Devotionals for the Heart: Are you a follower or fan of Jesus Christ?

Mad About God
A devotional by Joyce M. Averils

Then I said, “I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name.” But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not.—Jeremiah 20:9 (NKJV)

For college basketball fans, March Madness is the highlight of the season.

Every year, during March and April, teams battle through a series of intense elimination games to determine the national champion. It’s an exciting time full of buzzer-beaters, Cinderella stories, and unexpected upsets.

But March Madness isn’t just about basketball. It’s about passion.

Die-hard fans will do just about anything to stay glued to the games. Employees mysteriously “call in sick” so they can watch their favorite teams play. People paint their faces—and sometimes their entire bodies—in school colors, proudly displaying their loyalty. Offices buzz with excitement as co-workers bet on who will take home the championship. Brackets are meticulously filled out and updated, sometimes by the hour, as fans track every win and loss.

Even though I don’t get caught up in the full madness of it all, I do enjoy watching the games and cheering for my favorite teams. But as I watched the championship game last year, something struck me. I couldn’t help but wonder: What if we, as believers, were as passionate about being on God’s team as these fans are about their basketball teams?

That thought challenged me, and I hope it challenges you too. Because if we're truly playing for God’s team, then we should live like it. That means asking ourselves some serious questions (see the questions in bold below).

Question #1: Do Others Know Whose Team You’re On?

You can always tell who the die-hard basketball fans are. They proudly wear their team’s colors, chant their fight songs, and defend their team to anyone who will listen. Their loyalty is loud and clear. But as followers of Jesus Christ, can the same be said about us?

Do people know you belong to Jesus? Can they tell, not just by what you say, but by how you live? The Bible reminds us in Romans 1:16 (NIV), “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” That means we don’t just represent Jesus Christ on Sundays. We represent Him in our workplaces, in our communities, and even in the everyday moments when no one is watching.

We may be the only Bible some people will ever read. And while none of us get it right 100% of the time, when we fall short, we must be quick to repent and get back in the game.

Question #2: How Are You Getting Along with Your Teammates?

There’s an old saying that Christians are the only ones who shoot their wounded.

In basketball, a team can’t win if the players are constantly fighting with each other instead of working together. No matter how talented individual players are, their success depends on unity.

The same is true for the body of Christ. We are all broken people, saved by grace, and called to love and support one another. John 13:35 (NIV) says, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” That love isn’t just for the people who are easy to get along with—it applies to everyone, even those who challenge us.

As believers, our goal isn’t to tear each other down. It’s to build each other up. To extend grace when others fall. To be quick to forgive. To encourage one another to keep pressing toward the ultimate prize.

Question #3: Are You Playing to Win?

In basketball, every player on the court has one goal in mind: the championship trophy. They train relentlessly, push through exhaustion, and stay focused because they know what’s at stake. As believers, we are also pressing toward a prize—but ours is much greater than any earthly championship. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

Life will bring challenges. We’ll face obstacles. We’ll have days when we feel like quitting. But 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NIV) reminds us: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

Remember: Your trials are temporary. Your struggles will not last forever. But your faithfulness to God? That has eternal value. Don’t let the distractions of this world pull you away from what really matters. Keep your eyes on the ultimate prize: eternity with Jesus. Stay in the game, stay committed, and keep pressing on.

March Madness fans go all out for their teams. They wear their colors, cheer with everything they’ve got, and never miss a game. What would happen if we showed that same level of passion for God? What if we lived so boldly in our faith that people had no doubt whose team we were on?

The truth is, we are all in the middle of a game—one that’s far more important than basketball. And the best part? We already know how it ends. In Christ, we have victory. So, suit up, stay faithful, and play to win. The final championship—the one that truly matters—belongs to those who endure to the end (Matthew 24:13).

Are you in?

Let’s Pray: Lord God, I am madly in love with You. Help me to stay all in so that I may endure to the end and receive my eternal crown. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “I Am Not Ashamed” by Heritage Singers. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Victory Belongs to Jesus” by Todd Dulaney. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Joyce M. Averils is an attorney by education and a retired judge who currently works as a Life Purpose and Business Empowerment Coach. 

She attended the University of South Carolina where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities and Social Sciences, with a concentration in Political Science in May 1981. Upon graduation from the University, she attended The Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law, where she graduated with a Juris Doctor degree in June 1984. Joyce was admitted to the Georgia Bar in November of 1984.

During her legal career, she served as the legal advisor for an episode of the American television program “Designing Women”. She also successfully argued a zoning case before the Georgia Supreme Court.

Today, she is the founder of Averils Omnimedia, LLC. It includes Her RICH Coaching where she helps high-achieving women of faith create a purpose-aligned life and business through coaching programs, workshops, and retreats. She recently launched 26th & Alden Paper Design House which will release its first paper product in early 2025.

Joyce believes that God created women to accomplish the extraordinary by living their purpose, calling, and assignment. He has chosen every woman to fulfill a calling that is hers alone. And if she does not answer that calling, then that work will never be done. Joyce knows that there are people who are waiting for help that only God can give and only God can use His people to help each other. Joyce believes that we are called by God to help each other. She wants to answer that call and inspire others to answer it too so we can be of service to God.

Her life verse is John 17:4 (NIV), “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” In addition to being an entrepreneur, Joyce currently serves as the Associate Teaching Director for the Community Bible Study International class in Georgetown, SC.

Joyce makes her home on the coast of South Carolina.

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Connect with Joyce:
Website: www.herrichlife.com
Facebook Ministry: www.facebook.com/groups/thepurposealignedwoman
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/coachlabforaspiringchristianwomencoaches
Facebook: www.facebook.com/@HerRichLife
Instagram: www.instagram.com/herrichlife
Email address: joyce@herrichlife.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to forgive everyone who hurt us

Why We Need to Forgive
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”—Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)

Have you ever been hurt?

If you’ve lived on this Earth for any amount of time, then you’ve probably been wounded in some way. Maybe you’ve been hurt by the words of a friend or their inconsiderate actions. Maybe you were hurt physically. Maybe they meant to hurt you.

Maybe they didn’t.

Either way, you know what I’m talking about. Pain is not fun, especially when it’s caused by another person. Maybe we feel like we were in the right, and they’re the ones who need to apologize. Maybe that’s true. Maybe we did nothing wrong. Maybe, in cases such as abuse, we are the victim. Or maybe we’re seeing the speck in their eye while completely avoiding the log in our own (Matthew 7:3-5). God calls us to forgive one another as Jesus Christ forgave us.

Gulp.

When we really think about it, we have no right to withhold forgiveness from someone. No matter how wronged we’ve been, no one could ever hurt us as deeply as our sins have hurt Jesus. He suffered in every way we do (I would say even more so) and never sinned.

Jesus was unjustly accused. He was beaten. His flesh was torn, and they crucified Him for a crime that He didn’t commit. Even when He was unjustly treated, He did not defend Himself, but He stayed silent. And He forgave them.

Even if we weren’t there physically spitting in Jesus’s face or mocking Him, we have still sinned, and our sins hurt Him. The Bible says in Romans 3:23 (ESV), “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

But Jesus still chose to die for us. Romans 5:8 (ESV) says, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Even when we were at our worst, Jesus loved us. Jesus, the perfect Son of God, chose to die for us even though we didn’t deserve it.

Why then would we withhold that same forgiveness from others?

Forgiveness is hard. And what do we do if the other person doesn’t even ask for it? It is a truly humbling experience to forgive when the other person doesn’t ask. Maybe they were right to begin with and we must humbly realize our error. Or maybe they are truly wrong, but they still think they’re right. It’s not about right or wrong anymore, is it?

I heard once that we don’t forgive for their sake. We forgive for our own. It’s true because holding on to bitterness and anger will only serve to make us bitter and angry. We should not want that to happen to us! As difficult as it is to forgive, we must. Not simply for the sake of the other person, but so that we may find freedom. Sometimes, we also must forgive ourselves. Is there something that you are angry at yourself for? Do you blame yourself for something that happened this morning? A long time ago?

Dear friend, choose to forgive yourself. Jesus forgave you. He proved it when He shed His blood for you on the Cross as stated in John 3:16 and Ephesians 1:7. Therefore, you must also choose to forgive yourself. Jesus didn’t die so you would live enslaved by unforgiveness, bitterness and anger. He wants you to live in freedom!

Do you think that choosing to forgive the other person and yourself will bring about the freedom your heart longs for? I believe it will because the Bible says so, and forgivness has set me free too!

Let’s Pray:
Dear Father God, I know that You forgive me for all my sins. You proved it when You sent Your Son to die on that cross for me. Please forgive me for withholding forgiveness from others. They are sinners, as am I. You have died for them, as You have me. You love us all. Please help me to forgive others and even myself as You have forgiven me. Thank You for giving me freedom. Please help me learn to walk in it. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Forgiveness” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Listen

Listen to God 
A devotional by Erin M. Handley

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

– Romans 8:14 (NIV)

As Christ-followers, we strive to fulfill our purpose. To do so, we must take the necessary steps to get us exactly where we should be. We know the destination, but we don’t know how to get there. As many of us have learned, we listen to God to use Him as our GPS. We know His instructions ultimately guide us to the ordained steps specifically created for each individual.

Sometimes on this path, the steps ahead seem obvious. It is a straight path and God’s directions are clear. But sometimes we find ourselves at a crossroad, and suddenly we can’t hear His voice anymore. The path is no longer obvious, and the GPS seems out of range. At this crossroad, a decision must be made. We fear making a choice without direction as it could put us on the wrong path which would ultimately keep us from reaching the destination of fulfilling a purposed-filled life.

Have you ever found yourself in this pickle?

On a ‘spur-of-the-moment’ grocery trip, I realized I needed pickles. I made a beeline to get them first so I wouldn’t forget. I grabbed a jar but felt compelled to get two. I wrestled with rationalizing two jars of pickles. Why? Do I need two? What’s the purpose of getting two jars?

Here I was, standing in the middle of the aisle having an internal dialogue…about two jars of pickles. I convinced myself that I didn’t need two jars and walked away.

When I reached the end of my grocery list, I felt like I needed to go back for a second jar of pickles. At this point, it was comical that this second jar of pickles was so significant. I went back, grabbed the second jar, and headed to checkout.

My arms were so full of groceries, I had to put them down so I could begin checking out. After placing the groceries down, the only thing left in my arm (which would be the first thing I would scan) was the first thing I grabbed when I walked in. Pickles. I went to scan the jar but couldn’t find the barcode. I stood there entirely too long looking for the barcode, and eventually had to ask for assistance. The cashier was just as perplexed as I was about why the jar didn’t have a barcode on the label, but quickly reminded me that I had a second jar of pickles.

For the next twenty minutes, I focused on this ‘wrestle about pickles’ I just experienced. At that point I was conflicted by feeling like I was in a season where I wasn’t hearing Him like I did before, but in this moment, He wanted to take the time to talk to me about pickles. It was then that I was reminded that sometimes His voice doesn’t always sound (or look) how we anticipate that it should. He speaks to us. He never stops speaking to us. But we have to be comfortable with the fact that sometimes His voice doesn’t appear in the way that aligns with how we choose to hear to Him. His voice doesn’t always fit our method of listening.

We have to be willing to lean into Him and become in tune with the various ways He may choose to communicate with us. In order to be in tune with God’s voice, sometimes we have to properly adjust our posture. When we adjust our posture to be in tune with God’s voice, we force our flesh to become quiet as we allow our ‘spirit man’ to take the lead. In the flesh, many of us have become accustomed to hearing from the Lord in only one way.

When the Holy Spirit that lives within us is allowed to facilitate that commune with God, the Holy Spirit will draw our attention to whatever the Lord choose to use to speak to us – be it a book that is about the exact season you find yourself in at that moment, or a song that ministers to your soul in a moment of despair, or maybe it is a conversation with a stranger who answers the prayer you prayed moments before you met them for the very first time. He will speak to you in any way He knows will get your attention. Make sure you listen for the message and not solely rely on hearing the messenger.

Let’s Pray: Father God, thank you for loving us and allowing us to be in your presence. Thank you for speaking to us and doing so in a personal way that we cannot deny experiencing you. Father, we pray that even amongst chaos and confusion that we are able to hear your voice and recognize your presence. We pray that when we feel like we can’t hear your voice, that your presence become more obvious than the audible voice we have trained our hearts to respond to. We pray that we become more in tuned with how you choose to commune with us so that we adjust our posture appropriately to hear exactly what you want us to receive from you in that moment. We ask all these things in Jesus’s Name. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

For over 15 years, Erin has worked with youth and adolescents in the fields of mental and behavioral health, education, and ministry. 

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

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

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

Interview with Emma Mae Jenkins (Part 1 of 2) about her book "Be Loved"

     

Dear Reader Friends,

Today and tomorrow, I have a special treat just for you! 

It is a two-part interview with Emma Mae Jenkins about her captivating nonfiction book, Be Loved. This is a pre-made interview created by the author's publisher. 

Please note that none of these words below are original words written by me 

(Alexis A. Goring, founder of "God is Love" blog).

Enjoy your time with Emma Mae today!

~*~
Faith, Freedom and the Love of God: 
An interview with Emma Mae Jenkins, author of Be Loved

(Part 1 of 2)

…

A Message from the publisher (New Growth Press):

Being a teen is hard. Pressures to fit in, conform, and be the best push in from every direction, even from within. Yet, each and every person was uniquely created by a God who loves them. 

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young writer and social media influencer, wants to reach teens with exactly that message. She has inspired thousands of girls online with the freedom she has to be herself—a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God.

She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

In our interview with Emma Mae, we talk about her about her faith, the challenges she has faced, and the message she wants all teens to hear. 

~*~

The Interview:

New Growth Press: Be Loved chronicles your high school years. Junior high and high school are difficult years for everyone, but what are some of the challenges that made it particularly hard for you?

Emma Mae Jenkins: Walking through junior high and high school most definitely do have their difficulties as everyone is discovering who they are and making choices that truly do have a great impact on the future. For me, sometimes it was hard to have people respond to the joy that lives within me, the smile that I couldn’t help but share, and the voice that God has given me with confusion or laughter. 

This may seem small, but I really began to learn how to be who God had called me to be, even when the response was not the most inviting. It is really cool how we never actually know the beauty that God is growing within someone, so to plant the seed of a smile or to water someone’s soul with encouragement is to be obedient to the Father. The response of the person may not show what I would love to see, but I trust that God is doing in their heart what only He can do.

Moving during high school was also pretty tough. I was afraid of not making close friendships worried about what people were going to think of me. But God led me. His grace sustained me, and He gently reminded me that His love casts out all fear. 

Love is not self-seeking, so when I was worried about making friends and worried I was going to be thought of well, I was not operating out of love, but out of fear. I cannot love people that I fear. When His love is what I chose to abide in, I could not help but focus on how I could serve others.

NGP: You write that you tried to be gracious, kind and loving to others, but you didn’t treat yourself the same way. Why are we so hard on ourselves?

EMJ: We tend to be hard on ourselves when we misunderstand grace and misinterpret the voice of the Lord. For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith, and this is not by our own works (so that we cannot boast), but it is a gift from God. Grace is unmerited favor. It is a gift given to me that I do not deserve, so of course we are going to be hard on ourselves if we are living to earn something that cannot be earned.

My life is not a race to earn the love, attention and affirmation from God, but my life is a response of gratitude and obedience because Jesus died for me. This is why I work wholeheartedly. This is why I smile. This is why I don’t quit. This is why I write books and make videos, sing songs and post captions on social media. This is why, it is not to earn, but it is a response to His gift.

The voice of the Lord is a voice of peace and clarity and truth and order. He speaks to us in a way that does not bring us to shame but compels us to walk in the light as He is the light. 

When I am walking with a mentality of accusation, confusion, condemnation, chaos and defeat, I know that I am listening to the voice of the enemy, not of my God. Growing familiar with His voice requires time spent with Him. I am hard on myself in a way that brings me to shame when I am not listening and believing the voice of the Lord.

NGP: What’s so wrong about striving for perfection?

EMJ: To have the mentality of striving for perfection is to depend on ourselves to be enough for God to use us, love us, want us, etc. This completely disregards the beauty and power of why Jesus came. We cannot ever be good enough to get to God, that is why He came to us.

This does not mean that I stop working hard and doing my best. God says to live a life in a manner than is worthy of the gospel. He says to work out our salvation with fear and trembling as He gives us the power and the desire to do what is good and what is pleasing to Him. He says that whatever we do, we need to do it wholeheartedly because we are doing it for Him. He says to not grow weary of doing good. 

I am not saying that because I live in the works of Christ, I no longer have to be a hard worker. Not at all. But what I am saying is that I now work hard to glorify the Father, to bless His people, to show gratitude for His love for me. I no longer have to work hard to prove my worth because my worth is in Christ.

Many of us also strive for perfection in order to receive the approval of people. However, if you look at the life of Jesus, He truly was perfect, but there were still those who loved Him and others who hated Him. We are not here for the approval of people, but for God’s. It is only in Him that our worth and identity is solid and whole.

NGP: What are the first steps towards young people developing their own faith rather than the faith of their parents?

EMJ: I remember my dad simply telling me it was important that I personally know Jesus. So, the first step is to ask themselves if they know Him. Have you personally confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that He from the grave? Do you seek Him first and spend time with Him apart from simply going to church with your family on Sunday? Do you pray apart from mealtimes at the table? These are questions that I would encourage anyone to ask themselves because a relationship with Jesus is something that no one, not even my parents, can have for me.

No one’s faith can be lived through the life of another. People will walk alongside me, encourage me, challenge me, and sharpen me in my faith, but they cannot be the source of it. My dad told me that he will not be standing with me, holding my hand when Jesus comes back, it would be only me and Jesus.

... to be continued with Part 2 of 2 on Sunday, June 14. 

~*~
Author Bio:

Emma Mae Jenkins describes herself as a lover of Jesus and people. 

She is a social media influencer, writer, speaker, and YouTuber with the sole purpose of leading others into a relationship with Jesus, sharing this chain-breaking freedom, and being a vessel of God’s Word. She is excited to share with girls and young women about how much God loves them and has called each to a unique purpose for his glory.

Jenkins began chronicling her journey through high school on social media and in doing so has inspired thousands of young people to live their faith freely and with courage. She is currently a sophomore at Liberty University where she is majoring in Women’s Christian Leadership.

The founder of Son Seeker Ministries, Jenkins’s vision is to lead her generation into having a genuine relationship with Jesus. Her new release, Be Loved, is her first book.

During school breaks, Jenkins makes her way back home to northwest Arkansas where her parents and brother live.

Learn more at emmamaejenkins.com and follow her via social media.

~*~

Blurb for Emma Mae's book, Be Loved:

Emma Mae Jenkins, a young Christian writer, has inspired many with the freedom she has to be herself a dearly loved child of God. In her first book, Be Loved, she invites readers to join her on a journey of life-changing faith and the freedom that comes from knowing the love of God.

She chronicles her own high school journey through starting a new school, navigating the typical pressures of school work and sports, going to prom, and even homecoming. Emma Mae faced each new challenge with the confidence that God was with her and was going to make her uniquely useful in the place he had prepared for her.

For Emma Mae, it all starts with her relationship with Jesus Christ. Because she knows she is loved by him, she is free to be herself and to live out her faith no matter what the cost. As a young, passionate, and intimate lover of Jesus, Emma Mae's love for her holy Savior overflows unashamedly into her unconditional, fierce love for people.

Readers will experience the chain-breaking liberty of knowing the Lord's presence and the freedom to be unique. This full-color, hardback book includes pictures from Emma Mae's life, along with key Bible verses that God used to strengthen and guide her through the ups and downs of her high school years as a young Christian. Readers will learn to face the challenges of their student years with religion, courage, hope, and lifegiving love for others.

~*~

Buy Emma's book, Be Loved online via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, ChristianBook

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Connect with Emma Mae:
Instagram (@1corinthians13_love) 

YouTube (Emma Mae Jenkins)
Facebook (@sonseeker.org) 

Twitter (@emmamaej99) 

Pinterest (emmamaejenkins)

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Publisher info: New Growth Press publishes gospel-centered Christian books, small group, and children’s Bible resources for discipleship, biblical counseling, and missional ministry. For more information about Be Loved and other releases from New Growth Press, visit www.newgrowthpress.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Temeka's thoughts on NOT giving up!

Be Not Weary
A devotional by Temeka Borden

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap,  

if we faint not.” – Galatians 6:9 (KJV)

I cannot say that each day for a Christian is easy, but being a follower of Christ is rewarding. As Christians, we have a wonderful opportunity to serve God and to serve others. Essentially, we are granted the chance to make an impact for the Lord and to lead souls to Jesus. However, any time the adversary (the devil) sees you helping to build the Kingdom of God, he will attempt to do anything possible to distract you.

I’m reminded of the prophets in the Bible and how they told the truth, whether some wanted to hear it or not. They suffered persecution because they prophesied what many chose to reject. I’m reminded of the apostles, and how they preached the gospel and endured hardship because they chose to spread the message of Jesus Christ. 

I’m reminded of Jesus! He came. He loved. He served. He ministered. He died and was resurrected so that we all could have the opportunity of gaining eternal life. Jesus endured constant criticism, mockery, torture, all of which led to his death. According to John 3:16, He paid a substantial price for our sins so that we might be saved. The Bible says in Romans 6:23 (KJV), “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Since we are followers of Jesus, we are not exempt from suffering persecution. The forms of persecution we suffer these days may be different than in the Bible days, but we must face many troubles for spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

So what price have you paid? What form of persecution have you endured for choosing to follow Jesus? Is it mockery from your peers? Would it be missed opportunities on your job? Ridicule from people on social media? Criticism from family? Thinking back to some of the comments I have received from individuals who follow my pages on social media, I can tell you that occurrences such as what I described above are not uncommon. Know that you are not alone in your suffering!

Remain on the path God has placed you on. I know doing so can be difficult at times because the devil will often work through people and circumstances to try to discourage you. I know each day will not be easy. I know you may cry some nights, but remember that a reward awaits you for your faithfulness, and as stated in Galatians 6:9 (KJV), “…let us not be not weary in well doing, for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not.”

In other words, continue doing what is good and pleasing in God’s eyesight, and you will be rewarded for not giving up, for staying true to the Lord, and for remaining in His will!

~*~

Author Bio:

Temeka Borden, better known by her pen name, Positivity Inspires, is an author, speaker, minister, and servant of the Lord. She was introduced to Christ at a very early age and was raised in the church. Her ministry focuses on encouraging Christians to love God first, to love all people, to continually strengthen their bond with Christ, and to study His Word, and live His Word daily. 

After recently experiencing what she describes as the "lowest point in her life," Positivity Inspires wrote the following about herself to serve as an encouragement and reminder of who she is in Christ:

"I am a child of God. He loves me unconditionally. Although I have my shortcomings, He has blessed me with a desire to do what is right. I have been blessed with many natural and spiritual gifts. I am an author. I am a speaker. I am a teacher. I am a runner. I am a drummer. I am a singer (when I’m in the mood), and I have a strong 'fashion sense.' I am loved. My family and friends are my heart, and I know they will support me no matter what. I am educated. I currently have two degrees (one of them a doctorate), and with God’s help, I will complete a third degree soon. I am a multi-state licensed medical professional who completed a specialty residency, which prepared me for the workforce (and made me a FORCE to be reckoned with). I am a leader. I have served in administrative roles and was successful in those positions because I made a difference (with God’s help). I am ambitious, and I know that with God, all things are possible. I know He is going to do great things through me."

Positivity Inspires loves God and she loves people. She strongly encourages others to show kindness, respect, and love to everyone. Positivity Inspires loves and welcomes diversity and flourishes in culturally diverse environments. She also is passionate about giving back to the community, and her favorite mantras are: "Speak Up!" and "Watch God Work!"

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Connect with Temeka:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/positivity_inspires/
Facebook - www.Facebook.com/positivityinspirespage
Twitter - https://twitter.com/PInspires/

Devotionals for the Heart: Believe

Someone’s Rooting for Us
A devotional by Gail Kittleson

“While they were saying all this, Jesus appeared to them and said, “Peace be with you.” They thought they were seeing a ghost and were scared half to death. He continued with them, “Don’t be upset, and don’t let all these doubting questions take over. Look at my hands; look at my feet—it’s really me. Touch me. Look me over from head to toe. A ghost doesn’t have muscle and bone like this.” As he said this, he showed them his hands and feet. They still couldn’t believe what they were seeing. It was too much; it seemed too good to be true. He asked, “Do you have any food here?” They gave him a piece of leftover fish they had cooked. He took it and ate it right before their eyes.” 

– Luke 24:36-41 (MSG)

It’s impossible to center on just one verse today because we need the context in order to understand the monumental event in history that’s going on. What we see in this passage is the aftermath of Jesus’ suffering and death. We see resurrection. Along with that picture, God reveals His desire for us to believe.

If you’ve ever tried to convince a child to try some new delight, but they have to overcome their fear first, you’ll know the emotional set-up of this scene. It’s like teaching a child the joys of bicycle riding. They’ve learned a lot on their tricycle, but there’s so much more ahead...if only they can believe and plunge into this new arena.

The disciples had gotten to know Jesus on Earth, but they’d also seen him die on the cross. Now, he must convince them that, against all odds, He’s still—or newly—alive. Of course, this makes no sense to them, even though he prepared them in many ways for His resurrection.

We note in the passage how Jesus opened himself up. He said, “Look...touch...look me over...” He made himself fully available to his disciples. Then he appealed to their logical-mindedness. A ghost doesn’t have muscle and bone like this.

What conclusion does that thought lead to? Okay, this is not a ghost...He ties this experience to another one in His history with these men—once before, they thought he was a ghost, when he came to them walking on the water. If not a ghost, then this must be...

A little later, He asked if they had any food and munched some leftover fish right then and there. It’s as if He couldn’t do enough to help them believe.

When I think of all the times I’ve tried so hard to believe, but still doubted, I don’t think I saw Jesus in this way. He acts as instructor and cheerleader in this passage. He knows it’s tough for his friends to embrace what’s happened, but he’s determined. We can come to believe little by little.

As we go through our trials, He’s on our side, like a watchful parent or another kind adult. He assesses every angle of each situation, guiding us to the kind of help we need. He’s not our enemy in the struggle for our faith. He’s our truest Friend. 

My Prayer: Help us, Lord, to realize you’re rooting for us, and willing to do whatever it takes to help us learn.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Following

“Who are you following?”
A devotional by Melissa Henderson

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 

- Matthew 4:19 (NIV)

Every time I read Scripture, I learn something new. In every life circumstance, each verse reveals something amazing and enlightening. A feeling of peace comes over me when I pick up my Bible and open the pages.

There are times when I am not searching for a particular passage. Those times, I simply open the Bible and see where the pages land. Today, the Bible opened on this Scripture in Matthew.

Matthew 4:19 gives me a reminder to look at my life and see who I am following in every moment. In this Scripture, we are told how Jesus had just begun His preaching in Galilee. He met fishermen Simon Peter and Andrew and invites them to join Him. Jesus tells them He will make them “fishers for people”.

Can you imagine the setting? Close your eyes and picture the water lapping against the side of the boat, fishermen standing while throwing their nets in and out of the water, a daily routine.

Here is Jesus. Encouraging them the join Him. Did they understand his meaning of making them “fishers for men”? Discussion could have gone on for a while. Debates about whether they should go with Jesus or not could have occurred. Did they discuss for a long time or did they answer quickly? Continuing to read the book of Matthew, we can learn more.

If they truly became “fishers of men”, would they be able to bring others to Jesus? So many questions. Those fishermen had to make a decision.

Every day, we have to make a decision in our own lives. Are we going to follow Jesus and show His love to others? Or are we going to make a decision to follow someone or something else? Temptation is all around. 

Making the true decision to follow Jesus allows us to show others His love, through our words and our actions. We never know when someone is affected by something we speak or some action we take.

Perhaps while standing in the grocery line, we notice a person behind us with only one item to purchase while we have a cart full. We let that person go ahead of us. That’s showing God’s love.

Maybe we are taking a walk in the neighborhood and see other neighbors. We pause to say hello and have a chat. Listening and hearing to what the person shares is another way of showing God’s love.

Or even in our own families, do we truly forgive and forget a wrong done to us? I have heard people say forgiving family is harder than forgiving friends. Who are we following if we don’t have forgiveness in our hearts?

If we rush by opportunities to show God’s love, who are we following? Are we following material things or thinking only of ourselves? Life can be very busy, with activities, daily routines, and definitely unexpected events. Do we pause, reflect and remember to follow the examples Jesus provided? Love, care, compassion. Or are we so concerned about the next minute that we move ahead without showing His love?

I pray that we will all follow Jesus each day. What a difference we could make if we became “fishers for people”.

Look around and see how you can show God’s love to others.

Have a blessed day,

Melissa Henderson

~*~
Author Bio:

Melissa Henderson and her husband Alan live in South Carolina.

Married for over 38 years, they have one son (Mike) who is married to daughter-in-love (Christine) and now are blessed by a precious grandson (Rowan).

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

Her passions are volunteering, Bible Studies and reading and writing. Connect with Melissa online, https://mimionlife.wordpress.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Be Brave

Heroism Unleashed
A devotional by Gail Kittleson

Many heroes stand out in a crowd as muscular, brash, and egotistical. They can do superhuman feats, it seems.

The Olympics, though, highlights true heroes and heroines who enter their race with integrity and humility. Their tears when they win—or when they don’t—testify that they’re in this for reasons of the heart.

A hero or heroine displays courage, bravery or self-sacrifice for some greater good in the face of danger or adversity.

Joseph, a wealthy man who had a great deal to lose by choosing to support Jesus, qualifies as an unobtrusive hero. This member of the Jewish Council and a secret disciple of Jesus, watched for the kingdom of God. He appears in all four Gospels, and his act of burying Jesus in the tomb he’d prepared for his own body garners our attention.

In order to accomplish this feat, Joseph “asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission.” (John 19:38 ESV) Nicodemus helped him, and we can imagine the two of them carrying their load to the tomb. They’d witnessed Jesus’ wise dealings with the Pharisees and Sadducees, heard His teachings, and in spite of their fear of retribution from the powers that be, they believed.

The burial of Jesus catapults them into heroism. They had every reason to slink into the shadows with the rest of Jesus’ disciples, every reason not to do what they did that night. The High Priest’s henchmen were about, scanning for followers of Jesus.

But in a quiet, thoughtful way, Joseph and Nicodemus completed their work of love. A few women paid attention, and risked their lives, too, revealing their devotion to the Savior.

Let's pray: Help us, Lord, in our everyday challenges, to display courage like your servants, Joseph and Nicodemus.

~*~
Author Bio: 

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

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

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

Happy Easter Sunday! Celebrating this special day with a song and an e-card

Every year, followers of Jesus Christ celebrate the meaning of Easter and remember the reason for our faith—the life of Jesus Christ!

It was through His life on Earth, death and resurrection that all those who believe in Him have a chance to go to heaven. Where would we be without our Savior? Lost and probably nonexistent.

I could talk forever about the beauty of the Christ's sacrifice and The Cross. But I figure that this music video "Mercy Tree" and an e-card from DaySpring would be better and take less time.

God bless you! Enjoy the music and card messages below this text.

An e-card for you: