Devotionals for the Heart: A simple solution for when you feel anxious

What to do when you feel anxious
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

—Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

“I find myself getting so anxious these days and I don’t know why!”

This was the cry from a dear mother, we’ll call her Victoria, who I had spent a few hours visiting. She was feeling overwhelmed and anxious. I assured her that everything was going to be alright. I could not lessen her fears, but I offered hope. My response came from my own personal experience because I’ve been there too. I know that distressing feeling as if you’re about to drown in a rush of drowning emotions like the rising wave of water.

“Stop,” I told Victoria. Because when our thoughts begin to spiral, our natural instinct is to rush ahead. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is stop. Pausing to take a breath. Consciously feeling our breath move through our lungs and slowly releasing it gradually changes the direction those anxious thoughts want to take us. This simple action can shift the direction of our anxious thoughts. It may sound unusually simple, but it still works.

This stress-reducing response is a practice we can use daily, not only when we are feeling overwhelmed. I have learned to have a strategy in place knowing it’s not if, but when those moments arise. When we study the life of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we see how He responded in times of crisis. Think of Him in the wilderness. His body and soul felt weary from fasting for 40 days and 40 nights. Jesus was emotionally and physically depleted, but His spirit was very much alert. The devil appeared to him at this weakest point and tried to tempt Jesus several times. But each time, Jesus responded, “It is written” and spoke what was already deep-seated within Him: Scripture. The Word of God (The Holy Bible) was Christ’s weapon to fight the torment from the devil that was meant to get Him to sin and therefore fail His mission to save the souls of humankind (John 3:16-17).

We can follow Christ’s example by having that resolve to resist the devil and respond to temptation with Scripture, but we need to prepare for these battles through reading God’s Word, praying to Him and meditating on His Word. Are we consciously preparing for those moments of temptation, anxiety and frustration?

Let’s look at another example found in the Bible story about King David. As a youth, David was anointed to be the next king. He boldly chose to face a literal giant, Goliath, and struck him down using a slingshot and a stone. He did this to make God’s name great but was not ready for what would follow. The people praised him by saying, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7 NIV). They heralded the great success David had over their current King Saul. This drove Saul into jealousy, and he wanted to kill David.

The Bible tells us of a time when David was playing a lyre in the presence of King Saul who then tried to hurl his spear at David, hoping to pin him to the wall (1 Samuel 18:10-11). But David escaped him. Can you imagine the confusion, fear and anxiety that began to sweep over David? He had to run for his life. He went from being a hero into hiding because Saul continued to try to kill David.

We have many passages of Scripture to show us David’s emotional health during this time. Psalm 55:1-3 (NIV) says, “Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me, and I am distraught because of what my enemy is saying, because of the threats of the wicked; for they bring down suffering on me and assail me in their anger.”

David cried out to God because he needed answers. His thoughts were going wild. God is not afraid of our honest cries for help. He heard David’s cry then and He hears our cries now. Like David, we need to stand on God’s faithfulness.

Feelings of anxiety and overwhelm may come in waves. Consider tracking them. Notice when they hit. Is it in the morning activity, in the evening or while doing certain activities? When the waves roll in, open The Holy Bible and search for scriptures that talk about fear, anxiety, and burdens. The Psalms are great place to start because it reminds us that David cried out to God for help and God answered.

The Book of Psalms shows us that David always remembered the times when God had brought relief and strengthened him. It is those times of reflection that helped David to press on. The same is true for us today. When our thoughts start to spiral downward into depression and despair, we need to stop, speak to the Lord and stand on the truths we know about Him.

Remember how you experienced God’s help in the past. He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). God remains faithful. He will be faithful to walk with us in the happy moments as well as the dark days that will inevitably come our way but will come to pass. Be encouraged!

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, I’m so thankful that You are aware of the anxiety that we face at times. Those are hard days and I need You to remind me that your strength is made perfect in my weakness. I need to know You are near. Remind me of the truth found in Your Word. Help me to hold onto these truths as I walk through tough times. Remind me that You are with me through it all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Trust in God” by Elevation Worship (feat. Chris Brown & Isaiah Templeton). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Draw Me Nearer Medley: I Am Thine, O Lord / Draw Me Close” by Patricia Russell. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Press On” by Selah. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “He’s Been Faithful” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and TaRanda Greene. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “He is with You” by Mandisa. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “Through it All” by Andrae Crouch. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Draw Me Nearer” by Meredith Andrews. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology "Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit", as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: How to sit in someone's sorrow and share hope

A Love that Won’t Try to Fix Anything
A devotional by Patti Schultz, Ed.D.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”

—Romans 12:15 (NKJV)

There is a love that never tries to fix anything. It pulls up a chair. It sits down in someone else's sorrow and refuses to leave early. Scripture gives that love a name.

Grief rarely knocks. It just arrives; however it wants, and it never leaves the way it came. Denial doesn't announce itself. It shows up in small, harmless-looking ways: two cups of coffee poured out of habit before she remembers or a hand reaching for the phone to call someone who won't answer. This is not foolishness. It is a heart taking in only as much truth as it can hold. If you love someone in this fog, don't correct it. Just sit with her.

Then anger comes, and it comes hot. Her fists clench. Her questions grow edges. Why this? Why now? This fire is usually love with nowhere left to go. I've learned it doesn't need to be tidied up. It just needs room to burn.

Bargaining follows close behind, the quiet negotiations that circle back at two in the morning. What if we had caught it sooner? What if that last conversation had gone differently? These thoughts rarely lead anywhere, and they do not have to. They only need somewhere safe to be spoken aloud, and sometimes that somewhere is simply you, listening without trying to answer.

Depression settles in without asking permission. It moves into her shoulders, into her mornings, into the space behind her eyes. There is no silver lining that fits here. What she needs is someone willing to sit down inside the weight with her, unafraid of the quiet.

And somewhere in there, unevenly and without a schedule, acceptance arrives. Not because the loss shrinks but because she learns to carry it differently. It rarely comes on the timeline anyone expects, and no one should feel late for it. I learned all of this in a season I never would have chosen. I was moving through recurrent pregnancy loss, one IVF cycle after another, grief tucked into ordinary moments: a grocery aisle, a baby shower I couldn't skip, and the silence after another test result.

One cold evening I returned to a support group, to show a young woman how to compound or mix her own in vitro fertilization (IVF) injection medication. Her hands were shaking, just as mine had been through the years. I expected this support group, this task, this assistance would be too emotionally hard for fragile me. Instead, I felt a peace I hadn't felt in years, not because my own grief had lifted, but because it had finally found somewhere to go. Holding her hand steady, I watched two griefs sit in the same small room without either one needing to leave.

That is the day Romans 12:15 stopped being a verse to me. It became something I lived. To mourn with those who mourn is to walk into someone's sorrow and stay a while. No agenda. No timeline. No requirement that she feel better before you're willing to sit down. This is love with its sleeves rolled up.

Let's Pray:

Lord, teach us to sit before we speak. Give us the courage to stay in rooms that feel too heavy, and the humility to receive comfort when we are the ones grieving. Where we are angry, meet us gently. Where we are numb, meet us patiently. And when you place someone in our path who is hurting, let our presence be enough. Let it look like You. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Rest On Us” (feat. Brandon Lake & Eniola Abioye) | Maverick City Music | UPPERROOM | TRIBL Listen to it here. 

Song of Reflection #2: “Way Maker” by Leeland (ASL cover by Deaf Millennial Project). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Build My Life” by Pat Barrett (ASL cover). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Sound of Surviving” by Nichole Nordeman. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Patti Schultz’s inspiring journey weaves a tapestry of compassion, resilience, and divine hope. 

Formerly a public school principal, professor, teacher, and interpreter for the deaf, she now dedicates her life to a heartfelt ministry rooted in her personal experiences.

As a mother to three miracle boys here on Earth and a member of a heavenly soccer team, Patti’s story is one of unwavering faith and profound love. Her decade-long battle with infertility and recurrent loss fuels her deep compassion for grieving mothers, guiding them toward healing through the comforting embrace of Jesus Christ’s garment.

Patti’s gentle wisdom offers a safe haven for women navigating pain, reminding them they are never alone. Through her ministry, she seeks to envelop grieving mothers in divine comfort, encouraging hope, renewal, and the reassurance that God's love is always near, wrapping them in His compassionate hem as they walk the path to healing.

Living in northern Michigan, she cherishes precious moments with family and community, drawing strength from faith and connection.

~*~
Connect with Patti:
Website: pattischultz.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.pattischultz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Patti.Schultz
Email: dr.patti.schultz@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Hope for when you're struggling to trust God

When You’re Struggling to Trust
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.”—Jeremiah 17:7 (NLT)

Have you ever entrusted someone with something precious—your heart, a dream, a secret, or even your reputation—only to have them betray your trust?

I’d say most of us have. Those moments leave a mark. They change the way we approach relationships, and if we're not careful, they even influence the way we approach God. I remember several years ago when my husband and I were attending a conference with other leaders. Somehow the conversation led to being carried “over the threshold”. One of the leaders smiled confidently and said, “I'm sure I could carry you.” Before I had time to respond, he picked me up, took a few steps then dropped me.

I wasn’t injured, but my pride and dignity were. One thing was certain: He was never going to get another opportunity to carry me again. Trust, once dropped, is not easily handed back. Seems I'm not the only one who’s ever been dropped.

In 2 Samuel 4:4, we’re told about the child Mephibosheth. When news came that his father, Jonathan and grandfather Saul had been killed, his nurse picked him up and fled in fear. Her intentions were good. She wasn't trying to hurt him; she was trying to save him. But in her haste, she dropped him, and from that day forward, Mephibosheth lived with the consequences. He became crippled not because of something he had done, but because someone else dropped what had been entrusted to them. It was an event that shaped the rest of his life.

Perhaps that’s your story today. Maybe you weren’t physically dropped, but somewhere along life's journey someone failed to carry what you entrusted to them. That experience has an impact on how you see people, and if you’re not careful, it may even affect how you see God. Trust takes time to build. It’s done over time by consistency and strengthened through experience. The Lord has such a proven reputation of trustworthiness that has been built before time began.

I remember a teacher saying, “Trust must be earned.” God has earned the right to be trusted. God understands that trust develops over time. We can see how He has remained faithful through the highs and the lows of life. That’s why our walk with God is a journey; it’s a relationship. He has a track record that speaks to the fact that He can be trusted.

Throughout my lifetime I have proven the hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” written by Thomas O. Chisholm and composed by William M. Runyan. My favorite lyrics in the song are from the refrain that says how great God’s faithfulness to us is and how every morning brings us new mercies from Him.

If you’re struggling today and questioning God’s commitment to standing with you in the hard times, I want to encourage you to trust Him. You can lean into His faithfulness and receive the blessing that comes from placing your confidence in Him.

Remember Mephibosheth. Although wounded from his past, he was not forgotten. In fact, he was protected and cared for—not because of anything he had done, but because of a promise King David had made to his father, Jonathan, long before Mephibosheth was even born. His future rested on a covenant he didn’t initiate and couldn't earn.

In the same way, God is faithful toward us, and it’s not based on our circumstances but because of His unchanging character. He keeps his promises. We can rest and trust that the God who made the promise is the same one who remains faithful to fulfill it.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your faithfulness toward us. Morning by morning, new mercies we see. You are the same yesterday, today and forever, and we can depend on you completely. You are God and God alone! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Trust Me” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Trust in You” by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” by Austin Stone Worship Live from TGC. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “It's Always Been You” by Phil Wickham. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “I'll Trust You, Lord” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology "Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit", as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com

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.

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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.

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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!

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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?

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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.

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