God is Love: Joy Beless

Showing posts with label Joy Beless. Show all posts

Monday, December 16, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: When you are having a Blue Christmas

Are You Having a Blue Christmas?
A devotional by Joy Beless

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

—Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

There are some memories that are etched in your mind forever. Those moments seem to hang in endless time.

One such memory for me was the holiday season in 1980. I was a freshman in college when I received a phone call during the week of Thanksgiving stating that my father, at age 49, had a massive heart attack. This seemed impossible for someone who was active and worked with his hands to fix everything. I’ll never forget sitting alone in the ICU waiting room, encouraging my mom and family to have a meal with friends on Thanksgiving Day. It was my turn to hold vigil and pray over my father, asking God to help him to make it through that day—and he did. He continued to recover through December, only to have triple bypass surgery shortly after Christmas.

I wish I could say that was the only holiday season marked with a hospital stay, life-threatening illness, or even death. But it wasn’t. And if we are honest, most of us have lived in the tension of a great loss, anxiety, estranged relationships, job loss, et cetera, during the holidays. The polarized internal emotions compete to see who will win. The dual playlist of “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “In the Bleak Midwinter” take turns playing over each other in grating succession. The repetitive question from the people around us asking, “Are you ready for Christmas?” echoes in your ear as you nod your head. But you don’t offer too much of an answer because you are aware that it is a nicety and not meant to be honestly answered.

Does this scenario sound familiar? If so, you are not alone. The season of Advent leading up to Christmas day is a season of waiting, watching, and hoping. The reality of this world does not measure up to the Christmas movies we binge-watch to numb our authentic—some good, some bad—circumstances that simply do not take a break during Christmastime in December. I would dare to say that instead, the season of Advent is an invitation to bring our reality into the waiting, watching, and hoping of the holiday season.

Several years ago, after an especially difficult November when I spent the night in the hospital with two different loved ones, I just couldn’t pretend to be cheery and bright. I gave myself permission not to be but rather understood more than ever the gift of Jesus Christ, who also entered our world as a baby born to a financially poor couple (Mary and Joseph) who lived in an occupied land before escaping as refugees to a foreign land. I didn’t need to put on a happy face for Jesus because He understood and met me in that place.

A few years ago, a friend introduced me to the concept of a “Blue Christmas Service,” which I was not familiar with. This is a service traditionally on or near the winter solstice—the year’s longest night—and with the use of candles, scripture, carols, and prayers, hold space for the weary burdens and griefs that do not take a break during December but rather seem to be out of place. It is a service that creates a sacred space to speak and name the dear one lost, the illness we suffered, the painful divorce, or the job loss that is loudly snuffing out any good cheer. As the service progresses and additional blue candles are lit, the light of our Savior, Jesus Christ, brings hope and comfort as we witness His presence with us.

Some people may wonder if this kind of celebration adds to the depressed feeling we are so desperately trying to chase away. My experience is that acknowledging our reality and complicated emotions in a community that understands (even if amongst strangers) allows me to release the pain and tears and perhaps, in a small way, makes room for the cheer I so deeply want to feel.

As Isaiah prophesied in the verses above, the darkness of the world is nothing new, but we have the light of our Savior shining through even into the darkest circumstances. Others feel alone in their grief, and when we light our candles together in acknowledgment of this, our souls feel a little lighter. We experience the love and understanding of our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that reminds us you are familiar with our difficult circumstances and desire to minister to us through the Holy Spirit. We ask for comfort and peace that only comes through You, the Light of the World.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Light A Candle” by AVALON. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Light of the World” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

A practicing Spiritual Director, she is a speaker for retreats and conferences and facilitates guided solitude retreats at the family ranch in North Texas.

A seasoned worship leader and songwriter, she frequently weaves worship, God’s Word and spiritual practices together. She is a chapel provider for a shelter for the houseless and a certified Grief and Trauma Healing Facilitator. Serving at global retreats for Kingdom-minded women delights her soul.

She has written for Global Trellis and Missio Nexus. She connects God’s Word with the reality of our daily in all the ups and downs.

Joy is married to Roger. They live in Coppell (Texas). Joy is called "JoJo" by her nine adorable grandchildren. She enjoys the outdoors and encourages flowers to grow in the Texas heat.

~*~
Connect with Joy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joy.beless
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joy.beless/
Website: www.joybeless.org

Monday, November 18, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: How to write a psalm of Thanksgiving

Writing Your Own Psalm of Thanksgiving
A devotional by Joy Beless

“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.”—Psalm 30:11-12 (NIV)

Much like the fall winds that tug at the leaves on the trees outside my window, so has change come to our family and loved ones.

I will be setting two fewer dinner plates at our table this Thanksgiving. I know I’m not the only one. As much as I want the beautiful tablescape, delicious traditional menu, and smiling faces around my table, the reality cannot be ignored. This year has been marked by loss, grief, and difficult circumstances. I want to honor the loss of loved ones before moving on to the festive table chatter. Much like noticing the fallen leaves before raking them into a pile for my grandchildren to jump in.

I need to step away and take some time to care for my soul and prepare for this hectic but meaningful holiday season. I spend hours preparing the holiday meal, my house, and décor before our loved ones joyfully come through the door announcing their arrival. Likewise, I want to care for my soul to receive my guests from an authentic place of peace and hope, not a cultivated artificial smile.

How do I do this? I begin with a ritual every November of writing my own psalm, patterning after the biblical psalms. There are six different kinds of psalms in the Bible, including those of thanksgiving, which are divided between personal prayers and prayers for the nation of Israel. Written by King David, the psalms are rich in description and often are ones we still sing today. While we generally associate thankful songs as happy and upbeat, a closer look at the personal psalms of David reveals something different. Psalm 30 (referenced above) is written in an authentic and reflective tone. As he looks back, David recalls being “lifted out of the depths” by God and not letting his enemies boast (verse 1), sparing him from sliding into a pit of despair (verse 3) and crying for God’s mercy (verse 8).

David also contrasts calling for God’s help and experiencing his healing (verse 2), God’s anger and his favor, weeping and joy (verse 5), and wailing and dancing (verse 11). Lastly, David mentions singing or praising God five times throughout the twelve verses. As David reflects on a painful and difficult season of his life, he sees the faithfulness, deliverance, and restoring power of God through it all and repeatedly praises Him.

As I consider writing my own psalm of thanksgiving, I will not think too hard about how it sounds or if the grammar is correct, but rather let it simply flow from my thoughts and allow the raw emotions to run through my arm, hand, and pen onto the paper. I may include laments, confessions, and prayers answered and unanswered. As thoughts of God’s goodness and faithfulness throughout this time rise in my soul, I jot those down too. When I recall sweet memories of those who are absent, that also goes on the paper.

My objective is not to have a beautifully crafted psalm for generations to read but rather an outpouring of my soul as an offering for God, who is the sustainer of hope through it all. The words may be something I read to a few close people, but most often will be an entry into my private journal.

When Thanksgiving in the USA ends and I begin to purchase and wrap Christmas gifts, I usually feel an invitation from God to set aside some time to reflect and write down a psalm of thanksgiving and gratitude. I feel encouraged to embrace the season of gratitude similar to the “selah” pause in the Psalms, a reset for my soul. Henri Nouwen said, “Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice.” I agree completely with this sentiment.

It is a choice to come to the festive table with a lighter soul and a heart overflowing for the many ways I experienced the love and hope of God. I mentioned the two empty place settings at our table this year, but I’m so very grateful for the two additional place settings that I will add once my two grandbabies can move from their mother’s laps into the high chairs. And for that I’m very grateful and praising God!

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

You have been faithful in the highs and the lows of the past year. Your strength has sustained me, and your love preserves my hope. I am grateful and thankful for so many things, including your presence on the journey.

In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Sovereign” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, October 21, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: We can find the rest our soul needs in God

Rest for Our Souls
A devotional by Joy Beless

“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”—Psalm 62:5-8 (NIV)

What is shaking your world? The news bytes of the last 48 hours are enough to convince me to stay in bed with the covers over my head!

What is shaking your family’s world–conflict, exhaustion, financial need? I don’t need to convince you of the stressful and seemingly dangerous world we live in. And yet, was it not the same for King David who wrote the Bible book of Psalms?

Many people think that King David wrote this psalm in the anchor text above at the time his son, Absalom attempted to overthrow the government in rebellion against his own father’s authority and kingship. Rather than wait until David dies to reign, Absalom decides to accelerate the timeline. The story does not begin here but rather has evolved over years of division and conflict.

We each have a story that evolves over time and needs a course correction and desperate prayer for help. When our family of six lived in Tokyo (Japan), I had to learn a new way to live. Moving from a Dallas (Texas) suburb to live in Tokyo required a different way for me to do the most mundane things like buy groceries, visit the bank, and navigate the city driving on the left side of the road. I was trying to learn the language and culture while parenting four children. Then the “9/11” tragedy occurred in the USA during this time and the whole world changed overnight. I became so stressed and anxious that my hair literally fell out. I developed the autoimmune alopecia condition. There was so much I could not control—except for resting and trusting in the Lord. I knew I could not continue in the same way underneath all this stress and uncertainty life was hurling at me.

What about your story? Even as you read this devotional, what thoughts are surfacing and lurking beneath the veneer? Both domestically and internationally, the newsfeed at our fingertips reminds us that we live in perilous times—just like David. So perhaps we can learn some coping strategies from David and this psalm.

In Psalm 62:5-8, David declares where his rest and hope come from: God—pure and simple. No contingency or exit plans. What do you need rest “from”? What kind of rest? According to Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, there are several different kinds of rest that we need to feel restored. Physical, mental, social, and emotional rest are just some of the areas we need to bring calm and space into our lives.

Some important questions we can ask ourselves are:

What do we need “less of” to restore our mind, body, and soul?

What do we need “more of” to renew our mind, body, and soul?

What life patterns are contributing to our current stressed life?

What changes can we identify and control that are restorative?

I quickly realized I needed to make some changes when life seemed to spiral downward. I was in an exhaustive state trying to juggle all the “plates” of family and ministry. I realized our Sundays in church and at home were as busy as the other six days in the week, so I began to scale back extra activities. This was hard and impacted our children’s activities the most. However, not only I but the whole family needed more time to rest. We made Sundays in our household a day to restore, relax, and slow down the pace.

I realized my morning habit of walking was squeezed out of the day’s agenda and recognized my need to be outside and have some space of margin in my life, so I made that a priority. Reluctantly, I let go of my language class after two years, as I identified that as very stressful. I began to listen to music that calmed my soul and brought me joy. Playing it in the background seemed to bring down the stress of the whole household, not just mine! Lastly, I began to share with trusted people about what I was experiencing and identify the emotions that were building up ready to spew like a volcano! I learned not only was this giving me emotional and mental rest, but also modeling an important life skill for my children who were entering their teen years.

King David said in the Bible book of Psalm, that it is in God he finds rest for his soul. David trusted God with his kingdom and personal worries and when he reached an old age in his lifetime, he was confident that God is trustworthy to be present in difficult times. David reminds himself who God is to him: his hope, rock, salvation, fortress, honor, and refuge (Psalm 62:5-8). That is quite a list. As you slowly read over the list again, which word seems inviting to you in your present circumstances? Are there some areas in your life that need adjusting with “more of” or “less of”? Ask God to lead you in this process of seeking rest then follow Him into the rest your body and soul needs.

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

Truly You are the source of rest for our souls. We are thankful that You are a rock in our ever-changing world! Thank You for being a refuge of peace for us. We are grateful to pour out our hearts to You.

In Jesus’s Name, I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Find Rest” by Francesca Battistelli. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, September 16, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: Hope for your heart when you feel alone

When You Feel Alone
A devotional by Joy Beless

“Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged; bring me out of my distresses. Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all my sins.”—Psalm 25:16-18 (ESV)

Everyone feels lonely at some time in their life.

One of the loneliest seasons of my life was when I moved to the most populated city in the world. Surrounded by bustling crowds, everywhere I went seemed to amplify my loneliness. No one knew my name and I did not know theirs.

Loneliness can sneak up on us in the midst of transitions. Some transitions are physical, such as moving into different communities and churches. Transitions in life’s seasons can also generate feelings of loneliness, such as adult children leaving their home, the breakup of a close relationship, or the death of a loved one. Loneliness is a part of life and an emotion that blankets us without invitation.

According to a 2024 poll by the American Psychiatric Association, “30% of adults have felt lonely at least once a week and 10% say they are lonely every day.” Loneliness sneaks up on us when we do not feel emotionally or socially connected to others—even in their physical presence such as with roommates or a marriage—as well as when we are alone. With the prevalence of working remotely, watching church services online, and family units spread throughout different cities, community and emotional connectedness can be difficult to cultivate and maintain.

The times when I feel lonely and disconnected from others emotionally—and sometimes physically—God meets me in this place of despair. Like King David in the Psalms, we can pour out our hearts to God naming and identifying the specific emotions we are experiencing. The lament of David in Psalm 25 gives the example of naming the troubles of our hearts and offering them to God to carry our burdens. In Psalm 25:1-3, David names these words to describe what he is feeling and facing: lonely, afflicted, troubles, distresses, and sins. We can learn a lesson from this psalm: Our “aloneness” can be an invitation to seek God deeply and honestly. An intimate conversational prayer with God is similar to Psalm 62:8 (NIV) that reads, “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”

As we sort out the specifics of our circumstances that contribute to our feelings of loneliness, consider how God can be our refuge. Rather than allowing negative self-talk to cycle through our thoughts, we can picture ourselves curled up safe with God in His arms. We must remember that He is our shelter (Psalm 91:1). As we listen to God, is He guiding us to a truth about our situation or an action to take in our circumstances? Is there a place of wounding God desires to be present with us and bring healing? Perhaps the name of a person surfaces in this sacred space so that we can reach out and talk through what seems to be a wound or hurt in this time of need.

I remember praying to find a heart friend, day after day. I decided to pray “big” for a friend within walking distance of this big foreign-to-me city. At the same time, another woman was also praying the same prayer, and through circumstances, we reached out to each other. Not allowing our different nationalities to stand in the way, we became lifelong friends and sisters-in-Christ. Paul encourages us through the letter to the church in Corinth, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us (2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT).”

Aloneness is an opportunity to look to the Triune God: Our Heavenly Father (God) who created us in his image, Jesus Christ (God’s Son and our Savior), and the Holy Spirit (our counselor and guide). We can see God as the Lover of our soul, our Comforter, and the Giver of peace.

Remember what God says to us in Hebrews 13:5b (ESV): “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” He is with us and present, even in times of loneliness.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for understanding the emotion of loneliness and our need for the scriptures that point us to Your heart of compassion and love. We are grateful You are our place of refuge and comfort. As our society becomes increasingly digitalized, show us how to remain connected to one another as the Body of Christ. Give us the courage to reach out to others who also are struggling with loneliness.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, August 19, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: They will know us by our love for one another

How Will They Know We Are Christians?
A devotional by Joy Beless

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”—Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Being lost was the norm when I lived in Asia and was often navigating one of the world’s largest cities with four children in tow.

We moved there for my husband’s work where he spent long hours at the office with a wonderful bilingual administrative assistant. The first few weeks of learning how to do the once-simple tasks of grocery shopping and buying school supplies became complicated. Whether it was finding our way to train stations and figuring out the route—or even more difficult, learning to drive on the opposite side of the road while reading signs in a different language—much of our time was spent being simply lost.

I quickly learned there are two kinds of people: those who do not want to be bothered to help and those who graciously and kindly interrupt their day to point out the way. I was the foreigner. I could not speak the language. I did not know how to do the simple tasks required for everyday living. I’m so grateful for this experience and what I learned about kindness.

I remember taking the train out for an event that required a few transfers along the way. I’m standing in front of a large railway map with a complicated image of train lines with stops written in the Kanji alphabet. Picture me—a very “large” Caucasian woman—with my children close to me all looking at this map trying our best to figure out which train to get on and hoping it will go in the right direction. The station is crowded and bustling. I’m stressed and anxiety is building. A kind woman who is not hesitant to approach a foreigner asks in broken English where I’m trying to go and points me in the right direction. Relief. My children and I are grateful for this stranger’s kindness.

The Bible has a lot to say about kindness and showing love to others. During those four years, I was the “other” and experienced feelings of desperation and helplessness. I felt inadequate for not knowing nor being able to figure out even how to use appliances in my home. I look back on that time and remember the kind neighbors who were bilingual. They came beside me to teach and help me as I was learning a new language. I also remember the ones who would not even answer my question as I tried to speak the language the best I could. The ones who were annoyed or even angry because I was different, the foreigner, and did not understand the culture well.

There is a song I remember singing in my youth that continues to circle back around with timeless truths. The tune is called, “They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love” and it is performed by Peter Scholtes. It is a simple folk song that speaks about the unity of believers spreading the gospels and respecting other’s dignity. How? By our love for each other.

The idea of showing love to each other is so key to our faith, that Jesus emphasized the message following Judas’s departure during the Last Supper. Let’s read His Words in John 13:34-35 (NIV): “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

The best way to show love is by beginning with simple acts of kindness through the lens of the Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV). These virtues are a gift from the in-dwelling Holy Spirit that enables Christians to go beyond their selfish impulses and speak and act through the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Often it is not my first thought, but rather what the Holy Spirit leads and guides me to do: to step out of my schedule, my biases, and stop to show kindness to someone.

Some questions that are helpful for me to be self-aware throughout my day are: Who do I tend to have biases towards? Who do I make false assumptions about? Am I viewing others through my own eyes or the eyes of Jesus Christ? Do I have a generous or selfish posture when it comes to my time and resources?

How will people know that I am a follower and disciple of Jesus? According to Him, it is by the love and kindness I show to others. Whether it be the repair person who comes to fix my air conditioner on a hot summer day, the server in the restaurant, or even those in my family, showing kindness is being the hands and feet of Jesus. Speaking to someone who looks different from me, saying hello, and patiently listening to their broken English is showing kindness. Choosing to volunteer and serve beside others is the face of the Church for those who have never stepped foot in a church.

Jesus Christ felt so strongly about this that He commanded us to love one another (John 13:34). Not a suggestion, not only when we have time or feel like it. This is how the world will know we are followers of Jesus Christ.

Let’s Pray: Father God, give me a sensitivity to notice others who cross my path or who You lead me to who need kindness and love. Guide me to walk in The Holy Spirit throughout my day—not only when it is easy but especially when it is difficult. Thank You for the love that You demonstrate to me. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, July 15, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: Sharing our faith in God with the youth is vital

Passing It On: Sharing our Faith Stories
A devotional by Joy Beless

“We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation

the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”

—Psalm 78:4 (ESV)

All through the summer in the USA, families gather for weddings, graduations, and July 4th celebrations. Our adult children and grandchildren come together at our family’s ranch to celebrate Independence Day for the USA. None of us live in the same city. We gather our great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, then we all join in the fun! As we stand side-by-side in the kitchen, on the fishing dock or snuggle with the kids for a bedtime story, it’s a perfect time to share stories of faith.

I remember being a child standing next to my grandmother in the kitchen on the same family ranch, sipping a cold Dr. Pepper on a hot Texas summer afternoon and listening to my grandmother telling stories of faith. She told me about the faithfulness of God during the bleak war-time years, making dresses out of up-cycled fabric, and how God provided for my grandfather to work labor jobs that paid a dollar a day. I heard plenty of stories about taking other people in for a time and the common experience of having extra people around the meal table. No matter how much work needed to be done, on Sundays my grandparents stopped the task on hand, cleaned up and went to church with all of us.

My parents carried on the tradition of sharing their own stories of faith. My father’s conversion story after a near-death experience always held a captive audience. He was a leather-faced rancher who seemed bigger than life. Saturday nights, my mother could be found with her Bible in her lap preparing for Sunday School the next morning. In the good and the hard times, living out God’s Word was central to their life stories.

I feel the same urgency to not waste spontaneous opportunities to weave in stories of faith spoken of in Psalm 78 and remember the “glorious deeds of the Lord and his might and wonders” (Psalm 78:4 ESV). Where have I seen God at work in miraculous ways over the last several months? How have I sensed God’s presence in difficult times or in waiting for answered prayer? As we say bedtime prayers over our children’s and grandchildren’s concerns, what can I ask them to pray for me? How can I remind these sweet souls that God hears their prayers too?

Worship and singing hymns is yet another way of passing down our faith and giving the younger generation an anchor to hold on to in rough waters. I remember hearing my parents sing hymns as they went about their day. I want my grandchildren to also know the songs that we’ve sung for generations, such as “Blessed Assurance” by Fannie Crosby and Phoebe Knapp.

May our faith stories that fueled our faith, fuel the faith of future generations and inspire their young minds with curiosity that encourages them to seek God and know Him. In a time of anxious questioning of so much, may our family’s conversations invite an assurance of God’s love for each of us, especially for the younger generation. May that assurance bring hope to their lives and their own stories of trusting in God. May they have a desire to know God’s Word and believe it is as relevant for them as it was for their grandparents and great-grandparents.

When my grandchildren come to visit, I think I’ll pick up a can of Dr. Pepper and pour it over cold ice while I listen to the fizz. As we sip and laugh, I want to ask them how they’re doing. Perhaps I will share a story from my childhood with the hindsight of a Sovereign God who never fails.

Let’s Pray:
Father God, thank You that You are the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I’m grateful that You love our children and grandchildren more than we do. Give us discernment and wisdom to share the truth about you through our faith stories. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Find Us Faithful” by Steve Green. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, May 20, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: Reflections on Mother's Day and leaving a legacy

Living a Legacy
A devotional by Joy Beless

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.”—Proverbs 31:30 (NLT)

May 12 was Mother’s Day in the United States and Canada.

It is a time to set aside to remember to call or visit your mom—perhaps even send a bouquet of flowers and let them know how much we love and appreciate them! For some, Mother’s Day is complicated and triggers a whole punchbowl of emotions.

Although not the norm, it worked out for some of our family to celebrate together. Four generations of women laughed, told stories, and absorbed the moment—with the newest being two months old and the oldest 87.

There are a lot of opinions and ideas about what being a woman encompasses, one popular idea is from the long-standing Maybelline beauty product slogan, “Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s Maybelline.” Another idea is about experiencing “Real Beauty” when you use Dove (brand) bar soap. Media and movies portray popular stereotypes for women—perfect body size, flawless complexion, flowing hair, always youthful, healthy and fit, yet somehow juggling it all.

The Bible also has plenty to say to guide and encourage us in every area of life—including this one. A famous passage about women is Proverbs 31:10-31, noted in the Bible as “The Wife of Noble Character.” It is all-encompassing and can seem overwhelming unless we view it as a description over a lifetime rather than a snapshot. One of my favorite verses (for any woman and not just for mothers) is Proverbs 31:25 (NIV) that says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

I’m thankful my mother has lived this out for me. One of four daughters born to a farming and ranching family, Mom had plenty of chores to do inside and outside. A favorite story shared is about her wedding day to my father. She had a daily chore of milking the cows every evening for their dairy business. This chore could not be missed or skipped over, even on her wedding day. A neighbor saw her milking and thought the wedding was called off. Nope, she just had to take care of the cows first! We laugh every time she tells this story.

More recently, I witnessed my mother's strength and faith as she cared for my father in his last years after suffering several strokes and losing mobility. As dreams for their future were worn away into daily caregiving tasks, Mom continued to do what she could on the farm and care for my dad. Those were difficult years and she could have understandably become bitter. Instead, she clung to her faith, family, and her church community for support. My father did pass away eventually, and Mom made the difficult transition into widowhood and a new chapter of life. She currently is “laughing at the days to come” as she leads a grandparent’s prayer group and chapel in her residential senior community.

What have I learned from Mom about strength, dignity, and looking forward with confidence in the days ahead? Here’s a shortlist:

*Strength begins by leaning on Jesus in the small obstacles and difficulties as we build up to the larger waves that knock us down. It is the “prayer without ceasing” that builds a habit of praying when we are at the end of ourselves.

*Dignity is synonymous with honor and is earned through small actions and speech that are full of grace and truth. It is cloaked in humility and the fruit of the Spirit that is attractive to be around. A life of honesty and integrity in the small and big experiences and daily decisions.

*“Laughing at the days ahead” is being confident that no matter what may come you can trust the Lord with the outcome–even one of hardship and grief. You are seen by a loving God and never alone, even in the darkest of nights.

*We move through the valleys of hardship and loss and will reach the other side of hope.

As we gathered over Mother’s Day this year, I looked around at the women surrounding me. My mother and mother-in-law are both 85, my aunt is 87, my two daughters (32 and 30) and their children (2 months, 1 year old and age 13), and I realize I’ve received a legacy of strength and dignity. The choice is mine to make whether to stand on the foundation of God’s Word, pray without ceasing, walk in humility, honesty, and integrity–to continue the legacy (or for some to begin the legacy).

Oh, how deceptive and fleeting beauty and charm are. A futile race of time and resources to run. Like my mom, I want to embrace the youngest little one in our family and laugh at the days to come–whatever they might be.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us how to live life abundantly. You know the ups and downs of life and never leave us but guide us through to the other side. It is because of You that we can laugh at the days to come! In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Legacy” by Nichole Nordeman. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

A practicing Spiritual Director, she is a speaker for retreats and conferences and facilitates guided solitude retreats at the family ranch in North Texas.

A seasoned worship leader and songwriter, she frequently weaves worship, God’s Word and spiritual practices together. She is a chapel provider for a shelter for the houseless and a certified Grief and Trauma Healing Facilitator. Serving at global retreats for Kingdom-minded women delights her soul.

She has written for Global Trellis and Missio Nexus. She connects God’s Word with the reality of our daily in all the ups and downs.

Joy is married to Roger. They live in Coppell (Texas). Joy is called "JoJo" by her nine adorable grandchildren. She enjoys the outdoors and encourages flowers to grow in the Texas heat.

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Connect with Joy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joy.beless
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joy.beless/
Website: www.joybeless.org

Monday, April 15, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: When springtime brings hope to your heart

The Unfolding Hope of Spring
A devotional by Joy Beless

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.”

—1 Peter 1:3-4a (NIV)

I love the Spring season! I love this season so much that I have my desk situated in front of the windows just so I can watch spring unfold. There is a predictability to it—knowing which trees will leaf and bloom first. Sunny yellow daffodils pop up to greet the bleak winter days. Like unfolding a letter from a dear friend whom I haven’t heard from in a while, so does my view come to life and color. What is happening in nature mirrors my soul—an awakening to a living hope, through Jesus Christ.

For Christians, resurrected life, like spring, is a gift from our risen Savior, Jesus Christ, who rose from the dead as witnessed by over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:6) over a period of 40 days before ascending to Heaven (Acts 1:3). As followers of Jesus, we too will live with Him in resurrected bodies in Heaven one day. This gave Peter’s readers of his letter great hope during the persecution they endured as Christians. And it gives us great hope today to know that our lifetime on this earth is not all there is.

But it is possible to experience the “living hope” today that mirrors springtime and new life surrounding me. To step into the freedom we have as God’s children, forgiven and deeply loved. To receive Christ’s invitation to come and rest in Him, as a child would with a loving father. Keeping in view Christ’s teaching and scriptures that remind us of Heaven, with no tears and no pain, as we navigate life (Revelation 21:4).

I have lived through “winter” seasons of life that were difficult with grief, conflict, and no hope. Discouraging and exhausting, with seemingly unanswered prayers, the days loomed dark and gray. One such season for me was an intersection of intense caregiving and grief with other family needs. My father and aunt for different reasons both ended up in side by side rooms in a skilled nursing facility. For my aunt, she passed away after a few difficult months but for my father, it began a crisis-oriented three year journey of care. Caring for those you deeply love on a slow journey of decline while juggling your everyday responsibilities takes a toll on your own emotional, physical and spiritual health.

However, the winter seasons of life cause me to depend on Jesus in ways I never would have. Experiencing His mercy in small moments, His presence filling my soul through a song or scripture gives sustaining strength to walk through the long days of despair. Taking time to be alone with God, resting and leaning into the comfort of the Holy Spirit brought healing and hope back into my life. It was like a daffodil braving the chilly early spring days. Receiving counsel through grief healing groups and meeting with a spiritual director breathed new life and new seasons of purpose and strength. Like a barren tree in the cold, my roots of faith grew deep. I experienced God in an intimate, but quiet way to endure the season. I no longer had answers but knew I was not alone in the journey. And neither are you.

Lean into the Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom Jesus promised and dwells within you. Talk with God about the situations that seem hopeless. Look for that small “bud of color”, despite the circumstances.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

You are the source of our “living hope” when we are discouraged and disillusioned. We praise you for the miracle of resurrected life, both within our souls and one day, reunited with you in heaven. Encourage us in difficult seasons. Remind us of our “inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” (1 Peter 1:4). We thank you that this existence on Earth is not all there is. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Seasons Change” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, March 18, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: Why God wants us to practice forgiveness

Forgiveness: A Gift from God
A devotional by Joy Beless

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

—Luke 23:34 (NIV)

On a rainy day in Dublin, I knew where I wanted to be. I said goodbye to my husband and we separately made our way through the winding streets to see the last stop on our “must-see” lists before leaving Ireland. We later met up to share our experiences over dinner.

It’s hard to explain the “pull” of the Holy Spirit but it was unmistakable: I needed to have space to reflect on my time in Ireland and listen to God’s quiet whisper.

I yearned to sit in a quiet chapel and soak in the ancient story of Saint Patrick at his namesake cathedral. As I approached, I joined the other tourists who for whatever reasons, also made their way through the magnificent stone doors into a dimly lit gothic style cathedral. It was beautiful and intriguing but not quiet. I made my way to the end of the building to the Lady Chapel where few people were sitting and they, like me, yearned for a quiet worshipful experience. As I sat there, still and breathing in the damp air, the word “forgiveness” surfaced in my soul.

Forgiveness is a major theme in St. Patrick’s story and, if we are truthful, in all our stories. Saint Patrick lived in Britain and as a teen was taken captive to work as a slave in Ireland, turning to God through prayer for his strength. After six years he escaped and returned to his family. While home, he dreamt the Irish people were begging him to return. After becoming a priest, he returned to the island of his slavery and preached the gospel for another forty years until his death.

If we unwrap our culture’s version of St. Patrick’s Day—celebrating by wearing green color apparel, focusing on four-leaf clovers, shamrocks and fables—we discover a remarkable story of the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We see how it gives us strength to untwist the complicated stories of our lives and empowers us to forgive others.

Throughout the New Testament, forgiveness is an important theme. So much so, Jesus Christ spoke of it in The Lord’s Prayer, “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12 NIV). The Apostle Paul also emphasized forgiveness in his letters to the early church. He wrote in Ephesians 4:32 NIV: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Paul was keenly aware of the power of forgiveness after he received forgiveness for the relentless persecution he led against the early church before he met Jesus. He was also thankful, by God’s grace, to forgive those who persecuted him as a Christian.

As I sat in the small room hidden at the end of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, I had no agenda other than to be present with God and to listen to Him. An undeniable quiet voice spoke, “Love others. And to love others is to forgive.” I continued to sit quietly and pondered who and what is tucked away like a rock in my soul, waiting for forgiveness. Shortly, thereafter, I stepped back through the thick stone doorway out into the cool rain of the afternoon, knowing to love Jesus Christ is to follow Him in forgiving others.

There is much to be said about the subject of forgiveness. It does not necessarily mean “forgetfulness” or to pretend the words or action never happened. Rather, it is a journey God desires to walk with us, understanding the complexity and difficulty of releasing the person and the hurtful act or words into His hands. Forgiveness is freeing ourselves from the power of the unjust act. This creates space in our heart to receive the intimate redeeming love of Jesus Christ.

Is there a name, a relationship or experience that is rising in your soul as you read this? Perhaps emotions of grief, anger or anxiety? Talk with God about it. Ask Him to show you the first step and identify someone who is safe you can trust to walk this journey of healing with.

St. Patrick knew the power and necessity of practicing forgiveness every day. Jesus Christ demonstrated to us how to forgive people, and I desire to live a lifestyle of forgiveness.

Let’s Pray:
Thank You, Jesus, for teaching and demonstrating for us the importance of living out the forgiveness we receive from You and extend to others—especially when it is undeserved and difficult to give. Thank you for the life of St. Patrick who, through forgiveness, brought Christianity to a nation. Help me to forgive. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

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Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, February 19, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: The Church is the Beloved Bride of Jesus Christ

Jesus, Lover of My Soul
A devotional by Joy Beless

“You have captured my heart, my treasure, my bride. You hold it hostage with one glance of your eyes, with a single jewel of your necklace. Your love delights me, my treasure, my bride. Your love is better than wine, your perfume more fragrant than spices.”

—Song of Solomon 4:9-10 NLT

By now, the flowers received on Valentine’s Day are wilted and the chocolates swiftly consumed. Our culture has moved on to the next news bite. Thankfully God does not.

We are “in love” with being “in love”. Rom–coms, Contemporary Romance novels, Hallmark Channel movies, poetry and love songs describe the high and low emotions of being in love. I still enjoy a good love story and if there are happy tears in the end, even more so! However, as we journey through life, we can become jaded. Our personal stories, at times, do not reflect the too-good-to-be-true stories we binge watch on a cold evening.

I remember as a young adult, the impossible expectations I placed on my husband. We were two fallible people who made a covenant commitment to seek God and cherish each other through our marriage for better or for worse. I remember a newly married friend telling me, “It is better than you think and worse than you think.” So very true. And yet, God uses this metaphor to describe his relationship with us—a love so deep and intimate, words seem inadequate to encapsulate. We are God’s beloved Bride.

Somewhere in the messiness of life, feeling overwhelmed with responsibility, physically drained and depleted, I take great comfort in knowing Jesus Christ as the “Lover of My Soul”. In those times, I am anything but lovable to those around me. I feel isolated and functioning on autopilot. I begin to realize that God, in His infinite knowing “all there is to know” about me, intimately loves me. There is no performance requirement. Nothing to check off the list to earn this love.

God pursues me when I’m not worthy. It is a “knowing” deep in the human soul. A pouring out of all God’s goodness, acceptance and unconditional love, in spite of feeling “wretched” and unworthy. In essence, it is a lifebuoy ring that one can quickly grasp ahold of and clench to their chest—never to let go because it saves them from sinking into the depths of the ocean and drowning. Just like Jesus Christ is our lifeline. He can save us! As I enter my second half of life, I can testify that once you know this transcendental love of God that is so unlike our worldly ways of being in love because you never fall “in” or “out” of it.

To describe God’s love for us as “intimate” infers that it is mutual and goes both ways. It is an honest, personal and confidential relationship whose deepest love is steadfast and faithful (Jeremiah 31:3). God pursues each one of us and calls us by name (Isaiah 43:1). He created and knew us before we were born (Psalm 139:13). Ponder this truth. Do you believe and accept this? Not for someone else but for yourself? You can trust God with not only your words, but all of your emotions. Your heartaches, rejections, loneliness and questions can all be expressed to Jesus, the Lover of Your Soul. In return is a deep-seated, devoted, eternal relationship that is the rock of not only your salvation, but also as a cherished Bride of Jesus.

Let’s read about how Jesus sees the Church as His Bride. Song of Solomon 4:1 (NASB) says, “How beautiful you are, my darling, How beautiful you are!” In the same way we feel euphoric after reading a love letter, we also desire to respond to God’s unrelenting love for us. Lingering in this quiet sacred moment is transformative. Excitedly, we often have a need to “do” something. We want to share this feeling and truth we are basking in.

In the New Testament, Paul gives us a detailed response. Colossians 3:12-14 (NASB) reads, “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also. In addition to all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.”

Knowing and feeling secure in God’s intimate love, we can love others with the same love as described above. Beginning with our inner circle of family and closest friends and moving outward to those we meet throughout the day. Can you see the vision God has for us as the dearly beloved Church? The impact on our homes, workplaces, communities and nations would be radical and life-altering. But it begins within us accepting and receiving this intimate proposal to see ourselves as the beloved Bride of Christ.

In contrast, as we sweep away the wilted flower petals and the empty chocolate wrappers, we are reminded of a love that is unending, eternal. I can’t help but linger and contemplate God’s love for me and for you. God’s love for us is steadfast and intimate, unconditional and pure and it never runs out!

Let’s Pray:
Jesus, the Lover of my soul, thank You for never stopping, never abandoning and always whispering your love for me in big and small ways. Help me to live out of this deep well of love that overflows to others around me. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Jesus Lover Of My Soul” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Lifeline” by Mandisa. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.

Monday, January 15, 2024

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons on how we can love our neighbors

Loving Our Neighbor
A devotional by Joy Beless

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

The small room lined with pews is stirring with singing that comes from deep within the soul.

Eyes closed, hands keeping time, I begin the first song of worship and follow the Holy Spirit throughout the hour. Tears flow and often they are mine. No apologies. No cover-up. I am redeemed by the blood and the love of Jesus Christ and join in with the praises of my Sisters–in–Christ. Throughout following hour, I lead the women and children through songs of praise, prayer and reflections of scripture. The conversation is rich, honest and a fresh perspective from women who depend on the faithfulness of the Lord every minute of every day. The shelter for houseless women and their children is a refuge that I enter into with deep respect and humility.

Leading chapel at the shelter is the highlight of my week. Every Thursday morning, I make a 30-minute commute to be with my “neighbors”.

Almost 20 years ago, I nervously asked to volunteer at the shelter. Not knowing what to expect, I trusted the Holy Spirit’s leading and jumped in—sharing the love and hope of Jesus with the women and children who live there. I cannot begin to share all the ways I’ve experienced God’s blessings through this experience. With no facade or pretense to cover our need for Jesus, I am humbled to stand beside the women, many of whom, have a deep intimate relationship with Jesus. That is all they have. I love these people like Jesus loves us.

Let’s read what Mark 12:28-31 says concerning love: One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

This is the internal love relationship we have with God. But then Jesus told us to turn that same love outward to our neighbors. When I make God the center of everything I am, then the choice to love my neighbor will flow from that same deep well of love.

Who is my neighbor? For sure it is the person living “next door” but can also be the person in the next cubicle in my workplace, the student sitting beside me or even the difficult people who cross my path throughout the day. Sometimes, loving my neighbor requires me to advocate for those who are marginalized and need a kind word or a “cup of water” (Matthew 10:42).

Martin Luther King, Jr., a Baptist minister and leader in the civil rights movement in the 1950’s, also emphasized loving God and putting our love into action by loving our neighbor. Today, in the United States of America, many people honor his legacy by acts of service in their communities. While an important step, Jesus encourages us to not make it a once–a–year activity, but a lifestyle of loving him by loving others.

Surprisingly, when I step outside of my comfort zone and engage with neighbors who are different than myself, I open the door for God’s blessings to not only flow through me but to me. As I give, I receive in unexpected ways. I imagine Jesus with a wink in his eye, as I begin to understand how this is also a part of experiencing his love more deeply.

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” –Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another (1 John 4:11). We can know scripture from an early age about God’s love for us. However, when we are transformed by his love, the knowledge turns into action and we have a deep desire for others to know how much they are loved by God and ultimately by us. Today is a great day to love our neighbor!

Let’s Pray: Oh Jesus, how I long to experience your love more deeply as I follow You. Thank You for teaching me not only how to love You more, but to love others from the overflow of that same love. Give me your eyes to see others as You see them and give me discernment to know how best to love them. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

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Author Bio:

Joy Beless is a worshipper of God and lover of people.