Devotionals for the Heart: Walking my dog taught me how to trust God

Why We Need to Let Go of Control
A devotional by Terry Overton

“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, ‘Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.’ But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.”—Jonah 1:1-3 (ESV)

Each morning before the sun inches over the horizon, I bounce eagerly from my bed and dress quickly to partake in an adventure!

I do not travel far on this journey, just a mile or two. My morning itinerary includes taking my dog Bella—a miniature gray and white Schnauzer weighing exactly twelve pounds and two ounces—for our early morning walks. I use this time to praise God for His countless blessings of creation. His handiwork surrounds me on my walking path. The busy sound of chattering squirrels, the deep calls of the hooting owls, budding flowers of spring, trees changing to their fall colors, the rising sun reflecting yellow and orange on the water of our lake. All these wonders in God’s creation proclaim the glory of God and showcase His majesty!

More than once, I have returned from our early morning walk inspired to complete the tasks of the day with renewed strength and joy.

My walk with my dog is not always enjoyable or predictable. My adorable pooch is one of the most stubborn pups I have ever had. She does not realize the direction she wants to travel is in the path of an oncoming car or a 150-pound unruly dog. Bella tugs the leash in the opposite direction from where I am leading her, with more force than expected for a tiny dog. I often find myself wondering if I might be like Bella, guided by God and on a safe path, but with ideas of my own. Do I pull the other way and resist the path He wants me to take?

How often have I failed to let Him be in control? How frequently have I fought against what He asked me to do? Just as Jonah in the Old Testament, have I ignored God’s call and gone in the completely wrong direction? I must confess I have. I have fought for control, I thought I knew better, and became impatient, and subsequently, I have run into challenging circumstances or situations.

When I take control, grow impatient, or ignore His guidance, I end up in painful consequences and only then do I ask God, “Why?” Just like Jonah found himself in the belly of a big fish (kind of like God’s version of a “Time Out” for Jonah to be still and reflect about his bad choices and actions), I land in the center of a disaster when I go my own way. And only then do I look back and retrace the steps I took. Why did I take a particular step? Why did I skip that step? Why did I refuse to step forward or turn backward? Why did I resist or ignore? The answer is simple: I thought I was in control. This is an illusion. We are never in control! Our God is always in charge. We might wish for control, but our reasoning is faulty.

The Bible says in Proverbs 16:9 (ESV), “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” God guides us through Scripture and His actions. We see evidence of His control through the unpredictable events of our lives that He allows: illnesses happen, jobs are lost or obtained, financial crises surface, relationships are found or lost, babies are born, and our loved ones die. These are all beyond our control.

I think that the reason why we strive for control is because when we try to surrender our perception of control, it leads to anxiety. We develop fear when we do not know how our situation will end. A lack of power, feeling helpless or hopeless about events in our lives increases our worry. But through prayer and developing a closer relationship with God, we can choose not to become anxious. He has instructed us to hand our anxiety and worry over to Him.

The Bible advises us in 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV), “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” The Word tells us we can let go of the anxiety by letting God handle our worries. He cares for us and does not wish for us to be burdened with fear and worry.

Jonah learned his lesson, and from the inside of the giant fish, he prayed to God, acknowledging how God had blessed him in the past. He told God he would follow His will. Once Jonah found himself on dry land again, he went to Nineveh, obeyed God, and Nineveh was delivered. God had a plan, and nothing Jonah could do would stop the plans He established.

When I struggle for control, the story of Jonah serves as a valuable example. When I am anxious for control, I must remember to thank God for all He has done and turn over my worries to Him. We don’t know the plan or the answers. But God does and that is all we need to know.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

In my weakness, I confess I try to take control instead of resting in Your power. Please forgive me when I forget that Your plan is best. Remind me each day that You alone are in control, and Your ways are higher than mine. Teach me to trust Your guidance so that I may grow closer to You and walk in Your will.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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

Song of Reflection #2: “I Give You My Heart” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “God Has Another Plan” by Babbie Mason. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Terry Overton is a retired university professor of educational and school psychology. She has an Ed.D. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Psychology. 

Her professional experience includes teaching public school, teaching at the university level, and being a college dean.

She has two children, seven grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Her previous writing and publication experiences include textbook and journal articles in the fields of special education and school psychology. She now seeks to answer God’s call to share the good news and grow the church by writing Christian books and devotionals.

Over the years, Terry’s books have won the Mom’s Choice Award, Christian Indie Award, Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Winner Awards, Bookfest Winner Awards, Pencraft Award, Reader Views Silver Reviewers Award, and International Book Award Finalist. Her writing examines real world events with a Christian worldview. She enjoys writing for young children, middle grade readers, YA fiction, and adult level novels.

Terry’s background in teaching adults and children shine through her stories that often include a character with educational or learning challenges. Her Christmas series, The Oddball Ornaments, features a box of misfit ornaments who first learn the meaning of Christmas and then discover the meaning of forgiveness. In The Underground Book Readers series, one of the main characters is on the autism spectrum yet is one of the leaders of the group of teens. Book one of a new series, The Messiah Brigade, features an awkward middle school nerd who helps his school turn around a bully gang of kids. Adoption and family issues are the focus of her new book, Charlotte McMaster and the Messenger Angel.

Terry lives in Texas and enjoys reading, taking pictures for devotional posts on social media, visiting with her family, playing golf, and writing.

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Connect with Terry:
Website: https://www.authorterryoverton.com
Blog: https://terryovertonbooks.com
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/overtont

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when God says no to your prayers

What is Your Response When God Says No?
A devotional written by Colette Lawrence

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”— Romans 8:28 (NIV)

When my siblings and I were children and asked our parents for things, the answer that excited and filled us with joy was “Yes.” Our ears seemed not trained to hear any other response.

In our limited mind view, hearing “no” meant we were denied what we through our young eyes thought was best for us, and we pouted or threw tantrums. We believed what we asked for was what was best for us, and hearing that response made us feel that our parents did not love us because if they did, they would have given us what we wanted. This is how we respond to the Lord at times.

2 Samuel 12 recounts how David sinned against the Lord by sleeping with Uriah's wife. The Lord sent Nathan the prophet to confront him about it, and he acknowledged his sin. Bathsheba became pregnant, but that child would die according to the word of the Lord. You may wonder what this has to do with God saying no. It has everything to do with it. The child became ill, and David decided to fast. This is a spiritual discipline where you abstain from eating food and drinking. You spend a lot of time praying to God from the depths of your heart about what you hope He will answer “yes” to in response. Perhaps in fasting, David thought the Lord would heal his baby and the child would live. But God said “no” in the answer to David’s prayers. David’s newborn baby died.

How often has God said no to your request, and your response is just like King David’s initial idea to fast and pray hoping God will change His mind? Maybe you haven't, but I can recall situations when God said no to me, and yes was the answer I thought I needed. My response was to fast and pray in strong hope that He would change His mind, but He didn't.

Sometimes we forget we serve a Sovereign God who knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10), what we need, when we need it, and what is best for us.

The Lord tells us in Matthew 7:11 (NIV), “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Therefore, if we petition God for our needs and in His Sovereignty, He says no, then it stands to reason that His no is based on Him knowing all the facts, what is best for us and not giving something to us that He already knows would ultimately not work for our good.

Have you ever been so desperate for God to do something for you, so desperate for His yes, that when He responds differently than you expected, you are left in a tailspin, feeling dejected, neglected, and wondering if God doesn't understand what you need? That was me. In those times, I used to pout and be miffed at God because He denied me something I believed was best for me.

As we read further in the key scripture above, King David fasted and prayed. God still said “no” and his baby died. Consider David’s response from 2 Samuel 12:18-20 (NIV) that reads, “On the seventh day the child died. David’s attendants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, “While the child was still living, he wouldn’t listen to us when we spoke to him. How can we now tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate.” David noticed that his attendants were whispering among themselves, and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.” Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.”

David's response should be our model response. He hoped he could change God's heart, but he couldn't because the baby wasn't part of God's plan for him. Instead of pouting and withholding his love from God in worship, David changed his posture. He cleansed himself, and then he went to worship the Lord Jesus Christ.

When we hear God's response to our request, and it doesn't meet our expectations, I believe the Lord desires us to come to Him, let Him know how we are feeling, and choose to worship Him instead. We need to trust in His Sovereignty and trust His heart for us. God’s response of “no” is never meant to withdraw or withhold anything good from you. But because He is all-knowing and has your absolute best interest at heart, if He says “no” then that answer is in our best interest.

What are you struggling with today? Have you fasted and prayed about it, and God has still said no? Would you choose today to respond like David by accepting God’s “no” then worshipping God for who He is, the King of all kings, the Creator of Heaven and Earth? Remember, God is your Heavenly Father and He loves you.

Today, let's choose to worship God instead of worry and trust that His plans for us are perfect. Whatever God’s response to our petitions are, our responsibility is to acknowledge His Lordship and Sovereignty then be reminded that God always work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

Let’s Pray:

Father God,

How grateful we are for your love and the good plans You have for us. We confess that we don’t always understand when our requests aren’t answered in the way we expect and want. Please forgive us for doubting your good plans for us. Thank You for being Sovereign Lord. Thanks for the assurance that we can trust You. Help us to remember that You always keep your word. Strengthen us as we wait on You.

In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

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

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Author Bio:

Colette Lawrence is an empowered woman who inspires women to be who they were created to be. Her core message is empowerment. She is an author, certified life coach, podcast host, and trainer with the Maxwell Leadership team. 

Colette believes that an empowered woman empowers others and is powerful in knowing who she is and what she can accomplish. Colette is on a mission to impact the lives of the women assigned to her, whether she is their coach or trainer or shares a word that will transform their lives.

Colette utilizes her Christian principles as the base of all her engagements. She is passionate about fulfilling her life purpose of empowering women to know who they are, rebuild their confidence, and use their voices as tools to uplift themselves and others.

​​She is the founder of the M.E.E. Movement L.L.C., a faith-based empowerment ministry business that helps women of faith rebuild their confidence and use their voice to walk in their purpose through life coaching, mentoring, and empowerment speaking. Colette believes in using the gifts God has given her to help women be who God has called them to be and ultimately fulfill the purpose for which they were created. She lives by Romans 8:28 (NIV), that promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

A native of Jamaica, Colette resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is the mother of two beautiful young women, a son-in-love, and two grandsons.

Colette enjoys reading, writing, watching good movies, and chatting with her daughters and friends.

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Connect with Colette:
Blog: https://www.colettemarie.online/blog
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colettemarie_cm/
Website: https://www.colettemarie.online/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ColetteMarie-cmc
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2367935
Email: Colettemarieonline@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: When you ask God to do whatever it takes

Whatever it Takes
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.”– Colossians 4:17 (NKJV)

When I was younger, and not walking with the Lord, my mother often prayed a simple prayer for me: “God, please do whatever it takes.” I was not the worst of sinners, but I was not walking closely with the Lord, either. I was doing my own thing and not inclined to surrender to Him.

As you read this, consider if God is putting someone on your heart. Perhaps He has placed a call on their life, yet they seem complacent, unwilling to disrupt the status quo. They know and love God, but they do not want to trade their plans for His. Or perhaps they are backslidden. Perhaps they do not even know God at all.

Are you brave enough to pray this prayer for them? “God, please do whatever it takes.” Whatever it takes to bring them to a place of surrender. Whatever it takes to convince them that Your plan is better than the life they have mapped out for themselves. Whatever it takes to bring them to Yourself.

I’m sure my mother was scared to pray that prayer, but she was also desperate to see me walk closely with the Lord. I don’t know how many times she had to pray this way before I began to embrace Him more fully, but I do know what it took. At the time, she could not have realized that one of the things it would take for me would be years of depression and anxiety. She could also not have realized that it would take me losing her (she died suddenly and unexpectedly when I was 26).

I hope it does not sound like I believe God caused me to suffer depression, or took my mother from this world in order to woo me to Himself. There were various reasons these things happened, and He has woven her story intricately together with mine. Her faith in His wisdom and goodness was evident in her willingness to allow Him to have his way in both her life and mine. When she prayed, “God, whatever it takes,” she didn’t hesitate at the thought of what that might entail. Whatever means God chose to use, she knew they would be right. This enabled her to release any desire to place conditions on her prayer, and simply just pray.

A few of us may read this and realize that God is asking us to pray these words over our own lives. We long to draw nearer to Him, and to fulfill the calling He’s placed in our lives, but we do not want to let go of comforts and plans. These conflicting desires are creating uncomfortable friction in our lives.

If that is you, are you brave enough to ask God to fulfill the call He’s placed on your life? Will you pray that He does “whatever it takes”?

Let’s Pray: Dear Jesus, I thank You that Your plan for my life, and Your plans for my loved ones, are perfect. In Your wisdom You have called us, and You want to see us walk fully in the things You have ordained for us. Sometimes, we resist. Forgive us. Thank You for the people who have prayed for us. May we be sensitive and willing to step into what You have planned. May we stand by our loved ones, praying and cheerleading without pressuring them, that they too may begin to walk fully in the things You have created them for. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “He’s Calling You” by Donnie McClurkin. 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!

Along with writing devotionals, Aubrey is the author of the German-perspective 20th Century Fiction series, Gott Mit Uns. She lives in Upstate New York with her husband and three children. When she’s not writing or taking care of her home and family, she enjoys singing and dancing with friends from a German choir and a Bavarian folk dancing group. She is also a lover of Jesus Christ, The Holy Bible, history, German culture, tea, and cats!

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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/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21846520.Aubrey_Taylor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/aubrey-taylor
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aubrey-Taylor/author/B0973KWXV8

Devotionals for the Heart: God cares about the desires of your heart

The Desires of our Hearts
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.”

—Psalm 145:16 (ESV)

What desire do you have on your heart?

As humans, we naturally want so many things: a satisfying or well-paying job, a family of our own one day. Honestly, you could fill-in-the-blank with anything.

We know God loves to give us good things and bless His children, so at first glance, this verse might seem to contradict reality. After all, we don’t always get what we want when we want. Sometimes, we don’t get what we want at all. What gives?

Notice what this verse says: “[God] will satisfy the desire” not “God will give us everything we want.” It’s so hard to want something specific and be told “No” from God. Maybe you’ve been there or are still there. I get it. I’ve also been there. I often wonder why God says “No.” Why can’t I have what I want? And while we’re at it, why can’t I have what I want now?

The truth is, God is sovereign, and there could be a variety of reasons why He says no or makes us wait. If He were to give us everything we wanted when we wanted, then we would be the gods over our own lives, and we’d have no reason to trust Him. In other words, God would be a genie to us. Second, He could be protecting us from unseen harm. Other times, God might say “No” because He was better plans in store for us. Or maybe, it’s simply not a “No”, but a “Wait.”

I believe that God will give us the desire of our hearts if they are aligned with His will for us. If our wants are not aligned with His plan for us, then He will change our hearts to want what He wants. Even though it’s so hard to surrender our plans, God truly does know best. After all, His plans are for our good, to give us a future filled with hope, and not to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11).

As a young child, I had specific desires God laid on my heart, dreams that looked impossible to achieve. I prayed so hard every day, faith filling my heart, yet not seeing any answers to my prayers. Eventually, I gave up those desires to God, fully surrendering them to Him. It wasn’t until years later that God brought those dreams to life again, resurrecting what I’d laid to rest, and showing me that He does fulfill the desires of our hearts. It may not be in our timing (most of the time it probably isn’t), but the desires of our hearts are there for a reason.

And even if I don’t get what I want, I have found that whatever I want pales in comparison to the desire of knowing and loving Jesus. That, more than anything, is the deepest desire of my heart. Often, God will ask me to surrender a desire or a dream. Sometimes, it means truly letting go because it’s not His best for me, but other times, it’s because it’s not time yet. When my heart is “empty” and longs for something else, it’s then that God steps in and fills the void in my heart, reminding me He’s the only One who can truly satisfy me anyway.

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

The desire of truly knowing and loving Jesus Christ and walking with Him will always be met.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Father God, it’s so hard for me to believe that You will fulfill the desires of my heart when there are so many unanswered prayers and unmet wants in my life. But I know, more than anything, that You are the ultimate desire of my heart. I know that desire will be met even if in life I don’t get what I want. Thank You for the truth of Your love! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Secret Place” by Phil Wickham. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Hannah Benson is a Jesus-follower who’s passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others. 

From the time she could hold a pen, she was writing. But it wasn’t until she was sixteen that she began to follow God’s calling to pursue writing seriously. Hannah is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). In addition to fiction, she also writes devotionals and has been published on other websites. Her prayer is that her readers leave deeply encouraged and more in love with Jesus.

When not writing, Hannah also enjoys being involved with local theater companies, with a primary focus on Biblical theater. She wants to show the love of Jesus through the creative arts.

You can read more of Hannah’s writings on her blog or on her Instagram where she strives to write content that leaves others feeling encouraged.

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Connect with Hannah:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hannah-Lynn-Writer/100073790792576/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahlbensonwrites/

Devotionals for the Heart: When God's plans are better than our plans

Staying On Shore
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.” –Jonah 1:3 (KJV)

I used to think that the worst possible scenario for big life decisions was that God would never answer my questions and I would be left uncertain.

I was wrong. The worst possible scenario for big life decisions is that God says “no” to what you really want and “yes” to something that you say “absolutely not” to. So far, I feel like God says “yes” to everything I don’t want and “no” to everything I do want. Sounds like a typical parent, right?

A couple of weeks ago, I felt a passion to do and accomplish something like I had never felt before. This certain thing was a good and honorable thing that would consume many hours of my life and I was willing to jump in full-heartedly. However, it was only two days in when I started to hear God’s voice. His voice wasn’t audible to my ears, but I knew in my heart that He was telling me “no”.

I argued with God for more than a week. I listed all the good things that could come of my new venture. I thought about all the people I could help and reach for His glory. I would remind God that I was doing this for Him. But the more I negotiated and continued to make my own plans (similar to Jonah), the less peace I had. Isn’t it amazing that God takes away our peace when we are straying from His will?

I didn’t get on the ship. I would like to say that the reason I didn’t get on the ship was because I am spiritually mature than Jonah. However, I have to honestly say that my heart was weary of trying to hide from God. I had no peace and I knew I would be absolutely miserable if I went any further. So, I threw away my plans and stayed on the shore, watching my ship of grand ideas drift out to sea. I cried a few tears and turned around, drudging toward Nineveh and the things that I knew were God’s will for my life. Is this the path I would have chosen for my life? No, but there are great things that are about to happen in Nineveh—things that will reveal God’s glory more than I ever could with my own ambition.

Often, I wonder what would have happened if I had gotten on the ship and went ahead with my own plans. First, I would have been miserable without the peace of God. But I also wonder how long it would have been before the storm came and I was thrown overboard—my plans and dreams along with me.

God’s will for your life will be accomplished. Sometimes, we decide to try our own plans for a while, but we are only prolonging our journey to true peace and contentment. Don’t get on the ship of stubbornness and self-fulfillment. Stay on the shore and in the peace of God.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for guiding us through life and loving us too much to let us wander wherever we would like. Grant us the courage to stay on the shore and leave our own plans behind. We want to follow wholeheartedly after You—no matter the cost. Help us to die to self, pick up our cross, and follow You. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “I Will Follow (Lyric Video)” by Chris Tomlin. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Tessa Huckstep grew up in rural Illinois. She was born to Christian parents and has known Jesus Christ personally since the age of five.

Currently, Tessa is attending community college and majoring in elementary education. In the future, she plans to teach in the public school system, hoping to bring the love of God with her.

Tessa enjoys being active in her local church. She serves as a co-teacher for the two-to-five year old class where there is never a dull moment.

It is Tessa’s passion to be a girl after God’s own heart and through her studying of God’s Word, Tessa longs to draw closer to her Savior. Through her writing, she longs to take others with her on this journey of faith.

Tessa loves all things Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size.

When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, she can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

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Connect with Tessa:
Blog: https://beautifulbeloved937002841.wordpress.com/

Devotionals for the Heart: Why you should let God lead you through life

When You Let God Lead
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“Your way was through the sea, your path through the great waters; yet your footprints were unseen.”—Psalm 77:19 (ESV)

Have you ever wondered what God is doing in your life? No? Me neither.

Just kidding. In all seriousness, I think it’s safe to assume that at some point in your life, you’ve wondered why God didn’t open that door, why God gave someone else that blessing, or why He took away what He did.

Believe me. I’ve been there. Sometimes, God reveals to us the end result, and we feel Him calling us in a certain direction. But other times, we have no clue what He’s doing. In either case, usually, the path is unclear even if the destination isn’t.

As humans, we dream, we have plans, and we have certain expectations. But when God takes us in a different direction than we wanted and leads us down another road, we start to panic. We start to believe that things aren’t going as they “should’ve”, and we start to feel like we are losing control.

Friend, we were never meant to have control over our lives. I believe God wants us to dream, but ultimately, He’s the One Who knows the way we should go. He doesn’t make mistakes. God isn’t going to mislead us anywhere.

Do we know that? Head knowledge, sure. But do we deep down in our hearts know that and accept it? This doesn’t mean that the path is going to be easy and straight. In fact, it’s not. Jesus says in Matthew 7:14 (ESV), “For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”

Now, that might sound discouraging, but hold on. Jesus said in Matthew 28:20b (ESV), “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Jesus has promised that no matter what we go through, He is there! He is walking with us and will never leave us.

But what about the times when we are grieving? What about when things are so difficult that we can’t feel Jesus with us? You know what I’m talking about. Maybe you are there right now.

What about the times when you feel so alone and heartbroken, with an unexplainable hurt that it makes your chest ache?

When you are suffering and surrounded by darkness, remember these words in Psalm 77:19: “Your way was through the sea, your path through the great waters; yet your footprints were unseen.”

Seas can be tumultuous. They can be deadly. When I think of great waters, I think of the expansive ocean that stretches as far as the eye can see with no end in sight. I think of waves in a storm, crashing violently against the shore.

God’s way for us is not strolling on the shore, with sand between our toes, while we collect seashells.

God’s way is “through the sea.”

His path is “through the great waters.”

We can take comfort in the fact that God won’t take us where He Himself will not go. He has gone before us, He will go with us, and He will be there after us. Just because we can’t see Him doesn’t mean He isn’t there. And just because we can’t feel Him doesn’t mean He isn’t there walking on the water beside us.

It could be that His footprints are unseen.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father God, I know You love me and will never leave me. Help me to believe that not just with my head but with my heart. When I go through times of deep sorrow, help me to remember that You are there with me. You have a good plan for me that will be fulfilled in your timing. I trust that You are there even when I can’t see You. Thank You for going before me and for calling me to follow You. In Jesus’s Name, Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong UNITED - Live in Israel. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Hannah Benson is a Jesus-follower who’s passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others. 

From the time she could hold a pen, she was writing. But it wasn’t until she was sixteen that she began to seriously follow God’s calling to write a novel. Hannah is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has at least four novels in the works. For the past five years, she has been involved with her local Biblical theater company. She wants to show others the love of Jesus through the creative arts.

When she’s not acting or working on her upcoming novel, you can find Hannah laughing with her siblings, cuddling her little fluffy dog, or reading books (usually historical fiction or fantasy stories). You can read more of Hannah’s writings on her blog or on her Instagram where she strives to write content that leaves others feeling encouraged.

~*~
Connect with Hannah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahlynnauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hannah-Lynn-Writer/100073790792576/
Blog: www.loveunconditional.blog

Devotionals for the Heart: Why you should let God order your steps

Let God Order Your Steps
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.”

–Psalm 37:23-24 (ESV)

As I read this Bible verse (above), I find myself interpreting it this way: If we delight in God’s way, He is going to make sure our steps are established and firm. Even if we take that step of faith and run into a snag or crisis along the way, we will not be cast headlong. What that means is that you will not fall flat on your face and injure yourself while trying to please Him!

When we delight in God’s way, even if we don’t always feel like His way is good, we know that God knows best. Therefore, in spite of our feelings, we push through and lay hold of what He has for us. We delight to know Him, and we long to be involved in what He is doing on the earth.

In the past, I have found myself bogged down in my own plans and routine, not willing to release them in order to allow God to do something new. Have you ever felt that way?

Is God free to do what He wants in our lives? I’ve heard all my life, “God is a gentleman. He won’t force you into anything.” He wants us to respond out of our love for Him and a desire to share in the burdens of His heart. Our refusal won’t change His plan, He will simply find someone else who is willing to partner with Him in attending to those burdens.

When we stay in a safe place, it is easier to feel secure, and we love that feeling of security. God is a loving Father, and He will bless us whether we dip our toes in the water of His goodness, or dive head first in and allow ourselves to be submerged in His exciting will for our lives.

When we step out in faith, it is scary at first. As we walk along, allowing Him to light each step of the way, one day in the future we will look back and say, “Wow God, I see it now! You were ordering my steps all along. You did establish my way. You were preparing me for this journey long ago, even when my path was dark and life didn’t make sense.”

The more we trust, the more we see God’s hand at work.

As a mom of three, this is close to my heart. Psalm 37:25-26 (ESV) goes on to say, “I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread. He is ever lending generously, and his children become a blessing.”

What this says to me is that if my husband and I seek to follow God’s plan for our lives, He will take care of our children. We don’t need to fear how our choices might affect them if they are choices led by Him. Hallelujah! That means that we are not stepping over our children to get to God, but rather, walking fully in His will for us. This is going to make us even better parents because our children will see us trusting God no matter what happens in life, and following Jesus Christ. As a result, our children will learn that it is the very best way to live. They will be encouraged to pursue God’s will for their lives.

Let’s lend our lives generously by giving them back to the Lord!

Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, thank You that You have designed me for a special purpose. I realize that each and every one of us needs to grow into the purpose and plan You have for our lives. Please help me to recognize that plan and purpose, to allow You to prepare me for it, and be willing to step out in faith, even if that means leaving some of my own plans and routine behind. I pray that You will show Yourself faithful, as You promise to do, and that You will be glorified in my life as I look back and say, “God knew all along.” May I use my story to encourage others who also wrestle with lending their lives back to You. May we remember our lives are indeed Yours. 

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection: “Order My Steps” by GMWA Women of Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~
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.

~*~
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: Why we should ask God for what we want

What Do You Want?
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.” 

–Psalm 27:4 (ESV)

One of the salient questions of life is, “What do you want?”

The fulfillment of that question elicits dialogue and occasionally, negotiations. The question implies explicit trust in the relationship between the one asking and the one being asked.

For birthdays, Christmas and rites of passage, the question is always asked, “What do you want?” The answer considers expectations and future realities. The answer is also an assessment of the ability and willingness of the benefactor.

When my children were young the answer was usually a doll, roller skates, video games and/or a bicycle. When they began to drive, they envisioned and tested my ability to provide them with cars that would enhance and not detract from their self-image. When they got married, they had very concrete expectations about their wedding and reception.

When her parents balked at getting her a dog, one of my granddaughters asked my wife and I to provide her with a dog that she could visit, at our house. We asked, “What kind of dog do you want?” She is still thinking about it. Maybe she has forgotten.

Psalm 27 is a song of David that expresses confidence in the power, presence and compassionate interference of Divinity on behalf of the shepherd who became king. The audacity of the psalmist, in this verse, is based upon former assurances of God’s covering when he had slain a lion, a bear and a giant. In this verse, he pronounces his sole desire to dwell in the house of the Lord. This phrase is a familiar refrain from Psalm 23.

The house of the Lord, here mentioned, is not a place in space as much as it is an attitude of worship. It is a state of being, a construction of the soul rather than an external monument. Psalm 22:3 declares that God inhabits, occupies, abides in and relishes the worshipful praises of His people, who are Israel. This declaration includes the genetic descendants of Israel as well as those who are engrafted by Christian faith.

So, the answer to the salient question, “What do you want?” is to be gifted with a perpetual attitude of gratitude. An attitude of gratitude will always elevate the person praising God from danger to deliverance, from insufficiency to more than enough. An attitude of gratitude always delivers us from evil and out of temptation, to the table of grace and beneficence.

The psalmist, knowing this spiritual hack, shares the key code to the attitude of gratitude, the house of the Lord. It is in the next phrase in Psalm 27:4: “…to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”

Romans 1:20 suggests that the character of God is made evident and visible in the things that He created. Nature is a photograph of the presence of God and it inspires praise and worship, which constructs His temple.

So, the sole desire of the psalmist was to worship God by focusing on nature, divine interventions and epiphanies of God’s presence. Out of that awareness and devotion to destiny flowed all of the blessings that David experienced. Long life, opulence, security and legacy encompass all of the things that we average humans might want.

As you think about your answer to that salient question, “What do you want?”, consider basing your ask on appreciative reflections upon what God has already done for you. Then, cast your sanctified vision upon the Lord, believing that He who made the rose, the eagle, the lion and the wonders of the world, believes in you and can engineer your dreams. See it! Believe it! Sing it! Do your part to live faithfully in pursuit of it.

A friend and mentor once told me, “The hand of God never points where His hand has not already made a way.” Celebrate the hand of God as it becomes apparent in giving you the desires of your heart.

Let’s Pray: Greetings, dear God. Please bless the reader of this page today. Hear and receive their praise reports. Direct their attention to something beautiful or awesome in nature. Then, dear God, usher them into your wondrous presence as You fulfill your plan for their lives. In Jesus’s Name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Psalm 27” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

He has subsequently earned four graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Andrews University in Michigan, a Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and a Masters of Sacred Theology in Religion and Culture from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry degree was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Chaplain Anderson also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He also holds certifications in Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Civil Mediation, Alternative Workplace Dispute Resolution, Temperament Analysis, Marriage Enrichment, Workforce Diversity, and is a certified Life Coach.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Life Lessons on Trusting the God Who Sees

God Sees You
A devotional by Patricia Russell

She said, “You are the God who sees me.”

She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?”

So that well was named Beer-lahai-roi (which means

“well of the Living One who sees me”). 

–Genesis 16:13-14 (NLT)

Do you remember playing “Peek-a-boo” with babies?

Cover your eyes with your hands and slowly move them aside, squealing, "Peek a boo! I see you." Usually, this causes a smile and squeal from the baby who is now ready to play.

It's an incredible feeling to be seen. You can be in a room full of people, looking dapper, and yet feel like no one sees you. We are all moving quickly through our day and our activity, although my days have somewhat changed to a different pace since 2020. Still, ongoing emails and text messages can have us not really taking the time to acknowledge people who really want you to play that game because they want to be seen.

When you see someone, you haven't seen for a long time, often our first words are, “How are you?” I have learned the importance of taking the time to stop and wait for a response. I firmly believe that if we don't have time to wait and listen for the response, we shouldn't ask the question. Why? Because you and I have an innate desire to be seen and heard. When we really take the time to acknowledge each other's presence, it is powerful. When we wait to hear the response to the question, we are telling the other person they are valued and important. It speaks volumes when we can wait and listen for their response.

Scripture helps us to understand the importance of this when we read about the struggle between Hagar and Sarai (later to be Sarah). Hagar was Sarai's servant. Sarai made a deal with Abram (later to be Abraham) to take her servant and sleep with her in order to conceive a child that in Sarai’s mind, would fulfill the promise God made. God had promised Sarai and Abram a child. However, they felt God was taking too long. So they chose to take matters into their own hands.

Moreover, when Hagar became pregnant, she was not seen with the same compassion and appreciation in Sarai's eyes who tormented Hagar. Not being able to take it anymore, Hagar eventually ran away. Can you imagine being pregnant, talked about, scorned, and criticized because your boss asked you to become a surrogate mother on her behalf? Hagar became tired. Tired of the change of attitude. She was tired of the rejection and change of heart from Sarai. She was emotionally crushed that she was now seen as an enemy. 

This is why I love the Bible—we’re able to see these are not stories or fables but real people with real feelings like us. During her pain, God's angel called out to her and called her by name. You're not a social security number or a billing code—you are someone of value. You want to be seen and heard. God looked down with love and compassion of God let Hagar know, "I am the God who sees."

God was saying (and I paraphrase), “I see you, Hagar! I see your pain. I hear your cries of distress. I see what's been done to you, and I am completely aware. I want you to know that I am the God who sees.”

God saw Hagar in all her pain and confusion, and He also wants you and I to know this very important truth: You are not forgotten. You may have been let go from your job. Your family and friends may have turned their back on you. Maybe no one has called and checked up on you but hear your Father's Heart today as I believe He is saying, “I am the God who sees. I see you.”

Let's Pray: Thank you, God, for reminding me that you see me, you hear me, and you know me. You know the number of hairs on my head. Remind me, Lord, when I get discouraged, that You hold me in the palm of Your Hand, and You are right beside me. Thank you again. In Jesus's Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Editorial Note: Patricia’s devotional message today reminds me of the song, “The God Who Sees” performed by Nicole C. Mullen. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is an encourager. She passionately uses her giftings as an author, speaker, pastor, recording artist, worship leader and coach.

Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body & Spirit (a book that she wrote) was an Amazon Bestseller in October 2020.

Patricia sings! She has released two CDs titled Draw Me Nearer and Lord I Trust You.

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

When she is not ministering to save souls in God’s Kingdom, Patricia enjoys reading, writing and connecting like-minded people who can sharpen each other in the journey to their dreams and goals.

As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, her desire is to coach others to live life to the fullest by understanding their gifting from God and using it.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrussellonline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patrussellsings
Email: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Jesus Heals

A Divine Reversal
A devotional by Sarah Cole

When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?" "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me." Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once, the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked."—John 5:6-9 (NIV)

I love the movie Groundhog Day. In it, Bill Murray plays a cynical meteorologist sent to cover the annual festivities in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, for the fourth year in a row. He hates the small town and cannot wait to leave, but when a blizzard foils his escape plan, he is forced to stay another night and awakens to find he's reliving the same day over and over again.

I experienced my own Groundhog Day six years ago after my mother's death. Being her caregiver consumed all my time and energy, so I looked forward to getting a fresh start in my new home. It was a beautiful September day, and I stood on the toilet seat to clean a ceiling vent, lost my balance, and hit my head on the bathtub. Feeling nothing more than a bump, I put off going to the emergency room until two days later when, suddenly, I was unable to walk.

For the next several months, I suffered from post-concussive vestibular migraines. Once I recovered a year later and could drive again, I was on top of the world when I had another concussion and then another, both in September. Discouraged and hopeless, I didn't see a way out of my perpetual prison, and before I knew it, Satan was having a party at my expense. Thankfully, my pattern wasn't doomed to repeat itself because God answered my prayers and healed me.

When the lame man met Jesus at the pool of Bethesda, he had spent thirty-eight years waiting for a breakthrough. But when his opportunity never came, he probably believed his healing would always be out of reach. Imagine his surprise when Jesus asked him if he wanted to be well, then helped him do the impossible.

When our plans fall through, God's timing disappoints us, and we cannot see how our situations will ever improve, it is easy to think God has forgotten us. Whether we're waiting for a new baby, a better marriage, a promotion, or a clean bill of health, hard seasons cause our faith to take a hit. And it appears on the surface that things will never change.

But God. Everything changes when we experience Him. In His infinite love and wisdom, He always provides, He's always good, and the timing of His answers to our prayers is always perfect.

Are you waiting on God for a breakthrough? Instead of glancing at your circumstances, gaze at your Savior. He is aware of everything you face and the reasons why your life is in a rut. I know it's easy to give in to self-pity and fear, but when you spend time in worship, you will find that your faith will grow. And eventually, you will wake up one day with a fantastic story of how He miraculously intervened on your behalf.

Let's Pray: Father God, we rejoice today, knowing that all things are possible with You. Thank You for the beautiful purposes and plans you have for each of us. When we waver in our faith, help us trust in Your perfect timing as we wait on You with hearts eager to serve you. In Jesus's Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Sarah Cole’s interest in writing began in grade school when her poem was published in the local paper. As she got older, her mother’s chronic illness inspired her to design a line of greeting cards. Since then, she has written for her college newspaper and two community newspapers where she wrote restaurant reviews and articles for their “Best of” spread. 

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

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

During this year (2022) and the next (2023), Sarah’s devotionals will be published in The Secret Place by Judson Press, as well as David C. Cook’s Devotions and The Quiet Hour. To this day, she smiles, pinches herself and gives God all the glory.

When she’s not writing, Sarah enjoys watching cooking shows, designing cards and mugs, and taking day trips.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Love

The Love of God

A devotional by Patricia Russell

"And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you." 

– Genesis 45:5 (NIV)

How do you know you are loved?

Do you get text messages, cards, or is your love language when a friend spends time with you just listening and chatting?

I am incredibly grateful for my dad, who showed us that he loved us by doing things for us. We didn’t always see it then, but looking back, it was his way of telling us he loved us. He would prepare our breakfast and leave it on the counter before going off to work.

We could wake up to bowls of porridge or oatmeal covered up for us to dive into before heading out off to school. Like a good father, he prepared for us.

God demonstrated His fatherly love in the book of Genesis. We read about the life of Joseph in the Bible in the full chapters of Genesis 37, Genesis 39 and Genesis 45. Joseph is separated from his family at the hands of his brothers, who were desperately jealous over their father’s love for him, the way that he showed his love and then Joseph’s gift of dreams. Joseph wasn’t totally smart because he constantly shared his dreams, which didn’t make his brothers look good, but that’s beside the point. As a result of their wicked hearts, Joseph’s brothers got rid of Joseph by selling him to some travelers, who sold him to the Egyptians, where he was placed as a slave to Pharaoh. Through a series of events, none of which Joseph could have ever planned himself, God allowed Joseph to be promoted from a prison cell to a position in the palace because of his gift of dream interpretation.

Can I tell you that God loves you so much that he will go ahead of you and prepare opportunities for you to use your gift? Keep in mind though that God is more concerned with building character in our lives because He loves us so much and wants us to reflect the image of His Son. So, when hard times come, when we cry out to Him and ask Him to help us learn the lessons we need from the situations, we grow and develop a greater character that reflects Christ. As this happens, more opportunities can be entrusted to us to use what we’ve learned to receive blessings and be a blessing.

Yes, God will go to such extremes to show us His love. Later on, in the historical account, life would have it that Joseph’s brothers have to come to Egypt, where he is now the distribution director for all the food in Egypt because of a famine that has spread nationwide. The brothers do not recognize Joseph. When Joseph reveals his identity, you can imagine the shock, the fear and the anguish that came over his brothers. Joseph tells his siblings this very important note that we too can hold on to. Let’s read about it in Genesis 45:5-8 (NIV) where Joseph says this to his brothers:

“And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.”

God allowed everything to happen to preserve life. Joseph’s brothers acted in a way they meant for evil, but God used it as part of his plan to send Joseph to Egypt in order to carry out a bigger plan that He had already put into place without them having any comprehension.

Are you struggling right now? Are you concerned about how it’s going to work out? God has gone ahead of you, and He has it all in control. You can trust Him.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank you that I can confidently come to you knowing my life is in your hands. Thank you that you work all things according to your purpose. I don’t have to worry, but I can trust you at all times. Thank you for this hope and this trust. Help me to keep my eyes and heart on the truth of who you are according to your Word. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Note from Alexis: Patricia’s devotional reminds me of this song “How He Loves Us” by Kim Walker-Smith and Jesus Culture. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is an encourager. She passionately uses her gifting as an author, speaker, pastor, recording artist, worship leader and coach.

Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body & Spirit (a book that she wrote) was an Amazon Bestseller in October 2020.

Patricia sings! She has released two CDs titled Draw Me Nearer and Lord I Trust You.

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

When she is not ministering to save souls in God’s Kingdom, Patricia enjoys reading, writing and connecting like-minded people who can sharpen each other in the journey to their dreams and goals.

As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, her desire is to coach others to live life to the fullest by understanding their gifting from God and using it.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrussellonline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patrussellsings
Email: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: What happens when you seek God first

Seek God First
A devotional by Cyndi Staudt

“So above all, constantly seek God’s kingdom and his righteousness, then all these less important things will be given to you abundantly.” –Matthew 6:33 (TPT)

I have always admired stories of faith-based heroes who have stepped out in faith in incredible ways.

Over the years, these heroes have inspired me to offer several specific prayers to God. These are prayers that I have prayed over and over for years and will continue to pray until Jesus Christ calls me home. One of those prayer mantras is that I would have faith like Abraham. I admire the fact that when God called Abraham to step out on faith, he packed up his things and went before he knew where he was going! Open a Bible and read that true story in Genesis 12. I have prayed this prayer almost daily since becoming a Christian. Earlier this year, God gave me an opportunity to exercise that kind of faith.

As a single woman I have always struggled with fully relinquishing control of my finances and work over to God. I have been prone to overworking and obsessing over my finances to ensure I am able to pay my bills, remain as debt free as possible, and have enough cushion to travel or go to dinner with friends here and there. In early 2020, when I received a surprise sizeable raise, to the exact amount I had casually stated would allow me more breathing room in my finances, I knew God’s hand had been at work. I was able to let go of some part-time jobs I had been holding onto and I had more time for serving with a local anti-trafficking organization and writing—two things I was incredibly passionate about and felt called to by God.

Imagine my surprise when, just one year later, God asked me to lay the Isaac of my raise, as well as my comfortable, secure lifestyle, on the altar. Allow me to explain. Fourteen years prior, I had felt God call me to work, not simply serve, for an anti-trafficking organization. At the time He spoke that into my spirit, I had no idea what that would look like or when it would happen. But I was confident that when it was time, He would make it clear to me so I wouldn’t miss it. That time came earlier this year when the anti-trafficking organization I was serving for free, offered me a position on staff. It was one of those moments in your spiritual walk where everything feels in sync and aligned. It was a time when I knew that I was in step with God in that moment and I believed in what He has spoken. There was no hesitation in my obedient answer of “yes” to His call.

However, as the details of what this would look like unfolded, I realized I was stepping right into the middle of my specific prayers! Allow me to explain that too. While I had been working full-time for an organization for more than eight years, with full benefits and retirement package, this new venture would only be offering me 16 hours a week, with no benefits nor retirement. Not only would I be earning less than half of what I needed for my monthly expenses, now I would have to figure out health benefits and retirement as well.

As my mind began to process the basic mathematics of this scenario, God immediately spoke to my spirit and reminded me of Matthew 6:33, which is one of my life verses. He reminded me that seeking Him should be at the top of my priority list—all day, every day, for the rest of my life. He encouraged me that I am to seek Him, not His plan, not His will, because He leads through relationship. And as I develop my relationship with Him, my faith will grow, He will reveal His perfect plan and will, and I will realize that He is the God of provision for the vision He lays out. Our God cannot lie, and when He promises to give all the “less important things” to us “abundantly” then we should believe Him.

God was not simply calling me out of my comfort zone, He was asking me to test the authenticity of my faith and of this prayer I had prayed for years, by boldly stepping into this space where I would need to be completely dependent upon Him. And as I did, that I wouldn’t make my priority finding additional work to provide for my needs, but would keep seeking Him at the top of my “To Do” list. God promises that when I look for Him wholeheartedly, I will find Him, and He will take care of all those less important things!

Let’s Pray: 

Gracious Lord, You really don't ask for much from us and your Word is clear on the actions that will grow our faith and draw us closer to You. When the demands of life and allures of the world vie for my time and attention, remind me that seeking You first is the catalyst for true fulfillment and carries with it the promise that You will take care of all the other things I might need. Help me place You in Your rightful place on the throne of my heart and as Lord of my life, delighting in You and seeking You, knowing that when I do, I will not only find you but You will give me the desires of my heart. I claim these promises in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Cyndi Staudt is a Jesus-loving, adrenaline junkie who is devoted to living her life for Jesus Christ until the day she is living with Him. 

With a passion for cultivating a craving for God’s Word, her devotions and Bible studies are saturated with faith and hope to stir your soul to connect with God in deeper, more intimate ways.

Through her writing she hopes to ignite your desire to read God’s Word, invite your heart to experience God’s love, and inspire you to live your live life “souled out” to the One whose love has no limits.

~*~
Connect with Cyndi:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/souledoutcyndi/

Romantic Reads: Heartfelt Romance

The Story behind the Heartfelt Romance stories 

Runaway Romance and Follow Your Heart by Miralee Ferrell

A number of years ago, my editor with Summerside contacted me, saying they were in desperate need of a book set in Sundance, Wyoming, for their Love Finds You line, and asked if I had sold one that I’d written yet. I said no, but my agent was shopping it as a three-book series.

Long story short, their contracted author had some kind of setback, and she was unable to fulfill the contract and turn in the book on time. They offered it to me, but at a lower rate than I or my agent wanted to accept. Finally, I reluctantly decided to move forward and give up my plan of using it as the first book in a new series. After all, I’d first written it thinking it might be a good fit for the LFY line.

The book was published in the late summer of 2011, a very fast turnaround time. A couple of years later, I got word that a Hollywood production company had optioned several of the LFY titles, including mine set in Sundance. Three Love Finds You movies were made and aired on the UP Channel over the next two years, but nothing more was said about Sundance.

Then, in 2015, I received an email from Chevonne, the associate producer who had made those movies, followed by a phone call. Imagine my surprise when she asked if I’d be willing to write a book for them. They were no longer producing the Love Finds You books into movies and were working on a totally different project for UP, a possible three-movie series, and she hoped I might be able to work with them. As anyone would be, I was curious as to why she’d chosen me. 

Chevonne explained that she’d optioned Sundance two or three years earlier and loved it. Of the thirty-five or so titles she’d read of the line, that was her favorite. However, UP didn’t want to make historical or Old West movies, so she’d had to shelve it.

During that time period, I’d gotten my rights back to all of my LFY books and had retitled them Finding Love in Last Chance, California; Finding Love in Tombstone, Arizona; and Finding Love in Bridal Veil, Oregon. Love Finds You in Sundance became Outlaw Angel, and all four are still in print.

Here’s the amazing part: I came very, very close to turning down that contract offer with Summerside for Sundance. I was disappointed in the advance and royalty rate, and shortly after they released it, they sold the line to Guideposts, and that company didn’t continue the line much longer. Understandably, sales waned on their final releases. I was disappointed with my sales from that final book as all three of my others had done quite well.

For a long time, I wished I hadn’t taken that contract and held out for one with another company for a three-book series. However, had I done that, I doubt Runaway Romance or From the Heart would ever have been written. It was Sundance that grabbed Chevonne’s attention and caused her to contact me.

Since then, I’ve been blessed to get to meet Chevonne and her husband George (the producer) a couple of times, and we’ve developed a friendship. We chat often on the phone or email, and I’ve been able to help brainstorm several projects. Right now, we have three movies that have been filmed, and two of them, From the Heart (aired on Hallmark in early 2021) and Finding Love in Mountainview (based on the book Finding Love in Bridal Veil, Oregon) will release later this year on Hallmark as well.

I am currently working on Finding Love in San Antonio, only I’m writing that one with a good friend and new co-author, Kimberly Rose Johnson, for possible release with Hallmark in 2022.

God has indeed blessed me, and He’s allowed me to learn so much that I didn’t know about the movie industry—it’s a ton of work, it moves very slowly, but it contains wonderful people who I’ve loved getting to know.

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Author Bio:

Miralee Ferrell is a traditionally published, award-winning, best-selling author of 25 books.

  

Her most recent novel, From the Heart, released in October 2020 as an ebook/and print and on The Hallmark Channel. She is the owner and publisher at Mountain Brook Ink, as well as the speculative line, Mountain Brook Fire, a traditional house in business since January 2014.

She is also the lead acquisition editor at MBI and loves encouraging debut authors. Miralee lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two black cats, sixteen chickens, and one very spoiled little dog.

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Blurb for Runaway Romance:

When a reality TV star meets the reality of life, will it be her downfall or her salvation? 

Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. 

Now she knows what was missing in her life—peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is—or at least who he thinks she is. 

Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. 

Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets?

Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?

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Buy Runaway Romance on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

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Blurb for Follow Your Heart:

Can they give first love a second chance? 

Kathy Yoder left her Amish community ten years ago and became a successful travel guide writer, which took her to exotic places around the globe. Her personal life includes a man back home who adores her and wants more than friendship, and a career she could only have dreamed of as an Amish teen. 

Everything seems great until a phone call comes out of the blue. The sister she hasn’t spoken to for years leaves a message telling her their father has died. The call comes too late, and Kathy missed the service—and it appears, her sister doesn’t intend to forgive her for that, or for leaving all those years ago.

Isaac Mast has never forgotten his first love, Katrina Yoder. When she comes back to settle her dad's affairs, he’s reminded of his life before Katrina left the Amish community. However, a lot has changed. He married, had a daughter, lost his wife, and his life moved on. He’s committed to his Amish community, but Katrina is an Englischer, with both feet firmly planted in the modern world.

When a revelation about Isaac comes to light, Kathy decides to take things into her own hands. Will her decision destroy even the friendship they once had, or possibly bring them together?

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Buy Follow Your Heart on Amazon or Barnes and Noble

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Connect with Miralee:
Website and newsletter signup: www.miraleeferrell.com
Facebook group: (20+) Miralee Ferrell Fan Group | Facebook
Twitter: https://twitter.com/miraleeferrell
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/MiraleeFerrell/

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Plan

God’s Plan 

A devotional by Heidy De La Cruz

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

I’m sure we are all familiar with this Bible verse since it is very popular.

It’s a verse that reminds us that God has a plan for each of our lives and a verse that gives us hope, especially when we feel lost.

There have been many moments in my life where I've felt completely lost. Toward the end of my high school career, it seemed like all my friends had their plans all set for after graduation, and I was still trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I couldn't make up my mind because the choices seemed overwhelming, and I didn't know my "interests" or "passions" at that time. Looking back at the first two years of my college career, it seems like it was all a waste. But in reality, it wasn't.

At that period in my life, I didn’t have the relationship with God that I have now, but that doesn’t mean that God wasn’t there for me. God loves us so much that He gave us free will for us to choose. Nevertheless, He always has a plan for us. Again, I started college taking general random classes because I didn’t know what I wanted to study. If it weren’t for the “Intro to Psychology” class I randomly signed up for, I wouldn’t have known that it was a topic that really interest me.

After taking that class, I realized I wanted to get into the Psychology field. But getting pregnant at the age of twenty took me off track for a little. I ended up not taking more college courses. Instead, I completed a medical assistant program with the thought that being in the medical field will provide job security for my daughter and me.

Fast forward to today, I have a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and Psychology and a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. I am proud of my degrees because when I look back at my journey, I started with no clue about what to do with my life. Also, looking back, I know that God was with me every step of the way and that without Him, I wouldn’t have the accomplishments I have today. God had this plan for my life, and I am certain that I am in the career field that I am supposed to be because I feel fulfilled.

If you are struggling right now to figure out what you want to do with your life, pray for guidance and trust God. Remember Jeremiah 29:11 because God has a plan for you, and this plan was established long before you were born.

Let’s pray: Lord, I pray for everyone who may be feeling lost right now, unsure of where to go or what to do. I pray that their hearts and minds are opened to you, Lord and that they come back to go so you can lead them and guide them to the plan you have for their lives. Thank you for always being with us and never giving up on us, even when we stray away. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

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Author Bio:

Hello, my name is Heidy (Reynoso) De La Cruz. 

I am Dominican-American and I’m passionate about writing! I write poetry, encouraging blog posts about personal experiences and any message that God has stored in my heart. I am working on publishing my first poetry book.

First and foremost, I am a daughter of Jesus Christ. I am also a wife and a mother. I have my master’s degree in Healthcare Administration through Belhaven University’s online course. I have my bachelor’s degree in Science with the concentration of Psychology and Healthcare Administration.

I currently work in the medical field as a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, and I’ve been in the medical field for the last six years. I love my career!

My hobbies include writing, reading, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, traveling, and spending time with my family.

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Connect with Heidy:
Blog: https://heidyreynoso.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidy.delacruz13/
Read my poetry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidyspoems/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/heidyreynoso13
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidyreynoso13