My Review for "The Story of Everything" documentary film

When Momentum Influencers Network (MIN) asked me to review “The Story of Everything” feature-length documentary film by Sypher Studios, I agreed because it sounded like a wonderful opportunity to explore how scientific findings can prove the existence of a divine Creator. We are not here by accident. Life has purpose. And we are not alone because the Creator (God) of all that exists is always with us. I also thought this film would be a good resource for people who doubt God exists and believe there’s no life after death.

But before I share my review with you, I’d like to share a few words from Momentum Influencers Network about this film:

After a successful nationwide theatrical run that sparked conversation across faith, science, and culture, “The Story of Everything” is now available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video!

Inspired by Stephen C. Meyer’s bestselling book Return of the God Hypothesis, the cinematic documentary invites audiences to explore one of humanity’s oldest—and most consequential—questions: Does the evidence point to a universe shaped solely by blind chance, or is there evidence of purpose and design?

Synopsis: “The Story of Everything” is a cinematic exploration of the cosmos that reveals the hidden hand behind our universe. From the precise laws that govern the stars to the intricate patterns found in every living cell, the film traces evidence of intentional design throughout nature. Whether examining distant star-forming clouds or the spiral structure of DNA, we discover a consistent signature woven into the fabric of existence.

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My Review for “The Story of Everything”

“The story of everything has purpose, that behind everything there is an author. The alternative is that none of that is true. We are the result of blind and impersonal processes that did not have us in mind.”

This quote (above) was mentioned toward the end of this feature-length film. But it holds the meaning of the film’s title. After hearing it, I knew that’s why this production was called “The Story of Everything”. It really shows how the core message of this film was to present two main schools of thought: Belief in a Creator of all things vs. Belief that we were created by nothing and our life has no real meaning. I think these are important points to explore as part of the human experience on Earth. As a believer, I’ll always point you to Jesus Christ. He is the Savior of humankind and the His divine light breaks through the darkness in our world. Like a popular Christian bumper sticker says: “Know Jesus, know peace. No Jesus, no peace!” I have found this saying to be true in my everyday life.

But Jesus Christ is a true gentleman. He’s not going to force you to believe in Him. He always gives humankind the freedom to choose who we will serve. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15).

If you are on a search for truth but don’t want to start with a Bible yet, start with this film then pick up The Holy Bible (you can buy a physical copy or read it via Bible Gateway online for free) and ask God’s Holy Spirit to help you understand the words you are reading. It is key to ask Him to teach you as you read because the Bible is understood through a spiritual lens, not a lens of doubt or a carnal mind.

Speaking of truth, this other quote was also mentioned in the film, “Sometimes the path toward the truth leads through beauty. And that is an important window. We need to be willing to open that.” Those words resonated with me because I never thought about my search for truth like that before. This film is filled with profound messages that will make you think and challenge you to decide what you believe.

On a lighter note: The set designs for most of this movie looks like it is from the 1970s. Many of the people who were interviewed or spoke on camera also were dressed in a way that looked like eras of the past. However the set design and clothing style did not take away from the points made in this movie.

If you have a scientific mindset or are curious to know how everything we see in space and experience on earth was created, then this movie is for you. Every detail is designed to make you think and ponder Biblical truth supported by science when it comes to the questions, “Is there a Creator of everything? Is God real?”

This movie might help you answer those questions.

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

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More information:

"The Story of Everything" is available for purchase on Prime Video via this link.

Church and Homeschool Resources:
https://www.thestoryofeverything.film/resources

#TheStoryOfEverythingMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Devotionals for the Heart: How God taught me to lead my children to Jesus

It Begins with Me
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.”

—Luke 2:52 (NLT)

It seems like yesterday I was holding my newborn sons in my arms.

Now as I am reminiscing, they are both school-aged children. So much has happened over the years that it seems like a blur. I am thankful that my husband and I took countless photos of them and that their milestones are recorded in journals and photo albums.

More important than photos, videos, journals, and scrapbooks are the moments spent with my sons in prayer. My husband and I started praying for our sons while they were still in the womb. We knew that God had something special in store for us and we wanted to be sure that their lives were in line with their Creator.

When our sons were born, we prayed right there in the delivery room, and we continued to pray with them every morning and every night. While they are sleeping, I sneak into their rooms and quietly breathe a mother’s prayer over my sons. I ask God to protect them from evil as they develop, and to grant them wisdom, favor and discernment to make the right decisions in life. I pray that God will show my sons their purpose in this life and that one day my sons will whole-heartedly receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

Even now, I can see the results of my prayers. I was so proud and at the same time humbled when both of my sons decided to get baptized at church. When I hear the comments of teachers who are pleased to have my sons in their classroom, or when I am told that my sons are responsible for their age, or they have caring attributes and are well behaved among their peers, this lets me know that my prayers from over the years have come to fruition.

Recently, it occurred to me that I should be praying just as fervently for myself and the life that I am leading as a parent. Praying over my sons is a necessity, but what kind of example would I be if I am not covered in prayer? I cannot effectively make a disciple for Jesus Christ if I am not an effective disciple myself.

As a parent, I have quickly learned that children will do what they see more than what they are told. I can tell my youngest son not to throw an object in the house, but he is taking mental notes as I unconsciously toss my shoes into the closet. As trivial as this may seem, it equates to circumstances on a larger scale later in his life such as the words I speak, the way I treat others, my attitude in my home, and my relationship with God. I pray that as my sons grow into men and that they will pattern their lives after Jesus. I also pray that when my sons look at me, they see Jesus living in me and working through me.

The most important element is the legacy that I will leave behind to my children: A life devoted to Christ. I am so glad that Christ covers me and stands in the gap where I fall short. It begins with me.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, I thank You for the privilege of being a parent. I ask You for wisdom and discernment as I raise my children to be Your disciples. May I not be a hindrance but an example of Your love. Lead me as I lead my children. I dedicate our lives to You. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

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Song of Reflection #1: “Legacy” by First Call. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Standing in the Gap” by Babbie Mason with Helen Baylor and Cindy Morgan. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Lead Me Lord” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir with Elizabeth Goodine. Listen to it here.

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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.

This is Angela’s sixth 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 her words were featured in a book, Hope When Your Heart is Heavy, that was published by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The following year, another one of Angela’s devotionals was featured in Living Unbroken, which is another publication produced by Proverbs 31. Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing as well as speaking.

Angela is a life coach for mothers. 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. She works to help them to see their value, understand their importance, and reclaim their identity.

Angela is also the host of “The Angela Anderson Show”, a virtual talk show that launched in April of 2023 on YouTube and Facebook. The show is designed for mothers who want to pursue their dream while managing family life. The audio version of the show is also available as a podcast on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and more.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson, for 21 years. Together they have two sons: Thomas (age 13) and Ryan (age 8). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling, and she also enjoys spending quality time with her family.

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Connect with Angela:

To connect with Angela, you can follow her on Instagram (angelanderson1104), Clubhouse (@angelize), and send a friend request to her on Facebook.

Subscribe to Angela’s YouTube channel @The Angela Anderson Show and follow the show on Spotify. Angela offers free consultations for mothers who want to pursue their dream while taking care of their family. Schedule here: 

www.ChatWithCoachAngela.com

You can also like and follow her Facebook author page for her devotional book, Just When I Thought I Knew God.

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should let God carry our grief

God Can Carry Your Grief
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

—Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

Grief is one of the heaviest burdens we can carry. It can feel overwhelming, like a storm that will never pass.

When someone we love is gone, or life doesn’t go as we hoped, pain can consume our thoughts and even disrupt our daily routines. Sleep can become elusive, meals may lose their appeal, and even small tasks can feel monumental. But God is not distant from our suffering; He draws near to us in our sorrow.

When I experienced the unimaginable loss of my brother, I felt as if I were walking through a dark tunnel with no light in sight. Questions ran through my mind: “Why did this happen? We were supposed to grow old together!” “What do I do with the void in my heart?” “How can I move forward and not feel as though I’m forgetting him?” I felt weak, vulnerable, and alone. But in the midst of my grief, I had to turn to God’s Word to rediscover that He was closer than I imagined. Psalm 34:18 reminded me that God is near to the brokenhearted, and His presence is a source of comfort even when life feels heavy.

Grief is not a journey we are meant to walk alone. God’s Word promises that He will walk with us, offering comfort, strength, and hope. Yet, walking with God through grief requires intentional steps, a willingness to open our hearts to Him, and patience with ourselves.

Here are four ways I learned to lean on God when grief feels unbearable:

Way #1: Bring your grief to God in prayer.

1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” God wants to hear and feel your pain, your tears, and even your anger. Prayer is not just about asking for relief; it is about giving God permission to carry the weight because you can’t. Be honest with Him. Pour out your heart don’t hold back. There is freedom in knowing that God hears you and understands every ache.

Way #2: Seek comfort in Scripture.
Psalm 147:3 (NIV) says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” When grief clouds our hearts and our minds, Scripture becomes a guide through the dark places. Reading and meditating on God’s promises allows us to see that He is a healer, and our pain does not define the entirety of our story. Over time, His words provide the comfort our souls desperately need.

Way #3: Let the Holy Spirit guide your healing.
John 14:16-17 (NLT) reminds us the Holy Spirit is our constant helper. Jesus Christ said in this verse, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.” Grief can make us feel disoriented or lost, but the Holy Spirit gently leads us, reminding us that we are not alone. By listening to His guidance, we can find small measures of peace each day and begin to experience healing even in the midst of sadness.

Way #4: Take small steps toward restoration.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Healing is not instant. Grief has its seasons, and each person moves through them differently. Allow yourself to feel, to remember, and to grieve fully, but also trust God to guide your steps forward.

Closing Thoughts:

Grief taught me that it is okay to move slowly. It taught me that leaning on God is not a sign of weakness but a pathway to strength. When I allowed myself to trust God, to bring my pain to Him, and to follow the guidance of His Spirit, I began to feel light return to my heart. Peace replaced some of the heaviness, and slowly, I am beginning to see life with a new perspective one shaped by God’s enduring love.

Even when grief lingers, God’s presence transforms it. The pain may not vanish completely, but His comfort makes it bearable. He provides hope, restoration, and peace that the world cannot take away. God is patient with us. He does not rush our healing or force us to “move on” before we are ready. He walks beside us every step of the way, offering love that never fails.

Take heart in knowing that your grief is seen, your tears are known, and your pain is held in God’s hands. Lean into His promises. Pray without hesitation. Read His Word (The Holy Bible) for comfort. Listen to God’s Holy Spirit for guidance. Take gentle steps forward, trusting that He will bring you to a place of peace.

Let’s Pray:
Father God, thank You for being close to us in our grief. Thank You for holding our hearts when they are broken and for comforting us with Your presence. Help us trust You fully through our pain. Teach us to lean on Your Word, listen to Your Spirit, and take small steps toward restoration. Thank You for never leaving us alone, for healing our hearts, and for bringing hope where there seems to be none.

In Jesus’s Name I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God Restores” by Dynamic Praise. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Reason for the World” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Meet Me There” by Lydia Laird. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

She lives in Boston, MA.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should surrender our heart to God

Ending the Year Consecrated, Not Calloused
A devotional by Adriana Watt

“God, your God, will cut away the thick calluses on your heart and your children’s hearts, freeing you to love God, your God, with your whole heart and soul and live, really live. God, your God, will put all these curses on your enemies who hated you and were out to get you.”—Deuteronomy 30:6-7 (MSG)

When an aspiring musician first picks up the guitar, they are painfully aware that their fingertips will need to toughen up. Calluses form on their fingertips over time, allowing them to play comfortably for longer periods, helping them develop greater skill.

The hardening that occurs for a guitar player’s fingers is a positive thing. This is not so with our hearts. Our hearts become calloused through fatigue, sin, or self-protection. This can cause us to become deaf, blind, and hardened to the voice and Word of God (Matthew 13:15).

As we welcome a new year, may our hearts welcome surrender and softness as evidence of true strength in the Lord and His deep love for us. The Lord “will cut away the thick calluses on your heart and your children’s hearts, freeing you to love God, your God, with your whole heart and soul and live” (Deuteronomy 30:6 MSG). With the calluses removed, your heart is tender, sensitive, and responsive to God without any barriers. This work of removing the calluses is for our good and His glory.

With this in mind, how do we compassionately assess a calloused heart? We begin by yielding to God and inviting Him to search us and reveal any hidden hardness within (Psalm 139:23–24). In that posture of surrendering to God, we begin to notice how calluses express themselves in daily life. Emotionally, they may appear as bitterness, fear, exhaustion, or defensiveness. Spiritually, they can show up as distraction, disinterest in the Word, or a resistance to yield fully to God’s direction. In relationships, callousness can take the form of pride, critical attitudes, or guarding our hearts against pain. All of these calluses form barriers that hinder us from loving God and others.

As these calluses come into the light, God continues the process of gently removing those hardened areas. The language in Deuteronomy 30:6 is vivid. The Message translation says God will “cut away” while many other versions say He will “circumcise”. Circumcision was performed in Bible times as a covenant sign, symbolizing God’s work of removing hardness from our hearts. Spiritually, this act signifies a covenant with God and expresses consecration to the Lord. Yes, this work is painful, no doubt. Thickened calluses may take longer to be softened one layer at a time. We have the blessed assurance that God is present and close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). After these layers are removed, He promises a new heart. With sensitive hearts, we create space to pause and reflect further.

Let’s bring our hearts before the Lord with these questions:

● Where has God been faithful in the past year?

● Is my heart soft?

● Is my heart surrendered to God?

● Where do I need to surrender to Him more fully?

● Has this year created calluses upon my heart or made old calluses thicker?

Surrender is strength in the Lord. For surrender to become our response, we need to regularly assess our hearts for hardness. May our hearts, renewed and tender, be ready for worshipping God. May we always be ready to respond in obedience, and ready for intimacy with Jesus Christ. Let us enter the new year fully trusting God with our hearts, surrendering to His work to remove the calluses and to be set apart for Him, with responsive hearts to do the good works He has prepared for us (Ephesians 2:10).

Let’s Pray: Dear God, Thank You for drawing near to our hearts and for Your promise to remove the thick calluses, giving us hearts that are soft, tender, and responsive to You. Help us let down our guard, surrender fully to Your love, and trust You with every part of our hearts as we step into the new year. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: "New Wine" by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: "O Come To The Altar" by Elevation Worship. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Adriana Watt, founder of “Framing Your Health in Christ” supports Christian women who find themselves running on empty from pouring themselves out in caring for others struggling with mental and emotional exhaustion and chronic stress because they have forgotten to rest and prioritize their health.

 

She helps them to live a guilt-free, nourishing, full, and sustainable life by helping them climb out of the trenches to see the bigger vision of their calling and God’s purpose for their lives.

Adriana is a gentle and encouraging author and speaker with a critical message for the current caregiver crisis. She is a living testimony of how it is possible to rest in Christ for your strength, healing, and to serve others well without sacrificing your health to feel fully alive again.

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Connect with Adriana:
Website: https://www.adrianawatt.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adriana_watt_wholehealth/
Email address: Care@adrianawatt.com

Devotionals for the Heart: The cure I discovered for sleepless nights

Say Bye to Insomnia
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.”—Psalm 127:2 (NIV)

Many nights, I found myself questioning God about the trajectory of my life.

Burdened with the responsibility of my mother’s care while barely sustaining myself, the weight became unbearable. When she required surgery without insurance, I was left alone to navigate the overwhelming medical expenses.

Even when the financial issues were eventually solved, insomnia slowly became my best friend. It accompanied me faithfully every night, leaving me alone to entertain my racing thoughts. Therefore, I tried to find comfort in distractions—movies, short stories, testimonies, games—anything that offered hope that I could escape my suffering. I found myself chasing hope in people, trying to duplicate the miracles I saw in other people’s lives. But I never found the formula. In fact, I was drawn deeper into the struggle because my focus was on the wrong place.

One night, out of desperation to sleep, I picked up my Bible. I turned to King David’s story because I know he wrote the Bible book of Psalm during moments of profound sorrow and crying out to God. I hoped to find a formula there but instead, I found something better: I learned that all we need to do is hold on to God’s promises written in His Word (The Holy Bible). God gave me the promise of peace that night and He promised me that He will take care of me.

The Spiritual Root of Insomnia

After 11 months of struggle, I realized that the insomnia I carried wasn't just about my body; it was about my soul. I realized that my sleeplessness was fueled by these four factors: overthinking and the fear of losing control, stressful thoughts about tomorrow, trying to solve my problems in life with my own strength, and carrying responsibilities that God never asked me to carry alone.

I realized that even sleeping pills won't work in helping you to sleep if your brain won’t shut down. It is an excruciating moment when you take a sleeping pill to help you sleep, but it fails because your mind is still racing with worry.

Surrendering the Burden

Jesus Christ offers a different solution in Matthew 11:28 (NIV) where He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He offers to take the burden away. Jesus doesn't ask us to be perfectly composed and presentable before we approach Him. We simply need to come to Him when we are exhausted.

Here is how I learned to say goodbye to insomnia:

Acknowledge the Source: Since God created us, we must go to Him for the fix.

Daily Surrender: I came to Him every day, asking Him to fix the way my brain works.

Cast Your Anxiety on God: As 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

God isn't annoyed by your fears; He is waiting to carry them.

A Call to Rest

As we end this year, I encourage you to let go of the anxieties, fears, and worries that you own. Let this be the year you stop fighting battles that are already won by God. Let this be the year you learn to sleep like someone who is protected, loved, and held by the Creator of the Universe.

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

—Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

God cares about your rest and your sleep. Surrender is not losing; it is falling into the hands of Someone who won’t drop you.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being the Father I can call Abba. You promised to give me comfort in my troubled moments. Please forgive us for doubting that You will take care of us. Give us the strength to go through life and keep walking by Your side. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Still” by Hillsong. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Sparrows” by Cory Asbury. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Peace Be Still” by Hope Darst covered by Lauren Daigle / The Belonging Co / All The Earth. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Christine Monteiro is a certified transformative coach, writer, and keynote speaker who is passionate about helping others navigate the complexities of purpose, personal growth, and resilience. 

Christine’s journey to becoming a coach started four years ago, following the loss of her husband to brain cancer. That experience left her feeling as though she had lost her purpose—a feeling she deeply understands in clients who she works with now. Through self-discovery and training, Christine found the missing pieces in her life and regained her purpose and drive that now motivates her to help others.

Christine coaches her clients from all walks of life—from young adults to retirees—helping them to embrace change, set meaningful goals, and confidently pursue their dreams. She has received training through Creative Results Management and holds credentials from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Christine also has certifications in Positive Psychology and Mental Health Coaching from Yale and Light University. Her diverse approach to coaching her clients combines empathy with strategic insight, helping them to navigate every stage of life.

When she writes, Christine likes to focus on topics like finding purpose, coping with grief, and achieving personal transformation. As she writes, Christine draws from her own experiences as a single mom and empty nester. She enjoys sharing these insights on various platforms to reach a wider audience and foster community support.

When not coaching or writing, Christine spends her time sipping black coffee and swimming in the pool. She has found that having three independent children gives her a privilege to have a lot of “me time” that she didn’t have when they were growing up.

Devotionals for the Heart: What true love looks like in our modern world

Love Reimagined
A devotional by Essie Faye

“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Romans 8:38-39 (KJV)

I am convinced that most people in our world today do not know the true meaning of love, nor do they know how to show it and share it in a healthy way.

An example of this is when I watched on as a group of teenage “friends” interacted. They made fun of each other and embarrassed each other. One minute they were cool and the next they were arguing bitterly. Some days I didn’t know if they were friends or enemies. So, I’d tread lightly. Teaching adolescents is sometimes a rollercoaster. One minute, students love each other and the next they hate each other. It is often like riding a rollercoaster. I couldn’t keep up with the relationship drama and frequent changes my students were experiencing.

True love in today’s world is tough to find. People say they love you, but truthfully, most don’t know love. They’ve come from broken families and have had a history of broken relationships. It is safe to say that all of us are broken in some way. True love comes from a healthy place. True love can be freely given when a person experiences healing of their heart. Many people can’t properly love others because they don’t properly love themselves. Or they’ve never truly been loved in a healthy and safe manner. More importantly, many people don’t know love because they don’t have a real relationship with Love Himself: God is Love.

In Romans 8:38-39 the Apostle Paul writes about the persevering and unstoppable Love of God. Love pursues us relentlessly until God captures our hearts and transforms our souls. God’s love is like the love of no other. It is unchanging and unconditional. There is nothing we could ever do or fail to do that would cause God to stop loving us. God’s love provides for us consistently. His love protects us from harm and heals us from pain. His love rescues us from danger. His love hears us when we call. God’s love for us is never ending, overwhelming, incomprehensible, and unfathomable. We don’t deserve His love, yet He chases after us to lavish His love upon us. Nothing and no one can separate us from God’s love.

Call to Action:

1. Thank God for loving you unconditionally and consistently.

2. Learn from the mistakes you’ve made on your journey to loving yourself, God, and others.

3. Treasure the love of God in your life.

4. Look around to see how God loves you and how He proves it.

5. Remember: God’s love must be reimagined. We think we know love. We do not. We must be reintroduced to Him.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

There is no god like You. You are Love. You gave Your only son (Jesus Christ) to save our souls because You love humankind. You sent Your Comforter (Holy Spirit) because of your love for our broken hearts. You sent Your Word because You want us to read The Holy Bible and get to know You. Thank You for loving us passionately, unconditionally, and with abandon. I pray that we can accept this unfathomable love, though we don’t deserve it and we can never comprehend it. Help us to love one another with a love so pure and pleasing to You. Thank You for hearing and answering us. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “No Greater Love” by Rachael Lampa. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Essie Faye is a woman of faith. 

She’s a bilingual author, educator, speaker, psalmist, and interpreter.

Essie is the author of the “Finding the Love You Deserve” series for women and teens. She is deeply committed to motivating minorities, women, and youth to heal themselves, love and accept themselves, and pursue God while chasing their dreams and carving out their life’s path.

Essie is a Chicago native.

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Connect with Essie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/
Read Essie’s YouVersion Devotion Plan here:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/58980-grow-through-it-7-healing-practices-that

Devotionals for the Heart: What I've learned about having greater faith

Greater Faith
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.”

—Luke 17:5 (KJV)

Trusting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior comes with a measure of faith.

As we mature in our faith walk with Jesus and begin to seek Him for guidance, our faith grows. Our understanding of doctrine becomes deeper as we allow His Spirit to instruct our hearts and change our attitudes.

Among the gifts of the Holy Spirit listed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 (KJV), Paul also lists faith as a special gifting of the Holy Spirit. He said: “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues…”.

The New Living Translation (NLT) of 1 Corinthians 12:9 uses the term “great faith”. We could think of it as “special” faith: the ability to trust God for extraordinary things, to step out in faith in impossible situations, and believe Him for things that most believers simply can’t. That is not to say that if we cannot trust God for great things, it is a shortcoming in our walk. Special faith is the Holy Spirit’s gift to some, while He has gifted other believers in other areas. Still, perhaps it should challenge us: Could we trust God more, even if special faith is not our gifting?

We may not be placed in a situation where we are led to pray that God will raise the dead or heal the sick, but perhaps He is asking us to believe that He will provide for a financial situation that looks impossible. Perhaps God doesn’t want us to drop everything and move to another country, but He is asking us to make a daunting career change.

Faith is not just what saves us, or what allows us to grow in our relationship with God. It is the ability to have peace beyond the next step we need to take, beyond the answers we can see. Faith is the gift of being able to say, “I don’t have all the answers, but I know that God is in control, and I believe Him.”

Some people are given the gift of special faith, and they exercise it all the time. Other times, God might give it to an individual believer in a particular season. Perhaps we have stepped out in faith in the past but have not done so since. Perhaps God isn’t asking that of us, but it is also possible that we have lost sight of a gift He wants us to use. If that sounds like you, would you take time to sit before God in quiet and ask Him to show you what might be stopping you from using this gift of faith. Is there something we are choosing not to believe Him for, or is there something that we are simply not cognizant of yet?

Maybe we’ve never used this gift of faith, and today, God is challenging us to begin to seek Him for greater faith. Maybe we are simply afraid that if we step out in faith, He won’t be there. Whatever the case, would you pray with me?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord Jesus,

I ask that You search my heart and see if there is any unbelief hidden there. Thank You that You do not condemn me for this, but please help me not to continue in it. I pray that You will show me any area in my life where you are asking me to have greater faith—to step out or to believe that You will fulfill a promise when I have lost all hope. Please give me a greater awareness of your purpose and plan so that I can work alongside You towards that goal.

In Jesus’s name I pray,

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Where There is Faith” by 4Him. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “What Faith Can Do” by Kutless. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God is in Control” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

As a child, Aubrey spent countless hours creating characters and writing stories. 

Thirty years later, she took up her pen again, uniting her fascination for history with her passion for redemption. The stories she creates are a unique brand of gritty, honest wartime sagas, written from the German perspective.

Aubrey is the mother of three children, and she is married to her best friend Brian.

When she’s not writing or taking care of home and family, she can often be found making music, reading, or spending time with friends.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When God's standards for living seem too high

Impossibly High Standards
A devotional by Suzanne Felton

“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

—Matthew 5:48 (NIV)

Of all the verses in the Bible, I think I’ve wrestled with this one (above) more than any other. As a perfectionist and rule-follower by nature, I want to be perfect. I want to get everything right every time. I hate making mistakes.

Perfection is the ultimate high standard, so shouldn’t we all strive to be perfect? In this verse (above) spoken by Jesus Christ, the answer is yes. But I’m not perfect. And I can’t be, no matter how hard I try. It’s hopeless.

Romans 3:23 clearly tells us that no one (apart from Jesus) is perfect. It says, “…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (NIV). When we fall short of perfection, we tend to start comparing ourselves to others. Either we look for some way to make ourselves feel superior to someone else (thinking: At least I’m not as bad as she is.) or we put ourselves down and feel sorry for ourselves (thinking: Who could love a loser like me?). Neither of these mindsets are pleasing to God.

Part of the problem is that humans tend to define perfection by human standards. It feels good to get a perfect score on a test, play a perfect game, or have a perfect driving record. Those things are nice, but they’re insignificant in the grand scheme of things. But how often do we think in terms of wanting things like the “perfect” job, a “perfect” body, or a “perfect” relationship? We try to meet the world’s standards through our own efforts, but there’s always someone else who we perceive as having more or doing it better than we do.

When Jesus speaks of being perfect, He is not referring to worldly standards. He’s taking about following God’s laws perfectly. The writer of Psalm 119 expresses a longing to follow God’s laws perfectly while knowing that it’s not humanly possible. He wrote, “You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees. Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands” (Psalm 119:4-6 NIV).

I think that perfectionism is part of human nature. We all want to get things right. No one likes to fail. But we all do, all the time, and when we measure ourselves honestly by God’s standard of perfection, our failure seems even greater. If we all have an innate desire to be perfect, but none of us can achieve perfection, then why did Jesus tell us to be perfect?

A turning point of understanding Christ’s command to be perfect came for me when I finally read Romans 3:23 and the verse that follows it as one complete thought. It reads, “. . .for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24 NIV). The Apostle Paul wrote the Bible book of Romans. He doesn’t end this sentence after pronouncing us all to be sinners and failures. He writes that, yes, we are all sinners who fall short of God’s standard of perfection, and we are all justified, or made right again, through the death and resurrection of His Son (Jesus Christ).

When we realize that we are all sinners, we can stop comparing ourselves to each other. No one can measure up to God’s perfect standard, and God’s standard is the only one that matters. We’re all in the same boat: equally sinful and equally deserving of God’s punishment. The wonderful news, though, is that we are also all equally loved. God’s gift of salvation through Christ is freely available to everyone who will receive it. Jesus is the way to perfection for all of us.

I love the way The Message version of the Bible translates Hebrews 10:14-15. Scripture reads, “It was a perfect sacrifice by a perfect person to perfect some very imperfect people. By that single offering, he did everything that needed to be done for everyone who takes part in the purifying process.” God is our Creator. He made us, and He knew all along that we would never be able to keep his laws perfectly through our own efforts. I believe He gave us that innate desire for perfection not just to show us how far short we fall, but to draw us to Jesus.

Christ’s command to be perfect in Matthew 5:48 is both a reminder that we all need perfecting as well as an invitation to be perfected by Him. God’s impossibly high standard will never change, but neither will His boundless love for us. Now that’s perfect!

Let’s Pray: Dear God, I know that I fall far short of your perfect standard. Thank You that I am not a hopeless case because I am made perfect through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thank You, Lord! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “How Marvelous” by Austin Stone Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Suzanne Felton has been a writer for most of her life, even before she realized it. 

She has worked in a wide range of settings, from non-profits to science labs to government contracts to educational classrooms, all of which involved writing in one form or another.

Suzanne is amazed by the power of words and now uses her passion and experience to help authors and students as a writing coach. Encouraging others to find the words and the courage to share their stories is one of her greatest joys.

Suzanne’s devotionals have been published in periodicals and blogs including The Upper Room, The Love Offering, Keys 4 Kids, and The Swallow’s Nest. She is also a two-time finalist in the Cascade Christian Writing Contest for poetry.

She is a wife, mother, writer, reader, teacher, deep thinker, and sinner saved by grace. Suzanne and her family reside in Northern Virginia, but Suzanne will always call her native South Carolina home.

Married to her best friend for twenty-five years, Suzanne is active in her church, where she and her husband have served as deacons for over a decade. They enjoy watching sports and visiting national parks with their two teenage sons. Suzanne is also an avid birder, easily and happily distracted by anything with feathers.

~*~
Connect with Suzanne:
Website: https://suzannefelton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l_suzanne_felton
Email address: suzannefeltonwriter@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should speak life with love to people

Speak Life with Love
A devotional by Joyce M. Averils

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

—Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

A little while ago, I attended the 60th birthday party of a good friend.

She is someone with whom I’ve shared life, laughter, and legal war stories with for decades. As part of the celebration, each guest was invited to share a recorded memory or favorite story about the birthday girl.

One particular video brought a chuckle from the crowd but had me squirming in my seat. The story took place many years ago when the birthday girl, another friend and I were all young attorneys trying to find our footing in a profession that was not always welcoming to women. We had noticed that a new, younger attorney who was smart, driven, and full of promise, was struggling to be taken seriously by the senior attorneys.

So, we did what we thought was wise at the time: We invited her to lunch and gave her “the talk.” Not about work ethic, skill development, or networking. No, we told her that her skirts were too short and her tops too low-cut. We didn’t pull any punches. We told her flat out: If she wanted to advance, she needed to change the way she dressed. Needless to say, our unsolicited advice didn’t land well. In fact, it earned us a nickname that still haunts me to this day: the “Fashion Police.”

When I heard the story retold at the party, I cringed. Not because the story wasn’t true, but because of how we handled it. Even though we meant well, our delivery lacked grace, compassion, and love. Have you ever had one of those moments when you said the right thing the wrong way or at the wrong time? Maybe you had good intentions, but your words caused harm rather than help.

That day, we failed to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). And that’s where everything went sideways. Here are some lessons I’ve learned over the years regarding the power of our words in relation to others:

Lesson #1: Truth Without Love is Just Noise

There’s a reason Paul tells us in Ephesians to speak the truth in love. Truth without love is harsh. It’s like tossing a stone when someone needs a hand. Yes, our words were true, but they weren’t tender. And they weren’t asked for.

Looking back, I realize we hadn’t invested enough in a relationship with her. We hadn’t earned the right to speak into her life in such a personal way. There’s an old saying: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” That day, our colleague didn’t feel our care, she felt our criticism.

Lesson #2: Words that Build, Not Break

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.” Our words are meant to edify, not tear down. Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) reminds us that “the tongue has the power of life and death.” Our words can breathe life into someone's dreams or snuff them out entirely.

That young attorney later confessed that our comments had made her question her career path. Thank God she didn’t quit. Thank God she pressed on and has since enjoyed a successful, impactful legal career.

I’m ashamed that my words almost became a stumbling block. I wanted to help, but I let judgment speak louder than love.

Lesson #3: Peace Requires Prayer

1 Thessalonians 5:13 (NIV) encourages us to “live in peace with each other.” Peace doesn’t just happen. It requires intention. Encouraging words promote peace. Careless words create confusion. After that unfortunate lunch, we didn’t just stir up gossip, we stirred up division.

If I had prayed before speaking, things might have gone differently. But in my pride and certainty, I never stopped to ask God, “Is this how You would have me handle this?”

That’s a lesson I carry with me now: Praying to God for wisdom in what you say before speaking is a spiritual discipline. The Holy Spirit is our Counselor and Guide. If we truly want to build others up and reflect Christ in our conversations, we must invite Him into our words.

James 1:19 (NIV) gives us the blueprint: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” That verse alone could save us from a world of regret.

Lesson #4: Let’s Be Life-Givers

As women of faith, we are called to be life-givers. Not just in what we do, but in what we say. We all have moments we wish we could take back, words we wish we could unsay. But even in those moments, there is grace. God redeems, teaches, and transforms. My unfortunate experience taught me to pause, to pray, and to speak with care. I never want to be remembered for being “right” more than I’m remembered for being kind.

Conclusion: Let’s be women who speak life. Let’s commit to building bridges, not walls. Let’s speak truth but let’s do it with gentleness, wisdom, and love. Because in the end, it’s not just what we say. It’s how we say it, and why.

Let’s Pray: Lord, help me to speak with wisdom, compassion, and grace. Teach me to be slow to speak and quick to listen, always seeking to build others up and not tear them down. Holy Spirit, guide my words so that they reflect Your love and truth. May every word I say bring life, healing, and peace to those around me. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Words” by Hawk Nelson. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She makes her home on the coast of South Carolina.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: A teaching about memorial stones in our journey

Every Stone Has a Story
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

And Joshua said to them, “Pass on before the ark of the Lord your God into the midst of the Jordan, and take up each of you a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the people of Israel, that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’ then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever.”— Joshua 4:5–7 (ESV)

When the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, God instructed Joshua to have 12 men, one from each tribe, gather stones from the riverbed.

These stones were more than big rocks. Each was a testimony. Each stone told a story. Each stone was a reminder to future generations of the Lord’s mighty power and faithful deliverance. God intended that these stones would stand as generational reminders about the presence and power of God in their history, their present and their future.

Each of our lives are filled with moments where God has brought us through challenges. When drama swirled around us like a raging flood, He was there. When all hope seemed lost, He was there. These moments are worth remembering, worth passing on as anchors for our children and future generations.

I believe that hope, faith, joy, and praise can be like memorial stones in our spiritual journey—markers that proclaim, “God has been here.” Let’s consider them individually and watch as we review the anchoring and propulsion that we get when they are combined.

Hope is not wishful thinking. Hope is confident expectation based on God’s promises. Hope during trials or triumph reminds us that God is still at work. Hope dares to believe there’s something better on the other side. Hope drives us to take another step and to keep moving forward in life.

When we build our life on hope, we create a memorial that says to our children and our communities, “I believed in God’s future, even when I couldn’t see it.” Hope becomes a stone of testimony. It may sit quietly in our soul. But hope nurtured by congruent action frequently develops fulfillment.

Faith is often shaped in the middle of God’s miracle and long before it is manifest. The Israelites didn’t gather the stones before the waters parted—they gathered them from the dry riverbed after they stepped out in obedience. Faith moves first, often without all the answers, trusting that God will provide. Monumental faith may be a heavy burden until it is placed on us as an altar at which we worship the God who gave us strength.

Your acts of faith, however small or large, can become memorials. The prayer you kept praying when answers didn’t come. The obedience you offered when the path was unclear. These acts tell a story. And when your children or spiritual heirs ask, “How did you keep going?” you can point to your stone of faith and say, “Because I knew God would be with me.”

Joy is a stone that says, “Even in the storm, I sang.” It is a powerful memorial to those around you. When others see your joy, even in hardship, it sparks questions. And like the Israelites explaining the stones at Gilgal, you get to testify: “This joy came from the Lord—it’s not mine, it’s His gift to me.” Nehemiah declared, "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). Joy is a deep-rooted gladness that endures through sorrow, difficulty, and loss. It comes from knowing that God is in control and that His goodness will prevail.

Praise is a present-tense declaration of past victories and future confidence. Every time we worship God, we place another stone in our spiritual memorial. Praise reminds us—and those who hear us—of what God has done. Praise cements the story of God’s faithfulness in our own memories. Praise opens a window for the declaration of our spiritual development. Our songs, prayers and testimonies are markers of God’s grace. When we gather with others and lift our voices in worship, we echo the voices of generations past, saying, “Look what the Lord has done.”

In 1 Peter 2:5, believers are called “living stones.” Just as Joshua’s 12 stones were physical reminders of God's power, we ourselves are memorials. We are living, breathing testimonies to God’s grace. Your life can say what stones never could: “He changed me, and He can change you too.”

What stones are you laying down today? What memorials are you building with your hope, faith, joy, and praise? Remember how God has shown up for you. Mark the moments. Let’s become the stories that tell of God’s goodness to a generation hungry for meaning and stability.

Let’s Pray: Lord, help us to remember. Help us to build spiritual memorials with our hope, faith, joy, and praise. May our lives speak of Your goodness and power. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Upon This Rock” by Allison Durham Speer. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Story of Your Life” by Matthew West. Listen it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson is the Director Emeritus of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries for the North American Division. In this role, he was the friend, advocate and gatekeeper for the profession of chaplaincy among Adventist pastors. 

His new mission is to specialize in personal and personnel development coaching. He journeys with and guides clients, personal and corporate, as they define their goals and grow into their full potential.

His pastoral career began in the Allegheny East Conference where he was ordained.

Subsequently, he served in the Potomac Conference at the Sligo and Seabrook churches. His professional dream was to be a chaplain in the United States Navy. He got to live that dream and achieved the rank of Commander before retiring from Naval service in 2015 with 26 years of service.

Chaplain Anderson has earned four graduate degrees: He earned his Master of Divinity Degree was earned at the seminary at Andrews University. He earned a Master’s of Education from the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Sacred Theology from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C.

Chaplain Anderson and his wife Debra have been married for 41 years. They have two healthy, saved and well-adjusted adult children who picked good spouses and delivered four grandchildren.

Adventures through traveling, reading, praying, preaching, teaching and writing are the avenues of ministry and self-care that define his now and his destiny.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when you are facing failure in this life

The Biblical Response to Failure
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”—Psalm 73:26 (ESV)

Failure is an unavoidable part of life.

Sometimes we fail publicly, in ways others see and remember. Sometimes we fail privately, when our inner battles leave us discouraged and defeated. In those moments, we are painfully reminded of our limitations. We are not invincible. We are not perfect. We are human.

Asaph, the writer of Psalm 73, knew what it was like to wrestle with failure—not just moral failure, but the kind that shakes the soul. In the earlier verses of that psalm, he confesses to deep confusion and envy when he sees the prosperity of the wicked. He wonders why those who defy God seem to flourish, while those who walk with the Lord often suffer. That emotional and spiritual disorientation was, in a very real sense, a kind of failure—a failing heart, a weary soul, a shaken faith.

But it is precisely in this place of frailty that Psalm 73:26 breaks through with incredible hope: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

I have gleaned four life lessons from this text about how to deal with and live with my own failures. Perhaps you can find value in them too:

Life Lesson #1: God is not surprised by our failure.
We often treat failure as a disqualification, but God sees it as part of our development process. Throughout Scripture, we find faithful men and women who stumbled: Moses struck the rock, David sinned gravely, Peter denied Christ, Paul spoke of his weakness. Yet none of them were abandoned by God. Why? Because our failures don’t define our relationship with Him—His grace does.

Life Lesson #2: Failure is not the end of the story.
God has a way of redeeming what is broken. Our setbacks can become the soil in which deeper trust is planted. Sometimes we need to fail so that we can discover the strength that is not our own. Asaph admits, “My heart may fail.” That’s a confession of reality. But then he follows it with truth: “God is the strength of my heart.” That’s a confession of faith.

Life Lesson #3: In failure, we are drawn to dependence.
When everything is going well, we can easily fall into the illusion of self-sufficiency. But when we fall short, when our strength runs dry, we are brought back to the heart of the gospel: We are not enough, but Jesus Christ is. Asaph calls God his “portion forever.” That’s the language of inheritance, of something lasting and unshakeable. Earthly success fades. Human approval shifts. But the Lord is our eternal portion.

Life Lesson #4: The response to failure is not despair, but worship.
As the psalm progresses, Asaph moves from doubt and confusion to a place of renewed devotion. He ends Psalm 73 by saying, “But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works” (Psalm 73:28). Failure can be the doorway to a deeper relationship with the Lord.

So, today, if you find yourself weighed down by failure—whether it’s failure in your walk with God, in a relationship, in a responsibility, or even in your own heart—lift your eyes to the One who never fails. Let Psalm 73:26 be an anchor for your soul. 

Remember: Your failure is not final. God's strength is reliable and it lasts forever. Lean on Him when you're facing failure. Let that be your hope today.

Let’s Pray: Lord of all creation, thank You for Your grace that looks beyond our faults and failures and sees who You are growing us to be. When we fail or falter, restore within us your image. Replenish within us the joy of the Lord. Forgive us our sins and help us to freely forgive others. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Strength of My Life” by Vertical Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson is the Director Emeritus of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries for the North American Division. In this role, he was the friend, advocate and gatekeeper for the profession of chaplaincy among Adventist pastors. 

His new mission is to specialize in personal and personnel development coaching. He journeys with and guides clients, personal and corporate, as they define their goals and grow into their full potential.

His pastoral career began in the Allegheny East Conference where he was ordained.

Subsequently, he served in the Potomac Conference at the Sligo and Seabrook churches. His professional dream was to be a chaplain in the United States Navy. He got to live that dream and achieved the rank of Commander before retiring from Naval service in 2015 with 26 years of service.

Chaplain Anderson has earned four graduate degrees: He earned his Master of Divinity Degree was earned at the seminary at Andrews University. He earned a Master’s of Education from the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Sacred Theology from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C.

Chaplain Anderson and his wife Debra have been married for 41 years. They have two healthy, saved and well-adjusted adult children who picked good spouses and delivered four grandchildren.

Adventures through traveling, reading, praying, preaching, teaching and writing are the avenues of ministry and self-care that define his now and his destiny.

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

Review of "Grace Bible for Kids"

Momentum Influencer Network invited me to review the Grace Bible for Kids.

I accepted their invitation because I believe this Bible is filling in a gap and will help children who have Dyslexia read the Bible in a much easier and helpful way.

Here are some words from Momentum about this beautiful book: Created in partnership with Holman Bibles, 2K/DENMARK and Cambridge University, the CSB Grace Bible for Kids is designed to enhance readability for kids with all levels and varieties of dyslexia and other reading challenges.

The CSB Grace Bible for Kids features innovative and academically tested typeface, layout, and design principles. These principles include distinct letter forms and added space between letters, words, lines, and paragraphs.

Dyslexia shouldn’t keep kids from reading the Bible. And now, it doesn’t have to! Help every kid experience the truth of God's Word with the CSB Grace Bible for Kids.

~*~

My Review of Grace Bible for Kids:

There are so many things to love about this Bible!

I love the beautiful blue cover that feels soft and smooth to touch. I like the multicolored cross symbol on the front cover. I like the “Grace Bible for Kids” logo on the bottom left of the front cover. I like how the lime green lettering on the book’s spine contrasts with the blue leather material and is accented by orange lines that neatly divides the text.

I like the “How Can the Bible Help You” page on the left side that I saw as soon as I opened the Bible. I like how they presented the help in sections. For example: When you feel “Afraid” they advise you to read Isaiah 41:10 and Hebrews 13:6.

I like how the first few pages have information that serve as a guide to help the reader effectively study the Bible. Such as: “Studying Your Bible” and “Bible Skills” and “Test Your Bible Knowledge” and “Favorite Bible Stories”. There’s even a section titled “How Do I Have Quiet Time with God” and the words beneath that title show you to do that effectively.

The font on every page is larger than the standard and very easy to read.

This Bible is a true gem that caters to kids with Dyslexia and would make a meaningful Christmas gift for the child in your life who struggles to read.

~*~

Enter the Giveaway via Rafflecopter, for your chance to win a copy of this Bible:

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c502/?

Note: This giveaway contest is only for residents of the USA.

~*~

Learn more: https://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/purchase-the-csb-grace-bible/

Christmas gift shopping ideas: https://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/holman-gift-guide/

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

#GraceKidsBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible and @bhpub

Devotionals for the Heart: When God prepares a feast for you in the valley

A Feast in the Valley
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”—Psalm 23:5 (NIV)

God has prepared a feast for you. But this feast is not only on the mountaintops when things are perfect and everything is turning out the way you dreamed. God prepares a feast for you in presence of your enemies.

Whenever I have read through Psalm 23, I imagine that this feast is happening in a lovely meadow where everything is perfect. God has prepared this beautiful feast. He has anointed my head with oil and my cup is overflowing because He has blessed me so greatly.

However, when I read this passage a few months ago, it occurred to me that the circumstances of this feast are not so perfect. In the previous verse, the setting is described as the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23:4). It was then that I realized this feast is taking place in the darkest valley while enemies stand by and watch.

Do you ever feel like you can’t enjoy anything so long as there is darkness or negativity in your life? I have found that there is always an enemy nearby trying to keep me from enjoying life. This enemy can be in the form of busyness, anxiety or fear. What keeps you from enjoying the good things God has placed in your life?

Whenever anxiety and fear are my companions, I feel suffocated. During those times, I don’t feel like enjoying anything good in life. These are my enemies, and they are constantly with me. Unconsciously, I realized that I kept waiting for the perfect circumstances to finally enjoy what God has for me when I reach my goal of finally conquering my anxiety. I think I can enjoy all the good things God has given me when I don’t have to worry about my finances anymore.

One thing I have found is that the enemies are always present, but so is God. Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, is always with us. He sits at the feasting table with you. The enemy may be present, but the enemy’s power is limited when your eyes are focused on Jesus. Turn your attention away from the darkness and the enemies that want to distract you. Focus on the Good Shepherd who has prepared a feast for you in the darkest valley.

Are you in a valley season of your life? Do you face darkness in your life and enemies that never seem to go away? God may not lift you up out of the valley and place you on the mountaintop quite yet. Maybe He wants to first enjoy a feast with you while you wait in the darkness. There is so much good God has showered upon us. Turn your eyes to the greatest good (Jesus). He will never leave you.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for preparing a feast for us in our valleys! Please help us to remember to always keep our focus on You and Your goodness. Help us to lean into Your goodness, love, mercy, grace and kindness. Open our eyes to the infinite blessings You have placed in our lives. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Hills and Valleys (Acoustic Video)” by Tauren Wells. 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: How to cultivate an attitude of gratitude

Cultivate Gratitude
A devotional by Peg Arnold

“Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness.”

—Colossians 3:17 (MSG)

It was early in the day when I woke up and went to enjoy my morning coffee.

Sitting on the kitchen counter was a delicious cinnamon roll. My thoughtful husband had gotten up early and traveled out into the wintry weather to buy this sweet treat for me. My mouth was watering as I heated the roll and fixed my coffee. He knew I loved sugary and gooey breakfast treats.

I sat down in a comfy seat in front of the fireplace and took my first bite with great expectation. It was dry, bready, and not as sweet as I had anticipated. The first words out of my mouth were, “What’s wrong with this?” Not a single word of gratitude to my husband for his unexpected efforts but a critical comment with disdain instead.

My husband playfully replied, “Well, good morning to you too, and thank you dear for the unexpected surprise!”

I immediately backtracked and became defensive as I made excuses for why I responded the way I did. When I finally expressed my appreciation, it was a futile attempt. To make matters worse, I have been trying to focus on cultivating a thankful heart and practicing an attitude of gratitude. Instead, I failed to demonstrate appreciation for those whom I love most dearly. It happens when I least expect it and instead of apologizing, I become defensive and try to make excuses. Does this ever happen to you?

It’s easy to express gratitude when everything is going well and we are well-rested. The challenge to be grateful occurs when we are tired, distracted, or our expectations of others have not been met. Some examples you might identify with are when the garbage was taken out of the house but the trashcan in one room was forgotten, or the car was cleaned but the windows were still dirty, or the kitchen has been cleaned but the counters still have crumbs on them. Instead of responding with gratitude for the effort made, we sometimes start complaining and pointing out what was left undone.

Throughout his letters in The Holy Bible, Paul instructs early believers in God who were followers of Jesus Christ not to complain and grumble. He models being content in all circumstances, and thankful in all things. When we respond to others with criticism or defensiveness, it can strain our relationships. In contrast, words and actions of love, appreciation, and sometimes biting our tongues (self-control) can strengthen our personal connections with the people we love.

After I apologized to my husband, I asked for his help in keeping me accountable if I began to complain and grumble again. I realize these are selfish responses that can negatively impact others. Choosing to be content and thankful in all circumstances is not always my first response, but I am working on it.

As we learn to cultivate an attitude of gratitude, may we increase our awareness of how our responses affect those around us. Let us each strive to plant the seeds of thankfulness in all we say and do while learning to recognize and pull out the weeds of discontent, criticism, and defensiveness.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord,

We want to come to you with a contrite heart. We know we have been selfish in our attitudes and expectations around those we love most. Help us to recognize when we become defensive and critical of others. Teach us how to cultivate the attitudes of love, appreciation, humility, and kindness. Thank You for your patience with me whenever I falter. Help us to demonstrate that same patience You give us to others. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Peg Arnold, Speaker/Author/Teacher is a Drama Queen for Jesus. 

Her vibrant, interactive, and soul-stirring messages encourage all to embrace their God-given value. As a mom, wife, nana, mentor, with a master’s in counseling, she connects on a personal basis by sharing her joys and challenges of many life experiences through her dramas, messages, and witness. Whether talking with a friend over coffee or addressing hundreds of people at a conference, her passion for equipping women is contagious.

She has published devotions on YouVersion and in the Upper Room. In addition, she has contributed to two Chicken Soup for the Soul books, three anthologies, numerous articles, and blogs. Her devotional, Devotions for the Distracted Heart, received a 2022 OASIS award.

Peg desires everyone to know that their story is important and has a purpose. She grew up in Michigan and raised her family in Maryland. Later in life, Peg and her husband relocated close to their family in Colorado.

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Connect with Peg:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arnoldpeg/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pegarnoldwow
Website: https://pegarnold.org/ Get some freebies when you visit!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC51V_iWr0RfGAQvQnWVXEoA
Devotions for the Distracted Heart blog: https://pegarnold.wordpress.com/
YouVersion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/22261-devotions-for-the-distracted-heart
Holiday YouVersion: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/28680-holiday-devotions-for-the-distracted-heart
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