Devotionals for the Heart: God is always present with all His creation

Waiting for the Hummingbirds
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

—Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

Spring is here in the Lowcountry. Warm days and cool nights are forecasted.

I’m smiling as I write this devotional because the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the temperatures are rising. Early this morning, there was frost on the roofs. The sound of the heater turning on echoes throughout the house.

As I gaze out of my office window, I need patience as I’m waiting for the hummingbirds. My husband and I are usually the first people to hang hummingbird feeders in our neighborhood. Another neighbor hangs her feeder about the same time. We alert each other when we see the beautiful, winged creatures visiting us. Ruby-throated hummingbirds fly close to the windows while checking out their surroundings. Then, they enjoy the sweet nectar from flowers and hanging feeders.

Colorful plants catch the attention of these fascinating birds. Purple and pink petunias, red impatiens, orange and yellow cosmos, and many other varieties of flowers stand ready with nourishment. What a joy to watch God’s creatures!

When I have a stressful day and my body is filled with arthritic pain, I pause and rest, thinking about God’s creations. I pray and ask why the pain won’t stop. There are some days that my body needs to rest. Other days, I can participate in family activities, vendor events to sell my books, and other special occasions.

Reading Scripture reminds me that God is always present. The Bible shares that God cares for the birds of the air and that God cares for all His creations. He is with the birds when they are hurt. He is with the animals, keeping them safe. God loves each of His creations. He is always present.

Why do I worry? I’m human. That is the reason. I pray and give God my worries. Then, sometimes I take those worries back. God understands. Our Heavenly Father shows His love in every moment. He knows there will be times when I question Him. And He knows there will be times when I praise Him.

I wish I could say that worries never enter my thoughts. I admit I fret about certain things. God listens and hears the prayers of His people. When worries invade my mind, I find peace in going to God and seeking His peace and comfort.

Scripture tells us that God cares for the birds of the air, and He cares for us, too. Our Heavenly Father always provides what we need. Those provisions are sometimes given immediately, and other times, we must wait.

Our anchor text today (Matthew 6:26) reminds us that we are more valuable than the birds of the air. God feeds them, and He feeds us. Nourishment is important. For humans, spending time reading the Bible, studying Scripture, and sharing conversation with God in prayer can strengthen our faith.

As I wait for the hummingbirds, I pray and give thanks for the many glorious blessings from God. What parts of creation bring you joy?

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the beauty of the world. Help us to pause and enjoy your creations. Guide us to share these glorious sights and sounds with others. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “His Eye is On the Sparrow” by Sandi Patty. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Look at the Birds” by Xander Stok. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Creator” by Phil Wickham. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “The Maker” by Chris August. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “For the Beauty of the Earth” by Barlow Girl. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes humming with humor. 

With articles, devotions, and stories in print publications and online, Melissa shares her love for God and life. Some of the inspirations for her writing come from family life.

Melissa and her husband Alan have been married for over 46 years. Their son Mike, and daughter-in-love Christine have blessed the family with two precious children: Rowan and Eden. These precious souls bring laughter, love, and many funny experiences, which can often be found in Melissa’s writing. The family motto is: It’s Always a Story with the Hendersons.

Melissa is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter, AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), CWFL (Christian Writers for Life), and many other organizations.

Melissa’s books for children include Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator.

Melissa serves in Christian ministry as an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.

~*~
Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissaghenderson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor
Twitter: https://x.com/mimionlife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissahendersonauthor/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ahenderson312/

Devotionals for the Heart: How to be disciplined and walk with God

Discipline: Doing the Lord’s Instructions
A devotional by Colette Christopher

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

—Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

Happy New Year!

As you embrace this new year, you may be filled with hope of the possibility of new beginnings or you may be walking into it, fearing the unknown or still yet have mixed emotions about what to expect. No matter the emotion you may be feeling at this time, in as much as possible we have to prepare ourselves for what lies ahead of us.

Each year for the past eight years, I have been asking the Lord for a word and or scripture that guides my year, and without fail He gives me one. This year is no different. As I prayerfully asked the Lord for the word for this year, it seems the Lord was just waiting for me to ask because before the final words left of the prayer left my lips, I heard the word “discipline”, firm and strong. Immediately I understood what the Lord was saying to me, I smiled to myself and started praying for the strength to do what He called me to do, and to complete the tasks that He gave me that are still unfinished.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “discipline” as “an activity that one engages in regularly to train or improve oneself.” To do what the Lord wants me to do will require action on my part. As I reflect not only on the word, but the underpinning scripture (Proverbs 3:5-6), I thought how do these two relate to each other. It takes discipline to daily read God’s Word (The Holy Bible) and apply it to our lives. And to trust Him requires a deliberate effort on our part. To not do things in our own understanding requires discipline. You and I are not short of knowing what the Lord requires of us (Micah 6:8), neither are we unaware of the instructions God has given us in His Word. I believe that sometimes we fall short of doing what is required.

You may have set some goals you want to accomplish this year or you may have some goals carrying over from 2025. How will they be met if you aren’t willing to move from talking about these goals to achieving them? For every plan you have—personal, professional, spiritual—you have to be willing to develop and stick to a plan of moving forward to achieve your goals.

We know that life is always moving. Challenges, difficulties, hardships will come that can derail our efforts to change for the better. We may wonder: How we can trust God in difficult times? How can I still do what He requires when all hell is breaking loose around us? It is in these times that we make a concerted effort to look at the Lord’s perfect track record and ask: Has He come through for me before? Does He have a good plan for my life? Is He trustworthy? By doing this, we are disciplining our thoughts to reflect on who God is, instead of allowing the enemy to cause us to believe anything other than the truth of the God we serve.

Like an athlete who has to train in good and harsh environments, we have to train ourselves to do what needs to be done. We have to set our faces like a flint and determinedly say, “No matter what I am faced with, I will move forward in order to accomplish the plans the Lord has for my life.” The choice is yours. Will you focus on what your limited understanding knows or in all your ways, will you acknowledge the Almighty God who knows all and has unlimited understanding?

Sometimes we need to simply tell God, “Lord, I don't understand your plans, but I know they are good. Help me to walk in them and help me to do what’s necessary so that your will for my life will be accomplished.” Then watch how God helps us.

Do you have a word or scripture for this year, or has God given you the same word from last year? Discipline might not be your word, but here’s how you can apply it to your life: If your goal is spiritual growth, set a plan to read your Bible daily, if your goal is financial freedom, set a plan to save by opening an account and do an automatic saving, almost everything we do is rooted in action. When you don’t know what to do, choose to trust God for His direction because you know He has the best plan for you.

May you grow this year in good ways as you walk into God’s will for your life with the full assurance that He will show you which path to take and He will walk alongside you as you trust Him with each step.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this new year, thank You for the good plans that You have for your children. Thank You for your words that remind us to trust You with our whole heart. Father, we confess that it’s not always easy to move to do what you have required of us, so I pray that you will help us do Your will. Lord, your children look to You today in awe of your goodness, your faithfulness and your love. Lord whatever You have called us to do, may we trust your heart for our life and walk in purpose towards your will. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “I Know the Plans (Audrey’s Song)” by Damaris Carbaugh. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Eyes on the Prize” by Sara Groves. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “My Prayer for You” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Colette Christopher 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.

~*~
Connect with Colette:
Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2367935
Email: Colettemarieonline@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should let God carry our grief

God Can Carry Your Grief
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

—Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

Grief is one of the heaviest burdens we can carry. It can feel overwhelming, like a storm that will never pass.

When someone we love is gone, or life doesn’t go as we hoped, pain can consume our thoughts and even disrupt our daily routines. Sleep can become elusive, meals may lose their appeal, and even small tasks can feel monumental. But God is not distant from our suffering; He draws near to us in our sorrow.

When I experienced the unimaginable loss of my brother, I felt as if I were walking through a dark tunnel with no light in sight. Questions ran through my mind: “Why did this happen? We were supposed to grow old together!” “What do I do with the void in my heart?” “How can I move forward and not feel as though I’m forgetting him?” I felt weak, vulnerable, and alone. But in the midst of my grief, I had to turn to God’s Word to rediscover that He was closer than I imagined. Psalm 34:18 reminded me that God is near to the brokenhearted, and His presence is a source of comfort even when life feels heavy.

Grief is not a journey we are meant to walk alone. God’s Word promises that He will walk with us, offering comfort, strength, and hope. Yet, walking with God through grief requires intentional steps, a willingness to open our hearts to Him, and patience with ourselves.

Here are four ways I learned to lean on God when grief feels unbearable:

Way #1: Bring your grief to God in prayer.

1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” God wants to hear and feel your pain, your tears, and even your anger. Prayer is not just about asking for relief; it is about giving God permission to carry the weight because you can’t. Be honest with Him. Pour out your heart don’t hold back. There is freedom in knowing that God hears you and understands every ache.

Way #2: Seek comfort in Scripture.
Psalm 147:3 (NIV) says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” When grief clouds our hearts and our minds, Scripture becomes a guide through the dark places. Reading and meditating on God’s promises allows us to see that He is a healer, and our pain does not define the entirety of our story. Over time, His words provide the comfort our souls desperately need.

Way #3: Let the Holy Spirit guide your healing.
John 14:16-17 (NLT) reminds us the Holy Spirit is our constant helper. Jesus Christ said in this verse, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.” Grief can make us feel disoriented or lost, but the Holy Spirit gently leads us, reminding us that we are not alone. By listening to His guidance, we can find small measures of peace each day and begin to experience healing even in the midst of sadness.

Way #4: Take small steps toward restoration.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Healing is not instant. Grief has its seasons, and each person moves through them differently. Allow yourself to feel, to remember, and to grieve fully, but also trust God to guide your steps forward.

Closing Thoughts:

Grief taught me that it is okay to move slowly. It taught me that leaning on God is not a sign of weakness but a pathway to strength. When I allowed myself to trust God, to bring my pain to Him, and to follow the guidance of His Spirit, I began to feel light return to my heart. Peace replaced some of the heaviness, and slowly, I am beginning to see life with a new perspective one shaped by God’s enduring love.

Even when grief lingers, God’s presence transforms it. The pain may not vanish completely, but His comfort makes it bearable. He provides hope, restoration, and peace that the world cannot take away. God is patient with us. He does not rush our healing or force us to “move on” before we are ready. He walks beside us every step of the way, offering love that never fails.

Take heart in knowing that your grief is seen, your tears are known, and your pain is held in God’s hands. Lean into His promises. Pray without hesitation. Read His Word (The Holy Bible) for comfort. Listen to God’s Holy Spirit for guidance. Take gentle steps forward, trusting that He will bring you to a place of peace.

Let’s Pray:
Father God, thank You for being close to us in our grief. Thank You for holding our hearts when they are broken and for comforting us with Your presence. Help us trust You fully through our pain. Teach us to lean on Your Word, listen to Your Spirit, and take small steps toward restoration. Thank You for never leaving us alone, for healing our hearts, and for bringing hope where there seems to be none.

In Jesus’s Name I pray.

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God Restores” by Dynamic Praise. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “The Reason for the World” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Meet Me There” by Lydia Laird. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Heidi Lewis-Ivey is an affirmed prophet and an internationally acclaimed speaker. 

She impacts audiences with her authenticity and bold style of delivery. She has had the opportunity to minister in Trinidad, St. Thomas USVI, Manchester and Liverpool (England).

Heidi is an award-winning and bestselling author. She is the author of Can I Rest Awhile? and Black Girl Cry: What Black Women Need to Know to Amplify Their Voices. She is a co-author in Soulful Prayers (Volume 1 and Volume 2) and Soulful Affirmations. Heidi is the convener of the Encountering the Courts of God movement and the founder of Visions International, a training ground for five-fold ministry gifts.

She holds a Master of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from Norwich University and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Boston University. Heidi is the CEO of Nael & Associates Inc and franchise owner of Patrice & Associates recruiting firm. She is a member of the Pentimenti Women Writers Group, a former mentor with Year Up, former board member for Friends of Young Achievers, and a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategist.

Heidi is the proud aunt/great aunt of 14 nieces and nephews and two bonus nieces. They are her joy. The older nephews have become her protectors.

Heidi is an NFL football fan. As a child, she taught herself the game. In 2017 she won her NFL.com fantasy football league. Heidi is an avid reader (Audible listener) of romance novels, a lover of purses and handbags, and a tea snob who believes bling is always appropriate.

She lives in Boston, MA.

~*~
Connect with Heidi:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamheidi01
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/heidi-lewis-ivey

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should trust God and not lose heart

Don’t Lose Heart
A devotional by Erica N. Bryant

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!”—Psalm 27:13-14 (NKJV)

Waiting has never been one of my strengths.

Every day, I ask the Lord to help me cultivate patience in my life. One of the passages He gave me is Psalm 27:13-14. It has become one of my life verses that I carry close to my heart.

Psalm 27 was written by King David. Scholars cannot pinpoint a specific time in is his when he penned this psalm. Some even say that it may be two psalms combined. But what matters is the feeling behind the psalm. David was going through something hard, and his words are still so relevant and relatable.

When life gets tough, it's easy to quit, give up, or lose heart. Trials have a way of pushing you past your breaking point. Hurt, pain, betrayal, and abuse can make you abandon your hope and turn away from what is true. David experienced all these things, too. But for David, there was something that kept him anchored in the brutal winds and waves of life. That something was hope in the Lord and hope in the promises God has made to him.

David was confident that he would see God's goodness in his lifetime. When David said he will see the goodness of God “in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13), he was declaring that he would not die before he experienced the fullness of God’s promises. He would live to see it happen. What God promised him would come to pass and because of that hope, David refused to give up!

This is the kind of hope we should have. When we face hard trials, quitting seems logical and even reasonable. But hope in God goes against logic and reason. It is rooted in faith in a Heavenly Father who is able and willing to shine His goodness on us in ways that bring life to dead and impossible situations. Even in the waiting season of our lives, when we confidently trust that we will see the goodness of the Lord, we will experience His promises fulfilled if we hold on to Him.

When things look bleak, when you feel like you can’t take one more thing, and when it seems like it’s all over, hold on to hope. Wait with confidence in God’s promises, knowing you will experience God’s goodness in your life.

When you feel like you want to quit, remember Jesus Christ. Have you placed your faith in Jesus? Do you believe that all God’s promises are fulfilled and confirmed in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20)? Don't believe the enemy's lie that says you were made to suffer or that things will always be bad. Counter that attack with Biblical truth and believe you will see the goodness of God in the land of the living.

Embrace this beautiful truth found in Psalm 27:14. It says that as we wait on the Lord, He will strengthen our heart. He will help us stand strong and bravely endure even the fiercest storm. He will help us have courage when we need it most.

Friends, don't lose heart! Believe in God’s goodness, mercy, and loving kindness. Remember: Jesus has overcome the world! Keep the faith so you can see His goodness in the land of the living!

Take some time to think about these questions below or write them down in your journal. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you can grow and then take steps to live out God’s Word:

Question #1: Is my faith firmly rooted in the hope that I have in Jesus?

Question #2: Do I truly believe that I will see the goodness of the Lord, or am I skeptical?

Question #3: Am I courageously facing the storms in my life as I confidently wait on the Lord?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Waiting is hard, and I am often impatient. Yet, today, I choose to trust You. Help me to anchor my hope in Your promises. Strengthen my heart as I wait on You. Fill me with courage to face every storm and remind me that Your goodness is coming in the land of the living. Teach me to hold fast to hope, confident in Your faithful love.

In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Wait on the Lord” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Don’t Lose Heart” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Promises” (feat. Joe L Barnes & Naomi Raine) by Maverick City | TRIBL. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Erica N. Bryant is a passionate Bible teacher, speaker, and author who desires to see believers live in the complete freedom and joy of the Holy Spirit. 

As the founder of Sparrow's Song Ministries, Erica invites a community of believers to get to know God by falling in love with His Word. Through Bible study resources, devotionals, teaching, and mentorship, Sparrow's Song encourages others to grow in intimacy with God and walk daily in the power of His Holy Spirit. She began The Word W.O.R.K.S. campaigns to help believers walk in Wholeness, Obedience, Righteousness, and Kingdom Success.

Erica is a writer with several published works including devotionals for adults and children, topical and textual Bible studies, and Scripture journals. In her debut book, Dwell: Living Life Fully Knowing that the Holy Spirit Lives in You, Erica draws from her own journey of healing from childhood trauma, rejection, and the struggles of fear and anxiety. With honesty and hope, she invites readers to embrace the life-giving truth that God's Spirit resides within them. Erica believes that when you know the Holy Spirit dwells in you, everything changes.

Erica is a passionate speaker who effectively communicates God’s Word with clarity and conviction. She speaks a relevant word to hearers and ministers to their hearts, inspires practical application, and empowers them to grow in faith and purpose.

Erica is a devoted wife and loving mother who actively serves in various roles at Strait Gate Deliverance Center, where her father, Bishop Jerome Rogers, is the Pastor and Founder.

Ultimately, she is just a girl in love with God and she is a soldier for Jesus Christ.

Devotionals for the Heart: How to discover the power of letting go

The Power of Letting Go
A devotional by Suzanne Felton

“Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.”

—Jonah 2:8 (NIV)

Perhaps you’ve heard the story—attributed to various tribes depending on who tells it—about how a hunter can catch a monkey using nothing but a hollowed-out coconut and a piece of fruit. The hunter places the fruit inside the coconut through a small hole in the shell and secures the trap to a tree. When a hungry monkey comes along, it reaches through the hole, grabs the fruit, and tries to pull it out, but can’t. Its fist is too big for the hole.

But wait, you might be thinking. All the monkey has to do is let go of the fruit, slip its hand out of the coconut, and run free. You would be right, but what the hunters know is that monkeys will not let go of the fruit, even when their captors come to take them away. They keep holding on until it’s too late.

Aren’t we all like those monkeys sometimes? Humans have a hard time letting go. Maybe it’s an innate survival instinct, or a mindset taught by culture, or a combination of both, but people tend to grab hold of things within their reach and cling tightly to them. “Mine” is a word children learn early, use often, and carry into adulthood. We humans love to obtain, collect, and accumulate as much as we can, building bigger barns or renting more storage units to keep it all in. It’s what we do.

In a world that is constantly telling us that we can have everything we want, and that we deserve to have it all right now, it’s hard not to grab onto things that bring us instant gratification, especially when we’re hungry or in pain or facing difficult circumstances. The fruit in the coconut can seem like the solution to our immediate problems, so we grab onto it. With our fists closed around the wrong things, however, we cannot receive God’s greater blessings.

The Bible tells of a time when a wealthy young man approached Jesus Christ and asked him what he needed to do to have eternal life (Matthew 19:16-22). Jesus told him he must sell all his possessions, give to the poor, and then follow Him. Instead of jumping at the chance to do what was necessary to get what he’d asked for, the Bible says the man went away sad. He was not willing to let go of what he had in the here and now, so he could not receive God’s eternal blessing.

The things we cling to in the moment aren’t necessarily bad things. God knows we need food, money, and material possessions in our earthly lives. It’s when we hold on too tightly, when we begin to trust in the things themselves instead of the One who gives them to meet our needs, that those things become idols that turn us away from Him. With our focus on idols, we become trapped and fail to see the danger that’s coming because of it.

Jesus understood human nature. He was tempted in the desert by the devil to seize things that might have brought him temporary satisfaction in the here and now (Matthew 4:1-11). Later, facing death, He asked his Father (God) if there was any way to avoid the pain and suffering He knew was coming (Matthew 26:39). Each time Jesus chose not to take the easy way out—to grab the fruit in the coconut—but said instead, “Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39 NIV).

Jesus knew the power of letting go. He set the ultimate example of avoiding the trap of instant gratification. We can read about it in Philippians 2:5-9 (TLB) that says, “Your attitude should be the kind that was shown us by Jesus Christ, who, though he was God, did not demand and cling to his rights as God, but laid aside his mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men. And he humbled himself even further, going so far as actually to die a criminal’s death on a cross. Yet it was because of this that God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name which is above every other name.”

When God asks us to let go of our idols, He’s not just trying to take away things that make us happy. He wants us to open our hands and our hearts to receive His blessings that bring eternal joy.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, help me to recognize the things in my life that I’m holding too tightly and taking my focus off of You. Help me let go of my idols before I become trapped by them. Thank You for Jesus, who set the example for us. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “First Things First” by Consumed By Fire. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Suzanne Felton has been a writer for most of her life, even before she realized it. 

She has worked in a wide range of settings, from non-profits to science labs to government contracts to educational classrooms, all of which involved writing in one form or another.

Suzanne is amazed by the power of words and now uses her passion and experience to help authors and students as a writing coach. Encouraging others to find the words and the courage to share their stories is one of her greatest joys.

Suzanne’s devotionals have been published in periodicals and blogs including The Upper Room, The Love Offering, Keys 4 Kids, and The Swallow’s Nest. She is also a two-time finalist in the Cascade Christian Writing Contest for poetry.

She is a wife, mother, writer, reader, teacher, deep thinker, and sinner saved by grace. Suzanne and her family reside in Northern Virginia, but Suzanne will always call her native South Carolina home.

Married to her best friend for twenty-five years, Suzanne is active in her church, where she and her husband have served as deacons for over a decade. They enjoy watching sports and visiting national parks with their two teenage sons. Suzanne is also an avid birder, easily and happily distracted by anything with feathers.

~*~
Connect with Suzanne:
Website: https://suzannefelton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l_suzanne_felton
Email address: suzannefeltonwriter@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: We should be still before God and trust His plan

Choose Solitude
A devotional by Easter Young

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”—Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

The Bible is unlike many literary works in that the words often jump off the page and meet readers wherever they find themselves. It is living, God-breathed, and relevant to our daily lives.

Scripture is here to guide, to encourage, to reprove, to correct, to enlighten, to comfort, and to engage readers in critical thinking and ultimately personal reflection. Today’s passage does all these things. In Psalm 46, we find a song of praise that emphasizes God’s greatness. This Psalm speaks about God’s sovereignty and ability to sustain His people through catastrophic events and everyday life.

In this passage the mountains are quaking and the foundations of familiar institutions are being destroyed. The waters are raging, nations are in an uproar, and ruling kingdoms are failing. This is juxtaposed to God’s ability to step into any situation and bring order, peace, and life. When there is utter devastation God comforts and gives us grace to rebuild our lives. Despite the chaos, His presence brings protection and provision. God stops wars and defeats our enemies. He revives the weary and heals the broken. The Lord Almighty is with us. He is our fortress. When we grieve, He is the God who makes us glad because He is with us.

This passage makes it clear that no matter how things look or what the human experience entails—the good, the bad, or the ugly—God is with us. He is compassionate, empathetic, loving, and concerned. He knows all and He has limitless resources. He is powerful enough to shift the tides of nature. Therefore, He is capable of taking care of one of his most vulnerable creations, us humans.

Our anchor text above (Psalm 46:10), lays out God’s characteristics before admonishing us to “be still”. This could be because God knows that many humans are moved to act when there is calamity. We do not like feeling helpless and often believe that we can do things on our own. This Scripture is advising us to find solitude. Solitude is a positive and constructive state of engagement with oneself. It is a spiritual discipline where one keeps themselves company and engages in reflection and inner searching that leads to personal growth.

Stillness requires intention and planning. It must also be coupled with knowledge. God directs us to be still and know that He is God. When we understand God’s character, we will trust that He has a plan for our lives despite what happens or what we experience each day. We can rest in God’s power to safeguard us. As mere mortals, we can also acknowledge our frailty and our daily need for Him.

We can rest our minds because God declares that through life’s events He will be exalted among every nation and throughout the earth. God has our best interest at heart. It takes spiritual knowledge of him and nurturing relationship with Him to live in peace.

Reading and reflecting on Psalm 46 causes me to remember one of the most chaotic times in my life—when I lost my brother. What began with a general call to the family because of an emergency at work ended with an abrupt exchange of final goodbyes. The world I knew was collapsing and I sought answers to questions everywhere I looked. I felt a deep sadness wondered about my individual identity, and experienced real personal chaos. Being with family felt foreign, spending time in prayer felt forced, and being alone felt awkward.

The call to “be still and know that I am God” in Psalm 46:10 was a powerful reminder that times of uncertainty were certainly apart of human experience. It was confirmation that God had not abandoned me, although I was in pain and searching for meaning. This scripture gave me courage to envision a life of hope, knowing that God had a plan for my future beyond the unexpected loss. I remembered His care and compassion. As a result, I could celebrate my brother’s positive contributions to society and his impact on my life.

I reflected upon how God had been merciful and gracious to our family even through such a difficult experience. I prioritized self-care and became more intentional about creating opportunities for quality connections with the members of my immediate and extended family members. I dedicated more time to nurturing my relationship with good and seeking healing throughout my grief journey. I discovered unique positive coping strategies that helped me to express my pain, accept the loss, and celebrate the memory of my significant person. This uniquely personal experience taught me that God rules in the affairs of his people. He is sovereign in our lives and when it comes to shifting or our world at large.

Given our current global climate this passage provides comfort when people and institutions fail us. It encourages us to remain consistent in our faith and diligent in our work. It reminds us to prioritize moments of solitude and contemplative prayer. When we practice being still and knowing that God is in control, we are able to understand what it means to live in community as His children who He gives the privilege to access to His Presence. God has endless resources to help us if we only believe in Him and ask Him for what we need.

Reflection Questions:

1. Where do I find solitude in my everyday life? Do I prioritize mindful reflection and connecting with myself?

2. Are there obstacles to my personal practice of this spiritual discipline? Is my life too busy or filled with obligations/commitments that keep me from being still and cultivating spiritual knowledge of God?

3. What tangible changes can I make that will allow me to practice solitude and increase my trust in God’s sovereignty?

Let’s Pray:

Dear God,

You are my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. You are Almighty and all-knowing. You are with us in the midst of natural disasters, personal crises, failing institutions, and strained relationships. When there is chaos orchestrated by humans, collective unrest, and an undeniable sense of overwhelm, please give us peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to find solitude because of our knowledge of You. Give us grace and allow us to rest. We will be still because of your character, power, and plan. Our lives are in your hands. You know the path we take and you know the plans you have for us. Thank You that these are plans for good and not of evil. You will bring us to an expected end. We thank You and trust You completely, Lord. 

In Jesus’s name I pray. 

Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Be Still and Know” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “You Are the Living Word” by Fred Hammond. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Easter Lilly is a native Chicagoan who is passionate about working with youth and families. 

She discovered her life's passion through participation in early college and mentorship programs, where she experienced the transformative power of wrap-around services and support. As a result, she has a unique perspective and aims to provide adequate support to the most vulnerable members of our population: the disenfranchised and often forgotten. Easter is an urban youth worker, minister, mentor, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is an advocate for the use of holistic and evidence-based approaches that result in real change.

Her educational credentials include a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University, a Masters of Arts in Christian Ministry with a concentration in Youth Ministry Studies from North Park Theological Seminary, and a Masters of Social Work from UIC's Jane Addams College of Social Work.

Easter has worked in the educational nonprofit field for 20 years. She has a wealth of knowledge because of her experience with youth development, youth guidance, counseling, and the provision of support services in faith-based and community organizations. She is energized by society’s challenges and driven by a genuine desire to serve others.

Her life’s mission is to be an ally, and valuable resource to youth and families as they learn, grow, and experience success together. She believes that this is one of the best ways to positively impact the world.

~*~
Connect with Easter:
Email: eastermaeyoung@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Making lists and making room for Jesus Christ

What Should Go at the Top of My Daily To-Do List
A devotional by Suzanne Felton

And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”—Luke 9:23 (ESV)

I love making lists.

My desk and my purse are cluttered with all kinds of to-do lists: household chores to be completed, groceries to be bought, bills to be paid, birthday cards to be mailed, and the like. I always have a pencil and legal pad on hand, and I even have apps on my phone for list-making.

The reason I love lists is the sense of satisfaction that comes from crossing off completed tasks. Every checked box feels like a gold star for a job well done. When the last task is complete, I can throw the list away and bask in the glow of my productivity.

The problem with to-do lists, however, is that there is no real end to them. Sure, I can make a list and check all the boxes, but there are always more tasks waiting. Every time I put away the clean dishes, new dirty ones appear in the sink. The houseplants need to be watered on a regular basis, and the grass keeps growing after it’s been mowed. Kids outgrow clothes and shoes and need new ones every time I turn around, it seems. Bills keep coming every month. Oh, how I wish I could wash, fold, and put away the laundry one time and be done with it forever, but we all know that is not the way it works.

I think sometimes we tend to think of salvation as an item on a to-do list. Once we have professed faith in Jesus Christ, we feel as though we have checked that box and are good to go, once and for all. There is truth in that, but it is not the end of the story. Yes, “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” as the Bible says in Romans 10:13 (ESV), and once Jesus saves us, the Bible says, “no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand” (John 10:29 ESV). Living out our faith, though, is ongoing work, a choice and an effort we must make daily. Just as we must bathe and dress and eat and drink not just once, but every day, we must decide afresh each day to follow Jesus and put our faith into action.

This idea of daily renewal is woven into scripture from beginning to end, from the Old Testament when God taught the Israelites to depend on Him daily by sending them manna each morning (Exodus 16) to the New Testament when Jesus taught us to pray by asking God to give us our daily bread (Matthew 6:11 and Luke 11:3). Creation itself models this theme in its many cycles like the changing seasons, tides, day and night. Nature is constantly being renewed, too.

In Luke 9:23 (ESV), Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Jesus clearly tells us that following Him is not a one-and-done task, but an ongoing process. Professing faith in Him is not the final question on a test to be turned in and done with; it is the beginning of a lifelong journey with Him. It’s as if Jesus is saying that whatever else is on your daily to-do list, making a new decision to continue that journey should always be item number one.

How can I keep moving forward daily in my walk with Christ? Setting aside time for prayer and Bible reading and looking for practical ways to share His love with the people around me are good items to put on my list. Those priorities can stay the same every day, but the results will be new and greater with practice.

Salvation comes through putting our faith in Jesus Christ, but then we must intentionally put our faith into action on a daily basis. Stopping after the point of salvation would be like buying a new dishwasher but never actually using it to wash the dishes. Walking with Jesus is not a chore, but it does take effort and intentionality for faith to grow and produce fruit.

Will you walk with Jesus today? And follow Him every day of your life?

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your gift of salvation through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to make taking new steps with You the highest priority in our lives every day. We love You, Lord. Thanks for being with us every step of the way!

In Jesus’s Name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection: “I Will Follow Christ” by Clay Crosse, Bebe Winans & Bob Carlisle. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Suzanne Felton has been a writer for most of her life, even before she realized it. 

She has worked in a wide range of settings, from non-profits to science labs to government contracts to educational classrooms, all of which involved writing in one form or another.

Suzanne is amazed by the power of words and now uses her passion and experience to help authors and students as a writing coach. Encouraging others to find the words and the courage to share their stories is one of her greatest joys.

Suzanne’s devotionals have been published in periodicals and blogs including The Upper Room, The Love Offering, Keys 4 Kids, and The Swallow’s Nest. She is also a two-time finalist in the Cascade Christian Writing Contest for poetry.

She is a wife, mother, writer, reader, teacher, deep thinker, and sinner saved by grace. Suzanne and her family reside in Northern Virginia, but Suzanne will always call her native South Carolina home.

Married to her best friend for twenty-five years, Suzanne is active in her church, where she and her husband have served as deacons for over a decade. They enjoy watching sports and visiting national parks with their two teenage sons. Suzanne is also an avid birder, easily and happily distracted by anything with feathers.

~*~
Connect with Suzanne:
Website: https://suzannefelton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l_suzanne_felton
Email address: suzannefeltonwriter@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to love each other how Christ loves us

Love Exemplified
A devotional by Easter Lilly Young

“We know what love is because Jesus Christ gave his life for us. So we should give our lives for our brothers and sisters.”— 1 John 3:16 NIRV

Love is a complex concept. Many of us can confirm this. Even psychologists are divided on their theories about love. They believe it to be a complex emotion accompanied by behaviors that demonstrate a number of positive characteristics.

There are various types of love and signs that prove the existence of love. It can be quite confusing and overwhelming. This is why God did not leave the definition of love in the hands of His creation. He inspired John (a disciple of Jesus Christ) to write a verse (1 John 3:16) that would direct our attention to the ultimate example of love’s expression—the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made when He took on the sins of the world and died on the cross (John 3:16-17). Christ gave His life so that humanity could experience abundant life on Earth (John 10:10) and look forward to being reconciled with God and experiencing eternal life in Heaven.

This is the gospel “good news” message we have heard about in church-related events and ministries like Bible study, small group discussions, and personal revelations from Jesus Christ when we spend time alone with Him in prayer. It is so important that the gospel is shared with the world to give us hope and teach us about a God who loves us with all His Heart. We will never understand the depth of God’s love for us while on Earth. However, we can understand the idea of exchange. On a simple level, love is about self-sacrifice and reciprocity. This is why John sees Christ’s example as instruction for how Christians should live in community with each other. We should prioritize and cultivate connections with humankind as well as demonstrate empathy and compassion toward everyone.

Love recognizes that every life has value. Humans made in the image of God have purpose and destiny. There is commonality among us as well as diversity. It affirms that humans were designed to live alongside each other. This makes human connection and fostering a sense of belonging a priority. We can acknowledge the power of community by reaching out to others intentionally. We can think about the benefit we all gain through initiating positive social interactions with others. We are enriched and encouraged by robust conversations, fun social gatherings, learning opportunities and group experiences. Even when there is conflict, it is a lesson in self-discovery and relationships.

Love acknowledges that certain aspects of our lives are part of the human experience. There will be joy and sadness. There will be health and sickness. There will be struggle and pain. When we accept that these experiences are part of life, we can see empathy as a way to connect with others. We will be able to be compassionate toward others regardless of the depth of our relationship. We will allow God to help us to imagine what it is like to walk in someone else’s shoes because we realize that there may come a time when we will experience something similar.

This is John’s admonition in Scripture: Laying down your life for others is about refusing to be self-centered. It is about being vulnerable enough to consider your humanity and to stand with others as they experience life. This can only be accomplished by the power of the Holy Spirit and after we have surrendered our ideas about love to God. Only He can show us the true definition of love through progressive revelation. As God does this for us, He will empower us to love others more deeply.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord,

Help us to live a life filled with visible expressions of love. If we have a skewed view of love, correct it. If we have had negative experiences with love, heal us. Show us how the love exemplified in the life of Jesus applies to our everyday lives. Bring Scripture to life and reveal Your love to us daily. Help us to love ourselves and to love others in words and with our actions. Empower us to love deeply and consistently. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

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

~*~
Author Bio:

Easter Lilly is a native Chicagoan who is passionate about working with youth and families. 

She discovered her life's passion through participation in early college and mentorship programs, where she experienced the transformative power of wrap-around services and support. As a result, she has a unique perspective and aims to provide adequate support to the most vulnerable members of our population: the disenfranchised and often forgotten. Easter is an urban youth worker, minister, mentor, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is an advocate for the use of holistic and evidence-based approaches that result in real change.

Her educational credentials include a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University, a Masters of Arts in Christian Ministry with a concentration in Youth Ministry Studies from North Park Theological Seminary, and a Masters of Social Work from UIC's Jane Addams College of Social Work.

Easter has worked in the educational nonprofit field for 20 years. She has a wealth of knowledge because of her experience with youth development, youth guidance, counseling, and the provision of support services in faith-based and community organizations. She is energized by society’s challenges and driven by a genuine desire to serve others.

Her life’s mission is to be an ally, and valuable resource to youth and families as they learn, grow, and experience success together. She believes that this is one of the best ways to positively impact the world.

~*~
Connect with Easter:
Email: eastermaeyoung@gmail.com

Promo: Everyday Prayers for Love devotional book by Rachael Adams

Today, we celebrate my author friend Rachael Adams because it is the birthday (release date) of her new devotional book! To celebrate this special event, Rachael has graciously offered an excerpt from Day 19 of her devo, Everyday Prayers for Love: Learning to Love God, Others and Even Yourself. This chapter (Day 19) focuses on how to love people fearlessly. Enjoy!

~*~
Loving Fearlessly
By: Rachael Adams

"There is no fear in love. But perfect love casts out fear."

—1 John 4:18a

I didn't want to put myself out there again. Every time I did, I was met with disinterest. I already felt like I didn't belong in the group, which seemed to be affirmed each time I brought up an idea or topic of conversation. Whether or not I was misreading the situation, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t enough. So, in self-defense, I pulled back. I chose to respond less and withdrew myself from the group before they removed me.

We tend to self-protect when we get hurt, don’t we? Our instinct is to hide or put up walls so our hearts don’t get broken. Likely, we have all had instances where we extended an invitation and were told no, tried out for the team and didn’t make it, applied for the job and didn’t get it, worked towards our dream and were met with a closed door, or gave our best in a relationship and were rejected. In these instances, we are tempted to close ourselves off and not try again. We allow fear of future failure to prevent us from faithfully moving forward.

While this behavior feels safer, it simply isolates and makes us more vulnerable. The enemy prowls like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). While I’m no zoologist, a pack of animals has a much better chance of protecting themselves against a lion than a single animal alone. The same is true for us as believers. There is strength in community.

But what if it is that community that has caused the hurt? If so, we are tempted to escape. Hiding has been humanity’s tendency from the beginning of time. When Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, they hid from God (Genesis 3:8). But what did God do? He pursued them.

Since creation, and despite rejection, God has desired to fellowship with mankind, pursuing a closer relationship with us. Throughout Scripture, we see the progression of Him moving toward us. First, His Spirit hovered over the waters. Next, He lived in the desert in the Tabernacle. Then, God became flesh when Christ came to live on the earth. When Jesus descended to heaven at Pentecost, He sent the Holy Spirit to come and dwell within us. Isn’t it unfathomable that the God of the universe would want to be so near to us? No matter what your earthly relationships are like, God is pursuing you.

Something to Think About

There are 686 mentions of love in the Bible. Fear also ranks high in biblical word count, with the emotion mentioned 437 times. I’ve heard it said before God told us to “fear not” (or some variations of the phrase) 365 times in His Word–one for each day in the year. He knew we would struggle with these feelings. Fear is a valid emotion we should pay attention to, especially if we are unsafe. However, when we are afraid, we can trust that God will be with us. “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love (1 John 4:18).” His love will quiet your fears and give you confidence.

Hagar experienced God’s pursuit of love in the desert after being mistreated by Sarah. Although it was Sarah’s plan for her slave Hagar to have a baby with her husband Abraham, she became jealous and took her anger out on her servant. The angel of the Lord found Hagar in the desert and advised her to return to Sarah. After this encounter, Hagar called God El Roi, “the God who sees (Genesis 16:13).”

Hagar returned and birthed her son, Ishmael. Fourteen years later, Isaac was born to Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 21). The bitterness between the women continued, and Sarah demanded Hagar and Ishmael be cast out. Although it grieved Abraham to do so, he gave Hagar and Ishmael some provisions and sent them away.

Once again, God graciously intervened. The Lord saw Hagar’s distress, provided for her need, and blessed her son because he was the child of Abraham. This story reminds us that no matter who or where we are, God sees and cares about us. He will comfort and provide for anyone who turns to Him and always keeps His promises.

Escape is only a temporary solution. God continually desires us to face our problems with His help. We experience His aid most clearly in and through conflicts and difficulties, not away from them. Are there problems in your life from which you’ve been running away? Allow His perfect love to cast out your fear.

Extra Verses For Study Or Prayer

Isaiah 41:10; Romans 8:15

Verse Of The Day

"There is no fear in love. But perfect love casts out fear."

—1 John 4:18a

Prayer

Father, I admit I’m afraid of the heartbreak that can happen in relationships. I have felt rejected and unwanted by people in my life. It feels safer to stay alone than risk being hurt again. But I know You’ve made me for community. Give me the courage to open my heart again. Remind me that You accept, choose, and see me. I no longer want to live in fear. Cast it out and replace it with Your love. In Jesus’s name, amen.

Questions For Deeper Reflection

1. Have you been hurt in relationships with people or even with God? Has this caused you to pull back in self-protection?

2. What could happen if you pushed past the fear? How does knowing God sees you and loves you help to open your heart again?

~*~
Author Bio:

Author of A Little Goes a Long Way and Everyday Prayers for Love, Rachael Adams, hopes to help women realize God’s love and purpose for their lives. She and her husband, Bryan, live in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate. 

Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, Crosswalk, Proverbs 31, Today Parenting, and YouVersion. Connect with her by visiting rachaelkadams.com, searching @rachaeladamsauthor on Instagram and Facebook, and tuning in to The Love Offering podcast every Tuesday on your favorite listening platform.

~*~
Connect with Rachael:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachaeladamsauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaeladamsauthor/
Website: https://rachaelkadams.com/

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we all need love from God and each other

A Love Beyond All
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

—John 13:35 (NIV)

Do you have certain items with a sentimental meaning, items you keep around mostly because of that?

I certainly do. While minimalism appeals to me in many ways, especially in the home, there are items that bring me so much joy because of the memories they evoke—my Grammy’s teacups collection, which now take up residence in my home. The necklace my dad gave me just before he passed away. Trésor perfume, which never fails to remind me of my aunt. The vintage typewriters my husband found for me, and the heart necklace he gave me when we were dating. His Nana’s Scottish tartan skirt, and a few special pieces of jewelry and artwork that were hers.

These items are special to me because of the people they represent. They’re a tangible, visual symbol of love and relationship, a love that still exists despite the passage of time and even, in many cases, despite the fact that many of these loved ones passed away, some not too long ago.

Recently, my husband’s other grandma—Grandma Mary—passed away. At age 101, Grandma Mary had been born in a Mill Village lumber camp in West Virginia in 1923 and was the oldest of seven siblings, and she worked from a young age to help support her family. It wasn’t an easy life, yet she found true love and joy when she married her husband, “Red,” and they moved to Wooster, Ohio, where they founded the successful W. B. Armstrong oil and gas drilling company and raised three children…one of them my amazing mother-in-law. After cancer took Grandpa Red far too soon—before his grandkids could meet him—Grandma found true love and joy once more in her forty-plus-year marriage to Grandpa Bob before he, too, passed away.

I adored Grandma Mary. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t, truly. She was funny, faithful, warm, smart, and incredibly hardworking. She loved flowers and birds and people, and she welcomed me into the family with open arms.

When we all went to Ohio for her funeral recently, almost the entirety of the family gathered—some as far away as Hawaii, Oregon, and California, not to mention our crew from South Carolina. It was a beautiful thing to see so many people gather in memory of a family’s matriarch. All of us who loved her, even in-laws and “steps,” were invited to take some items from her home, and we gladly did.

As we gathered last week for Thanksgiving, it was especially heartfelt, as my husband and I set our table with china that had been Grandma Mary’s, and he set up his annual Christmas village on the sideboard with a few pieces that had been hers. I wore one of her colorful blouses, and my daughter wore one of the sweater sets Grandma loved so much.

Looking around the table, it occurred to me … things can never truly represent a person, ever. There’s no special “power” they have, no magic or supernatural memory held within. It’s the same thing with the Christian symbols I wear. That cross around my neck isn’t there because I believe it holds special protection. At the end of the day, it’s a tiny piece of gold in a shape—that’s it. Yet it still holds meaning for me because of what it represents. When I wear that cross, I’m proclaiming, “I follow Jesus Christ. Jesus is my Savior. I believe!”

Just like when I wear Grandma Mary’s blouse…or sip tea from my Grammy’s teacup, or dot Trésor on my wrist … I’m saying, “I remember. I loved these people. And I miss them so.”

The Bible warns us against idols. Exodus 20:4-5 expressly forbids us from making, or worshipping or serving, idols of any kind. But idols and sentimental items are two different things. I certainly don’t worship the sentimental items I own, even though they bring me joy when I wear or look at them, for they remind me of a special person or time in my life.

God encouraged the Israelites to make the tabernacle during their time in the wilderness. Constructed according to God's instructions using precious materials like gold and fine linen, the tabernacle served as a physical representation of God’s presence among God’s people. The tabernacle wasn’t God, certainly. But it helped the people have an actual, physical representation to help focus and encourage their worship. Even before this, the Bible tells us God used a symbol with his people. Genesis 8-9 tells us that after the flood, God vowed that he would never again destroy all living creatures (Genesis 8:21). As he said in Genesis 9:13, “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth” (NIV).

Sometimes, symbols help remind us of the deep love that exists between people.

Let us remember that love is the most important part of our human experience.

As Scripture tells us:

“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”—1 John 4:8

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”— 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

“We love because he first loved us.”— 1 John 4:19

“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”— Matthew 22:37-39

Let us love, now and always, in God’s holy and precious name.

Let’s Pray: Lord, thank You for the great love You have for the world and for each one of us. You loved us so much you sent your only son to die for us and show us the path to eternal life with You. Help us to love each other and honor your love as we strive to love others. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: "Know Us By Our Love" by Moriah Peters. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian novelist, journalist, editor, blogger, and writing coach and the recipient of the 2018 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for her novel, The Memory Garden. 

She is also the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. This year, she’s released an Advent devotional for those seeking true closeness with God, which you can find at https://www.jessicabrodie.com/advent.

Learn more about Jessica’s fiction and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com.

She has a weekly YouTube devotional and podcast. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.

Devotionals for the Heart: When God prepares a feast for you in the valley

A Feast in the Valley
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”—Psalm 23:5 (NIV)

God has prepared a feast for you. But this feast is not only on the mountaintops when things are perfect and everything is turning out the way you dreamed. God prepares a feast for you in presence of your enemies.

Whenever I have read through Psalm 23, I imagine that this feast is happening in a lovely meadow where everything is perfect. God has prepared this beautiful feast. He has anointed my head with oil and my cup is overflowing because He has blessed me so greatly.

However, when I read this passage a few months ago, it occurred to me that the circumstances of this feast are not so perfect. In the previous verse, the setting is described as the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23:4). It was then that I realized this feast is taking place in the darkest valley while enemies stand by and watch.

Do you ever feel like you can’t enjoy anything so long as there is darkness or negativity in your life? I have found that there is always an enemy nearby trying to keep me from enjoying life. This enemy can be in the form of busyness, anxiety or fear. What keeps you from enjoying the good things God has placed in your life?

Whenever anxiety and fear are my companions, I feel suffocated. During those times, I don’t feel like enjoying anything good in life. These are my enemies, and they are constantly with me. Unconsciously, I realized that I kept waiting for the perfect circumstances to finally enjoy what God has for me when I reach my goal of finally conquering my anxiety. I think I can enjoy all the good things God has given me when I don’t have to worry about my finances anymore.

One thing I have found is that the enemies are always present, but so is God. Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd, is always with us. He sits at the feasting table with you. The enemy may be present, but the enemy’s power is limited when your eyes are focused on Jesus. Turn your attention away from the darkness and the enemies that want to distract you. Focus on the Good Shepherd who has prepared a feast for you in the darkest valley.

Are you in a valley season of your life? Do you face darkness in your life and enemies that never seem to go away? God may not lift you up out of the valley and place you on the mountaintop quite yet. Maybe He wants to first enjoy a feast with you while you wait in the darkness. There is so much good God has showered upon us. Turn your eyes to the greatest good (Jesus). He will never leave you.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for preparing a feast for us in our valleys! Please help us to remember to always keep our focus on You and Your goodness. Help us to lean into Your goodness, love, mercy, grace and kindness. Open our eyes to the infinite blessings You have placed in our lives. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Hills and Valleys (Acoustic Video)” by Tauren Wells. Listen to it here.

~*~
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!

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning how to hear and discern God's Voice

Understanding the Voice of God
A devotional by Cherie Mendez

The Lord will give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, but your Teacher will no longer hide Himself—with your own eyes you will see Him. And whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.”

—Isaiah 30:20-21 (BSB)

Like the children of Israel, we all have a tendency to complain when problems arise. God will allow us to go through seasons of adversity in order to get our attention.

Hearing the voice of God is a learned skill and over time it can get easier or harder depending on our obedience or disobedience.

I’ll never forget when I first met my husband, Jimmy. We went out on a few dates, but after praying about it, I was unsure if he was “the one.” After our third date, I felt it would only be right for me to break up because I didn’t think it was fair to keep stringing him along.

This was a huge struggle—I had a history of bad experiences with men and a lot of baggage to deal with before I could commit to a serious relationship. It was a very hard decision because deep down inside, I was afraid I would never get married.

So, the day came when I ended our dating relationship. He didn’t take it well but we agreed to part ways. To make things easier we started going to different churches.

A year went by and I kept seeking God on whether or not He was calling me to get married. I started to question if I had made a mistake by breaking up with Jim. To make matters worse, I received a phone call from a friend of mine who said she had just gone on a day trip with Jim. My heart sank! I started to wonder if I missed the boat. Later, I learned that friend who went on the day trip with Jim only went as “friends” and she was actually dating another guy. Phew!

So, at that point I wasn’t sure what to do. I prayed about it and God opened the door for me to see Jim again in a group setting with other friends. Slowly we started to reconnect and by that time I felt God’s peace about our relationship. We dated for a few months and one night he got down on his knee and proposed. We then moved forward and got pre-marital counseling by our pastor and his wife. One of the most beautiful things our pastor’s wife said was that she saw “God’s signature on our marriage.” Three months later we tied the knot.

Now, thirty-one years later, I am still happily married to the man God chose for me. God knew exactly what He was doing. Maybe I needed that year after breaking up for God to heal all the issues in my heart before I could walk down the aisle. God was writing our true love story all along, I just couldn’t see it at that time.

So how does one properly hear God and discern when He is speaking? Let me share what I have learned from over the years. I have found three of the most common ways God speaks to us:

Common Way #1: His Word. Psalm 119:105 (KJV) says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” In order to “hear” from God we need to develop an understanding of His character. We need to know how God honors obedience and punishes disobedience.

Common Way #2: Our Circumstances. Sometimes, God will allow the “bread of adversity and the water of affliction” Isaiah 30:20 (BSB) to get our attention and guide us.

Common Way #3: The Still Small Voice. The Holy Spirit speaks very soft but also very clear. When He speaks we will either have a peace about something or not.

God’s grace towards us never changes. He is always faithful to guide us back on the way of truth. Whether you are in a season of adversity or enjoying a time of prosperity, know that God is always speaking. All He asks is that we listen.

Let’s Pray: Lord Jesus, I pray that You will help us to be still and quiet before You. Help us to not let the noise of the world distract us from hearing Your voice. I pray that You will give us the eyes to see and the ears to hear Your guidance. Thank You for Your never-ending patience with us. Help us to see beyond our circumstances and keep our eyes on You. In Your Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Speak” by Bethany Music. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Cherie Mendez is a New York-based actress and model. Network appearances include Blue Bloods and Bull (CBS), Power (STARZ), and Hunters (Amazon).

She got her start in modeling at the age of 18 when she was offered a contract to work with an agency in Paris. Over time, she worked for clients such as Mary Kay Cosmetics, Clarins Skincare, Garnier, Lancôme, and Wella.

In recent years, Cherie has been sharing about her faith in God on Instagram where she has an audience of over 30k followers. She is compelled by love to encourage women to understand their identity in Jesus Christ.

It is her goal to bring to light what God’s Word says about our self-worth. She does this by sharing encouraging stories on how she overcame the many struggles that models and actresses typically face.

Some of the topics Cherie loves to write about are:

· Coping with rejection

· Finding your purpose and using your talent for God’s glory

· How God always looks at the heart and the meaning of inner beauty

· Understanding that we are all a work in progress and God is not done with us yet

Cherie and her husband Jimmy live in Upstate New York. They are thankful to have been married for 30 years.

~*~
Connect with Cherie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheriemendez/

Devotionals for the Heart: Finding your value in how God sees you

You are His Beloved
A devotional by Dr. Jessica B. Turner

“And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.’” –Mark 1:10-11 (ESV)

Many are familiar with the Scripture above (Mark 1:10-11) because it paints such a beautiful picture of John the Baptist and his role in preparing the way for Jesus Christ. It was by John’s hands that Jesus Christ himself was baptized by water in the Jordan River. While such an event is paramount, it’s what happens immediately after that has always stood out to me.

Before Jesus performs any miracles or preaches any sermons, God makes it clear how much He loves His son, Jesus Christ, simply because He is His son. But He doesn’t stop there. God goes on to declare how proud He is of His son.

For as long as I can remember, I have found my value in my doing. The better my grades were, the more deserving I was of praise. The more involved I was in extra-curricular activities, the more respected I was amongst peers. As I got older, the actions simply shifted to reflect different roles such as veterinarian, wife, and mother. Yet, the bottom line was always the same: If I am not doing enough, I am not enough. And if I’m not enough, I am not loved.

So, when I first read God’s words to His son before Jesus ever did anything, I was blown away! It challenged everything I had ever believed regarding my value. Instead of my worth being found in what I could do, maybe it was found in who I was.

While this new revelation was freeing, it took time for me to reprogram what I had deemed true my entire life. It wasn’t until I fully grasped my identity as a daughter of the Most-High God that change really took place. Suddenly God’s words spoken over Jesus Christ (“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”) became words spoken over my life.

I am God’s beloved daughter; with me He is well pleased! Not because of my doing but because I am His!

Now, when I am faced with days where I feel I am not enough, I remind myself that I am His beloved and that is all I need because His love endures forever. I hope you find comfort in knowing that you are His beloved as well!

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me so much that you gave Your one and only Son as a sacrifice for my sins. Please help me to see Your love as the precious gift it is. For it is through Your love that I am declared Your child. Help me to stand firm in my identity as a child of God knowing that my worth lies not in my doing but in who I am in You. I love You and I trust You. In Jesus’s Name, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Who I Am (Official Lyric Video)” by Ben Fuller. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Jessica B. Turner is a wife, mom, and LSU graduate with a degree in veterinary medicine.

After practicing small animal medicine for six years, she traded in her stethoscope to become an online wellness coach, motivational speaker, and writer with a passion for mental health advocacy. This major life change was sparked after Jessica struggled with postpartum depression soon after she birthed her twin girls.

Along with Jessica’s career change came the discovery of who Jesus Christ really is and how He was the missing piece for her to be able to move forward in past trauma that she had suppressed for decades. Jesus walked alongside Jessica as she underwent a transformation like none other.

God transformed Jessica’s life from a broken mom who struggled with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and PTSD from witnessing an attempted suicide, to using her experiences to make her a powerful vessel for Him. To this day, God enables Jessica to touch the lives of others through her often unfiltered, yet inviting form of storytelling.

Throughout this process of refinement, Jessica has shared her life story with the world through her social media platforms, in-person events, blog posts, and podcasts. She values the gift of transparency and has discovered that what so many people need to know is that they are not alone. Jessica has walked in their shoes, and she wants the world to know that Jesus is walking with them as well.

~*~
Connect with Jessica:
Website: www.jessicabturner.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicabturner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicabturner/