Devotionals for the Heart: God will always keep all of His promises

God is Faithful to Keep His Promises
A devotional by Sarah Cole

“And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”—Hebrews 11:11-12 (NIV)

Do you ever feel like a kid beneath the Christmas tree, anxious to open God’s gifts right now?

The week before Christmas, I would help my father wrap gifts while my mother stood in the kitchen making chocolate fudge candy. Dad crooned to Bing Crosby as he transformed boring brown boxes into colorful masterpieces. I sat beneath the tree, desperate to see their contents.

We are a society caught between wanting everything now and yet having to wait for it. We wait for our morning coffee to heat up, rush hour to clear up, the weather to warm up, and our bodies to shape up. But the more significant challenge is waiting for God to fulfill our deepest longings.

If you’ve been waiting for what feels like an eternity, find solace in knowing God’s delay is rooted in His perfect judgment and goodness. His plan may be mysterious, but His love for you is not. True contentment comes not from having everything we want but from recognizing that Jesus Christ is enough—He is our ultimate source of joy and our reason for living.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) is a powerful reminder to trust Him with all our hearts, acknowledging His perfect timing and wisdom. This Bible verse tells us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Feeling entitled robs us of joy and peace and fuels a never-ending struggle to align life with our wishes. I don’t know about you, but I find that exhausting!

If you’re tired of waiting and tempted to seize control, you’re not alone. Even heroes of the faith, like Abraham, took matters into their own hands when they thought God wasn’t moving fast enough (Genesis 16:1-4).

Trusting God means knowing at this moment you are precisely where you’re supposed to be. Like Sarah, who had unwavering faith amid uncertainty, you can trust Him to fulfill His promises, even if they seem far-fetched.

Friend, as hard as it is to wait, let God use this season to prepare you for your promised land. Take time to enjoy the gift of today because tomorrow’s gifts aren’t meant to be opened yet.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
When my waiting season feels heavy, equip me to enjoy today as I trust You with my tomorrows. When doubts fill my mind, remind me that Your plans for me will unfold perfectly, as I trust Your timing above mine. I’m grateful You love me enough to ensure all the pieces fall into place. When I can’t see the complete picture, I’m confident that the day I open Your gifts, I will be ready to enjoy them. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Promises” (feat. Joe L Barnes & Naomi Raine) | Maverick City Music | TRIBL. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s interest in writing began in grade school when her poem was published in the local paper. Since then, she has written for her college newspaper and two community newspapers where she wrote restaurant reviews and articles for their ‘best of’ spread. 

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

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

Sarah's devotionals have been published in David C. Cook’s The Quiet Hour and Devotions, The Secret Place by Judson Press, and Pray a Word a Day by Guideposts. Her short story will be featured in an upcoming book, Too Amazing For Coincidence, also to be published by Guideposts. To this day, Sarah smiles, pinches herself and gives God all the glory.

When she's not writing, she's enjoying her hobbies that include dog sitting, watching cooking shows and taking day trips.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why you should let God fight your battles

When You Let God Fight Your Battles
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

—Romans 8:37 (NIV)

The negative words echoed in the dark corridors of my mind: “You can’t start your own business! You don’t have the experience.”

Just as I was able to silence the noise, more words came rushing in like a flood: “Why would you want to do that anyway? There are other things out there that are much more meaningful.”

I made the terrible mistake of announcing my goals to my family and friends—the people who I thought would be the most supportive. I told them that I wanted to start a non-profit organization in order to assist those in prison with their transition to society. I beamed with pride as I explained how I felt God calling me to do this and that it had been a passion of mine for years. I presented the findings of my research that detailed the benefits of such a ministry. The positive impact on the lives of those in prison would be exponential, causing a ripple effect to their families and to the surrounding community. I was determined to make a difference in this world, but right then, I felt like the world was against me.

When God gives you a dream or a vision, sometimes it’s not for you to share with everyone who has a listening ear. There are people around you who are not always for you. I learned this simple lesson the hard way. I was crushed with disappointment by the ones who tried to convince me not to proceed with this new venture. I felt overwhelmed with doubt, and I started to question my skills and abilities. I wondered whether this huge task was suitable for me.

The enemy uses negative thoughts and limiting beliefs to paralyze us. His objective is to stop us from pursuing our purpose. But we serve a God who has overcome the enemy, and we too are overcomers because we belong to the Most High God! When God says yes, it doesn’t matter who says no.

I had to remind myself of God’s promises and the power that was available to me in His Word (The Holy Bible). I had to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). I had to recognize that I was not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). I had to use the weapons of prayer and praise to defeat the enemy who saw my potential and tried so hard to shut it down before it even started.

We must look ourselves in the mirror daily and affirm God’s truth into our lives. Here are a few Bible verses that can help us in our endeavor to speak truth:

“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.” (Psalm 118:6 NIV)

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV)

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17 NKJV)

“If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NKJV)

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 NIV)

Once we know God’s truth, there will be no reason for us to believe the enemy’s lies. We can stand firm on the His promises and allow His light to dispel the darkest of any negative thoughts or beliefs. This is how we fight our battles, and with God, we win!

Let’s Pray: Dear God, Thank you for Your truth that reminds us who we are in You. We are grateful that You have given us the victory over the enemy. May we be transformed by the renewing of our minds so that we can hear Your voice and obey Your Word. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Battles” by The Afters. 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 that will be introduced in 2023.

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

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

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

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

She treasures spending quality time with her family.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When God promises to give you something new

A Promise of Something New
A devotional written by Essie Faye Taylor

“Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.”—Isaiah 42:9 (KJV)

The minute I walked into my apartment the stench was unbearable.

I gasped for air as I pinched my nose between my finger and thumb. I squinted my eyes and made a whistling sound with my mouth. “What is that smell?”

I opened the door and windows to let in the fresh air. Then I quickly searched the house to locate the smell. I opened the refrigerator in search of spoiled food. Finally, I found the culprit. It was the trashcan. There was a bag of spoiled raw chicken in there.

The smell of old food permeated the entire house, making breathing unbearable. I have a question for you: What old thing in your life is stinking up your thinking or your perspective of life? Are you allowing old thoughts and hurts to hold you captive and prohibit you from experiencing the new blessings that the Lord promises?

In the text, the eagle-eye prophet Isaiah declares a message of victory. As the mouthpiece of God, he boldly speaks of new things to come. God declares through the prophet that old things have passed. I’d like to pause here because many times, we are stuck in the past.

We are fixated on negative past experiences of fear or failure. We are trapped in the grips of unforgiveness, past pain, or grief. Don’t get me wrong, your experiences and feelings are valid. What happened was unfair, and hurtful, and the pain is real. However, God promises healing for your past. He promises to give us something fresh and brand new. God is ready to forget the former things and admonishes us to forget in the sense of not dwelling on the past. He wants us to move forward into the new blessings He has for us.

The prophet (Isaiah) declares that old things are over, meaning they have passed. We no longer have to relive our past mistakes or bad choices. They have passed.

Here are five steps you can take to forget the past and move on with your life:

Step #1: Don’t dwell on the past. Instead, remember the lessons you’ve learned. Remember the pain, but don’t get stuck there.

Step #2: Heal day by day through various strategies: therapy, prayer, and journaling. Surround yourself with faith, hope, and love.

Step #3: Partner with God to turn from the old and embrace the new.

Step #4: Rid yourself of the “smell” of the old that permeates your thinking, perspective, and life experiences. Let go of the pain and forgive those who have hurt you.

Step #5: Remember, turning from the old and embracing the new takes a paradigm shift. It is worth renewing your mind in order to walk toward a new path and a new vision. Be kind to yourself.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, You know my secrets. You know the extent of my past—the good, bad, and ugly. You are acquainted with my pain and grief. You saw it all—you were there all the time with your love, grace, and mercy. Father, heal my broken places. 

Heal me from the old things: thoughts, ideas, painful experiences, relationships, etc. that would hinder my progress in life and in Your Kingdom. You also know my future. You know my end from my beginning. Help me to believe and embrace the new things that you promise. Give me a new perspective and renew my faith in myself, in others, and most importantly in You. 

Don’t allow my past to ruin my future. Heal me and I shall be healed. Thank you Father for hearing and answering me. 

In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Just the Beginning” by Kurt Carr. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Ways Are Not Our Ways

His Ways Are Not Our Ways
A devotional by Wendy Wilson Spooner

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.”—Isaiah 55:8 (NIV)

How hard it must have been for Moses to lead the children of Israel for 40 years, and then not be allowed to lead them into the Promised Land.

God raised up Joshua to give Moses a break before his time was over on this earth. At least that’s one way to look at it, and that scenario brings me comfort knowing what an unbelievably humble and patient but never-endingly strong leader the baby in the bullrushes became.

Moses was born to enslaved Israelite parents under Pharaoh’s rule. Pharaoh worried about a revolt with the growing Israelite to the extent that he ordered the extermination of all male babies to weaken the inhabitants in them. The mother of Moses was determined to save her baby. So, she sent her daughter to set him free on the Nile River, out of the clutches of Pharoah’s command. But the King of Egypt never guessed his daughter would find Moses in a basket on the river bank and claim the future prophet as her own.

Read more about this remarkable true story in Exodus 2:1-10.

Two major life lessons can be gleaned from this Bible story:

Life Lesson #1: God keeps His promises.

Always wait on the Lord even when the outcome may not happen as quickly as we would like. Once the Israelites arrived at Jericho, they were not given permission to storm the city. They had to wait seven days while marching and camping, waiting on the Lord. A deepening of faith comes when we wait on the Lord, our trust in Him increases, and when we wait in faith, listening and following each step of guidance, God will undoubtedly renew and transform us. A large amount of time passed from when God originally promised the land to the Israelites, and when they entered and claimed it as their own.

Life Lesson #2: Obedience to the Lord brings great blessings.

God gave Joshua very specific directions to defeat Jericho and claim the city. When we read this Bible story, it almost sounds like a fairy tale because of its simplicity. But the Lord usually keeps things pretty simple for us like asking the Israelites to merely look at the snake Moses raised up on his staff to be healed and to be saved (Numbers 21:8). It’s we who complicate what He commands.

Ultimately, the Israelites obeyed the Lord’s instructions, and the fallen walls became a crucial confirmation that God was fulfilling His promise to them as they took ownership of the Promised Land. The strategy the Lord provided Joshua to overthrow the fortified city of Jericho certainly defied all basic military logic. Read about it in Joshua 5 and Joshua 6. However, this story shows us that if we rely on God and His ways, He will always bring the best results in every aspect of our lives if we trust Him.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, bless us to have faith that our own walls can be overcome when we are obedient to your guidance, even if it doesn’t make sense at the time, because we know you see everything from the beginning to the end. Help us to trust and obey You, Lord. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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Note from Alexis: Wendy’s devotional message today reminds me of a song from The Prince of Egypt (movie) soundtrack! Listen to Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey sing “When You Believe” here.

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Author Bio:

Wendy is a Genetic Genealogist by day, a writer by night, and an artist in between.

Her love of what we can learn from history compels her to write the true stories she unearths because she’s found that truth is indeed much more exciting and inspiring than fiction.

Wendy writes about family, faith, grief, art, and overcoming obstacles in life by coming to know who we really are—the children of God, and the descendants of incredible people who paved the way for us—even if they really struggled. Wendy believes in learning from our ancestors, honoring them, and then standing on their shoulders to become a better generation.

As an award-winning family history writer, Wendy’s debut novel, Once Upon an Irish Summer, released April 3, 2020. This book is a dual timeline historical fiction novel about a young, gifted artist suffering from debilitating grief, who finds healing and inspiration in her Irish ancestry, and goes on to paint a masterpiece.

The sequel, Celtic Winter: Eliza’s Story, released November 5, 2021. The storyline goes back in time to the little sister left behind in Ireland to keep her family alive, woven with present-day Beth’s continuing story as she races the clock with the young man she loves to find the only person who could save his mother’s life.

When Wendy is not researching or writing, she hikes, paints, loves being a church youth leader, binges on epic Bollywood movies, and hangs out with her greatest loves—her family.

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Connect with Wendy:
Website: https://wendywilsonspooner.com/
Blog: https://wendywilsonspooner.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorWendyWilsonSpooner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyspooner/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Wendy_W_Spooner

Devotionals for the Heart: When you learn to trust God's promises

Trusting God’s Promises
A backup devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“And blessed [spiritually fortunate and favored by God] is she who believed and confidently trusted that there would be a fulfillment of the things that were spoken to her [by the angel sent] from the Lord.” –Luke 1:45 (AMP)

In our western culture, we are bombarded with promises that come from seemingly trustworthy sources yet fall flat on delivery.

A roommate says he will take out the trash, yet there it accumulates. A boss swears your input is valuable but does nothing to implement those ideas. A spouse betrays with infidelity. Some of these disappointments are easy to overlook, but others are deeply heartbreaking. When people fall short of their word how can we remain steadfast?

The Bible’s Gospel of Luke tells the stories of two individuals who have contrasting responses promises. The first account is that of an aging priest called Zechariah who was described as being a devout keeper of God’s commands. Both Zechariah and his wife were considered blameless, upstanding members of the Jewish community (Luke 1:6). Scripture says that this couple prayed for children but remained barren into old age.

It’s reasonable to think that Zechariah and Elizabeth had lived a lifetime disappointed without children, and maybe they believed that God had passed them by. Zechariah especially, a man committed to a career of intercession between man and God, might have felt resentful. Perhaps he was angry that his decades of prayer had gone unanswered.

I know those feelings, maybe they are familiar to you too. I’ve prayed for more than a decade for physical healing over chronic pain. Amid those pleas, I have seen countless others receive healing, wondering if somehow God had deliberately left me behind. Those negative thoughts about God dimmed my faith.

Zechariah responded to God’s messenger with disgruntled disbelief when, after all, the old man’s prayers were being answered. Let’s read what he said to God in Luke 1:18 (AMP): “How will I be certain of this? For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in age.”

Had this priest lost his trust in God’s promises? Where was his faith in God?

As it turns out, Zechariah’s desires for a son were aligned with God’s plan for the world. They just were not on the same timeline. What if the same is true for you and me? What if we are casting judgement solely on mismatched timing?

The second story, in contrast to this first, is that of a young girl who also finds herself in dialogue with God’s messenger over a miraculous conception. I guarantee this virgin, probably still somewhat a child herself, had not been praying for the directive she was being given! The news of pregnancy was something an unmarried maiden would rather not hear!

But Mary’s heart had not been scarred in the same way Zechariah’s had. She was anticipating her impending marriage and probably excited about what was ahead. This girl’s prayers were likely more directed by her future than by her past. Mary’s response, unlike Zechariah’s, is full of belief and trust. Let’s read what Mary said in Luke 1:34 (AMP): “How will this be, since I am a virgin and have no intimacy with any man?”

She wanted to know, not if it were true, but how it was true.

God has proven He is faithful to His word. He comes through on His promises. Zechariah’s heart was weary with years of waiting on prayer, yet God responded to him with favor. Mary’s heart was still malleable, thus she responded wholeheartedly to the Lord’s call on her future. One needed a reminder of God’s goodness while the other was anticipating it.

We too will be blessed when we hold to the word of God as true. Sometimes we just need a reminder that God’s timeline is better than our own. We can remain steadfast in faith despite the disappointments of the world because our story is still being written. The fulfillment is coming!

Let’s Pray: Father God, we bow before your perfection, humble to your wisdom. We don’t see like You see, therefore aim to stay reliant on You. Thank you for Your steadfast love and infinite grace. Help us to remain confident in Your promises. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, divide their time between Oregon and Hawaii. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is encouraging others via her inspirational blog, but prefers sharing face to face. Additionally, she is studying Christian fiction writing.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Quicksand

Be Still
A devotional by Erin M. Handley

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” – Matthew 7:7-8 (ESV)

Quicksand.

Imagine every visual example of quicksand you can think of. Unaware of your surroundings, you step into a situation that consumes you faster than you’re able to understand how you got in that situation to begin with. It is the surprise of the faulty foundation that catches you off guard. You are unable to physically move forward without the aid of logical thinking.

Your body flails, and you fight for life in an attempt to find your footing. But the more you struggle to get out, the deeper and faster you seem to sink. The physical quicksand can be a scary thought, but the mental and emotional quicksand many of us find ourselves in seems to feel just as bad as what we imagine the physical quicksand feels like.

We find ourselves in a struggle. We attempt to fight the thoughts and emotions that come with our situation. We struggle so much that we find ourselves deeper in the thoughts and emotions we were trying hard to avoid. We go from fighting them to being engulfed by them. Sometimes we get so stuck in the thoughts that consume us that we forget to remember the basics. We forget that the best way to fight is to simply be still. Our stillness gives us the opportunity to think more clearly and to simply wait on help. But whatever happens, it requires us to make the first move and take the first action of BEING still.

Being still is very different from doing nothing. Doing nothing seems to increase the thoughts and emotions that surround us. To be still requires intentionality and strategic thinking. To be still, we must focus on being still. We must collect ourselves. We must require everything that's in us—every fiber of our being—to be in alignment. We must tell our mind and body to get on the same page of being still.

And suddenly...it happens. We're still. Our body is still, our thoughts are still, even the situation seems still. But let’s be clear: being still doesn't change the situation. You’re still stuck. The difference now is that you have had enough time to observe the situation. After some thinking you realize you can't help yourself. There is no way to pull yourself up, and there is definitely no way to pull yourself out. You recognize you are incapable of fixing the situation or manipulating your circumstances to adhere to your deepest wills and desires. What's done is done, and you need help to get out of the situation.

But where is the faith?

We know Matthew 7:7-8 instructs us to go after what we want and that it is our responsibility to put in the action if we really want to receive the benefit. The Bible says in Matthew 7:7-8 (ESV) “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.”

Easy right? But let’s remember that James 2:26 reminds us that faith without works is dead. In the same way that we ask for the door to be opened, we have to actually desire for the door to open. Us simply formulating our lips to utter the words doesn't necessarily equate as us asking for whatever we're asking for.

This is faith. You have to really want your circumstances to change before they do. Those thoughts and emotions you may struggle with will not disappear until you are truly ready for them to go. Realign your thinking. Focus on what's more important. If for no other reason than simply allowing them the freedom to just 'be', you have to focus on the positive. You have to intentionally—with everything in you—tell your troubles where to go. You don't care where they go, they just can't stay with you, in your physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual space.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank you! Thank you for allowing us the authority of our minds and hearts. Thank you for entrusting us with the responsibility to be good stewards of our thoughts and emotions. We recognize that we can’t always control things that happen around us, but we thank you for allowing us to manage the things we can control – ourselves. Father, we ask that you help us in our times of need. When we can’t find a way out, we look directly to you. But we ask that you remind us that our faith is our responsibility. You require that when we bring our requests to you that we must also have the faith that is double the size of the request. Lord, we desire to elevate our minds and hearts. Thank you for continuously giving us opportunities to grow closer to you. And when we are in our darkest hours, we ask that you remind us to be still, focus, and tell our troubles where to go. In Jesus’s Name we pray. Amen.

*Note from Alexis: Erin’s devotional today reminds me of this song “Be Still” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should believe God and have faith

Do You Believe Me Now?
A devotional by Temeka Borden

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” 

–Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Many people use the words “faith” and “belief” interchangeably, while others argue differences exist. For the purpose of this devotional, I’m opting to use these two terms interchangeably.

I have a question for you. How many times have you worried about something, possibly loss sleep because of it, went to God about that thing, and He let you know in a variety of ways that everything will be okay? Yet, you still could not seem to shake that worry, or anxiety, or fear as you were going through that trial. However, in the end, it all turned out okay.

At that moment when you discover that everything worked out just fine, it’s almost as though you can hear God say, “Do you believe Me now?” Also, how many times have you experienced moments of doubt regarding something you know God is leading you to do? As humans, we experience our “moments”, but worry should not dominate our lives. Doubt should not dominate our lives either.

When I think about belief (or unbelief or doubt), Sarah from The Holy Bible comes to mind. After God said that Sarah would give birth to a son, Sarah laughed within herself, saying, “After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?” (Genesis 18:12) Sarah did not believe her being able to bear a child was possible. However, she eventually gave birth to Isaac (Genesis 21:2-3).

God kept His promise to Sarah. We must remember the Lord keeps His promises to us too. He does not lie. If God says He will do something, we must believe Him. This can relate to anything you can think of (from increase from a financial standpoint to complete healing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually).

However, some things take true effort on our part and some things take time. In a piece I wrote some time ago, I stated that although we serve a God who can make anything happen at any time, we must be patient and wait for some things. Often, we must undergo a preparation period before we receive something or advance to the next level. Preparation periods are not easy, but they are necessary and worth it!

You may be in a season of difficulty right now. You may feel as though things will never get better. You may feel as though there is no way out of the situation you’re currently in. You may be so overcome with worry, anxiety, and frustration that you are unable to see God working in your life. Everything may appear chaotic, confusing, and just crazy. You may feel as though you have been waiting on God for something for a lifetime. However, remind yourself that anything is possible with the Lord, and He can fix anything in your life and create a blessing out of the chaos.

The phrase “Everything is going to be okay” is a very common one. However, what about those times when things don’t go as you planned in your life?

We should always ask that God’s will be done in our lives. At times, our flesh will get in the way and cloud our vision of what God wants for us. At times, we do not consult with the Lord as we should, and at times, failure to consult with the Lord will land us in some predicaments.

Thankfully, we serve a forgiving and patient God who can bless us even when we “mess up”, although we are expected to learn from our mistakes.

When you follow the Lord’s instructions and do things the way He wants them to be done, everything will be okay. Things may not turn out the way you always expect, but you will be okay. So don’t wait until you come out of the trial or receive that blessing to believe that the blessing will happen for you. Have faith and remember that God always keeps His word.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, help us to trust You. Build within us a faith that survives every trial and overcomes every doubt. Help us to believe more in You. Teach us how to trust You. Thank You for always being there for us and for keeping Your Word. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Note from Alexis: Temeka's message reminds me of the song "Broken Places" by Plumb. Listen to it here. 

~*~
Author Bio:

Temeka Borden, better known by her pen name “Positivity Inspires,” is an author, speaker, minister, PharmD, multi-state licensed pharmacist, founder and owner of Positivity Inspires, LLC, and most importantly, a servant of the Lord.

She was introduced to Christ at a very early age and was raised in the church. Her ministry focuses on encouraging Christians to love God first, to love all people, to continually strengthen their bond with Christ, and to study His Word, and live His Word daily.
​
Dr. Borden has been blessed with a variety of gifts, and she has gained much professional experience in a variety of settings. She also has served in administrative roles in the professional and church settings. In addition to obtaining her PharmD, she also obtained her bachelor’s degree in biology (minor in English), and she is working on her third degree. What’s more, as stated in her words, “I completed a specialty pharmacy residency that prepared me for the workforce and made me a force to be reckoned with.”

Temeka is a long-distance runner, a drummer, a singer, and she has a strong “fashion sense.” She also can read and type at almost supersonic speed in some instances.

Dr. Borden loves to learn and is constantly looking for new ways to challenge herself.

She loves God and she loves people. She is “crazy about her family,” and she adores her friends. She strongly encourages others to show kindness, respect, and love to everyone.

Temeka loves and welcomes diversity and flourishes in culturally diverse environments.

Dr. Borden loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh. She also is passionate about giving back to the community. Her favorite sayings are “Speak Up!” and “Watch God Work!”

~*~
Connect with Temeka:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PositivityInspiresPage/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/positivity_inspires/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/pinspires

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Promises and His Perfect Timing

It’s On the Way
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” 

–Ephesians 3:20-21 (NKJV)

It was New Year's Day. I just received the news that my friend had given birth just a little earlier than her due date. The baby was healthy and my friend was doing well. She was relieved that the delivery was over. My friend and I went through the ups and downs of our pregnancies together.

We both experienced morning sickness and all of the special conditions that pregnancy had to offer. We encouraged each other through the process and we both wondered if we would make it to 40 weeks. Well, her waiting period had come to an end. As for me, I was still pregnant and I felt like my waiting period had no end. Secretly, I wished that I was the one who had given birth on New Year's Day. I wanted this pregnancy to be finished and I especially wanted the delivery to be over so that I could hold my baby and then continue with the next phase of raising a newborn.

The doctor strongly suggested that I induce the baby. I really did not want to choose that option, but I was running out of time. I was 39 weeks pregnant, my due date was steadily approaching, and there were no signs indicating that I was close to delivery. This would be my second child and I was getting uneasy about the inaction. I had frequent check-ups and stress tests to make sure that the baby was alright. All of the tests results were fine, but why wasn't anything happening? At this point in the game, the baby was supposed to drop, I was supposed to be dilated, and there was a slew of other symptoms that I was anticipating. None of these things had taken place. I felt like I was in limbo. The uncertainty was excruciating!

I scheduled the induction for a very early Wednesday morning. The day before, a good friend who is also a midwife came to visit me at my home. She told me about a few natural formulas and strategies that would hopefully prepare me for the next morning when I would be induced. I still was not dilated and there were no changes from the previous week. I followed her instructions at the beginning of the day on Tuesday, and I continued the natural procedures all day into the evening. Still no change.

As I was making plans for the next morning, my friend suggested I soak in the bathtub to relax since it had been a long day. I soaked only for a few minutes when all of a sudden I felt movement in my abdomen. I got out of the tub, my friend took one look at me and then informed me that we would not make it to the hospital. The baby was coming now! Much to our surprise, my baby was born in my bathroom that Tuesday evening. Thank God my friend who is a midwife was there to help me. I was overwhelmed with gratitude to God for delivering a healthy baby boy safely into my hands!

And just like that, God's promises to you will be born. It may seem like nothing is happening and everything is at rest; but God is moving and He is working on the inside. Your talents, gifts, skills, and abilities may be laying dormant, but they are waiting to be set loose so that you may reach the potential that God created in you. It's like pregnancy. There is something growing and developing inside of you and at the appointed time, everything He promised will come forth and you will give birth to God's purpose for your life. In the meantime, you have to pay attention to the opportunities God brings to you and pursue His will for your life at all costs. 

It will be worth it in the end.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, we want You to fulfill Your promises in our lives. Help us to discover Your will and to follow Your purpose so that we can reap the blessings that You have in store for us. We love you and we thank you. In Jesus's Name I pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Angela Anderson was born in Brooklyn, New York. She was raised in a Christian home in New Jersey. Angela dedicated her life to Christ and was baptized at the age of 12. 

As a child in elementary school, she developed a penchant for writing book reports and entering writing contests. By high school, she was taking advanced placement courses in English and Speech & Creative Writing. Angela’s love for journaling also had its beginnings in high school and it evolved into prayers journals and detailed notes for prospective book ideas. As a result, Angela is the author of a published 40-day devotional book titled Just When I Thought I Knew God. She also wrote a children’s book that is not yet published.

Although Angela wanted to somehow incorporate writing in her life, she is currently a Certified Human Resources Professional. Angela graduated from Rutgers University in NJ with a double bachelor’s degree in Labor/Employment Relations & Sociology. She also has an MBA from Strayer University.

Angela founded a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization called Head to the Sky, Inc. It was formed in order to assist those in prison with their transition into society and to reduce the rate of recidivism in the community. During this venture, Angela received a certification in grant writing from The Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership at Rollins College. Angela was very passionate about teaching, training, and sharing the love of Christ in this ministry; but she had to refocus her passion when she and her husband decided to start their family.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson for 16 years. Together they have two sons: Thomas (age 8) and Ryan (age 3). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling and she also enjoys spending quality time with her family. Her personal mission is to empower others to achieve their goals and dreams.

~*~
Connect with Angela:
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/angela.thomasanderson
Facebook fan page for her devotional book, Just When I Thought I Knew God:
https://www.facebook.com/jwitikg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelanderson1104/

Devotionals for the Heart: On being courageous and ready for change

Go Get It!

A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

–Joshua 1:9 (KJV)

My last devotional focused on Moses, the patriarch, who with the endorsement of God, led Israel out of Egypt. I focused on his use, in his latter days, of a leadership style that time had eroded.

He and his nation of wanderers were at an inflection point where the course of history would change. The angry, punitive outburst at the people and his display of unmitigated, rebellious violence disqualified Moses as the leader for the next phase of God’s plan. Moses went to the mountain top, viewed the Promised Land then died.

Before dying, Moses masterfully executed the four polarities of transition: succession planning, the peaceful transfer of authority, institutional change and generational shifting. This process involves intersecting continua. On the vertical axis is remembering and forging. The horizontal axis includes dreaming and executing.  

The 27th chapter of the Bible book of Numbers tells the brief story of the ordination of Joshua to lead Israel. Before his departure, at the behest of and in the presence of Divinity, Moses meets with the High Priest Eleazar, in the presence of the entire encampment. The census had determined a tribal population in excess of 600,000 people. They were all assembled. Before them all, Moses put his hands on Joshua and administered a commissioned to him as the new, God chosen, Leader. In that moment, Moses publicly passed his magisterial authority to Joshua. Joshua humbly but confidently enveloped the mantle of leadership.

The roles, responsibilities and authority of the new leader was public, uncontested, undeniable and unassailable. I am not sure how many days or months went by between that public transition of authority and the departure of Moses. We know that he preached the book of Deuteronomy before he left. But with dignity, honor and unabated health, he left. He did not die because he was 120 years old. His task on Earth was completed. God was transitioning him to life at another level. He was ready.

Joshua was ready too. He had served Moses faithfully and boldly, even in the face of disappointment. Moses recognized his time to step down. Joshua had used 40 years of apprenticeship to prepare to step up. In those 40 years, God, Moses and the people saw that the “Spirit was in him.”

Optimal generational shifts and corporate change require people who are spiritually prepared to embrace the inevitable change and willingly inhabit their roles within the change. So, Moses climbs a mountain and Joshua assembles the people on a plain near the Jordan River.

It is here that the Divine voice counsels Joshua and each of us, by extension, to “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

If you are my age, you still have much to offer, but, you should consider pouring some of your experience, wisdom and authority into some younger people within whom is clear evidence of the Spirit of God.

If you are young and beginning or midstream in your development, practice and hone your faith in God, fidelity, loyalty, competence and courage. Don’t rush to power and prominence. However, when your turn comes, don’t shirk the mantle. God will not allow it to fall upon you without giving you adequate preparation. When the inevitable events occur for which there is no adequate preparation, trust that God is with you and will deliver your success.

As you embrace your challenges for today, like Joshua did, forge forward. Rehearse the visionary principle; that as long as you remember how God has led you, there need be no fear of where or how He will lead you now. Whatever your role or job, go get it! With the presence and strength of God, claim the territory that He has enlarged and prepared for you today.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Self-Care

The Rainbow and Self-Care
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.”– Genesis 8:22 (NLT)

Crises are what they are because they suddenly and sometimes imperceptibly rob us of our sense of self, autonomy, community and security. When the enemy is silent and invisible, it is feared all the more because there is no apparent defense against it. We are vulnerable and as we have seen with COVID-19 the enemy may be indiscriminate and merciless.

Yet in the midst of it all, one day I went outside and almost immediately my visage, countenance and perspective changed. Why? Because I saw the sky. It was limitless. The clouds were floating silently in their appointed courses, gathering moisture to deliver somewhere else as rain.

I looked at the trees and the grass and saw that they were becoming verdant and green. Birds were chirping and squirrels were darting across the yard and through the trees. It occurred to me then, that a pandemic can stop the world economy. Travel, commerce, community and church stopped and regrouped. However, the earth kept spinning on its axis, which made the clouds move. The orbit around the sun changed the season from Winter to Spring.

Then I remembered the rainbow and God’s promise that from now on and forever, there will be seed time and harvest. The cycle of cold and heat, Summer and Winter will persist and day will inexorably, follow night.

That blessed assurance of tomorrow comes with a divine guarantee that each sunrise will be accompanied by new mercies and compassion sufficient for the day, because God is faithful. Great is thy faithfulness. That faithfulness gives us hope.

My sense of hope and my identity and security in Christ were renewed when I went outside and looked up. If you are feeling the blues because of this current pandemic, the isolation borne of social distancing, and the incessant news, get up! Go outside! Look up at the sky and see the vastness. Look at the nature around you and be comforted that Our God is greater than COVID-19 and any other malady that we might meet.

Go outside and see if you don’t reconnect with your sense of hope, security, and purpose. I did, and several songs came to mind: “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” “I Know My Redeemer Lives,” “Because He Lives,” and “Blessed Assurance,” among others.

So, when you go outside in your yard, balcony or courtyard, look up! Look around!

Feel the air on your skin and perhaps be soothed by a breeze. Listen for the birds chirping and the sounds of your neighborhood. Listen for the whisper of God in your soul.

Does a song come to mind? If so, let it envelop you and wash through your psyche. You may begin to relax. Vital metrics may slow down and balance. Whatever your experience will be, I would like to hear about. Leave a comment below this blog post and let’s talk about what you heard and felt when in pursuit of self care, you went outside.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Trusting Jesus Christ to guide us through life

Trusting the Shepherd in Troubled Times
A devotional by Tema Banner

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil.”

– Psalm 23:4a (NIV)

I have been in Israel with my daughter and a wonderful group that I now call family. 

When we left for our trip, the first week of March, spring was not yet here, daylight savings time had not begun, and the Coronavirus had not reached the fever pitch that it would soon reach. In fact, it was something that was taking place on the other side of the world and even though a cruise ship had been infected, there was no real concern to most Americans.

The trip was amazing, a spiritual journey that I will treasure the rest of my life.

As we flew home, Psalm 23 came to me, given the condition of our world as it relates to the concern over the Coronavirus, it reverberated with me as I am sure it does with you.

During our time on our trip, we were immersed in the word of God, walked the streets that Jesus walked, visited the towns of His ministry and saw the Bible come live! We knew what was happening in the rest of the world, so we took precautions, but we did not allow it to dampen our enthusiasm for the trip and our spiritual pilgrimage. Even when our planned excursion to Petra was canceled, we knew God was in control. 

There were many God moments along the way: those who miraculously received the funds for the trip, airplane schedules fell in line, the necessary rooms we required when our Petra trip was cancelled, became available, and many other instances in between that told us God was, and is, in control.

As I journeyed home, returning to the reality of everyday life, seeing the soft green, yellow fuzz on the tips of the trees that tell me spring has arrived, to the clock on my car dashboard that has yet to be sprung forward, I am reminded that Jesus is my shepherd, He loves me, He loves you, and carries us on His shoulders. He protects us no matter the path we tread.

Relax in His love and be secure in His everlasting, everyday protection. Let His words seep into your ear and settle in your heart. God is not surprised by anything that is going on in the world, nor anything that happens in your life. Trust that He is with you, even if you walk through the valley of the shadow of death.

~*~
Author Bio:

Writing stories that take the reader on a journey to parts unknown has been a lifelong love for Tema. She enjoys all history and continues daily to hone both her knowledge of history and her writing skills. 

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 an active member of her local RWA chapter, Carolina Romance Writers.

Tema has served as past President and Secretary as well as holding various chair positions. 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 three 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: Instagram.com/temabanner

Devotionals for the Heart: The Abundant Life from Jesus Christ

Living Abundantly
A devotional by Sharon Musgrove

“Then the Lord God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him."” – Genesis 2:18 (ESV)

A couple of years ago, my husband and I made the decision to downsize our family home. Our eldest child was graduating high school with plans to head off to University while our youngest was only two years behind. The changes in our lives initiated conversations of future retirement and plans beyond raising babies. Our large home felt like a drain on our time and resources; a hindrance to our future. So, we moved.

The new house was full of character and charm with sufficient with room for our kids to come home. The yard, however, was the thing that sold me. It had been smartly divided into what we believed to be manageable sized zones. Of personal interest to me was the garden.

I’d always dreamed of gardening, but the previous home had been located on a heavily wooded hillside alive with hungry wildlife. My extreme reaction to poison oak made it a place of frustration rather than gardening success. This new home came fully fenced, sun kissed and pre-planted.

The seasons changed and eventually the growing season hit full force. I was in the garden almost daily, admiring the flowers and the buds that were sprouting everywhere. Everywhere. Everywhere! Each bed, it turned out, was absolutely loaded with bulbs that were healthily multiplying and spreading. And while the flowering bulbs were of slight concern, the raspberry bushes were revealing a workload.

As I begun the berry harvest, a panic grew inside me. I could see the magnitude of what was coming and I knew I hadn't the time or ability to pick all that would come. I became sick with feelings of inadequacy and failure. Familiar feelings. Did we not just leave a property that took too much?

Living in abundant blessing did not look or feel like what I had assumed it would. I’d thought it could be divided into zones and it would manage itself. I’d assumed that fruitful gardening was like bank accounts with their tidy rows of credits and debits. This extravagant harvest was not controllable, not manageable…at least not by me.

In the midst of this dark thinking, light poured onto a patch that had been shaded. Suddenly, these words flooded my mind: That which God was providing was far more than I had hoped or dreamed…Wait, what? That was scriptural! Next, another verse entered my mind…His plans are to prosper and not harm me (Jeremiah 29:11)! The Word covered my fear in love. Here I was with far more than I could handle and that was God’s intent. It was good, not harming, to have abundance!

God created Eden fruitful, supplying sustenance to all. He gave Adam a management position in gardening. God shows us in Genesis 2:18 that solidarity is not good, help is. Living abundantly is a team sport.

What makes a profusion of juicy sweets a blessing? Sharing. Sharing both the blessing and the workload. The thought of letting others come and pick was a relief to the burden of the chore. I could have my fill and not be overwhelmed. Others could have their fill and be equally blessed!

A paradigm shift occurred that day. What else was weighing me down because I thought I needed to do it all myself? Where else were overwhelming feelings paralyzing me? What made me feel like a failure? What else could follow this pattern of abundance?

As the pile of berries grew in my bucket, so too did a list of tasks I knew I needed help with. Calling on others for help was a blessing to them and not my failure. Giving work to others brought them purpose and value and a share in the abundant life.

Looking back on the move, I am grateful. I'm thoroughly enjoying all that gardening has been teaching me. If I had known before that excess is a gift, I suppose I would have been contented to stay on the larger property. This lesson, however, came with the garden.

Thank you, Lord, for the abundance You have shared!

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, make their home in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. They have two grown children. Currently, Sharon is writing her first Christian historical fiction novel utilizing her study, experience, and understanding of self-destructive behaviors.

Devotionals for the Heart: Promises

Claiming the Promises of God
A devotional by Nanci Rubin

I wonder how the Biblical giants lived by such great faith? When I read the scriptures of overcoming faith, I wonder, can I do that? Is it possible? By faith, we receive. If it wasn’t possible, God wouldn’t have made such claims, as He does in Mark 9:23 (KJV) when Jesus said, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”

Scripture gives us a blueprint on how to do it. According to Matthew 21:21-22 (KJV), Jesus answered and said unto them, “Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea, it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing ye shall receive.”

Notice, He didn’t say you might receive, He said you shall receive.

Four Steps to Claim What God Promises

Step #1: Say It!

Positive or negative, it’s up to you. The woman in the Bible with the issue of blood could have said, “It’s no use for me to go to Jesus. I’ve suffered for twelve years.” But she spoke positively. According to Matthew 9:21 (KJV) she thought, “If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.”

Sometimes because of our unbelief and timidity we may have lost out on a blessing, a healing or a missed opportunity to witness. We should yield to the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit when He gives an unction for us to pray for a certain situation. We can have what we say as long as it lines up with God’s Word and we have faith to believe God for it.

The Bible says in Matthew 7:7-8 (KJV), “Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”

God is so ready to give us what we believe Him for. He delights in His children and loves to give us good gifts. He says in Matthew 7:11 (KJV), “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him?”

Step #2: Do It!

Your action either defeats you or puts you over. Your action is really important. The Bible says that Jarius approached Jesus while his young daughter was at home near death. He was the ruler of the synagogue and had faith to believe Jesus could heal his daughter. Even when he was told his daughter was dead, he was proactive and exercised his faith. Read about this remarkable story in Mark 5:36-43 (KJV).

We read in the Bible where Jesus instructed those He healed to go and “do” something. Wash their eyes or get in a pool of water. The widow of Zarephath was to make the prophet a cake from the last bit of flour and the last oil in her cruse. Do you think her son would have been healed if she hadn’t done what the Lord led her to do? Read 1 Kings 17:8-24 (KJV) for the full story.

Step #3: Receive It!

The woman with the issue of blood felt in her body that she was healed of the plague. It is written in Matthew 9:22 (KJV) how Jesus turned and when He saw her, He said, “Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith has made thee whole.” And the woman was made whole at that moment.

You can notice that the feeling and the healing followed the coming and doing. The woman said it first. She came for it second. Then she received, and felt in her body she was healed. There is no doubt in my mind that she told her family and friends all that the Lord had done. Wouldn’t you have? If I had suffered twelve years with a disorder, you bet I’d tell someone that I was supernaturally healed.

The Bible says that this woman had gone to many physicians, spent all that she had and was never better. God has provided everything we will ever need by the life and death of His son, Jesus. His sacrifice paved the way for us to be saved, healed and delivered. It is finished.

Step #4: Tell It!

There are many instances in the Bible where Jesus instructed the person healed to "Go and tell" or "Go and show" their healing to the priests. It’s important to testify to what the Lord has done. The Bible says in Revelation 12:11 (KJV), “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

We can speak a good confession and in so doing so we can write our own ticket with God. Our words frame our outcomes. The Bible confirms these steps for our success in every area of our lives as it is written in Psalm 45:1 (KJV): “My heart is inditing a good matter, I speak of the things which I have made touching the King, my tongue is the pen of ready writer.”

The Gadarene demoniac was healed when he saw Jesus afar off and ran toward Him and worshipped Him. According to Mark 5:19 (KJV), “Jesus suffered him not, but said unto him, 'Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.'”

I’m sure we have all experienced that adrenaline rush and good feeling after we’ve witnessed to someone about what God has done in our lives. The enemy hates for you to give God the Glory and Honor due Him. We must always “tell.” 

Again, how could we not? God is a good Father and He loves us beyond anything we can imagine. Remember He loves you just the way you are and He loves giving good gifts to His children.

~*~
Author Bio:

Nanci is a poet and short story writer published in Cypress News, Family Times E-Zine, Free Verse and the Commonwealth of Poetry. 

She belongs to RWA, ACFW, and Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild where she’s enrolled in his novel writing program.

Nanci lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and cats, Romeo and Juliette, along with their newest member of the family, Roni who is a seven-month-old Goldendoodle.

Recently, Nanci completed her debut novel, A Betrayal in Cross Keys. It is an Amish romance that she has placed in her agent's capable hands. The rest is up to God.

Devotionals for the Heart: New Beginnings and Bible verses

A New Year, A New Beginning
A devotional by Nanci Rubin

“Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me.”
 ~Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

This Scripture strikes me as one that could easily be construed for a new beginning, a clean slate upon which one can write. Happy New Year to everyone. I can’t wait to see what God will do in this new year. He never ceases to surprise me and He reveals himself in so many subtle ways. 

A good example being when I ordered some Amaryllis bulbs for the holidays and as they began to bloom to my pleasant surprise there was an Avocado seed in there, I was beyond delighted. God knew how much I love Avocado plants. I felt He’d given me a special present and it touched my heart in such a way that it made me weep. 

Surely God is a giver of good gifts! Just like it says in James 1:17 (KJV): “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, and with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” 

After a half century of living I’ve finally learned not to make resolutions I can’t keep, not to go on diets that I won’t stay on and not to join a gym that I won’t go to six months down the road, no matter how many health benefits it offers. What I do try to do is wait upon Him to show me my course for the new year. I have been perpetually blessed by new vistas, new friends and new opportunities. I truly believe each one is God ordained. If He has taught me anything it is the art of waiting. 

While I wait, God's promises found in The Holy Bible. Psalm 37:23 (KJV) encourages my heart. It says, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and he delighteth in his way.” 

May we all learn in this New Year, to be sensitive to the Lord’s leading. For many of us it’s not just another New Year, but perhaps a new season in our lives. New challenges, but no matter what we’re facing He has the solution before we know the question.

This is my advice to you: Trust God to guide you and He will. Our choices have consequences. Our every action has a reaction. God is for you. He doesn’t work against you and He truly does want you to succeed in everything you undertake. Remember Romans 8:28 (KJV) which says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”

Let us be an example of God’s mercy and grace to everyone around us. Let this be a year of new beginnings. Let us put aside any pettiness we may harbor and not forget to be kind.

Shalom.

~*~
Author Bio: 

Nanci is a poet and short story writer published in Cypress News, Family Times E-Zine, Free Verse and the Commonwealth of Poetry. 

She belongs to RWA, ACFW, and Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild where she’s enrolled in his novel writing program.

Nanci lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and cats, Romeo and Juliette, along with their newest member of the family, Roni, a seven-month-old Goldendoodle.

Recently, Nanci completed her debut novel, A Betrayal in Cross Keys. It is an Amish romance that she has placed in her agent's capable hands. The rest is up to God.