Devotionals for the Heart: Discipleship

The Path of Discipleship
A devotional by Wendy Wilson Spooner

“A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” – John 13:34-35 (KJV)

Jesus Christ was the perfect example of staying on the path of discipleship. He showed us the ultimate way to live: His way.

Three important milestones mark the road of Biblical discipleship.

Milestone #1: Love your enemies.

Love is certainly the defining attribute of our Savior Jesus Christ. The Mosaic command was to love the Lord with all your heart, might, mind and strength. But Christ’s personal teachings went deeper and extended the commandment to love your enemies as well. Ultimate love was shown when Jesus laid down his life for his friends, His disciples, the lost, you, me, and even the very worst of sinners.

Milestone #2: Feed His sheep.

In Romans 10:14 (KJV), disciples and followers of Christ were taught, “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” In Christ’s time, early believers made a world of difference when they opened their mouths, testifying and sharing the good news that Jesus died for our sins and rose form the dead that we might all have eternal life.

Milestone #3: Endure to the end.

Hebrews 3:12-13 (KJV) says, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Enduring to the end means doing your best to stay faithful to the last day, in keeping God’s commandments, believing in His Word, and having faith amidst even the worst of trials.

The early disciples of Jesus Christ were brave and courageous testifiers in an incredibly barbaric time in the history of this earth. What we can learn from them will surely help us in our day.

These same three important milestones mark the road of present-day discipleship.

Milestone #1 (revisited): Love your enemies.

This is a big one in our day. With our nation (for those of us here in the United States of America) seemingly divided on many topics, where and how do we show love for our enemies? Some of us have the opportunity daily to practice. Many find success by being kind on social media, standing for Christ without guile in the midst of an anti-Christian workplace, and by turning the other cheek when persecuted by hostile neighbors.

Milestone #2 (revisited): Feed His sheep.

Belief in Christ cannot exist without knowledge of Him. Maybe this is why Isaiah 52:7 (KJV) says, because salvation comes only from hearing the gospel, the feet of those who bring it are beautiful. My painted toenails do kind of make my feet beautiful, but I don’t think this is what the apostle Paul was getting at. In his day, the common footwear was sandals. Dirty feet were part of everyday life. But imagine receiving the good news from someone like Paul, who was so committed to sharing the gospel that he gave his life for the very cause. That’s beautiful. And to those who were saved because of Paul’s efforts, I’m sure it was a beautiful sight to see his feet approaching.

Milestone #3 (revisited): Endure to the end.

What does it mean to endure to the end today? It hasn’t changed over time. It still means to have faith that God will carry us through the worst of trials, that keeping the commandments matters for our happiness and others, and that the atonement of Jesus Christ will make everything right in the end.

Are we disciples today? I know countless people who are. And we can bring more into the fold before the second coming of our Savior (Jesus Christ). How can we best show Jesus that we follow Him and love Him?

By bringing others unto Him.

We become true disciples of Jesus Christ when we learn to live for others. God is the director of the work in which we are engaged. He knows sometimes the path is overgrown with weeds, or that it’s so dark we will stumble for a time. But we belong to Him.

We are His, and He will help us every step of the way.

Let’s Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, help us stay on the path leading back to you. When we stray, aid us in quickly returning to avoid getting lost. And Father, help us guide others to you and your path, that many of your sons and daughters can return arm-in-arm, strengthened together by each other’s fortitude. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

*Note from Alexis: Wendy’s devotional message today reminds me of this song “How Beautiful” by Twila Paris. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Wendy Wilson Spooner, Lic. G., LCoT, is a professional 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 during research, and 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—children of God, and, the descendants of remarkable people who paved the way for us—even if they really struggled. She believes in learning from ancestors, honoring them, and then standing on their shoulders to become someone even better.

As an award-winning author of professional articles and poems, Wendy Wilson Spooner turned to novel writing to share what she knows with a greater audience. When she is not writing or researching, she currently serves as National Vice Chair for Daughters of the American Revolution over Art & Sculpture in the annual American Heritage contest. She also serves as Chairman of the Advisory board for Century Vital Records in Bengaluru, India.

Wendy loves to read, hike, paint, travel, binge on Bollywood movies, and spend time with her greatest loves—her family.

Her debut novel, Once Upon an Irish Summer, released April 3, 2020. It has been a best-seller in the several different genres. She’s looking forward to releasing book two in the series!

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Connect with Wendy:
Website: https://wendywilsonspooner.com/
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/3lpNZSY
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/authorWendyWilsonSpooner/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Wendy_W_Spooner
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyspooner/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-wilson-spooner-07741249/

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. 

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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.
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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!”

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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 Glory

When Glory Comes
A devotional by Shirley A. Denson

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” –Romans 8:18 (KJV)

This last year has been trying on so many levels. As everyone adjusted to living through a global pandemic, and a new norm, it hasn’t been easy. As a nation, we experienced loss on a different scale. There was loss of jobs, homes, incomes, and most importantly lives. Some losses were more detrimental than others. And other losses were absolutely immeasurable. Grief hit our lives at an alarming rate.

However, as people who believe in God, we don’t grieve without hope. Whether you’ve had to be separated from loved ones, birth a child alone, view elderly parents/family through a glass window/door, or gotten married without all your family and friends being in attendance; there’s always an undercurrent of hope that buoys through the ebbs and flows of uncertainty, and anchors you during each stormy season. Hope is the silver lining that makes the storms of life more bearable, and pushes you to look for the rainbow within each storm.

Amidst the ashes of doom, despair, and debilitating grief, there is always an underlying current of hope. A knowing that an All-Mighty God is still in control, and that even in the midst of chaos and confusion, glory will still come out of all of this. Even while grappling to put the pieces of your life back together, you still have a hope that things will end better than they started. You still have to believe that there’s something beautiful on the other side of grief, trauma, and loss.

The past year may have momentarily wiped the smile from your face for a season. You may have had more losses than gains. But one thing’s for certain, God is still a Promise Keeper. He’s never lied. He’s never gone back on His Word. He won’t start now! God will not leave you destitute. Everything that you’ve endured, everything that’s transpired, it will somehow work out for good, and reveal God’s Glory. When His glory comes, it’ll make everything else that happened fail in comparison. Hang in there! Don’t lose hope! Wait for the glory!

Let’s Pray: Lord, thank You for being with me in the hard times—in the times when I’m overwhelmed and feel helpless. I know that You’re with me through every trial. Even when I feel alone, I trust Your voice and Your providence. Help me hold on until the radiance of Your glory manifests in me, and lives are changed. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

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Author Bio:

Shirley A. Denson is a native of Statesboro, GA. 

She found out at a young age that she had a creative mind and a way with words. Later on in life, she learned to cultivate her passion for writing as a budding author.

Shirley is very passionate about writing. Each book that she releases will be a product of God stirring and cultivating the gift He’s entrusted her with. She has won numerous writing awards/certificates, and is a published poet and blogger.

For the past six years, Shirley has worked as a professional ghostwriter, editor, and author. It is her joy and goal that through print, she might impact lives and leave the imprint of the King.

Visit her website to stay in the loop about her new book releases, current projects, and to read her blog posts.

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Connect with Shirley:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SayWhatEnterprises
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saywhatenterprises/
Website: saywhatent.com

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.

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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.

Thoughts on the Christmas season and preparation for Heaven

Preparing for Heaven

A devotional by Alexis A. Goring

American author Hamilton Wright Mabie is famous for this saying that truly encapsulates the Christmas season. He said, “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”

While preparing the house for Christmas this year, my Mom and I scurried about, setting up the traditional Christmas tree (ours is not real), filling the house with festive decorations, bright lights and Christmas items throughout all while playing her Christmas music that was popular in the 70’s and still resonates today, a thought occurred to me: Are we preparing for Heaven?

Just like people around the world prepare for this Christmas season weeks and sometimes months in advance and they take it seriously, are we as Christ-followers serious about preparing for The Second Coming of Jesus Christ? Are we looking forward to going home to Heaven when He returns to take us there? Are we playing songs that show our hope for something better than Christmas (an eternity spent with our Creator, free of pain and sin)? Songs like “When We All Get to Heaven” (a church hymn) come to mind and I realize that while Christmas is such a wonderful season to anticipate, Christ’s Second Coming takes the cake!

It is an event that we all must take seriously because there is no other option than heaven or hell. You’re either accepting Christ’s gift of salvation then choosing to follow Him which means you’re going to Heaven OR you’re allowing the temporary trappings of this world to indulge you and you’re being led astray by the enemy of Christ whose only intention is to lead you to hell. The enemy knows how beautiful Heaven is. He also knows how much God loves you and wants you to be there. The enemy is aware that when his time is up, he’s bound to hell and he wants to take you there with him. Don’t be fooled by the guises of the devil. Don’t allow him to distract you from your destiny.

Remember that there is a loving God who created you and wants you to be reconciled to Him. Reject the ways of the world that are against God and embrace His plan for your life. God’s plan for you includes restoration and eternal life. You can trust that it’s filled with more than this world in its sin-affected state can offer. The Bible says that no eye has seen nor ear has heard nor has the mind imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9)! God’s way may look strict when you compare it with the ways of this world, but if you remember that He wants to protect you and save your soul—and that in the end, He WINS—then the future is brighter than Christmas lights. You will be okay if you stay within the boundaries that He set to keep you safe and saved!

Years ago, I saw cartoon about a man who was racing toward the end of a cliff, only he didn’t know it was a cliff. If he kept going full speed ahead, he would fall to his death. His friend, who saw the life-threatening danger ahead, was chasing after him shouting at him to stop, warning him that he was going to die if he kept on going. The illustration was to show that this is us! It’s our human condition. We race for the things in life we think that we want. We are mesmerized by the glamorization of sin. We think that our own way is the best, but the Bible says in Proverbs 14:12 (KJV), “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” But often, all we can see with our finite minds is the glamour and the allure of sin so we keep pursuing it because we want more but what we don’t realize is that at the end of that pursuit of worldly happiness is death.

Salvation is pretty simple: Jesus Christ paid the price for our sins (a physical death and spiritual death in the form of the separation from God) so that WE would NOT have to pay it! We were all destined to eternal death because the wages of sin IS death! But thanks to Christ, we have HOPE! The Bible says in Romans 6:23 (KJV), “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Our hope lies in the fact that after Christ had gone to the grave for three days, He rose again! God’s NOT dead! He is alive and Jesus Christ is in Heaven interceding on our behalf. He is our Mediator. A bridge between God and mankind. He’s working hard to give us every opportunity to be saved. He’s chasing after us as we’re running full speed ahead to the edge of that cliff. He’s doing everything that He can to show us that the ways of the world and indulgence of sin lead to eternal death and that He wants us to reject the devil’s plans for our life and choose His life, eternal life.

I encourage you to slow down and let Jesus Christ catch you! Let Him prevent you from plummeting to your destruction. Let Him save you. Falling in love with Jesus is better than falling in love with this Christmas season. Because unlike the holidays, a life with Christ in the center of it is something you can take from earth to Heaven. His love for you spans eternity. Won’t you choose Him this Christmas? Salvation given by Jesus Christ is the BEST gift you’ll ever have because it will result in eternal life!

Yes, blessed is this beautiful holiday season but greater is God’s unconditional, eternal love for you. Seek Him! He’s already chasing after you.

Devotionals for the Heart: Thanksgiving and Heaven

Touching Heaven by Giving Thanks
A devotional by Patrick E. Craig

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, come into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” ~Psalm 100:4 (KJV)

The ancient Hebrews had a very structured set of rules by which they performed their worship in the Tabernacle of Moses and the Temple of Solomon. These rules were given to Moses on Mt. Sinai along with the Ten Commandments. In these instructions for worship,  God was giving the Jews a glimpse into the heavenly realm. 

This is what The Holy Bible tells us about Moses’ meeting with God:

“For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.”
~Hebrews 8:4-5 (KJV)

According to my understanding and paraphrase based on my study of the Greek word studies by Wuest Word Studies, what God was saying to Moses was, the pattern I showed you on the mountain – for your earthly worship – is a duplicate of the pattern that happens in the heavenly throne room, when the citizens of heaven worship me.

So the priests knew that if they followed the heavenly instructions they would align themselves with the heavenly realm, and in that way, actually experience the Divine presence. God responded to their faithfulness by revealing Himself to them as a pillar of fire, the Shekinah glory, on the Mercy Seat in the Holy of Holies.

The book of Psalms is the liturgy for Temple worship the priests used every day in their tabernacle worship. Step one was exuberant praise and thanksgiving. Psalm 100:4 told the priests, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving in your heart, come into His courts with praise.” 

When they followed this instruction, the priests were able to come through the gate of the Tabernacle into his “Courts”—remember that the tabernacle was a copy of the heavenly throne room— and from there, approach the very throne of God (represented on earth by the Mercy Seat) without hindrance. 

Praising and thanking God was the mechanism by which they opened the door into the presence of God. God gave them directions for living and forgave their sins as they stood before the Mercy Seat.

In a modern context God is showing us a way to actually catch a glimpse of the peace and joy that exists in Heaven, and to share that joy – like a down payment on the next life. God knows that the best way for us to deal with our problems is to put our attention somewhere else. And if I am being thankful to God for all the blessings in my life, instead of blaming Him for all the bad things, it’s amazing how the answers to every situation just seem to come, along with real peace.

The Apostle Paul understood this when he wrote these words in Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV): “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Paul also exhorted us in this way in Hebrews 4:16 (KJV): “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

When we sit down to our Thanksgiving feast this year, let’s remember that giving thanks is the key to his presence and peace in our lives. For it is at his throne that we will find the answer to all our questions and problems. Give thanks.

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Author Bio:

Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful songwriting and performance career in the music industry to follow Christ in 1984. 

In 2011 he signed a three-book deal with Harvest House Publishers to publish his Apple Creek Dreams series. His current series is The Paradise Chronicles. The first book in the series, The Amish Heiress, a romantic suspense novel, was published by Patrick's company, P&J Publishing, in August of 2015 and remained on the Amazon Top 100 best sellers list in three categories for seven months.

The second book in the series, The Amish Princess, a historical romance novel, was released in December of 2016 and was on Amazon's Hot New Releases for over a month. Harlequin recently purchased the print rights for both books for their Walmart Amish series. Patrick also just released Cracking The Indie Egg—A Recipe For Publishing Your Own Book and it is available in most major digital bookstores.

Patrick and his wife Judy, make their home in Idaho. They have two married children and five grandchildren. Patrick is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.

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Connect with Patrick:
Website - www.patrickecraig.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PatrickECraig
Twitter - https://twitter.com/PatrickECraig
Amazon Author page - http://tinyurl.com/n6sfagg

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Invitation for You

Come

A devotional by Gail Kittleson

What a lovely word—come. This single syllable in the English language welcomes us, invites us to enter, to spend time with someone, to share another’s company. It also invites us to follow. 

In December, many of us have sung a favorite Christmas carol, “Oh come let us adore Him...” and I’ve been researching Biblical references with the word come. 

Psalm 100:4 (KJV) calls us to “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting...” 

Come and worship—this familiar call beckons us from our fears and daily trials, from our wanderings on life’s rugged byways. It provides an opportunity to lose ourselves in something bigger than us, something worthy, something that puts our sufferings into perspective. 

And then there’s Jesus’ call to follow him. He called men and women to do that throughout his ministry, and that following required a choice...many choices. As someone once said, “Lordship involves one big yes and a lot of little “Uh-huhs.”

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." ~Mark 8:34 (KJV)

Yes, this initial coming requires a choice. In choosing to come, we leave something behind at the same time. Sometimes this means—or at least feels like—sacrifice. But doesn’t every decision we make in life require choosing between alternatives? Why should this be any different? 

Jesus also issues another clear call to us. “Come unto me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28, KJV).

What a wonderful promise. But this call may actually lead to more focused activity. With our need for inner rest being met by Him, we enjoy more energy to attend to our vocation, our ministry to this hurting world. 

But even in this call, we are given a choice. When our children are young enough, we force them to rest, but our heavenly parent isn’t pushy or forceful. He makes his wishes known, offers us his gifts, and waits for us to respond. 

Who wouldn’t accept an offer of rest? Human beings, that’s who! Unfortunately, our desire to please people, or to maintain control gets in the way come unto him. Sometimes, it seems preferable to work ourselves into a lather rather than rest in our Savior’s love. 

It takes a lot of trying, trying, trying before we finally get the message of working together with God. It’s like pedaling a bicycle built for two—that’s why it’s sometimes called the tandem bike. It only makes sense to put the partner with the greatest power in the front. 

May we often lift up this prayer: “Please teach us Lord, to come when you call.”

~*~
Author bio: 

When Gail Kittleson's not steeped in World War II research, drafting scenes, or deep in an edit of her 1940’s novels, she does a limited amount of editing for other authors. 

She also facilitates writing and creativity workshops, both in Iowa and Arizona, where she and her husband spend part of the winter in the amazing Ponderosa pine forest under the Mogollon Rim. 

Favorites: spending time with grandchildren, walking, reading, meeting new people, and hearing from readers who fall in love with her characters.  

Devotionals for the Heart: Sara's Mission for the New Year

A Year with God
A devotional by Sara L. Foust

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

~ Romans 8:38 (KJV) 

We have just celebrated the turn of a New Year. We have set our resolutions for 2018 (and still believe we can lose 25 pounds by swimsuit season). Maybe your goals don’t refer to weight loss but, rather, to success in your career. I know I have penned a few writing-career-related goals myself. Maybe they refer to your family life, your marriage, travel, or how many books you’d like to read this year. But, do you have any goals that relate to your spiritual relationship with God? I have to admit, my first draft didn’t, and that won’t do at all. Once I realized what my list was missing, I dropped everything down and opened goal number one up for this: I want to spend quality time EACH morning studying the Scripture and in quiet meditation with the Lord.

Around here, that is a tall order! Some of you may know already, but I have five children. It is never, I mean never, quiet around here. And when it is, I’d better see where everyone is because someone is doing something they shouldn’t be. But, I realized toward the close of 2017, even though I was still reading my Bible during my morning study times, I wasn’t really digesting the words and internalizing them to grow in my faith. That has to change. So, for 2018, I will make a point of going to a room by myself and reading, even if it has to be the bathroom (ha!). Yes, I want my children to see me in the Word, but I also know that I need that morning one-on-one time with my Savior so that I can make it through the day.

We don’t know what will come this year. No doubt we will experience loss to some degree. We will experience joy, success, satisfaction to some degree. We will have trials that feel like vertical mountains we must scale. We will have victory, standing on the top of those “impassable” trials and looking back on them with pride that God helped us through each step. The verse above reminds us that no matter where we go, what we face, or how low (or high) we get, God is there. He will be with me, and you, each and every moment, each breath, each blink of our eyes. Because He loves us. Unconditionally. Unequivocally. Eternally. Perfectly.

Let’s make the decision right now to spend the year being cognizant of His presence in our lives, dedicated to growing in our faith, and continuously striving to work for Him. Do you have a goal that relates to your relationship with God? Please share it with us! 

~*~
Author Bio: 

Sara writes Inspirational Romantic Suspense from a mini-farm in East Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and their five homeschooled children. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Tennessee Mountain Writers. 

Her debut novel Callum's Compass won second place in Deep River Books' 2017 Writer's Contest. She also has a story, “Leap of Faith,” in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone. Sara finds inspiration in her faith, her family, and the beauty of nature. 

When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family. To learn more about her and her work or to become a part of her email friend’s group, please visit www.saralfoust.com.

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Devotionals for the Heart: Life Lessons and A Reason to Rejoice

Rejoicing in the Lord Always
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say Rejoice.” ~Philippians 4:4 KJV

Rejoicing during difficult times can often be stressful. How can we rejoice when bills are overdue, our health is in jeopardy, the news is filled with scary information and we are not sure what will happen next?

God gives us a spirit of power and love and of sound mind. Anxiety and fear do not come from the Lord. So what do we do when troubled times enter our lives?

We pray. We talk with God, sharing our hopes and fears with Him. He already knows what we are thinking. He wants us to come to Him. He is waiting with open arms.

Recently, my husband and I moved from Virginia to South Carolina. We prayed and asked God to give us the wisdom, discernment and revelation as to what He wanted us to do about the move.

Yes, we had our times of uncertainty and fear. Yet, each time we paused and prayed, God gave us a feeling of calm and comfort.

Remembering to praise Him and to Rejoice in Him each and every day made our move easier. Even with road bumps along the way, we know God is with us and we will “Rejoice” again and again. He is in charge and He has a plan for our lives.

Have you thanked God for His blessings? Have you Rejoiced in His love and mercies today? Share time with God and you will be refreshed as you Rejoice.

~*~
Author Bio:

Melissa Henderson and her husband Alan live in South Carolina. Married for over 38 years, they have one son (Mike) who is married to daughter-in-love (Christine) and now are blessed by precious grandson (Rowan). 

Melissa was taught the love of reading and writing at an early age from her parents. She is now working on her first inspirational fiction novel. 

Her passions are volunteering, Bible Studies and reading and writing. 

Connect with Melissa online, https://mimionlife.wordpress.com.

Book Review: The Scent of Rain

The Scent of Rain

Book written by Kristin Billerbeck

Review written by Alexis A. Goring

If ever there was a song to perfectly describe Kristin Billerbeck’s book, The Scent of Rain, it would be “Bless the Broken Road” performed by Selah.

The Scent of Rain is the story of Daphne Sweeten, otherwise known as “the nose.” She earned her title because of her exemplary work in the perfume making business. She was able to identify any scent, anywhere and liken it to honeysuckle or any other natural element from nature. But when the man of her dreams breaks her heart, leaving her at the altar, dressed in a designer gown on her wedding day, the trauma sabotages her sense of smell. She goes from differentiating from hundreds of scents to smelling…nothing. It is a devastating realization for Daphne and she starts to retreat from the world. If it weren’t for her best friend Sophie and her new boss with a big heart, along with a few other special people who she meets along the way, she may have ceased to exist.

Sophie is, a professional psychologist, is the voice of reason for Daphne throughout this book. Jesse, Daphne’s big-hearted boss, saves her life more than once in this story. Surrounded by new settings (Dayton, Ohio), new colleagues at her new job (Gibraltar Products) and a few people who genuinely care about her, Daphne starts to rebuild her life.

But by no means is it easy! She left her dream job in Paris, France to move to America and marry who she thought was her dream man. But after Daphne’s love life seemingly ends forever when her man doesn’t show up to their wedding, a new day for Daphne dawns as a result, and slowly but surely, she comes full circle in her internal and external journey.

The Scent of Rain is a delightful, skillfully written story! I enjoyed every page, loved every (good) character, despised the character who caused Daphne pain, laughed at Sophie’s sense of reality laced with humor and “smelled” the scent of rain! All thanks to Kristin Billerbeck’s engaging writing style and her editors who really made this story flow.

Honestly, The Scent of Rain reminded me of a movie! A movie that I have not seen but would love to! Seriously, this book needs to be born again on the big screen. I believe that I would touch and inspire so many people not just because of the brilliant storytelling, but because of the way that threads of faith are weaved throughout this beautiful story of hope and redemption.

The Scent of Rain reminds me of how God never gives up on us. It shows me how His “perfect love casts out fear” and it gives me hope that no matter what you may face in life, there’s always going to be a better day when you trust in the Lord.

Five stars and a big “bravo” for Kristin Billerbeck for writing such a lovely story that’s relatable, riveting and sweet.

*The author provided Alexis A. Goring with a complimentary copy of "The Scent of Rain" in exchange for an honest review of her book.