Devotionals for the Heart: Persevere in prayer and wait on God's timing

Persevere in Prayer
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.”

—Psalm 40:1 (NLT)

Do you remember the movie, Are We There Yet?

The movie is about a family experiencing a road trip. Many people can relate to taking a road trip. If you’re a child looking out the window of your parent’s car during this kind of journey, everything that you see outside the window appears to be bigger in size. To most children, time seems to move so slow while on the road.

After driving for an hour, one or more passengers might ask the question, “Are we there yet?” Even though you’ve been told that it’s going to be a five-hour drive, for some reason, 30 minutes feels like an hour. I can relate to this. As we were on vacation and driving to another city, I knew it was going to be a long drive. I don’t know why 30 minutes felt incredibly long. It felt as if we should have been farther down the road than the clock or the GPS stated. We kept driving and before long, we were halfway there. We were actually making progress! Waiting is oftentimes difficult as it requires us to be patient on things that are out of our control.

The Bible tells us of a time in the life of Israel when things became out of their control too. In 1 Samuel 4, Israel was defeated in war by the Philistines. They experienced a devastating blow by the enemy and even more so because the Ark of God was captured. The Ark of God represented the old covenant under the law. This was not going down well for Israel. How long would the Philistines hold on to the Ark? When and how would they get the Ark back?

Just like Israel, we may have been praying for change in a situation for a long time. We prayed for an answer and hours turn into days, days into weeks and then weeks into months. We may have prayed, “Lord, how long?”

It was 20 years before God acted on their behalf. For 20 years, the ark was not in Israel’s possession (1 Samuel 7:1-3). Can you imagine waiting for 20 years?

I don’t have an answer as to why things take so long to change when you are doing all that you know to do. What I do know is that God is very patient, and He wants us to learn this also. What I know for sure is that God hears our prayers. He hears our every cry. Remember: God never slumbers nor sleeps. He is awake all day and all night. He never gets tired of hearing us call on His name.

Israel kept praying. Israel did not give up! I encourage you to not give up either. God answers in His time. They had been crying out for Messiah to come. Galatians 4:4 (KJV) says, “But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman.” He did not send His Son before He was ready. The stage was set and prepared for Jesus Christ’s arrival. There was a time for this to happen and when the time was right, the ark that was held in captivity was released.

We do not control time. Waiting can become difficult but as the psalmist says, he “waited patiently” (Psalm 40:1). We are told in the book of Hebrews, chapter 11, true stories of people who were faithful to the Lord. We read how they waited for breakthroughs and change. We are also told of the many who did not receive the prize they were running toward. As a matter of fact, many of them suffered greatly for their obedience to the Lord. Yet all remained faithful to God. Every one of these people persevered and endured till their last breath.

Is there anything that would cause you to give up? Can you think of anything worth more than your obedience to God? How is it worth waiting on God and trusting Him for a breakthrough as Israel had to learn to wait? These are a few questions to consider journaling and praying privately about to God.

We all have a moment (or more) in life when we get tired and feel like giving up. But let me encourage you to keep your eyes on Jesus. Remember how He stayed focused on His call. Never give up!

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, it is so hard to wait sometimes. Help me to learn from David how to wait on Your timing. I know that Your ways are not mine, but I trust you to make all things beautiful in your time. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Find Us Faithful” by Steve Green. 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 travelled 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 33 years. Together, they serve the community through their local congregation in various capacities. 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 watched 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/
Website: http://www.patrussellonline.com/
E-mail: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: True satisfaction is found in Jesus Christ

Finding Satisfaction in Jesus
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” –John 6:35 (KJV)

“True satisfaction is found only in Jesus.”

I have heard this statement many times. Maybe you have too. In the Christian community, many of us are blessed to have friends who point us to Jesus Christ. These friends remind us that nothing in this world can satisfy but Christ alone. Often, we nod our heads and agree. We might even remind someone else that Jesus alone can satisfy. But how well do we live out this simple truth?

After a long afternoon at work, I came home at about nine o’clock in the evening. By this time of the evening, I was hungry, but I did not feel like making anything. I simply had the urge to snack. Conveniently, I had a chocolate bunny left over from Easter sitting on my dresser. I decided to eat it instead of making myself an actual meal. Not surprisingly, the chocolate did nothing to satisfy my hunger, though it did taste good. I had no desire to go to bed hungry. So, I decided to satisfy my hunger by making exactly what I needed: a grilled cheese sandwich.

There is a life lesson for us to learn from this situation: I knew before I ate the chocolate that it would not satisfy my hunger, but I ate it anyway. Isn’t this like the spiritual choices we make every day? For example: I know that when my spirit is afflicted, and I am feeling sad or depressed that I should go to Jesus. However, I often find myself running to “chocolate” (the things that feel good but do nothing to satisfy my soul) for solace.

What are we missing? Jesus said He is the Bread of Life. We can find complete satisfaction in Him, but He is usually the last place we run to. All the things that feel good—television, food, control—are constantly competing for our attention and promising satisfaction that they cannot deliver. As Christians, we need to ignore the noise of the world. It is only when we make a choice to turn away from the things that feel good that we can finally find the One (God) who can satisfy us and fill our empty hearts to the brim.

What are some ways you can choose to turn away from the noise of the world? Maybe you could consider taking a break from social media. Maybe you could choose to memorize Scripture and spend more time praying to your Heavenly Father. Focusing on Jesus Christ to satisfy our spiritual needs is a choice. Choose to turn away from the noise of the world and turn toward the only Source of true satisfaction.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for offering us satisfaction in our lives. Please grant us the strength to turn away from the noise of the world and turn to You. Help us to seek wholeness and satisfaction in You alone. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Turn To Jesus” by Katy Nichole. Listen to it here.

~*~
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!

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons on living sold-out for Jesus Christ

Sold-Out for Jesus Christ
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 

–1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

“You are a zebra in a herd of horses,” my Coach Lino said. He’s not a traditional athletic coach, but my coach to get me back in the game of walking. Having suffered with broken feet for three-plus years has brought a lot of things to the surface. My zebra-like quality, for one.

Standing out, being different, not one of the crowd is difficult. Living for the glory of God is not for the faint of heart, nor does it happen without purposeful thinking. You have to decide to do it all for the glory of God. Knowing how to do this only comes from reading and obeying Scripture as well as being filled with God’s Holy Spirit on a daily basis so He can be the Guide.

The Apostle Paul lived for the glory of God. He didn’t always (see Acts 9:1-19), but once he found the Truth (Jesus Christ), or rather the Truth found him, he was sold out for Jesus. He knew what it meant not to live for Christ, and what a joy it was to live for Him. Living for God requires every aspect of one’s life: eating, drinking, working, being a neighbor, friend, co-worker, family member…Even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.

Living for Jesus will usually involve sacrifice, being different (like a zebra), and going against the ever-changing standards of our culture. You’ll be misunderstood, challenged, and forgotten with “You’re no fun anymore” comments becoming more frequent. However, as one draws closer to Jesus, these do not matter—only pleasing the Father and bringing glory to Him do.

While living in Costa Rica attending language school, my husband and I wanted to get involved in the local church, but we did not want to be with a bunch of English-speaking ex-pats (expatriate). Therefore, we traveled by bus to a small town outside the city each week to housed a tiny congregation. While there, we were able to do all for God in another language as well as another culture. We were the “zebras”. But as we immersed ourselves outside of our norm, the language school, and the familiar American culture, we learned what it meant to bring glory to God in all things, and in different ways.

It was difficult trying to make ourselves understood. But because we all had common ground in our walks with Jesus, using our words to communicate was secondary. The love of God shined through, and this became the focal point of our time with them. God showed us what it looked like to live sold out for Him—whether it was performing special music in Spanish, participating in Vacation Bible School (VBS) or having the pastor over for an all-American meal.

We were different, we looked different, spoke differently, acted differently, and made many mistakes whether in the language or with the cultural cues. But with us reaching out to fellowship with our new friends who are part of the family of God in Costa Rica, it was truly beautiful because despite our differences, we all desired the same thing: to please and honor God.

Do you feel like a zebra, already standing out, but not sure what to do next? Is there an area in your life where God is calling you higher and the road seems tough, rough and lonely? Do you know what you need to do for the glory of God but fear gets in the way?

The point is: Turn to Jesus. He understands what it means to be misunderstood or feel like an outcast. Talk to Jesus, release your fears and anxieties to Him then allow Him to guide you. He will because He is a Good Shepherd who doesn’t want any of His sheep (us) to be lost.

Let’s Pray: Father God, it is a joy and a delight to do all for You, but I will admit it is intimidating at times. Being different can be overwhelming. Yet, where I want to blend in, You desire me to forget myself and look to You. I honestly desire this too but am unsure how it will look or how to proceed. Lord, please give me the courage to be different and to live my life, out loud if necessary, for You. Help me to acknowledge You in all my ways and as I do that, please make my paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). In the name of Your Son Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Cause of Christ” (song) by Resolved. Listen to it here.

~*~
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.

~*~
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 love, grace and mercy for humankind

A Promise of Mercy
A devotional by Essie Faye Taylor

“Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness! I say, “The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in him.” –Lamentations 3:22-24 (CSB)

I remember my unforgettable encounter with God.

It was the moment that I realized that I was a sinner. I was at odds with a Holy God because of my sinful nature and my thinking, practices, and habits. While my sin meant that I deserved to die, mercy declared that I would not receive what I deserved. Instead, I received compassion and kindness. I received forgiveness and remission of my sins by salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

It’s important to note a few things about mercy. Mercy is extended to the offender. The innocent don’t need mercy. Mercy exonerates the guilty party. Mercy is unmerited. It is not something that can be earned. The offender deserves judgment but instead, mercy is given. Mercy is a gift born from the character of the giver. Mercy is compassionate or kind forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or another person in one's power; it is the demonstration of compassion, pity, or benevolence. Because mercy is undeserved and unmerited, when extended, it truly is an act of God.

Lamentations 3:22-24 was penned by the Weeping Prophet, Jeremiah, who declares that God’s love preserves us. His unfailing love guards us and keeps us safe in the face of danger and uncertainty. God demonstrates his love toward us through His actions. Mercy is an essential element of our God. Scripture says that our High Priest Jesus is touched by our infirmities. He is moved emotionally by our human experience because Jesus is God incarnate. He lived, breathed, and walked on this Earth as a human. Therefore, He understands what we experience.

Jesus extends empathy and compassion and His mercies toward us never end. The mercy door is always open. When we have fallen into sin, mercy is there. God's Word (The Holy Bible) says we can boldly approach His throne to obtain mercy when we need it.

His mercies are renewed every morning. This means that each day we are forgiven, we get a brand new start. God extends mercy to us and forgives our sins, mistakes, errors, mishaps, and shortcomings. Our God is the God of second chances. He is compassionate and understanding with His children. He deals with us lovingly and compassionately.

Call to Action:

1. Believe that mercy is always near. It’s okay if you fall. Look to God and get up again. You can begin again. There is no sin too great to be forgiven.

2. Embrace God’s mercy daily. It is renewed each day. If you fall into sin today, God’s forgiveness and mercy areavailable. Tomorrow you have a fresh start. Receive it. It’s yours, no questions asked.

3. Know that God is a kind and compassionate Heavenly Father. He knows exactly what you are experiencing and He can help you like nobody else can.

4. Remember, God extends mercy to us daily because of His unfailing love for us. Be merciful to others. We all need mercy and grace.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithful and unfailing love toward me that keeps me safe and protected. Thank you, Lord, that Your mercies do not end. You are always near, ready to extend mercy, ready to give me forgiveness when I don’t deserve it. I thank You that Your mercies are renewed every morning. You understand I am flawed and imperfect, yet You love me unconditionally. You understand that I am prone to make mistakes, so You make provision for me with renewed mercies. Help me to be merciful to others, as You are merciful to me. Thank You, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Great is Your Mercy” by Donnie McClurkin. 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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: How the kindness of God can change the world

God's Kindness Changes Everything
A devotional by Sarah Cole

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” 

—Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

Unexpected kindness is one of life's sweet surprises.

I needed something sweet after attending a friend’s funeral last month, so I stopped at Trader Joe's on the way home. It was the day before Mother's Day, and carts were full of colorful produce and fragrant bouquets of roses, tulips, and carnations. I typically avoid crowded places like a date with my dentist, so I planned a quick exit.

When the cashier asked how my day was going, she missed the evidence my mascara left behind. I'm not a good liar so I told the truth: My friend passed away.

The cashier looked at me with tears in her eyes and walked away. Puzzled by her departure, I admired the dark chocolate bars at the register and threw some in my cart. Moments later, when she returned with a bouquet, my words seemed inadequate. It was one of the kindest things anyone had ever done for me, and I left determined to pay it forward.

Hundreds of decisions define us each day while we’re living here on Earth. Some are life-altering, while others are insignificant, like what kind of eggs to fix for breakfast, what toothpaste to buy, what flowers to plant, and what song to tell Alexa to play next. But when we go out of our way to be kind, it costs nothing, pays big dividends, and makes us feel fantastic.

I'll never forget when my friend John who was grieving significant losses of his own, offered to put my dog down, knowing how hard it would be for me to do it alone. Or the joy in a first grader's eyes when I gave him an Easter basket. Or the gratitude my friend felt when our church's life group served the food at her sister's funeral.

I belong to what my pastor calls “the kindest church in Minnesota” because being kind is the way we live. When our women's ministry isn't making gift baskets for a local women's shelter or blankets for a local kid's outreach, our church’s Care Ministry sends cards to members who are sick or grieving.

The possibilities to do good are endless, but the ultimate act of kindness happened 2,000 years ago when Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for our sins (John 3:16). There was nothing random about His mission to save us (Luke 19:10). He showed us how to live a holy life (1 John 3:16-20) and changed countless lives in the process.

When you experience God's kindness for yourself and allow the Holy Spirit to change you from the inside out, He gives you the power to live as Jesus did. And that, my friend, changes everything.

The opportunities to be kind are everywhere if we look closely enough. While you're out in the world today, take time to do an act of kindness for someone. Most likely, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what happens next.

Let's Pray:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to show me how powerful kindness is. Help me identify opportunities around me today to be His hands and feet and, in the process, bring You glory. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Kindness” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s interest in writing began in grade school when her poem was published in the local paper. As she got older, her mother’s chronic illness inspired her to design a line of greeting cards. Since then, she has written for her college newspaper and two community newspapers where she wrote restaurant reviews and articles for their “Best of” spread.

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

After a 20-year detour and a three-year season of adversity, God reignited her passion to write. Two divine appointments later, the short story she wrote about her father appeared in the St. Paul Almanac, and a short story about 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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to forgive people who hurt us

Forgiveness
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

–Matthew 6:12 (KJV)

One of the last phrases Jesus Christ said before dying on the cross was “…Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do…” (Luke 23:34 KJV). The magnitude of this act of grace is often overlooked and taken for granted.

We are living in a time where forgiveness is not very popular. There is such a great demand for justice in this society. We naturally want to see people pay for their sins or wrongful acts. Nowadays, grace is considered odd and when it is extended by others, it’s noteworthy and shocking.

Yet God calls us to forgive each other when we have been wronged simply because God forgives us every day of our lives when we confess our sins and ask for His forgiveness. It is the least we can do considering the great sacrifice that was made on our behalf. Furthermore, we are warned of the consequences if we do not forgive. In Matthew 6:15, the Bible makes it very clear that if we do not forgive others of their trespasses, then our Father also will not forgive us of our trespasses.

Still, many struggle with extending grace to others. It is quite possible that people do not know how to forgive because they have not allowed themselves to receive forgiveness from God. They have not yet experienced the power of that type of love from our Heavenly Father. And it’s that type of love that God expects us to give to others.

But how can we possibly forgive others? Just like Jesus surrendered His life on the cross, we must first surrender to God’s mercy and love and allow it to fill us. Once we have truly experienced it for ourselves, we become transformed by its ability to free us from feelings of animosity and ill will toward others.

God’s love accepts us as we are but does not leave us that way. We become restored and elevated into a right relationship with God. That is when He can use us and that’s when we are able to share His love, mercy, and grace. That is when we are able to freely forgive.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, We are so thankful for Your grace. May we never forget Your sacrifice and the blood that was shed to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Please forgive us for our sins and help us to forgive those who have sinned against us. We know that we cannot do this without You. Give us the strength to love others as You love us. In Jesus’s Name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Forgiveness” by Matthew West. 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.

~*~
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

Devotionals for the Heart: Give your stress to God and watch Him work

Trusting God with the stresses of life 
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

—Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

I’ve got to be honest. Recently, I’ve found myself getting stressed out a lot for a variety of different reasons. Maybe you can relate?

So many times, I find myself getting easily distracted by either a project that overwhelms me or a looming deadline. Let’s face it. We live in a stressful world, and there are deadlines that approach faster than we’re ready for. In the midst of feeling stressed about some deadlines that I had to meet for a course I was taking, I felt God reminding me to trust Him. I feel like learning to trust God has been a theme for me this entire year as there have been a lot of situations out of my control.

Stress would come out of nowhere, about anything, and doubts would run through my mind. Will I be able to make this deadline? What if the project I’m working on falls through? Whenever I would start to panic, God would gently remind me to trust Him and to give my stress and worry to Him. After all, He can carry it better than I can. It is like a weight comes off our chests when we give our worries and cares over to God. We are not meant to carry that burden.

When we truly give our cares up to God, the result is a deeper trust in Him and a more peaceful life. I found, when the first stressful situation came and went, that God was right. (No surprise there!) Looking back, I realized that there had been no reason to stress out because He provided and met every single one of my needs when I trusted Him. Friend, there is freedom found when we trust in Jesus Christ, and we realize that even if things don’t turn out exactly the way we would like, God is still sovereign. He’s still in control, and nothing happens that God does not allow for our good.

Now, that’s not to say that it’s always easy for me to relinquish control of a situation. But it does mean that when I started to feel stressed again, this time about a project that wasn’t coming together the way I had planned and looked like it was going to fall through, I remembered God’s faithfulness to me. Despite my natural tendency to be in control, by God’s grace, I was able to give the situation to God, and again, He was faithful and provided everything we needed right on time.

Dear friend, if you give those stresses in your life to God, it’s not only a perfect opportunity for you to see His faithfulness, but it will also relieve your shoulders of the burdens they’ve been carrying for too long.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father God, whenever there are stressful situations in my life, please help me to give them to You. You say in Your Word for me to cast my cares on You because You care for me. It is so hard, but I know that there is freedom in letting go of my stresses and concerns. Please forgive me for not trusting You enough to believe You can handle it. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Never Once” by Matt Redman. Listen to it here.

~*~
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.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When you need God to give you a new heart

Give Me a New Heart, Lord
A devotional by Dr. Jessica B. Turner

“I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.” –Ezekiel 11:19 (NIV)

Have you ever experienced a moment with the Lord where you are head over heels in love with Him? You promise to give Him your all and to live a life of surrender to only find yourself stumbling over the same old sins that used to rule your life, mere days after this powerful encounter with God?

I know I have. I also remember it leaving me beaten down and convinced that I was incapable of true transformation. I suspect this is one of the biggest lies the enemy tells us. If we aren’t careful, we may believe him and give up on following God altogether.

While there are many testimonies out there displaying radical transformation that occur within a moment, I’ve discovered that it’s much more likely to experience a more drawn-out process of change.

But what if you are someone who feels as if you are constantly falling into the same transgression? You know your actions bring you farther away from God, yet you can’t seem to muster up the self-discipline to break the cycle of this specific sin. This “thing” you battle with is an idol in your life, claiming a piece of your heart.

This division is what leads to a life that feels more like a roller coaster than a joy ride. Not because everything in life is perfect and easy. We know as believers we are promised to face trials (John 16:33, James 1:2-4). More so because we are unable to control the way we respond to such challenges and when things get too hard, we lean on what makes us feel better. Because we are human, comfort typically comes in the form of over-indulgence, destructive habits, and toxic relationships.

If you relate to this, you are not alone! In my own experience, my coping mechanisms were rooted in years of unaddressed trauma. Even after realizing this and seeking counseling to help me process why I did certain things, I still struggled with turning to God as my source of everything. It wasn’t until I truly invited Jesus Christ into my heart that lasting change occurred. He took a heart that I was convinced would never be whole and made it new. He softened places that had been hardened for years and brought forth forgiveness. Jesus did what only He could do and, in the process, filled me with the Holy Spirit so I could walk in this transformed life.

So, if you are still carrying a heart that is tied to your past, find comfort in knowing that Jesus is in the business of giving out new hearts! Hearts that are so in love with Him that you no longer rely on the things that used to bring you down. Hearts that invite you to be His hands and feet through how you love others.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the restorative hope that can be found in receiving You as my Lord and Savior. Touch my heart, Lord. Make it new. Cut all ties that are leading to a divided heart and direct my devotion to You and only You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and strengthen me to live a transformed life. Use me to be a light unto others, sharing hope that can overcome any suffering. I love You and I trust You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Create in Me a Clean Heart” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Jessica B. Turner is a wife, mom, and LSU graduate with a degree in veterinary medicine. 

After practicing small animal medicine for six years, she traded in her stethoscope to become an online wellness coach, motivational speaker, and writer with a passion for mental health advocacy. This major life change was sparked after Jessica struggled with postpartum depression soon after she birthed her twin girls.

Along with Jessica’s career change came the discovery of who Jesus Christ really is and how He was the missing piece for her to be able to move forward in past trauma that she had suppressed for decades. Jesus walked alongside Jessica as she underwent a transformation like none other.

God transformed Jessica’s life from a broken mom who struggled with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and PTSD from witnessing an attempted suicide, to using her experiences to make her a powerful vessel for Him. To this day, God enables Jessica to touch the lives of others through her often unfiltered, yet inviting form of storytelling.

Throughout this process of refinement, Jessica has shared her life story with the world through her social media platforms, in-person events, blog posts, and podcasts. She values the gift of transparency and has discovered that what so many people need to know is that they are not alone. Jessica has walked in their shoes, and she wants the world to know that Jesus is walking with them as well.

~*~
Connect with Jessica:
Website: www.jessicabturner.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicabturner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicabturner/

Devotionals for the Heart: Letting go of "good" to receive God's best

A Better Inheritance
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan and beyond, because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan to the east.” 

–Numbers 32:19 (ESV)

As the people of Israel neared the Promised Land, their thoughts began to turn to claiming their inheritance. Naturally, they had their own ideas about what best suited their needs.

Two tribes, Reuben and Gad, had a particularly large number of flocks. Before entering the Land, they saw a place that was well-suited to these needs. However, it lay on the east of the Jordan, outside of God’s promised inheritance for the entire nation of Israel—a land that already included space for these two tribes.

I can’t help but wonder what lay on the other side of the Jordan River, what parcels of land God had intended for these two tribes, as well as half of the tribe of Manasseh which also ended up settling east of the Jordan. I wonder if they ultimately missed out on something better. They were willing to take what looked good to them, and I’m sure it was good, but what awaited them on the other side of the Jordan? What did some of the other tribes end up enjoying that was originally meant to bless the people of Reuben, Gad, and half of the tribe of Manasseh?

Naturally, I also wonder, am I settling for something that looks good, or do I long to discover God’s best?

I don’t mean to say that we should sit idly and wait for God’s best, or that blooming where we are planted is bad. But in this life, we know nothing is ever permanent. While serving Him in the circumstances I currently find myself, am I also allowing myself to grow too content? Am I unwilling to consider anything that might disrupt the status quo? Have I decided what my inheritance will be, or am I continuing to seek Him, believing that there may be more He wants to do in and through my life?

Ultimately, it’s not just about allowing Him to direct my path in this life. Do I find such contentment and joy in this life that I forget about the life to come, where we will dwell with Him forever?

As I reflect on these things, I cannot allow myself to feel condemned. He knows that I tend to grow too content with the things around me, and that that carries a risk of complacency. But He is always there, lovingly and gently calling me to more.

Rewards and crowns await all of us in Heaven. We will lay those things back at His feet. Let us press on toward His very best in this life, so that we may have all the more to give back to Him when we see Him face to face.

Let’s Pray: Dear Jesus, I realize that there is always more to be done for Your Kingdom here and now. I pray that You will make my heart both thankful and sensitive: thankful for what You have given me, but not so content that I am unwilling to go farther with You if You call me to do so. Likewise, do not let me become so comfortable in this world that I am tempted to forget about the next. I want all that You have for me, both here and now, and in the life to come. In Your Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Best is Yet to Come” by Donald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers. Listen to it here.

~*~
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.

~*~
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: Finding hope when you're in a dark time

Finding Hope in Dark Times
A devotional by Tema Banner

“For surely there is a hereafter, and your hope will not be cut off.”

–Proverbs 23:18 (NKJV)

Some places I drive to in my hometown make me want to bawl my eyes out.

I had a charming, kindhearted, blue-eyed son whose mischievousness got him into hot water with his parents and teachers more than once in his youth. In elementary school, he was known to charm the little girls into doing his classwork, and old ladies in the grocery store could not resist his winsome smile and pleading eyes for fifty cents for a candy bar—much to his mother’s chagrin. Like his grandmother, Steven made friends with everyone he met and never had qualms about asking for directions or help to find items in the store.

That same personality put him in contact with some he should have given a wide berth. Since he chose not to, many years were spent in courtrooms, rehab clinics, hospitals, and eventually, an early rest in the cemetery. During those years of highs and lows, the Lord gave me hope through this scripture (Proverbs 23:18). The first time I read this verse it was in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible, which reads: “There is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” I was convinced it meant Steven would overcome his addictions and be a powerful witness to others.

Standing by his grave, I was disappointed, confused, and a little mad. Other parents’ children had overcome, why had my son not? And what about the hope I was promised? Then I read the New King James Version (NKJV) of this scripture and the word “hereafter” jumped off the page. It was beautiful proof of God’s living word and His gentle reminder that Steven’s life will continue with Him. Because Steven had accepted God’s Son (Jesus Christ) as his Lord and Savior, I knew he had a future hope that did not end in that cemetery with a dash that indicates a life way too short. And because of my faith in God, I know I’ll see him again in Heaven.

The many places that I drive in this city bring reminders of my time with Steven. They are a mix of memories that make me smile and others with a depth of sadness that squeezes my heart and makes me want to cry—sometimes I do. But more often, I see the lives that were touched by my blue-eyed boy and the faithfulness of the God we serve.

There are times in all our lives when we face battles, sorrow, and hardships. We seek deliverance and I have seen miracles and answers to prayers that are everything prayed for, but I’ve also seen times when the answer is no. I recognize in those moments that we live in a fallen world that is often harsh. I encourage you to know that even in hard times, God is still good and He loves you.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank You for Your faithfulness. In our times of distress and doubt, Your Word is ever present to encourage and remind us that You are in control. Help us to remember that You have good plans for your children. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: "God Loves You" by Jaci Velasquez. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Writing stories that take the reader on a journey of discovery into a deeper relationship with God through His Son (Jesus Christ), has been a lifelong goal for Tema. She enjoys history and continues honing her knowledge of history and writing skills to create those stories.

God is her guiding light and the reason for every endeavor in her life. She is a member of the South Carolina ACFW chapter as well as a former member of her local RWA chapter, Carolina Romance Writers.

Tema has served as president and secretary of her local RWA Chapter, Carolina Romance Writers. She is the honored recipient of the Harold Lowery Service Award, presented by the Carolina Romance Writers.

God has gifted her with a loving husband, two children and four grandchildren who are the delight of her life.

In her spare time, she gardens and digs into genealogy for nuggets to use in her stories.

~*~
Connect with Tema:
Website: https://temabannerauthor.com
Blog: www.temabannerauthor.com/blog
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temabanner/

Devotionals for the Heart: Being "on fire" for God and spreading His Love

Flaming Faith
A devotional by Casey Wayne

“No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.”—Luke 8:16 (ESV)

As we wrapped up dinner we gathered around the fire my husband had made in the fireplace. After allowing the kids to watch one last show, we transitioned into the bedtime routine. They ran to and from the living room and returned all the stray items. At one point I turned to catch my daughter getting dangerously close to the remaining burning wood. In response to my correction she argued that it could not hurt because it was so small. I found myself saying, “Just because a fire is small doesn’t mean it is not hot. Small fires can actually be very hot!”

In the moments following that conversation I reflected on how that applies to the impact we all have in our environment. We all have an impact on others. Ministry opportunities that God will ask us to follow in obedience. They will look different for each of us. Some are easily seen and large “fires”, producing big, broad impacting moments. Others will be small, intentional “fires” that will make an impact as it endures over time with spiritual discipline. God can and often will draw us to seasons of both, but it all has an impact. It all matters!

Maybe you will do missionary work, support local food pantries, or help couples have a foundation of faith in their marriage. God may lead you to serve faithfully in your local church or dedicate spare time to knitting hats for infants in the NICU. This is just a small list of ways we can partner with God in a variety of ways.

Individually and together we spread the love of Christ. Romans 12:4-5 (NIV) says, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

Our Heavenly Father grows our faith, encourages our souls and gives each of us gifts to obediently use to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 for details on this topic. Do not get caught up in the comparison game and allow Satan to convince you your “fire” is not enough to matter or too small to have an impact. It all matters in the eyes of God and for the hearts of those you reach. Remember, just because a fire looks small, does not mean it is not hot.

Let us commit to burning bright for Christ; to be a light in the darkness of this world. Matthew 5:16 (NIV) tells us, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Seek the wisdom and discernment to step into whatever ministry God leads you to and the endurance to stay the course. Leave the results of its impact in the faithful arms of our loving Father who created you to be His ambassador to everyone in your reach (2 Corinthians 5:20) in the time and in the way He has for you.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you in the ministering of others in whatever capacity You ask me to. You faithfully provide for us and guide us so that we can be a light for your glory. Encourage my heart so that I may push forward as you lead and remind me that even if my “fire” looks different than someone else, it is making an impact for the purpose you intended.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “This Little Light of Mine” by Caleb + Kelsey. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Casey Wayne is a wife and mother of two children. 

She enjoys time with her family doing simple things like movie nights and cooking together.

As a devotional writer, Casey strives to share her story with relatable honesty, showing how God is faithful throughout the big and small moments of life.

She has a heart for encouraging the faith walk of other moms, praying they gain a deeper connection with our Heavenly Father.

Her family lives in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.

~*~
Connect with Casey:
Website: https://www.caseywayne.org/
Blog: https://peaceoffaith.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caseylwayne
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peace.of.FaithCaseyWayne

Devotionals for the Heart: Lessons my house under construction taught me

Loving the Work-in-Progress
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”–Isaiah 64:8 (NIV)

Have you ever lived in the middle of a construction project? It’s doable but frustrating.

For the last six months, thanks to a frozen pipe at Christmas that burst above our master bedroom, my husband and I have been sleeping in the guest room.

As I write this, my dresser is in the dining room, my bathroom items are strewn across the dining table, my clothes are hanging in the laundry room, and my normally organized home office has been alternating between the couch and the kitchen table.

And me? Let’s just say my stress level is far higher than usual.

The repair work has taken a lot longer to complete than I expected, mostly because we were haggling with insurance over cost reimbursement, and while I was mostly at peace with things at first, by Month Five my patience had stretched thin. Thank the good Lord the work is just about finished, and we should be in our refurbished bedroom late this week.

Now, let me say I realize we’re blessed to have a house big enough for a guest room, and I’m grateful we have insurance that was able to cover the problem. I know this isn’t always the case.

But having to spend months upon end in a temporary, relatively chaotic living situation, while simultaneously working full-time, caring for our home, and tending to four kids, three cats, and a German shepherd, not to mention nurturing my marriage…Well, I’m ready for life to settle down and for everything to get put away in its proper place.

Part of this is just me and my own emotional baggage. I don’t like clutter or mess. I’m super-organized, and having to live longer than a few weeks with everything in relative disarray is far outside my comfort zone.

But I’m also well aware that maybe, just maybe, God has been teaching me an important life lesson within all this. Sometimes, it’s important to be uncomfortable. Sometimes, discomfort is where we learn the most. For it is in that discomfort that we learn to appreciate what we have, what really matters, and why we are here on earth in the first place.

I remember when I returned from my first mission trip, 11 years ago. Where we stayed in Zimbabwe, we didn’t have running water, flushable toilets, or hot showers. Water had to be drawn from a well. When I got home two weeks later, I was incredibly grateful for a myriad of creature comforts I’d once taken for granted.

Two winters ago, when our power went out for a few days, I gained a new appreciation for central heat, electric lights, and my microwave oven.

When I had the flu last year and finally recovered, I was grateful for a body that didn’t ache and for energy that didn’t peter out just from walking up the stairs.

It’s funny how a little setback can open our eyes. Many of us humans get extraordinarily spoiled and entitled about the way we live our lives, expecting things should always be “this” way (whatever “this” means to you). Then, when things go awry, we’re like helpless infants. Think about how we feel about ourselves. Have you ever known someone who can’t seem to love herself unless things are perfect? She’s either “put together”—the ideal weight, hair perfectly coiffed and nails trimmed, clear skin, and neatly dressed—or she’s “a total wreck”. There’s no in-between. 

Yet most of us walk somewhere in the middle, don’t we?

Why can’t we love the work-in-progress—the under-construction house, the slightly achy body, the partly frazzled real-life version of ourselves—as much as when things are “just so”? Does everything really need to be perfect to be lovable and right? To be worthy?

No, my friends. Not even a little.

Think about how God loves us. Not a single person on this earth is worthy of His love, yet God offers us salvation anyway. Whether you are living in a home-under-construction or not, let’s all pause a moment to savor where we are right now, at this exact minute. We might not be in our dream job, living our best life. But is that even necessary, or important?

What’s important is loving yourself, and living your life, right here and right now in the Lord. What’s important is stepping up each day and saying yes to God, carrying out the purpose He has for you in this world. What’s important is loving others and serving in mercy and compassion.

Nothing needs to be “just so”. We can still live, and love, in the in-between.

Let’s Pray: Lord, help me to be patient when things are not perfect or organized, or when things don’t reflect the vision I have. Help me to trust that You are the calm center even when everything else in life feels chaotic. Thank You for all the blessings You give us, and help me appreciate the messy, wild, unfinished work-in-progress just as much. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Pieces” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning journalist, author, blogger, editor, writing coach, and devotional writer with thousands of articles to her name.

Since 2010, she has served as the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism, which has won 123 journalism awards during her tenure. She is the author of Feed My Sheep: A 40-Day Devotional to Develop a Heart for Hunger Ministry (2019) and More Like Jesus: A Devotional Journey (2018) and the editor of a number of other books from her newspaper’s Advocate Press, which she helped found in 2017.

She has won more than 100 writing awards and is a seasoned speaker and frequent contributor to Crosswalk.com, Christianity.com, and BibleStudyTools.com, among many others. She has a weekly faith blog at JessicaBrodie.com and is part of the team at Wholly Loved Ministries, with her work included in many of their devotionals and Bible studies.

Brodie holds a Master of Arts in English, and she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in communications/print journalism from Florida International University. Born and raised in Miami, Brodie now lives in Lexington, South Carolina, just outside Columbia. She has also lived in Ohio and in the mountains of western North Carolina. She and her husband, Matt Brodie, have a blended family of four teenage children and stepchildren.

Brodie has written several novels and is actively seeking publication through her agent Bob Hostetler of The Steve Laube Agency. Her novel The Memory Garden won the 2018 Genesis contest for Contemporary Fiction from American Christian Fiction Writers, and her novel Tangled Roots won a third place Foundation Award in Contemporary Romance at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in 2019. She is finishing the third in the series, Hidden Seeds, now.

~*~
Connect with Jessica:
Website: https://www.jessicabrodie.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaJBrodie
Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/authorjessicajbrodie
Facebook Personal: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaJBrodie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicajbrodie/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicajbrodie/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shiningthelightjessicabrodie/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jessicajbrodie

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons on friendship and wealth that lasts

Using Money Wisely to Make Everlasting Friends
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“And I tell you [learn from this], make friends for yourselves [for eternity] by means of the wealth of unrighteousness [that is, use material resources as a way to further the work of God], so that when it runs out, they will welcome you into the eternal dwellings.”–Luke 16:9 (AMP) 

Recently, I was conversing with friends who are wealthy. 

They had introduced and welcomed my wife and I to one of their new assets. They freely made it available for us to use. In fact, they insisted that if their friends did not access this property regularly, they would have acquired it in vain. In the conversation he referenced a text that I had read but never studied in depth. The text was Luke 16:9.

My friend said that "there is a responsibility that accompanies wealth". The responsibility is to invest some of their wealth in expanding the experiences, opportunities, and horizons of their trusted friends. In so doing, he said, we make everlasting friends.

In this conversation, I learned two things. First, having wealth that does not corrode the soul requires hospitable use of the resources. Generosity begets good friends. They become safe havens or metaphoric tabernacles where hopes, dreams, aspirations and even fears can be shared confidently and confidentially. The second thing that my study confirmed was the difference between eternal and everlasting. Divinity is eternal, having no end, beginning, origin or destiny. Everlasting is something that may not have existed in eternity past but will exist forever going forward. 

When people have experienced and enjoyed your hospitality, they are more accepting of the peculiarities of your faith. If your friendships are solid and the wealth you shared evaporates or loses relevance, your true friends will still be there to love you, nurture and encourage you.

The wisdom of Jesus Christ does not command that we buy, with opulent gifts, the presence and the loyalty of friends. Rather, He is saying that we should be judicious yet generous with our loved ones and friends. In so doing, barriers are bridged, memories are forged and hearts are bonded. I am reminded of a maxim from my grandmother. She said, “Pick your friends wisely and spend most of your time with people who push you to be better and to do better, because bad friends can cut your potential to shreds.” When you have chosen well and poured into your friends, they will always welcome, nurture and support you.

Who are some of your everlasting friends? Make a list. How have you invested in them? How have they invested in you? Who would you like to add to your list of everlasting friends? Let’s pray for your current and potential everlasting friends.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, thank You for those people in our lives who have become everlasting friends. Thank you for bonding us. Now, dear God, as we move into this new day of the new month, be with us as we consider our ways, our wealth and the responsible use of the money You have given to us. Help us to spend freely to help advance the cause of Christ and the work of God in the world around us. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Unexpected Friends” by Sandi Patty. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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