Devotionals for the Heart: Knowing your identity as one of God's children

What’s in a Name?
A devotional by Colleen C. Howard

“The one who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows except the one who receives it.”—Revelation 2:17 (NASB)

When I was a little girl, I decided that I didn’t like the first name that my parents gave me.

My friends had popular names like Debby, Kathy, Cindy, and Susy, but mine differed. I wanted a better name, and with the infinite wisdom of a four-year-old girl, I selected the best name I knew. When my dad got home from work, I told my parents, “I want to be called Cinderella.”

They tried to reason with me, but eventually gave in. When they called me from another room, I heard the lyrical sounds of Cinderella, which was music to my ears until it wasn’t.

“Cinderella, it’s time to eat dinner.”

“It’s bath time, Cinderella.”

“What book would you like me to read tonight, Cinderella?”

This went on for about four or five days, after which I had enough of these new name shenanigans. I begged my parents to call me Colleen again. It didn’t matter that I would never find a hair clip, a bracelet, or a pencil with my name on it, which were the top reasons for the name change request. After a few minutes of convincing them that I wanted my name back, they agreed.

As an adult, I see the humor in this childhood anecdote and the wisdom of my parents, who knew this wouldn’t last. But it does make me wonder, why are we so attached to our given names? What’s in a name? Our name was most likely selected by our parents, and we may or may not know why it was chosen. It could be a family name, a name whose meaning is special to them, the name of a historical figure, or a favorite character from a book or a movie.

Sometimes our names are attached to our place in the family—Morgan is the youngest in our family. Other times, our names are attached to our talents or interests—Ethan is the musician in our family. Your name, interests, and character traits identify you, and who you are in comparison to those in your family. Whatever the reason our name was selected, it becomes the primary marker of our identity. When we hear our name, we respond. But what’s in a name?

As I got older, I realized additional descriptors are used to provide identity and become part of how we’re known. We’re funny, quiet, excitable, introverted, or extroverted. We are known for these traits. As adults, we’re often identified by professions or vocations: educator, construction worker, artist, accountant, engineer, health care provider, or salesperson.

We are each a sum of these labels, but there’s more. For those who know God, He calls us His sons and daughters. We are conquerors, servants, leaders, brothers, sisters, and more. He bestows on us these essential truths: We belong to Jesus Christ, and our job is to spread the Good News of the Gospel. This is what’s in a name when you follow Jesus Christ.

When we follow Jesus, we don’t just know who we are but also whose we are. We don’t just know what we do but why we do it. When you have a relationship with Christ, He calls you and equips you to reflect His promises and purpose for your life.

The Bible has multiple examples of names being changed. Some scholars believe the new names lead to better lives. Abram was changed to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah, Jacob to Israel, Simon became Peter, and Saul’s name was changed to Paul.

In the book of Revelation, John tells us that God will give those who are victorious a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it. This new name reflects a new season and the assurance of freedom from condemnation as we live with and worship the Lord for eternity.

Although I am grateful for my earthly name, I’m curious about my new name. However, I believe I can say with certainty—it will not be Cinderella. My earthly parents have passed away, but my Heavenly Father (God) is with me every minute, every moment today and forever. I am His, and He is mine. There is no need to wonder who I am.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, we are thankful for your faithfulness to us. Through prayer, help us to find our worth in You. Communication with You is essential to our existence. Open our hearts and hands to receive the gifts You want to give us. Equip us to spread the Good News of the Gospel. Thanks be to God! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “You Say” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Colleen C. Howard is a Jesus follower, wife, mom, mimi, educator and author. 

She lives with her husband in the beautiful Arizona desert where the sunsets are spectacular, the summers are hot, and the winters are a little slice of heaven. Her two adult children and their families live nearby. She considers it a joy to spend time with her family members!

She is a lifelong educator and co-founder of an educational professional development business. After spending her professional life in education, Colleen retired as the STEM Specialist for a large public school district. As she approached the end of that season, God placed a strong desire in Colleen’s heart to shine a light on God’s presence throughout ordinary days and encourage women in their faith-walk with Jesus Christ.

When asked what makes her faith walk real, Colleen replied, “It isn’t just one thing, but a million little things. Although some days bring trials and others bring joy, it’s never just another day.” She says when you give your heart to Jesus, each new day is another opportunity to walk hand-in-hand with Him and begin to know the heart of God. As you become more aware of His presence, stop, take a breath, and watch what God will do.

Colleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.

She has been published online via these websites: Inkspirations, Her View From Home, and Inside Out Worldwide.

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Connect with Colleen:
Website: https://www.authorcolleenchoward.com/

Devotionals for the Heart: Life lessons learned on having a good name

Making Space for Godly Relationships
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”—Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)

I've read Proverbs 22:1 many times but it never clicked until I experienced it myself.

I used to think that, over time, people will get over anything that ruined your name, and your name will be restored. Maybe that is true when you’re in a larger audience, such as in social media where people will forget quickly when other news fills their feed. But not when you are in a smaller community, meeting people on a daily basis. In those type of environments, it will take a while to make people forget. I asked myself, “What's the cost of keeping your name clean when no one else sees the dirt thrown at it?” It was hard to justify yourself when there were not many witnesses.

About a year ago, I was so disappointed and angry when I thought I had lost a friend. I lost a friendship and I had no idea what I had done for it to end. But eventually, I was okay with it, until I found out what was going on behind my back—that person backstabbing and undermining, manipulating people, and spreading lies. I started to regret that I ignored many red flags from the beginning. My vulnerability innocently led to this pity party friendship, and I thought I could help her out of the pit she was facing. But I was wrong. I wish someone had warned me. It was too late. When the betrayal happened, I was mad at God for letting this embarrassment happen to me. It jeopardized my profession as a coach and my good name.

At first, I felt stupid—like I had been gaslighted, blindsided by someone I thought was a friend. But the betrayal didn't break me, it woke me up. When I chose to leave the relationship, that gave me room to do more things. I became more productive and focused on my future. There was no more room for people who leave me feeling emotionally drained. I had more clarity and more energy. I was finally free to thrive without feeling drained. My pain turned into purpose.

One morning as I was spending quiet time with God, I opened my Bible and a verse caught my attention. 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NASB) says “Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good morals.” I started to reflect on the relationship I had. Reading that verse gave me a sense of deliberation. I was grateful to finally be out of a toxic relationship. I am done with joining the party of gossiping and slandering people.

I asked God for forgiveness for what I did. I am glad that we have a merciful God who taught me that my name—my character, integrity, peace—was worth more than trying to explain myself to many people, to someone who only wanted control. I stayed quiet and guarded myself. Instead of walking around defending myself, I stayed close to God for my healing process. The most important lesson I learned from this is to wake up daily with purpose. Peace from God gives me the strength to make it through every day.

I learned that I don’t owe everyone access to my life and walking away from what’s toxic isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom. My good name doesn’t come from what others say about me. It comes from who I am when God refines my story. When God is on your side no one can be against you (Romans 8:31).

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father in Heaven, thank You so much for your love and how You have created humankind in your image. I know that You love me for who I am. Only You alone can define me and clear my name because no one could do that. Because you’ve created me according to your image, I know I am worthy in your eyes. Help me to remember my true identity in Jesus Christ. Remind me of my worth as one of your Daughters. Bless me with wisdom in my daily life so I can discern how to choose the right companions—people who will help me grow and draw closer to You every day. Help me to remind myself that my worth is in You and not in this world. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Friend of God” by Israel Houghton. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “What A Friend” by Brian Doerksen. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When your God-given gifts make room for you

When Your Gifts from God Make Room
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“A person’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great people.”

—Proverbs 18:16 (NASB)

The Old Testament book of Daniel summarizes the story of the prophet Daniel. Like an earlier Bible Hero Joseph, Daniel had extraordinary political, social and spiritual influence.

In Daniel 6:3, the Bible describes Daniel’s legendary success. It says, “Then this Daniel began distinguishing himself among the commissioners and satraps because he possessed an extraordinary spirit, and the king intended to appoint him over the entire kingdom” (NASB).

This man Daniel was the kind of man who stood out in a crowd. He was not loud and pretentious. He was humble and perhaps a bit introverted. Daniel did not seek fame, fortune or power, but his gifts catapulted him from invisibility to stardom. His collision with destiny was the result of collusion between human excellence and divine placement.

He was not a one hit wonder. Daniel was consistent in his personal integrity and professional performance. His reputation for excellence preceded him. His success was not limited to his professional prowess. He was a good guy. He had an excellent spirit within him. Synonyms for his ethos are extraordinary, exceptional, unparalleled, incomparable and pre-eminent.

How can you quantify this spirit of excellence in your own life, and cultivate it within the lives of family members and those whom you influence at work? Since choral music is a good metaphor for creativity and harmony, my suggestion for quantifying and cultivating an excellent spirit is in the acronym CHORALE.

Here’s a brief breakdown of that acronym:

Character counts in your most private moments. It counts at home and at work. 

Habits and work ethic are important in personal, spiritual and career development.

Organization of one’s life, living and desktop are great evaluative metrics. 

Reliability in the past is an indicator of what kind of performance can be expected.

Attitude is 90% of influence. Optimism builds and empowers. Pessimism corrodes. 

Loyalty and integrity are a two-sided coin.

Enthusiasm ignites ingenuity and the innovation that propels ideas into reality.

Daniel’s excellent spirit reflected the essence of CHORALE. He was the perfect blend of passion, ability and anointing that God needed in that era. Daniel’s excellent spirit was God’s vehicle to project a prophetic vision and persuade a generation of expatriate Hebrews and Babylonians to prepare the way of the Lord.

Launched into fame and power, his humility made him a target. The lesson here is that giftedness will be recognized and valued by most. It will bring you into the company of people who are great and who need you. However, as with Daniel, someone will always be lurking to end the reign of gifted people whose living and being are unassailable. Lies, plots and schemes were employed to bring Daniel down. You may have or might in the future experience some challenges to your spirit of excellence. Be buoyed by the story of Daniel. The people who plotted against him were ultimately unsuccessful. He was imminently and preeminently successful. So, as they say, “Dare to be a Daniel!”

Hone your personal, spiritual and professional attributes. Harmonize your life by cultivating and measuring your CHORALE metrics. When you do so, you will be ready for that moment when providence and preparation collide for you.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, please be with the readers of this brief message. Anoint them for the day. Provide for them the sustenance and opportunities to live maximally and approximate the purpose for which you gave them being. Bless them and their families. Use them to advance Your will in our spheres of influence. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Dare to Be a Daniel” by Zana Hunt. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Our need to stop striving and start trusting God

Stop Striving
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“Stop striving and know that I am God.”

—Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

There are times in our life when God calls us to work toward something. There are also times in our life when we realize we have done all we can, and God calls us to rest so that He can work.

When the Israelite army marched around the walls of Jericho, they did so obediently, but there was nothing in their marching that caused the walls to fall down. That work was God’s and God’s alone. Even their shouting could not have been a sound loud enough to cause the stone masonry to crumble to bits.

Sometimes, God wants it to be clear that He is the one who has done this. He wants us to stand back and say, “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23 ESV).

This is when we look to Him. This is when we rest from our work. We’ve done all we can, to no avail. This is when, hopefully, we realize that it feels good to rest.

My mother used to love to quote the NASB’s rendering of Psalm 46:10: “Stop striving and know that I am God.”

Why should we stop striving? Because striving is stressful. It causes frustration when we don’t see the change we long for, and causes others to become frustrated with us. Yes, take steps of faith, but a continued, sensitive walk with God will alert us when it is time to cease from our labors and rest.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul asks this question in Galatians 3:3 (NIV): “After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?”

Paul is saying the standard was set in the outset. If God initiates something, He wants to be the power behind it from beginning to end.

Have you been striving and wondering why nothing has come of your efforts? Perhaps is it time to rest. That may not mean idleness. It may mean letting the issue rest while you attend to the other things He has given you to do. There is always much to be done in His kingdom. Or maybe, it is truly a time of stillness. A time of preparation and drawing near. Setting the foundation in your spirit for what lies ahead.

Tune out the loud, clamoring voices of this world and tune into God. Learn to hear His voice.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, I ask you to show me if I have been striving, and if you are calling me to rest. I ask You to be the power behind the work You’ve begun, knowing that You will be faithful to complete it. Most of all, let me hear Your voice and prepare me for the next steps. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

The only child of a single parent, Aubrey Taylor filled her younger years by creating characters and writing stories. This ended around age sixteen when music, friends and part-time jobs began to fill her time. After that came college, work, marriage, and children.

It wasn’t until the world was beginning to come out of the COVID pandemic that God led her back to her love for writing, coupled with a passion she’d always had for history. It was time to start a new adventure! Her current long-term project is Gott Mit Uns, a German-perspective 20th century historical fiction series.

Aubrey lives in Upstate New York with her husband and three children. She’s busy keeping the home, caring for her family, doing research for and writing her books.

Aubrey enjoys music and is involved with the worship ministry at her church as well as a German choral group. She also plays gigs occasionally with friends as a singer and acoustic guitarist. After all that, she finds time to sketch, craft, and hike.

She is a lover of Jesus Christ, The Holy Bible, history, German culture, tea, and cats.

Aubrey has a special heart for those who struggle with severe anxiety, depression and PTSD.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning how to trust God and walk by faith

How to Trust God and Walk by Faith
A devotional by Karen Marstaller

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” 

–Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

Because of some lower back issues, I’ve been going to physical therapy.

After several sessions, I’m much stronger and the pain is greatly decreased. During every appointment, my physical therapist (PT) continually works to increase mobility and to strengthen the weakness in my spine. He’s thoughtful and focused on his plan to help me get well.

One day my PT placed a long, stretchy exercise band around my waist. Facing him, I was told to walk backward as he held the other end of the band. Surprised by his request, I looked up in amazement, but he reassured me that he would watch where we were going. Gulping, I clutched the band around me with white knuckles and began to watch his face. We began to talk as we walked, and after a few steps, I let go of the bands that encircled me.

At first my steps were hesitant, but soon I was walking freely. Of course, walking backward isn’t something we like to do. We want to know where we’re going. We desperately want to avoid all obstacles. We are constantly vigilant for anything that might cause us pain.

Essentially, unfortunately, we walk in fear, not trust.

During that session, my strong sense of self-preservation was released as soon as I let go and let my PT guide me. This brother-in-Christ was taking good care of me, and as we walked, we began to compare it to our walk with the Lord.

God’s desire is for us to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). I didn’t need to see anything except my PT. My fingers gripping the band did not help me a bit, but as I focused on God’s care for me (portrayed in the humble form of a fellow believer) it gave me a glimpse of what faith and trust look like.

I don’t have to see what’s coming at me because God already knows all about it. I don’t have to see where my next step will take me because God already sees the best path for me.

We all know that trusting God isn’t easy. Fear and doubt want to creep into our minds. We’re much like the Apostle Peter when Jesus Christ walked on the water in the terrible storm. In faith, Peter stepped out of the boat. Everything was fine until he started looking around at the sea raging around him instead of the Lord’s face. Sinking, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” (Matthew 14:30) Jesus did. And He will save the rest of us who are His frail, fearful children, too.

Life can sometimes be a complete mess. As we open our eyes each new day, we have no idea what’s coming our way. It might be a flood, a fire, a tornado, a bumpy relationship, a sudden job loss, or even the death of someone we love. We’re left reeling from the impact of these unexpected storms.

But we look up like Peter did, into the face of our Lord. God saw it before it happened, and He alone knows what’s best for us. Nothing happens behind His back or without His knowledge or permission. Our trust in Him gives us confidence to go on with life. He faithfully guides us over, under, and through every situation. We can let go and watch Him work His perfect plan for each life.

Let’s Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, You who reign Supreme on Earth and in Heaven, please open our eyes to see Your gracious care for us. Please increase our faith and allow us to trust in Your perfect plans. Thank You, Lord. In the Name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Walk by Faith” (2020 version) by Jeremy Camp. Listen to it here. *Note: This song is from the movie “I Still Believe” based on the true story of Jeremy Camp’s first wife. Watch the movie trailer here. Buy the book about this story too. The title is I Still Believe: A Memoir and it’s available wherever books are sold. Here’s the purchase link on Amazon.com.

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Author Bio:

Karen Marstaller is a retired high school teacher who spent most of her career challenging creative students to write. Her heart is for her readers. 

She writes to encourage them, to make them laugh, to show them that life is a beautiful journey, and regardless of their past, to show them that there is joy ahead if they will just keep looking.

Karen and her husband live in central Texas in a sweet little home that they completely remodeled. They enjoy spending time with their family, which includes seven precious grandchildren.

Most of all, Karen writes in obedience to the command to love your neighbor, to offer a cup of water to those who are dying of thirst, and to comfort others with the comfort she has received.

You can reach Karen by emailing her at this address: klmarstaller@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Grace is available for all humankind

The Gift of Grace
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” 

–Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB)

One of the areas with which some people struggle during their Christian journey is the concept of grace. The Bible very clearly indicates that grace is a gift from God. 

This gift is available the moment we believe and receive Jesus in our hearts. It is not something that we can do for ourselves, nor can we take any credit for it. It is actually very simple, yet we tend to make it so very complicated. Perhaps many of us are accustomed to earning everything in life, and so it becomes difficult to just accept this gift.

Grace is the power of God that enables us to be free from whatever is holding us down or preventing us from moving forward in life. God wants so badly for us to experience the freedom found in His grace. Even though we do not deserve this and many of His wonderful blessings, He still covers us in grace every day of our lives.

To counteract grace, the enemy offers us disgrace. Many of us readily accept this, not even realizing just how harmful it is to our very being. Disgrace shames us into thinking that God would never love us or accept us after what we have done or what was done to us. Disgrace presents itself in so many ways including the negative self-talk that brings us down. We dislike ourselves, reject ourselves and then convince ourselves that God feels the same way about us.

But we can be sure of this one thing: The blood of Jesus Christ washes us clean from all wrong. When Jesus wraps us in His robe of righteousness and presents us faultless before the throne of God, our Heavenly Father (God) looks at us and sees His Son (Jesus) standing there in our place. Regardless of how we feel about ourselves, God still loves us and showers us with grace.

Although by ourselves we may not be worthy of God’s grace, we can still accept this gift by placing our faith in the One who freely gives it to us.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, we cannot thank You enough for Your grace. Please help us to grow into an understanding of righteousness through the blood of Jesus. May we never take advantage of Your grace, but may we be grateful that grace saves us through our faith in You. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Were It Not For Grace” by Larnelle Harris. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Angela Anderson was born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in NJ. She found her love for writing when she was in elementary school. She continued writing through high school, college, and into adulthood.

Angela is the author of a devotional book titled, Just When I Thought I Knew God, and a children's book that is not yet published.

In 2021, Angela started writing articles for an online magazine called Christian Women Living, where she focuses on writing messages for mothers and sharing advice on parenting. In addition to this, Angela wrote a devotional that is featured in a book published by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The book title is Hope When Your Heart is Heavy.

Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing as well as speaking. She is the co-founder of Anchor Moms, a ministry to cure loneliness in Motherhood. Currently, this ministry meets via a group on Facebook.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson, for 17 years. Together, they have two sons: Thomas (age 9) and Ryan (age 4). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling, and she also enjoys spending quality time with her family. Her personal mission is to empower others to achieve their goals and dreams.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Our Guide

When God is Your Guide
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“And the Lord was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, so that they might travel by day and by night.”

–Exodus 13:21 (NASB)

I’m old enough to remember road trips taken with the help of a giant Rand McNally map, conveniently located in the large pocket on the back of the passenger’s seat. Every once in a while, Dad would have one of us kids grab the map, maneuver it over the seatback to Mom without hitting anyone in the head and have her figure out where we needed to turn or stop or simply ensure we were still on the right path.

I was not born with a great sense of direction and I’m not a particularly good navigator, even when I’m using a map. The emergence of navigation software has been a lifeline to me. I easily admit that I use it sometimes when I drive, even in a town I’ve lived in for more than thirty years. I need to know how to get where I want to go and I like that I don’t have to do all the work to think about the best way to get there.

One of the Bible’s most important stories is the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Sometimes we have a laugh at the expense of those Israelites in the desert, don’t we? I’ve seen cartoons with punchlines about how it was Moses’s wife who must have wanted to ask for directions and he refused, or the Israelites using an app that kept telling them to “re-route.” Those are funny, but the truth is there are a lot of lessons for all of us to learn in the wandering.

One thing we need to remember is to keep our eyes on Jesus. The Israelites were given a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night to guide them in their travels. We may not have such physically visible guides in our lives today, but we have the Holy Spirit inside us to keep us on track. If we are conscious of listening to His promptings, take time for Bible study and worship, and intentionally pray for guidance, we will know which way to go.

Secondly, we always need to be on the lookout for milestones and divine interruptions. God knew exactly what He was doing when He led His people to Rephidim and there was no water (Exodus 17:1-7). By sending them to this place, when He might have led them somewhere else, He showed them His provision through the water He caused to pour from the rock. In that same chapter, the Israelites went to battle against the Amalekites. Through Moses and Joshua’s resolve and reliance on God, the Israelites won the battle and God proved in a visible way how He would fight for them and take care of them as they moved into the Promised Land.

In the New Testament, we see the same sort of interruptions. In John 4, Jesus and His disciples, who could have traveled from Judea to Galilee another way, decided to go through Samaria. That was no accident. How else would we have known about that beautiful moment when Jesus talks to a Samaritan woman and reveals Himself as the Messiah? What would that woman or the disciples have missed if Jesus had taken them on a more straightforward route instead?

We need to remember that instead of a map, we have a Guide (God) who doesn’t need a map to direct us to our ultimate destination (Heaven). We have a loving God who knows exactly where we need to go and when. He will set up roadblocks when we need them, and make straight paths when we need those, too. Maybe, when we think we’re wandering, Jesus is simply maneuvering us right where we need to be.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, my Guide, please help me to keep my eyes focused on You. Help me not be afraid or anxious when I don’t know where You’re taking me. Keep me close to You so that I won’t wander off the path you have set before me. You are good and have good things in store for me. I praise You for all You are. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Note from Alexis: Glynis Becker’s devotional message today reminds me of “Thy Word” (song) by Amy Grant. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume.

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Reasons why there's no gain without pain

No Gain Without Pain
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” 

–Romans 12:1 (NASB)

I want to lose ten pounds. But here’s the shocking part: I don’t want to give up any of my favorite foods. I really hate to exercise. I like to sleep. Consequently, I don’t want to get up any earlier and walk or run or stretch or sweat or anything. So guess how long it will take to lose that weight? Maybe forever.

I want to be a published writer. But writing is hard work! Most days I’d rather spend my free time watching television, reading a book someone else wrote, or scrolling social media on whatever device is closest at hand. Will my book ever get written? At that rate, it’s not likely.

I want a deeper relationship with Jesus. But I resist regular prayer time and Bible reading in favor of other, easier distractions during the time I should be spending with Him. And the end result? A stalled growth in my faith and a gap between us wide enough for temptation and sin to flood inside.

We are constantly bombarded with messages about all the things we deserve and the shortcuts we can take to get them. Whether it’s “making money with these three easy steps” or “lose weight while you sleep,” all of us can get sucked into the idea that we can gain what we want with no sacrifice on our part. But it’s not true.

Our salvation is a free gift from God. We don’t earn it. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 NASB)

Don’t be mistaken. There is a cost. If we want to gain the fullness of what God has for us here in this life…If we want to be good ambassadors of His kingdom…If we want to share His love to its fullest extent…If we want to know Jesus, not just know about Him, then we must give up whatever we know is holding us back from doing that.

In the story of the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27), a man asks Jesus what he could do to inherit eternal life. When He told the young man to keep the commandments, the man said he always had. Jesus then told the rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give them to the poor. Did Jesus know the one thing that held this rich man back from truly becoming a follower? Of course, and so He knew exactly what to ask for. The man walked away, saddened, because he wasn’t ready to give up his riches. I’ve always felt great compassion for this man, probably because I see myself in this story.

What is that I hold onto so tightly that if Jesus asked me to give it up, I would walk away, saddened because I just couldn’t do it?

We are only weeks away from Easter Sunday. Jesus’s sacrifice should be our model every day (not just when Easter comes around) of how, while our sacrifices may feel too hard, in the end, that surrender will be greatly rewarded. Our willingness to give up things we love—comfort foods, television, personal property, whatever He asks of us—proves to ourselves that our provision is in Christ alone.

When we know our true priorities, we can let go of anything that doesn’t line up with them. Do you and I really want to be followers of Christ? If so, ponder this: What is He asking each of us to let go of today?

I’m ready to prayerfully consider the answer to that question. Are you?

Let’s Pray: Dear Jesus, thank You for showing us what a life committed to God looks like. Please show us today what things hold us back from a life lived completely for You. We love You and praise You for your goodness, grace, and forgiveness. In Your Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Note: Today’s devotional by Glynis reminds me of Keith & Kristyn Getty’s performance of the song "In Christ Alone”. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume. 

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should love people unconditionally

Unconditional Love and Angels Unaware
A devotional by Erin M. Handley

“Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”–Hebrews 13:2 (NASB)

Love. It is a small yet powerful word. It is both a feeling and an action. It takes on a lot of meanings, but they are all rooted in how God loves His own. He calls His children to love others the same way He loves us: unconditionally.

Loving unconditionally can sometimes seem like a daunting task. Showing love is easy when it is mutual. When it is a shared decision between like-minded people, it rarely requires much thought.

The intention to love others is mostly instinctive when it does not feel like a burdensome task. It seems easier to love when there is a heightened level of awareness of the person or situation. It can be easier to love an individual who may be difficult to get along with when you understand the root of their contentiousness and you decide to love them beyond their flaws. 

However, in order to love unconditionally the decision must be made to show love relentlessly regardless of the person or specific situation. To love unconditionally means love is exhibited with no restrictions, no requirements, and no expectations.

The tricky thing about loving unconditionally is that sometimes we may feel like we are showing love without it being reciprocated. Committing to love others as God calls us to can sometimes seem overwhelming and tiresome. Loving unconditionally can be difficult to do when you find yourself walking away from situations feeling unappreciated or taken advantage of. It can be a hard thing to do, but doing so shows the love of Jesus Christ to those who need to see it. It is easy to talk about, but we often don’t understand what it means until we experience it firsthand.

But what about those who find themselves feeling unappreciated? They love others relentlessly without it being reciprocated. Over time, they find themselves looking for a silver lining; something to remind them of their purpose. They desire encouragement to continue loving with the heart of God even when the work can feel like it is done with no purpose.

If this resonates with you, please be encouraged by this: “Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2 NASB).

It can seem hard to continue loving others during their darkest hours. But be encouraged by knowing that God sends His angels to you just when you need their presence. God’s Angels will not mistreat you. Angels will not devalue you. Angels will not allow you to feel unappreciated after they cross your path. You never know when you will entertain them, so make it a best practice to be hospitable to every person you meet. This is how we show the love of God.

Let’s Pray: Lord, you consistently show us what unconditional love is. You always to love us relentlessly. Because we see how you love us, we have the blueprint that guides us and shows us how to love others without limitations or conditions. Thank you for being patient with us as we are learning how to love others unconditionally. Thank you for being so forgiving as we sometimes don’t always love as fiercely as we should. Thank you for your gentle reminders to always love even the strangers who may be the angels you have sent our way. In Jesus’s Name we pray. Amen.

~*~
Note from Alexis: Erin’s devotional message today reminds me of this song “Angels Unaware” by Michael W. Smith. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

For over 15 years, Erin has worked with youth and adolescents in the fields of mental and behavioral health, education, and ministry. When reflecting on her experiences in ministry and non-ministry settings, her most memorable encounters have been those that allowed her the opportunity to teach the Word of God in a way that is most relatable to the audience she served in that moment. She has enjoyed writing since her youth, but only recently felt the call to share her writing with the world.

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to Know God as The Living Word

The Living Word
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“The Law of his God is in his heart; His steps do not slip.”

–Psalm 37:31 (NASB)

In lieu of resolutions, many people choose a word or phrase to live into for the coming year.

In late 2019, I bought a planner, hoping it would make me more organized—which it did not—but it encouraged prayerfully choosing a scripture verse to use for the year.

I’m embarrassed that I had never thought of that myself, so I chose Psalm 23. It was a perfect choice for a year of sorrow. In 2021, I felt like I needed hope, so I chose Psalm 27:13 (NASB), “I certainly believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Keeping that verse in mind during the challenges of last year was so much better than if I had chosen a random, inspirational word from the English dictionary. This was the Living Word.

As Christians, we believe in the power of God’s Word to guide, heal, transform, and carry us through both the hardships and joys we face. I’ve decided this year not to focus on one verse, but to memorize all fourteen verses of Psalm 27. 

I’ve highlighted a few pieces of wisdom from this chapter and what they mean to me right now. All verses are from the New American Standard (NASB) translation.

Psalm 27:1 says, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?” What a beautiful reminder that God is with me here on my journey! He is my Light. Why do I spend so much time worrying about everything? God is ahead, beside, and behind me. I have nothing to fear.

Psalm 27:3 says, “If an army encamps against me, my heart will not fear; If war arises against me, in spite of this I am confident.” While David, who wrote this psalm, was a king and military leader who probably had a lot more control over war and politics than I do, he was confident that God would protect him, if not physically, then spiritually. I can have the same confidence in my place in the chaos around me because He is the same God He always was.

Psalm 27:4 says, “One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to meditate in His temple.” Every day I choose to decide that dwelling in the Lord’s presence is what I want more than anything else. Once that happens, the rest of my day–and year and life–will fall into place.

Psalm 27:10 says, “For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me up.” No mortal has the ability to be there for us like God can. While we need to love each other and be there for each other while our loved ones are here, we should not put our complete trust and confidence in ourselves or other people. Only the Lord can lift us up.

Psalm 27:11 says, “Teach me Your way, Lord…”. We allow the world, which does not know God, to teach us things that are often the exact opposite of God’s ways. We need to be able to tell the world’s lies from God’s Truth and we can only do that by allowing the Spirit to speak to us, lead us, and direct our path.

Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage.” This means I should wait in expectation, watching for what the Lord is doing in the world, so I can step in where He asks me to go.

Memorizing Scripture can be hard, but if we can remember TV jingles from our childhood and tons of music lyrics, then we can do this too!

Let’s Pray: Father God, Your Word is life to us. Allow us to soak it in and make it part of us. Let it be in our minds to transform our thoughts and in our mouths to speak truth and love to others. You are the only One who can truly guide us in the way we should go. Thank you. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Note from Alexis: The message in this devotional by Glynis reminds me of Fred Hammond’s song “You Are the Living Word”. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume.

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Life Lessons on Witnessing for Jesus Christ

Knowing When to Walk Away
A devotional by Erin M. Handley

“Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”

 – Matthew 7:6 (NASB)

There is something captivating about watching a particular action repeatedly.

Children enjoying a carousel. People riding a Ferris wheel. A hamster running on its wheel in its cage. Many individuals can sit and watch others enjoy those activities for hours. Watching the repeated action can bring a sense of joy and tranquility. It’s also interesting that the amount of energy required for the repeated action does not bring progression in reaching a new destination.

Sometimes in life, we find ourselves putting a lot of much energy into other things and other people. If this resonates with you, you may also admit to rarely taking a moment to assess whether or not the time and energy you spend actually brings progression in your life. If this is something you identify with, you may be able to acknowledge your purpose of doing things that bring you progression on your journey. Sometimes we do things we want to do out of the goodness in our heart. Sometimes we do things we feel called to do. If nothing else, we believe we are expected to strive to work heartily and only to God and not unto man (Colossians 3:23).

No matter how genuine our heart is as we desire to do things for the Lord, we have to be willing to acknowledge when our actions and pure intentions are not well-received everywhere we go. Matthew 10:14 (NIV) tells us, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.” This is what Jesus expressed to His disciples who were sent out to share His message. When it was realized that not all places His disciples were sent would be receptive of His word, it was suggested that His disciples leave. Even though the disciples were sent out to spread God’s word to everyone, the disciples were also released from the places that did not accept God’s message.

It can be difficult to know when to abandon an assignment.

A person who can be considered as a person after God’s own heart is genuinely fully committed to helping others know who Jesus is. It is also important to recognize when you have done the work and the work is not welcomed in the place where you are. Staying in that place will have negative effects that are twofold.

First, you will find yourself tired. You will spend a significant amount of time and energy in a place doing an action that will not bring you any progression on your journey. In the moment, you will feel joy and tranquility because you know the work you are doing is for God. But when you take a step back, you will recognize the wheel you were spinning had a lot of traction although it was not actually moving towards a goal.

The second negative effect is that there is an attempt to devalue God’s precious work. He took His time to create you and to prepare you to do the very thing He created you to do. When you go to some of the places that need His good news, not only do they refuse to receive His word, but they also aim to separate you from His goodness.

God tells us, “Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NASB). If we fail to recognize when we are “spinning our wheels” in His name, then we will eventually find ourselves so tired that we will not have enough energy to continue doing the work or have the energy to fight the things that may come with doing the work.

Be willing to walk away. It’s not always easy, and it is not out of selfish ambition. It is a way to preserve the hearts of those who love Him and desire to continue doing His work. It is a way to focus on continuing to spread His good news. Without being willing to walk away, you may be taking a risk of possibly losing sight of doing His good work.

Let’s Pray: 

Precious Lord, thank you for hearing our hearts before we have cried out to you. You answered the prayers that we haven’t uttered yet. You know our hearts because you know what we desire to do. Thank you for being omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent, and never-changing. If you never change, then Your Word (The Holy Bible) never changes. Since Your Word never changes, we have to trust the instructions you have given us for times like this. We don’t always know what we are doing or where we are going, but knowing You are with us is enough. Thank You for preparing us for every step on this journey. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

For over 15 years, Erin has worked with youth and adolescents in the fields of mental and behavioral health, education, and ministry. When reflecting on her experiences in ministry and non-ministry settings, her most memorable encounters have been those that allowed her the opportunity to teach the Word of God in a way that is most relatable to the audience she served in that moment. She has enjoyed writing since her youth, but only recently felt the call to share her writing with the world.

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When God Gives You A Divine Interruption

Divine Interruptions During Ordinary Days
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“The mind of a person plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”

—Proverbs 16:9 (NASB)

I like my morning routine. Part of that routine includes drinking coffee in my favorite chair while clearing my email inbox or reading a book. My chair looks directly out an east-facing window and most of the year I get a front-row seat to watch the sunrise.

The other morning, I saw an early text from my daughter and because my phone was on the couch perpendicular to my regular chair, I sat down on that couch and had a quick conversation with her. Through my peripheral vision, I caught sight of a spectacular streak of color out the window. It might have been one of the most amazing sunrises I’d ever seen. Later that day my Facebook feed was filled with pictures of that same sunrise from all over the area, so I knew I wasn’t the only one stunned by its beauty.

But the part that hit me the hardest was when I realized if I had been sitting in my usual chair I would have missed it completely. The sun is rising farther south than normal this time of the year and with our Christmas tree up, my window view is obstructed. If I hadn’t had a reason to be doing something different than I normally do, I would have missed a wonderful moment.

Divine interruptions are the best kind. The Bible stories we love are full of interruptions, especially the Christmas story. Mary was going about her life, planning to get married and start the next chapter of her story, never expecting a visit from an angel (Luke 1:26-38). The shepherds were in their fields, doing what they always did, not for a moment thinking that a choir of angels would show up to tell them to go find a baby in a manger (Luke 2:8-17). What amazing interruptions to perfectly ordinary days!

Do I cultivate a life that is open to God’s interruptions? Is my schedule so tightly packed that I have no margin for a moment of reflection? Is my heart so closed off that I don’t have a place for Jesus Christ to interrupt my day to show me something beautiful? Do I make myself available to let God direct my steps to someone who needs me at a given moment?

I want God to be able to change my routine, get me out of my comfort zone, hand me His Divine interruptions, and use me as He wants. To do this, I need to have my eyes open for opportunities and a heart willing to be moved. What would our world look like if we all lived every day this way? Let’s try it and find out!

Let’s Pray: Father God, help me to be open to whatever interruptions You want to give me in the next hour, the next day, the next year. Help me see what You are doing in the world and give me opportunities to work for your Kingdom alongside You. Shake up my routine and show me ways to love You deeper and to love my neighbors. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume. 

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Fine China

Like Fine China
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”

–2 Corinthians 3:18 (NASB)

A few years ago I inherited my grandmother’s set of china dishes.

They are white dishes with simple, white flowers and a silver trim. I love that they are just what I would have picked out myself if I had a chance to choose. I also love that when you look at them through my china cabinet’s glass doors or even set them out on a table, you would think they are all identical. On closer inspection, though, you would see that there are plates, cups, and bowls from two different manufacturers. One set is an upscale brand well-known for their fine dishes, and one of them is a department store brand. While they are both beautiful and have the same color scheme and trim, the two patterns are different yet still complement each other perfectly.

God has created each of us with a human body—a shell with characteristics like hair and eye and skin color, along with a combination of personality traits unique to us. We live in different countries, come from different backgrounds, and speak different languages. When we become believers, our physical characteristics do not necessarily change, but we definitely should become different on the inside. At the point of surrender to the faith, we each willingly choose a new way of living, a new way of interacting with others, and a new way of seeing the world. We must begin to allow ourselves to be transformed to the image of Christ—a work that will continue in us until the day we go to Heaven.

Should we all look alike? The answer is probably yes and no. We will never all be the same in language, worship style, skin color, or even doctrinal beliefs and theologies. However, if we are all becoming more like Christ then we should start to resemble each other more and more in other ways, such as our response to the darkness and chaos of the world and the peace we have during trials.

Our differences are beautiful. They are given to us by God and should be used to strengthen us in our purpose and mission in the world.

All my dishes—the inexpensive ones, the expensive ones, the broken ones, the ones with a trim that is a little worn, the ones with chips in them, the shiny ones and the scratched ones can all still serve up a delicious meal. God has a feast of grace, love, mercy, justice, peace, and kindness ready for us to serve to a very hungry world. So today, let’s gather the Body of Christ together, and set a beautiful table. His banquet is ready. Are you?

Let’s Pray: Gracious God, help me see myself and others as you see us—beautiful members of Christ’s Body, available for You to work through us and with us. Give me a heart for unity with believers. Give me a heart of compassion for the world. Help me find ways to use my unique talents and personality for You and Your glory alone. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume.

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Stand Up and Stand Out for Jesus Christ

Out of Place
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” –Matthew 5:16 (NASB)

When was the last time you felt out of place?

When have you felt so conspicuous you were sure that everyone was watching you?

A few weeks ago we went to see our daughter in the marching band at her college’s homecoming game. I’m embarrassed to admit that until we walked through the doors to the stadium, it had not occurred to me to wear something with the school logo or even the school’s colors! This was a weekend trip and I had only packed a few clothes, so I didn’t have any options to change into.

As I sat in the stands with my bright green shirt sticking out in a sea of maroon and gold, all I could be thankful for was that I hadn’t accidentally worn the colors of the opposing team!

My embarrassment eventually gave way to an enjoyment of the beautiful fall weather and an exciting (though losing) football game. This experience made me think about how much my situation mirrored the Christian life.

That crowd of cheering spectators is the world. And me, standing in the midst of it with a shirt that doesn’t match, represents the Christ-follower. It makes us uncomfortable to be different, but Jesus Christ reminds us to be strong in that place. He prayed to the Father for us (Christ-followers) in John 17:15-16 (NASB): “‘I am not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them away from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.’”

Standing in the crowd is good. Standing out from the crowd is even better.

Several Old Testament books were written during and about the time of the Jewish exile in Babylon. These Jews were forced from their land and homes and sent to live among their enemies. The Jews stood out from their Gentile neighbors, just as Christians today stand out from an unbelieving world. But God gave words to the prophet Jeremiah during that time that I believe we should take to heart ourselves. He said, “‘Seek the prosperity of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord in its behalf; for in its prosperity will be your prosperity.’” (Jeremiah 29:7 NASB)

God has created us for this time and this place. While our eternal home is with Him in Heaven, we need to be mindful of our work in this world too. The world we live in will remain broken until Jesus returns to Earth to take us home and make all things right. We should eagerly await His return and promise of restoration. At the same time, we must continue to seek justice, share truth, feed the poor, build the kingdom, and love others here, even if we will never see the perfection of those things in our lifetime.

My grandmother used to say that too many Christians are, “so heavenly-minded that they are of no earthly good.” Let’s do good while we’re here, but never forget that our true home is elsewhere. Don’t be afraid to stand up for Jesus and stand out in this world!

Let’s Pray: Lord Jesus, give me the courage to stand for you, especially when it’s hard. Remind me that this world needs love and justice and freedom. Help me to remember that Your words of truth are the only keys to all those things. Help me to dwell here in the world lightly, always looking forward to being present with You in Heaven. In Your powerful and precious name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume.  

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming.

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

~*~
Connect with Glynis:
Website: www.glynisbecker.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckerglynis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlynisBecker7

Devotionals for the Heart: Following Jesus and sharing Him with the world

Seeking the Lost
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.””

– Mark 16:15 (NASB)

I have been a Christian for a long time.

I grew up in the church with a family who loves Jesus Christ. I made a decision to put Jesus first at a very young age and never went through a “rebellion” stage like many church kids do. I didn’t leave the church when I left home or went to college. My faith and relationship with the Lord has certainly had its ups and downs, although I’d like to think that on the whole it’s been pretty consistent and so have I.

But no matter how long we’ve been a Christian, or how many times we’ve read the Bible, if we are still breathing, God is still working on things within us. As we study and pray, our eyes are opened to new truths about Him and our hearts need to be open to transformation.

In this season of my life I’m beginning to recognize how little I share my faith today and how little I have over the course of my life. Having spent my childhood in the ‘80s, for me the word “evangelist” conjures up tarnished images of slick-talking television hucksters exploiting the masses, but it shouldn’t. 

According to the dictionary, “Evangelism” is simply “spreading the Christian gospel by public preaching or personal witness.” So an “evangelist” is simply a witness. We may not all have a public pulpit, but we all have a witness and therefore, we are all evangelists to one degree or another.

My own personality is one-part shy introvert and two-parts peacemaker who hates conflict or confrontation. “Evangelist” is not on a list of job descriptions for which I would naturally consider myself a good fit, but several things come to mind when I think about these six points: 

Point #1: We may not all be preachers or evangelists, but we all have a story.

Point #2: Even if evangelism is not our spiritual gift, we still need to be a witness to the world.

Point #3: Sharing the most important news of our lives shouldn’t be looked at as a burden, but a privilege.

Point #4: We do not share Jesus by ourselves. The Holy Spirit equips us as we speak and He is the one at work. Only He can convince another person of the Truth, which is how we came to know it in the first place ourselves.

Point #5: When someone rejects the Gospel, they are not rejecting us. And even if we do feel rejected, remember we are children of God and co-heirs with Jesus. It’s okay if the world doesn’t love us.

Point #6: The name of Jesus has great power. It shouldn’t surprise us when people who are not ready to hear the Gospel are rude or sharp or argumentative. The natural spirit inside us loves the things of the world, not the things of God.

Our church is studying through the book of Acts right now. If spending time with the amazing stories and astonishing miracles of the first Christians doesn’t make you want to see revival in today’s church or give you courage to seek out those who are lost, then maybe you need to read it again!

The world is so desperate for what only Jesus can give. How can we be silent? I’m ready to ask for opportunities to bring light to dark places. How about you?

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, author of salvation, be in us today as we share the truth with those around us. Help us to know when to speak and when to be silent, when to move forward and when to stand still. Even when we are scared, remind us that You are close. We love you. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume. 

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming. 

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two college-age children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

Connect with her at www.glynisbecker.com, @beckerglynis on Instagram or @GlynisBecker7 on Twitter.

Devotionals for the Heart: Our Mission

Purpose and Productivity
A devotional by Glynis Becker

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” 

–Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB)

Have I somehow made “being productive” and “finding purpose” an idol in my life? I am aware, as most of us are, that God’s version of things like love, peace, happiness, and success are often very different from what the world expects. So my fear is that along the way, I have turned God’s calling and purpose for my life into an end goal it was never supposed to be.

I grew up in the church. I never felt a call to be a missionary or a pastor, but I always thought that somehow, with whatever talent I possessed, I would someday do “big things” for God. Yet here I am, in middle-age, feeling let down and afraid that I might have missed that one thing God had for me to do.

As I was pondering that rather depressing thought, a realization hit me that I know could only have come from God: He doesn’t need me to worry about doing big things or small things or even anything at all. He just needs my willingness and obedience for those moments when He does ask me to do something.

I only have so many days, so many years, and only this one life and I don’t want to waste it. But I have spent a lot of energy trying to figure out my purpose. What if what God really needs from me is to be still, listen to His voice, love Him and the people around me? What if I miss that because I’m looking to do something bigger? What if there really is no “one purpose”, but just day-to-day trust and obedience?

My father-in-law remarked once that when his kids were little, he’d gotten a video camera. He spent so much time trying to capture memories of school concerts and vacations, that he ended up only really experiencing them through the lens, feeling like he’d missed the event itself. I don’t want to be looking so hard for something that I miss the things around me.

Not all of us will have a platform for evangelism like Billy Graham, or have the resume of a Moses or King David. But we all have people in our lives who need to hear the Truth. We have children to raise to know Jesus. We have jobs to do with integrity so that people know we are people of good character. We have small kindnesses to do in our corner of the world. We can support others doing work in places around the world we will never see.

Worrying takes away a lot of joy. And if we are spending time with God, He is not going to let us miss out on what He has for us. He doesn’t need me to find my own version of purpose or productivity. He just needs me to listen and act.

“The Mission” song by Steve Green sums up my points today. Listen to it here.

Let’s Pray: Father God, You know everything about me, the world, and my place in it. Please help me to see where You want me to be, what You want me to do, and who You want me to share You with, however that looks. I know You have things set aside for me to do, but help me not be so focused on “doing”, that I forget how to just “be”. I love You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~

Author Bio:

Glynis Becker writes devotions and inspirational fiction, hoping someday to have a published novel on her resume. 

She has co-written several screenplays, including the film Sinking Sand, available on DVD and digital streaming. 

Glynis, whose childhood was spent all over the country as an Air Force brat, has called South Dakota home for many years, along with her husband and two teenage children.

When she’s not writing or reading, she is watching more television than she should and crocheting.

You can find her at www.glynisbecker.com.