to marriage, parenting, relationships, mental health, and so many more—this Bible is like having a complete biblical counseling toolkit in one resource!

The CSB Life Counsel Bible features the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible. The CSB captures the Bible’s original meaning without sacrificing clarity, making it easier to engage with Scripture’s life-transforming message and to share it with others.

I’m really excited to share with you an amazing new biblical counseling resource created in partnership with Holman Bibles and New Growth Press. The Life Counsel Bible provides practical wisdom for all, equipping readers with biblical truth and counsel on a wide range of topics and tough life issues.

Life Counsel Bible features include: 

· More than 150 full-length articles from respected Christian counselors and scholars on topics like anxiety, depression, abuse, sexuality, marriage and divorce, parenting struggles, finances (full list available at lifecounselbible.com)

· Callout quotes placed near each article provide truth, hope, and encouragement to apply to life.

· Over 100-word studies focusing on key words applicable to personal healing, growth, and counsel.

· Book introductions including “Circumstances of Writing,” “Structure,” “Contribution to the Bible,” and a special “Truth for Healing” section with an overview of key truths related to healing from each book of the Bible.

· Wide margins for notetaking and journaling

· Robust page-end cross-reference system with over 25,000 cross-references connecting Scripture from Genesis to Revelation

· Easy-to-read 9.5-point type size

· Presentation page for gift-giving (this makes a great wedding/parenting gift!

Visit the official website for this Life Counsel Bible: https://lifecounselbible.com

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My Review of the CSB Life Counsel Bible:

When I received this Life Counsel Bible, I had planned to give it away to someone who I thought would be encouraged by reading it. However, as I opened the clean, crisp cover and explored the pages of this beautiful book, I realized that person who needed to be encouraged was me! After reading only a few pages, I knew then and there this book is a keeper. So I kept it and started studying it that same day. A few weeks later, I’ve grown more in my faith walk with Jesus Christ because of the abundant resources in this book.

Of course, you can grow spiritually when you read most versions of God’s Word but this Bible is different because of its unique add-on features such as the ones listed above. I found the articles written by Christian counselors and scholars to be very helpful because they addressed real-life issues like abuse, anxiety, depression and finances.

I appreciated the wide margins that made room for me to take notes. The font was smaller than the standard 12-point you’re used to in other publications but the 9.5 point type size in this Bible was easy to read.

For those who want to go deeper into God’s Word, this Bible offers over 25,000 cross-references connecting Scripture from Genesis to Revelation. I found that to be helpful.

I liked the introductions for each book in this Bible from Genesis through Revelation. It set the stage for what I was about to learn before reading each book and chapter within.

Overall, this Bible is practical, informative, inspirational and amazing! Those are all qualities in every true version of The Holy Bible but this Life Counsel Bible is unique to those who need additional, modern-day resources to provide counsel in their life.

I plan to buy another copy to give away someday soon to help encourage those in need.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. #LifeCounselBibleMIN #lifecounselbible #christianstandardbible @christianstandardbible @bhpub

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Enter the giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a $10 Amazon gift card! *Note: The giveaway contest below is limited to residents of the United States. Here’s the entry link: 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c464/?