Devotionals for the Heart: A trip to Tanzania taught me about great faith

Great Faith
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

“When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.”

—Luke 7:9 (NIV)

Recently, I had the privilege of teaching primary school teachers at a Christian school in Tanzania. I was asked to teach on studying the Bible. It was a remarkable experience that humbled me.

Since I teach Bible study in America, I worked through a portion of Scripture I was to teach while here (I am currently still in Tanzania while I write this): The story of the centurion who had a sick servant and he asked Jesus to heal the servant.

One of the points we concluded from our time was that this passage talks about faith. Even Jesus Christ was amazed at the great faith of the centurion soldier. What is notable about this man was that he was a Gentile (a non-Jew), he was a Roman soldier, he was a friend of the Jewish elders, and he had heard about Jesus—presumably about the fact that Jesus was healing people from sickness.

Through the course of the interchange, the centurion says he does not want Jesus to come to his home but to just say the word and his servant would be healed. The centurion recognized the authority Jesus had to heal. He had the faith to come to Him, ask Him for healing (not for himself, but for his servant) and to have faith to know Jesus could heal from a distance. And Jesus was amazed by his faith.

Little did I know I would encounter this type of faith in Tanzania. The people here—especially Christians—are so sweet, loving and kind. I have seen a heart for the lost like I have not seen in a very long time. I have seen a passion to grow closer to God through daily Christian living by placing importance on fasting, Scripture memorization, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, discipling, teaching, reaching out to children, and finding ways to share Jesus with others.

I have been humbled by their great faith. Part of my time has been spent working with the leaders of the kids’ clubs here. I was asked to help update the curriculum and so I spent a lot of time with five young adults (all are about the age of my own children, with their leader slightly older). They amazed me because I saw how their passion for children and for the lost is off the charts. The topics covered in their lessons are deep theological concepts.

One might think that it should not work with children in teaching them about sin, grace, the holiness of God, the Advocate we have in the Holy Spirit, and much more. However, I was able to participate in a kids’ club when we taught on these topics, and these street children ate up every word. They listened, answered questions, memorized long verses and genuinely engaged in meaningful conversations. They asked questions relating to the Bible story and wanted to know the answers.

These leaders have such great faith. They believe God will lead them where they need to go to teach the children and they give their all to them. They sing their hearts out, they give of their time, and they give of their resources (which is not much because two of the five are finishing up Bible college). In addition to these leaders, the teachers at the school demonstrated to me a desire to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). We agreed that is the way Jesus is calling us to live and that while it is hard, it is the best way to walk out our faith.

Walking by sight means we believe because we see. We can touch it, we can hold it, we can use it to carry us through. However, walking by faith is “being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Walking by faith means going all in for Jesus. It means going door to door to share the gospel. It means talking with your neighbor who is of a different faith and befriending that neighbor to start a relationship that will go beyond borrowing a cup of sugar.

Walking by faith is knowing what you are doing has eternal value for the kingdom of God. It is knowing our God is a holy God worthy of our worship and our time. It is knowing He is with us in the fire, in the storm and in the valley as well as on the mountaintops.

Jesus was amazed at the centurion’s great faith. And that was a question we had to ask ourselves: Would Jesus be amazed at my faith? Would He call it ‘great faith’? Why, or even, why not?

May we press on, ride hard and keep our eyes on the prize of Heaven with God for eternity. May we tell others about Him and may we spend our lives doing so. May we give of ourselves day in and day out. And know that by our faith, we are pleasing God.

Let’s Pray: Father God, You are amazing. You are holy, worthy, and beautiful. You give us our faith and You give us opportunities to grow our faith by loving You and loving others. Thank You for giving us this faith and may we use it daily as we walk with You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Walk by Faith” by Jeremy Camp. Listen to it here.

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

Song of Reflection #3: “What Faith Can Do” by Kutless. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “My Jesus” by Anne Wilson. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Another in the Fire” by Hillsong UNITED. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to three adult children—two of whom are married—and a new grandson, Kerry Sue’s life is very full. She met her husband in college and served on the mission field with him for a few years before settling down back in the States to raise their family. 

Kerry Sue’s family was a homeschooling family for 20 years and they enjoyed it immensely. For the last 26 years they have lived on a small farm in Northern California where they have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving their food. Kerry Sue’s family farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings. She maintains an open-door policy for dear friends—old and new.

Following and serving Jesus Christ is an integral part of Kerry Sue’s life as well as her family’s. Whether it’s singing in the church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, Kerry Sue loves to demonstrate her love for Jesus by giving to Him in service. She’s been a blogger for more than 10 years, a Bible study writer for six years, and a devotional writer for more than four years.

Kerry Sue feels led to write about finding God’s Sovereignty in our suffering because of her own journey of more than five years with broken feet. She hopes to to encourage others with her faith walk and real-life stories.

~*~
Connect with Kerry:
Blog: https://www.sovereignblog.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.teravskis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksteravskis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sovereignblog

Devotionals for the Heart: How God taught me to always be thankful

How God taught me to always be thankful
A devotional by Regina Marcazzo-Skarka

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

When I stood on the reception line waiting to greet attendees after my 31-year-old son’s celebration of life, I was grateful for the love I felt from family and friends who traveled from near and far, and for the kind words spoken about my son.

I knew he was a warrior for Jesus Christ and that through his love for Christ and the Godly life he modeled, this world was a better place. But the magnitude of the number of lives that were changed because of his example was mind-blowing.

After two celebrations of life, I learned that my precious boy ministered to so many different people. What was more amazing was how those who learned more about his life at the services felt the desire to change their own lives and seek Christ.

An over 80-year-old relative came up to me crying saying that she wanted to be like my son. A younger relative said it was time to rethink his life and my son’s former classmate came up sobbing and said he wanted to follow Jesus. Those words did not take away the pain of losing him, but they did demonstrate the awesome works of our God.

I chose 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 as the anchor text for my devotional today because the verse relates to so many areas of life, even the hardest ones such as losing a treasured child. I could see the value of all three commands during the many months of endured hardship while he was sick.

“Rejoice always” is a command and a reminder of how we are to live at all times— no matter what is going on in our lives. Praying continually does not mean that we should sit bowing in prayer day and night, but it does refer to having an ongoing conversation with God throughout the day—and if you are anything like me, I talk to God many moments throughout the night.

I am thankful for the way God used my son to change others, to point them to Him. I am thankful that God trusted my husband and I as his parents. I strive to carry on my son’s legacy of sharing Christ with others, not with words, but with my life. I am thankful for countless blessings throughout my son’s two bouts with cancer: one when he was 18 and the other at 30. During the illnesses and in the time in between there were so many miracles and so much good living.

Will sadness and longing to see him linger? Will anger and questions asking God “Why?” continue to swirl in my mind? Of course! But one thing I am sure of is that my God is faithful and He works all for the good of those who love him.

Why do I rejoice always? It’s simple: I am a child of God and His word tells me to rejoice. Why do I pray continually? Because I need to converse with God all the time. Why should I be thankful in all circumstances? It’s also a command and it is important to note that it is “in” all circumstances, not “for” all circumstances.

When I recite the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, I realize how difficult and easy it is to say the words “rejoice” and “be thankful in all circumstances.”

In the deep sadness that I continue to feel and the longing to hug my son and tell him how much I love him I am reminded that his ministry did not end the day he took his last breath here on earth. The life he lived for Jesus remains in the minds of those who are still here, spurring them on and reminding them to make every minute count on this earth whether they are healthy or not, going through a dark time or joyfully dancing in the light. I know that is my plan.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Lord,

Thank You for your love and for your perfect plan. Help us to recognize that You are in control of all things and though we may not understand the why, we can surely trust You. Help us to rejoice always, pray continually and to be thankful in all circumstances. Help us to point others to you with our lives. We love you. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Praise You in This Storm” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Even If” by Mercy Me. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Worn” by Tenth Avenue North. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Regina Marcazzo-Skarka is a writer, a journalist, and a lover of Jesus Christ, her family, church, mission trips, travel and foreign languages. 

Having traveled to over 25 countries, her exploring the world has only just begun. She has also been part of numerous mission trips both domestic and international. She loves getting to know people, their languages and their culture. A life dream of hers is to speak five languages. So far, she speaks English, French, Italian and some Spanish. Her goal is to improve her Spanish speaking skills and to learn a language with a different alphabet, perhaps Arabic.

Regina holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics with a minor in Romance Languages from City University of New York, Hunter College; a Master’s Degree in Journalism from New York University; and a Master’s Degree in Teaching Foreign Language from SUNY Stony Brook. Regina has studied in France. Regina has also studied, lived and worked in Italy.

She taught high school French and Italian for 17 years before retiring from teaching. Prior to teaching, she worked as a journalist, both freelance and as a staff writer for local Long Island, New York weeklies. She also spent two years as a United Nations employee in the Department of Public Information. She currently writes full-time for a weekly newspaper in St. Lucie County, Florida.

Regina is currently working on proposals for two books that she is writing.

She is blessed with an awesome husband of 34 years and two children, their spouses and three treasured grandchildren.

~*~
Connect with Regina:
Website: https://reginamarcazzoskarka.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wipeoutworry/
Email: ginamarcazzo@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: When Jesus Christ calls you into ministry

Answering the Call from Jesus Christ
A devotional by Christine Monteiro

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”—Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

I was lying on my bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to fall asleep, but my thoughts wouldn't stop circling.

My mind was filled with questions. I asked myself: Should I continue with the ministry? I thought God called me into ministry. Ever since I met my Savior (Jesus Christ), there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to dedicate my life to serving Him, in whatever field He called me into to serve His people.

Over the years, God has shaped my heart for ministry through real-life experiences. Twenty-five years have gone by since I surrendered myself to God and not a day goes by that I want to try to run away. Instead, I want to equip myself to do His work.

When Jesus walked on this Earth gathering His disciples, it didn’t seem to me to be a complicated process. He used a personal approach that required a radical and sometimes immediate commitment from those He chose. Jesus didn’t conduct a lengthy interview with each disciple. He didn't ask about their educational background, their ministry portfolio, or any references. Maybe that was because Jesus knew all about them? One thing I believe is that He calls out ordinary people who are willing to serve Him, regardless of the circumstances, because ministry is a personal invitation from God.

For many years, I waited to be in the ministry. I try to equip myself by being involved in a church and belonging to one. But after many years, I am facing rejection and being overlooked, and I have no idea why. However, one thing I’m certain of is that my unique approach to loving broken people makes me feel left out.

After my husband passed away, I pursued the coaching profession because I wanted to help as many people as possible to find their purpose in life. So, I became a certified coach. After many years of practice, I thought I could start helping in ministry. I enjoyed being asked to preach or share my story about my brokenness and talk about how God restored and helped me during my dark moments. I tried to join a mission organization and obtain a scholarship through an organization but found that I am not qualified.

I’ve learned that an organization may have rules and boxes for you to check, but God’s Kingdom doesn’t run on man-made checklists. Ministry is not limited to pulpits or titles; it happens in daily life, in homes, in workplaces, in conversations.

What qualifies someone for ministry isn’t institutional approval but faithfulness to God. Faithful ministry is fueled by love, humility, and a spirit of obedience. Read 1 Samuel 16:7, Micah 6:8 and 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 for details. If I want to wait until I can meet every organizational standard, I will continue to chase approval and validation from humankind then I might never experience serving God.

I believe that God will open new doors for me. I will carry out my ministry in my personal life, at my job, through my writing, and in my coaching. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” I strive to achieve that Biblical standard of ministry.

Maybe you too feel rejected by people. But remember: God has not rejected you. Read Christ’s words to His disciples in John 15:16 (NIV), “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Maybe people have rejected you, but God hasn’t. If He called you into ministry then that calling cannot be taken away by human qualifications. Ministry is not about where you serve, but who you serve.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for your mercy and grace in my life. Your never-ending love gives me the strength to survive and thrive. Thank You for reminding me that ministry is not about human qualifications but about Your calling. Even if people reject me, I know You have chosen me. Help me to live faithfully for Christ and to minister in every place You send me, with humility and courage. In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “The Potter’s Hand” by Darlene Zschech. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Nobody” by Casting Crowns ft. Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “The Cause of Christ” by Kari Jobe. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Worship. Listen to it here.

~*~

Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we need to spend time alone with God

Why We Need Time Alone with God
A devotional by Aubrey Taylor

“Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself.”—Matthew 14:13 (ESV)

In the verse above, Jesus Christ had just learned of the death of his cousin John who was often referred to as John the Baptist. Jesus longed to be alone to mourn the death of someone who was not simply a family member, but a fellow servant of God and the one who announced His coming (John 1:1-18).

In the same verse, we discover that the time Jesus had hoped to spend alone with His Father was preempted by people who were hungry—both spiritually and physically. He goes on to minister to them and then feed the five thousand men plus women and children (Matthew 14:21).

Take note of Matthew 14:23 (ESV): “And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray.” Though he was waylaid, He did not forsake this time alone entirely. He made sure it happened. Matthew 14:25 goes on to tell us that it was not until the fourth watch of the night that He finally went back to His disciples.

It is so hard to get alone these days. Even when we make a little time to read our Bible or pray, it is often just that—a little time. I was reminded recently in a video devotional that these times of silence with our Father in Heaven allow Him to get down deep into so He can begin to heal our wounds. Jesus had just lost his cousin. He needed silence—and not just a few minutes. He took hours away from His disciples. Away from the crowds. In those days, there were far fewer distractions: no phones, television, social media, or running here and there (especially for those in my stage of life where I am the taxi driver for my children). Recently, I realized it is all right for me to linger in silence. No. It is necessary.

Sometimes, we must be busy, even when we long for silence. In Matthew 14, Jesus modeled His readiness to minister in spite of sorrow and fatigue, but after He dismissed them, he prioritized time alone with His Father. Even though His disciples were in a boat, “a long way from land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them” (Matthew 14:24 ESV), He did not return to them until He had taken the time He needed.

Are we taking the time we need to sit silently with the Lord, to wait for Him and allow Him to heal our wounds? Or are we feeling rushed? Are we laboring under the pressure that we should always be doing something? Or are we so burned out that when we finally have downtime, we fill it with endless scrolling and binge-watching TV shows?

Dear friend, give yourself permission to take the time you need. As soon as the opportunity presents itself, get alone with God in silence. Open your Bible to the Psalms if you feel led, but don’t feel that you need to study the Word in that moment. Admittedly, sometimes our overworked brains just can’t handle it. It is all right to just soak in His presence. Close your eyes and imagine relaxing in His arms. Allow healing to take place.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Jesus,

I am sorry that I am often so rushed that I do not take time to sit before You and allow You to reach deep into my heart and begin the healing work You long to do. I pray that today, that will begin to change. I pray that You will help me make time to be silent and still, putting away my distractions for as long as necessary. I know I need healing work in my life—whether I have experienced a tragedy or have just allowed the busy pace of modern life to wear me down. I know I need to make a habit of regular time alone with You, and I look forward to what You want to do through that. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Alone in the Presence” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

It wasn’t until the world was beginning to come out of the COVID pandemic that God led her back to her love for writing, coupled with a passion she’d always had for history. It was time to start a new adventure!

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

~*~
Connect with Aubrey:
Website: https://www.aubreytaylorbooks.com
Blog: https://www.aubreytaylorbooks.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aubreytaylorbooks/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/aubtaybooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aubreytaylorbooks/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21846520.Aubrey_Taylor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/aubrey-taylor
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aubrey-Taylor/author/B0973KWXV8

Thankful Thursdays: When God answers prayers we don't think to pray

It’s Thursday and I’m thankful for how God answered a prayer I didn’t think to pray.

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of serving on Jennie Allen’s book launch team for her new book that was released in February 2024. The title is, Untangle Your Emotions: Naming What You Feel and Knowing What to Do About It. For the purposes of her book launch, Jennie and her people decided to mainly communicate with all of their launch team members via text messages sent to our cell phones. After Jennie’s book launch was over, I stopped reading the texts. She was still sending a few texts every few days with bonus material and notes for the people who served on her launch team. It wasn’t often but whenever I saw one, I’d just ignore it for no good reason.

However, on February 22, I felt nudged by God to read the text that I received from Jennie’s team and I’m so glad I did because I found out that Jennie was giving each of her launch team members a FREE ticket to attend the IF:Gathering 2024 event online! Now here is why this gift was so significant and such a blessing to me: A few weeks prior to receiving this free ticket, I saw on social media that the IF:Gathering was happening again this February 2024. And I thought to myself, “I enjoyed my time attending the IF:Gathering online for the first time a few years ago. I’d love to go again but I cannot afford it. Oh well.” As quickly as the thought came, I dismissed it and carried on about my day. I didn't even think to ask God about it and pray for Him to make a way for me to be able to attend. Then less than two weeks later, what does God do? He blesses me with a FREE ticket so I can attend ALL of the IF:Gathering 2024 events online and also access the vault of previous gatherings broadcasted in the past ten years! This 2024 is the 10th year of the IF:Gathering hosted by Jennie Allen. God gave her this idea and she ran with it!

I attended the IF:Gathering 2024 event from the comfort of my own home and was so encouraged by everything from the musicians to the messages shared by speakers who love Jesus Christ and are dedicating their life to Him. The arena where this event was held in Texas was filled to the brim. It was beautiful to see so many people chasing after Jesus and being about His business of sharing His Word with the world. We all need Jesus. Only He can save us (John 3:16). And this event was a beautiful reminder of just how much God loves humankind. 

Through this, I learned that God not only answers prayers we don’t think to pray; He also hears our heart and wants to give us the desires that are according to His will. God knew that I needed to attend this evangelistic event to feed my soul and strengthen my spirit as a follower of Jesus Christ. So without me praying or asking Him about it, He made a way! God is so good.

He did this for me and He can do this for you too! Don’t be afraid to tell God what’s on your heart. Don’t be afraid to ask Him what you want. God may not always give you everything you want but He will always give you everything you need. I’m so grateful that God is faithful!

What are you thankful for this Thursday?

Love,

Alexis A. Goring, MFA
Founder of "God is Love" blog

The story behind a NEW book by Becky Beresford that releases today!

Join me in wishing my author friend, Becky Beresford, a "Happy BOOK Birthday" because her debut nonfiction book (She Believed HE Could, So She Did) releases into the world today (March 5, 2024) and it's going to be amazing! In fact it already is. 

But don't take my word for it, read all about her story in the post below.

~*~

The story behind the book by Becky Beresford: 

I never thought I would be a serious writer, let alone write a book like the one God has asked me to write.

After working in ministry with women for five years, I got married and quickly became pregnant with our oldest son. I was used to meeting face-to-face with women and discipling them over a cup of coffee or in a small group setting. But motherhood (especially mothering a little one with special needs) soon proved to be a new season where I couldn’t pour into women like I once had. With the passion still in my heart, I asked God to either remove my desire for ministry or to somehow make a way for ministry and motherhood to coexist. He responded with a third option, something I had never considered before. The Lord expanded my idea of ministry and showed me that discipleship could also take shape in the form of writing, and now He was asking me to write for Him!

With shaky hands I sent my first blog post out into the world in 2015, not knowing if anyone would see it or if they would want to read what I wrote. Little did I know the plans Jesus had for the words He was inspiring. People began to respond and relate to the messages God was laying on my heart to communicate. And so, I decided to pursue the idea of writing an actual book. 

After three years of trying to publish a separate book that is not She Believed HE Could, So She Did, I felt worn down to the bone. Not only was I receiving rejection after rejection from publishers, my life was full of overwhelming circumstances, all of which left me feeling like a failure. With special needs parenting, financial strain, health issues, loss, and a marriage on the brink of divorce, I came to the end of my own strength and sufficiency. I tried hard to believe I could handle whatever life threw my way—that if I could just keep my head afloat a little longer, then everything would be okay. Instead of relying on God as my source and security, I kept taking matters into my own hands. Jesus had to show me I didn’t have to be the savior of my story. It was never my job to have, but His.

During this hard time I had a sign on my writing desk from my husband with the popular saying “She Believed She Could, So She Did”. But the more I stared at the statement, the more unsettling it became. Did I really think I could hold everything together and be enough for everyone always, including myself? I was weary from trying to do it all, a state many of us find ourselves in today.

But God never intended for His Daughters to live with the burden of carrying the world’s concerns or trying to make everything happen. Instead, He wants to bring us back to the message of the gospel where we come to Jesus in our weakness and allow His love, truth, and strength to empower us to face trials. We don’t need to believe solely in ourselves when there’s a God who is able to do immeasurably more than anything we could imagine or think. We can take a deep breath and lean into the care and capacity of Christ.

This is why I wrote She Believed HE Could, So She Did. It goes against the grain of culture’s popular self-empowerment mindset, but also challenges similar sayings within the church. We need to go back to the Bible and see what God truly says. I pray the message found within this book’s pages will inspire women to stop striving according to society’s standards and in turn, surrender everything to the God who can. 

True freedom is possible when we ground our whole selves in the Good News.

~*~
Author Bio:

Becky Beresford lives in North Carolina and is happily outnumbered by her husband and three wonderful boys. She is an author, speaker and coach with a Master's Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship from Moody Theological Seminary. 

Becky loves encouraging God’s Daughters to embrace Christ-centered empowerment through the truth found in the gospel. Her work has been featured in large online communities including Crosswalk, (in)courage, iBelieve, HuffPost, DaySpring, and she recently became a writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ First 5 writing team. 

Becky’s book with Moody Publishers, She Believed HE Could, So She Did, releases in March.

~*~
Buy Becky's book:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Target

 
~*~
Connect with Becky:
Website: https://www.beckyberesford.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becky.beresford/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beckyberesfordauthor
Sign up for Becky's Empowered Email Tribe: https://www.beckyberesford.com/sign-up

Devotionals for the Heart: How to let God to lead you in service to Him

Serving as the Lord Leads
A devotional by Casey Wayne

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 

–1 Peter 4:10-12 (NIV)

I catch up with a friend over the phone as I pace my living room and simultaneously fold laundry while trying to focus on being an active listener in the midst of so many things swirling in my head. All the while, chores, Bible study homework, classroom parent duties and so much more bombard my brain. Have you ever been this busy?

The topic of discussion between my friend and I over the phone was busy schedules and the hope that it will calm down sometime before the holiday season. For my friend and I who are both married, we might discuss the intentional conversations we have with our husbands about keeping a good balance of family life and serving at church. In recent months, the topic of serving has been a theme. Through conversations with other followers of Jesus Christ who obediently serve and are beautiful examples of servant leaders, I have been reminded of the importance of serving as the Lord leads.

There are so many good deeds and ways to serve, such as joining your church’s Children’s Ministry, becoming a Small Group Leader, or donating to a local food pantry.

The beautiful thing about the Church is everyone has a story and gifts we are called to steward well for God’s glory (Matthew 5:16). As we work together, it becomes a beautiful array of love and support for all people. But how do we navigate the tension of knowing we are called to serve and seeing more need than we can fill?

You start serving in one area and then you notice a need for volunteers a different night of the week. Or maybe you start to wonder if you should go help out your friend who has been serving at the local food pantry because she mentions they need more volunteers. Next thing you know, you feel like your family is getting only the “stressed out, too busy version” of you. The thought of serving less breaks your heart because you cannot let go of the idea that there is a need. 

However, you are starting to discern that you are spread too thin. Maybe this is not what God had in mind for you.

If you have been following Christ for a while now I am guessing you can relate to that feeling. In obedience you want to serve and follow Christ’s example, but one thing leads to another, and before you know it you feel the Holy Spirit remind you that you are not meant to carry the weight of it all. Romans 12:1-2 (ESV) says, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect”. 

As we pursue a life for Christ, an important part of that is reminding ourselves that we are told to ask God what His will is for us. Serving in only the ways He instructs us to, in His timing. Otherwise, if we are not careful, we can find ourselves chasing a work-based faith focused on production, instead of devotion to what God has for us.

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) tells us, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them”. 

Take time today to sit at the feet of Jesus, soak in His restoration for your soul and pray for the discernment to serve faithfully in whatever way He would have you to. Pray over every area of need you see and trust God with the details. Give God room to reveal the way He wants you to serve Him and the wisdom to walk away from those ministry opportunities that are not meant for you.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the opportunity to participate in what you are doing in people’s hearts. As I live out my daily life, use me to show others the amazing grace and hope we have in Jesus Christ. I pray for the wisdom and discernment for how you are calling me to serve. As I trust your faithful provision, give me the eyes and ears to know where You would have me go and what You would have me do for your glory alone.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Make Room” feat. Elyssa Smith and Community Music. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Casey Wayne is a wife and mother of two children.

She enjoys time with her family doing simple things like movie nights and cooking together.

As a devotional writer, Casey strives to share her story with relatable honesty, showing how God is faithful throughout the big and small moments of life.

She has a heart for encouraging the faith walk of other moms, praying they gain a deeper connection with our Heavenly Father.

Her family lives in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.

~*~
Connect with Casey:
Website: https://www.caseywayne.org/
Blog: https://peaceoffaith.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caseylwayne
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peace.of.FaithCaseyWayne

Devotionals for the Heart: Being "on fire" for God and spreading His Love

Flaming Faith
A devotional by Casey Wayne

“No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.”—Luke 8:16 (ESV)

As we wrapped up dinner we gathered around the fire my husband had made in the fireplace. After allowing the kids to watch one last show, we transitioned into the bedtime routine. They ran to and from the living room and returned all the stray items. At one point I turned to catch my daughter getting dangerously close to the remaining burning wood. In response to my correction she argued that it could not hurt because it was so small. I found myself saying, “Just because a fire is small doesn’t mean it is not hot. Small fires can actually be very hot!”

In the moments following that conversation I reflected on how that applies to the impact we all have in our environment. We all have an impact on others. Ministry opportunities that God will ask us to follow in obedience. They will look different for each of us. Some are easily seen and large “fires”, producing big, broad impacting moments. Others will be small, intentional “fires” that will make an impact as it endures over time with spiritual discipline. God can and often will draw us to seasons of both, but it all has an impact. It all matters!

Maybe you will do missionary work, support local food pantries, or help couples have a foundation of faith in their marriage. God may lead you to serve faithfully in your local church or dedicate spare time to knitting hats for infants in the NICU. This is just a small list of ways we can partner with God in a variety of ways.

Individually and together we spread the love of Christ. Romans 12:4-5 (NIV) says, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

Our Heavenly Father grows our faith, encourages our souls and gives each of us gifts to obediently use to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 for details on this topic. Do not get caught up in the comparison game and allow Satan to convince you your “fire” is not enough to matter or too small to have an impact. It all matters in the eyes of God and for the hearts of those you reach. Remember, just because a fire looks small, does not mean it is not hot.

Let us commit to burning bright for Christ; to be a light in the darkness of this world. Matthew 5:16 (NIV) tells us, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Seek the wisdom and discernment to step into whatever ministry God leads you to and the endurance to stay the course. Leave the results of its impact in the faithful arms of our loving Father who created you to be His ambassador to everyone in your reach (2 Corinthians 5:20) in the time and in the way He has for you.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you in the ministering of others in whatever capacity You ask me to. You faithfully provide for us and guide us so that we can be a light for your glory. Encourage my heart so that I may push forward as you lead and remind me that even if my “fire” looks different than someone else, it is making an impact for the purpose you intended.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “This Little Light of Mine” by Caleb + Kelsey. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Casey Wayne is a wife and mother of two children. 

She enjoys time with her family doing simple things like movie nights and cooking together.

As a devotional writer, Casey strives to share her story with relatable honesty, showing how God is faithful throughout the big and small moments of life.

She has a heart for encouraging the faith walk of other moms, praying they gain a deeper connection with our Heavenly Father.

Her family lives in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.

~*~
Connect with Casey:
Website: https://www.caseywayne.org/
Blog: https://peaceoffaith.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caseylwayne
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peace.of.FaithCaseyWayne

My Review of CSB Lifeway Women’s Bible and a special giveaway for you!

Momentum Influencer Network sent a copy of the CSB Lifeway Women’s Bible to me and asked me to write a review of it. 

Before I share my review, read these words below from the professionals of Momentum:

The CSB Lifeway Women’s Bible makes for a beautiful, thoughtful Christmas gift for the women of God in your life! 

The Lifeway Women’s Bible includes an in-depth collection of:

• Bible reading helps from prominent voices in the Lifeway Women community (including Jackie Hill Perry, Jennifer Rothschild, Priscilla Shirer, Angie Smith, Lisa Harper, Lauren Chandler, Gloria Furman, Mary Kassian, Kelly King, Trillia Newbell, Kelly Minter and more!) 
• Over 100 articles placed alongside the corresponding biblical text to foster deep reflection on Bible passages and topics focused on the life needs of women 
• Nearly 100 short devotional thoughts placed throughout the Bible 
• Bible genre introductions with a short overview and reading plan highlighting key passages in that section 
• 66 book-focused introductions providing a concise overview with book-specific timelines 
• Over 40 character profiles of key women in the Bible with questions for application 
• More than 35 reflection questions to help women engage more deeply with the Bible 
• Nearly 100 brief inspirational quotes on the Bible 
• Over 25 word studies on individual words or phrases detailing meaning and significance, and over 30 charts, tables, and maps. It features the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible® (CSB). 

Fun Fact: You can get 50% off your purchase of one (1) Lifeway Women’s Bible with code SAVE50LWB (Only available on Lifeway.com. Limit 1 Bible at 50% off retail price, any Lifeway Women’s Bible sku. Limit one offer per person. Cannot be stacked with any other offer. Valid 11/15/22-12/31/22.)

Visit the Lifeway website for more details:
https://csblifewaywomensbible.com

~*~

My Review of the Lifeway CSB Women’s Bible:

What is not to love about this Bible? Absolutely nothing!

I loved the smooth, professional packaging that was the shell that held the actual Bible. Upon removing the Bible from the shell casing, the texture of the leather cover was smooth to touch. And the marigold color of it was so beautiful. 

Just holding this precious book in my hands made me want to open it and read it. So I opened it and browsed its lovely features that were perfectly placed throughout this word of God.

This is not your ordinary Bible because the extra features within cater to the faith walk of women who are chasing God. Reading this special edition will help the female reader to feel more closely connected to God. Poring through these sacred pages will help her see her worth in the way that her Creator has seen her all along.

You will be inspired by the features from famous Christian women of God like Priscilla Shirer, Angie Smith, Lisa Harper, Lauren Chandler and Kelly Minter.

You will be educated by the 100 articles that help you dive deeper into the Biblical text that focus on the life needs that you have as a woman. You will love all of the devotional thoughts placed strategically throughout this Bible. You will be challenged to engage more by way of the reflection questions within and you will be uplifted by the brief inspirational quotes!

My only regret is not finding out about this beautiful edition sooner! It’s a must-have that will change your life for the better, forever. 

~*~

Giveaway for U.S. Residents ONLY: 1 (one) copy of the Lifeway CSB Women’s Bible (Marigold LeatherTouch Edition)

Enter the giveaway contest here:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c429/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

#CSBWomensBibleMIN #LifewayWomensBible #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Devotionals for the Heart: When living for God requires you to be broken

Only Broken Seeds Grow
A devotional by Tessa Huckstep

“How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies.”

–1 Corinthians 15:36 (NIV) 

Nothing can grow, flourish, or bring forth fruit and beauty unless death has first occurred.

Once a seed has been planted, it must break open. The seed must die in order to fulfill its purpose. It must submit to be broken before a sapling can emerge.

The acorn is a wonderfully useful little seed that can provide food for little forest critters. But an oak tree—emerging from an acorn buried in the ground—is one of God’s magnificent creations. An oak tree is capable of not only feeding countless animals, but also provides shelter. The acorn must submit to what its ultimate purpose is—reproduction.

This truth of life through death is a spiritual truth as well as an agricultural truth. Christ bore the cross and died so that we might be born again—that we might have new life, eternal life. Romans 6:4 (KJV) states, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Jesus Christ died a common criminal’s death upon the cross.

Christ’s ministry on Earth only lasted three years. He only had twelve disciples, and He did not travel far from His hometown. To some, Christ may have appeared insignificant, but when He submitted to the Father to be broken and buried, big things happened! Christ rose from the grave and death only three days later in victory, bringing those who believed on Him newness of life.

But submitting to the cross does not end with Christ. Matthew 16:24 (KJV) states, “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Christ is calling us to death. Only a true follower will ‘deny himself, and take up his cross’. This moment in the Christian’s life is pivotal.

What does it look like to deny ourselves? How can we take up our cross and follow Jesus? The answer to these questions looks different for every believer, but maybe it would make it simpler if I asked you different questions. Such as: What do you run to when you are feeling bored, disappointed, and in need of a break? What are your goals for the future? What is that one thing that you would be absolutely devastated if you lost? Maybe this can help you narrow where we find pleasure and safety. These things are often not ‘bad’ things, but if they take the place of Christ, He is asking you to lay them down at His feet.

It seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it? We wonder how we could possibly let go of the things that can make us happy. Will we really feel full and complete if we hand everything over to God? I think the apostle Paul answered this question best in Philippians 1:21(KJV), “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Paul found life when laying down his own plans and agendas.

I cannot tell you exactly what will happen when you deny whatever it is you are desperately holding on to instead of Christ. All I can tell you is that God is true to His Word. God will come through for you. You will not truly live your life until you submit fully to Christ. A life apart from Christ—a life doing things our own way—is not really life at all. We are just a little seed, full of potential, but not willing to deny ourselves to be greatly used of God.

Deny Yourself. Take up your cross. Submit to be buried and broken. Cling to Christ. Remember, dear reader, only broken seeds grow.

Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for the Cross and Your sacrifice so that we might have life more abundantly. Please give us the courage to deny ourselves and cling only to You in times of need. Lead us to fulfill Your ultimate purpose for our lives. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Crucified with Christ” by Phillips, Craig and Dean. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

God’s dream of Tessa becoming a writer was revealed to her at the age of sixteen and she hasn’t been able to stop since. Though she has not yet been published, Tessa enjoys writing historical romance novels and speculative fiction.

Tessa believes God loves stories, and through her writing, she wants to reveal the happily ever after God dreams of for each of his daughters—one where Jesus is the knight in shining armor.

Tessa loves all things Georgian/Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size. When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, Tessa can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the mixing bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

~*~
Connect with Tessa:
Blog: https://beautifulbeloved937002841.wordpress.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/101227159

Devotionals for the Heart: New Year 2022 edition with new writers!

Dear Reader Friends,

Tomorrow (Jan. 1, 2022) marks the start of a New Year!

And it also begins another part of our devotional journey!

I am excited to announce that this year, we have three NEW monthly writers, 12 returning writers from 2021 who are continuing to write devotionals every month of this new year, and seven backup writers contributing to my blog's tri-weekly series, “Devotionals for the Heart!”

This is the introduction post. Scroll down to see pictures of ALL of my writers (new and old) then read their writer bios and starting tomorrow, read the first NEW devotional for this year!

Note: My backup writers will only contribute their original devotionals in emergency cases when my regularly scheduled writers for this year cannot meet their deadline. God-willing, a new devotional will be published every Monday/Wednesday/Friday of every week for all of this New Year 2022.

I hope and pray that God blesses you this New Year with His Peace, Hope, Joy and Love!

May this devotional series bless your heart too.

Love,

Alexis A. Goring, MFA
Founder of "God is Love" blog

~*~

Read on for the author bios and photos of my NEW devotional writers, my returning devotional writers and my backup devotional writers for this New Year 2022!

NEW Writer Bio:

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

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

Along with Jessica’s career change came the discovery of who Jesus Christ really is and how He was the missing piece for her to be able to move forward from past trauma that she had suppressed for decades.

Jesus walked alongside Jessica as she underwent a transformation like none other. God transformed Jessica’s life from a broken mom who struggled with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and PTSD from witnessing an attempted suicide, to using her experiences to make her a powerful vessel for Him. To this day, God enables Jessica to touch the lives of others through her often unfiltered, yet inviting, form of storytelling.

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

~*~
NEW Writer Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

~*~
NEW Writer Bio:

Tessa Huckstep grew up in rural Illinois to Christian parents and has known Jesus personally since the age of five. She is currently attending community college and majoring in elementary education. After graduation, she wants to teach in public schools, hoping to bring the love of God with her.

God’s dream of Tessa becoming a writer was revealed to her at the age of sixteen and she hasn’t been able to stop since. Though she has not yet been published, Tessa enjoys writing historical romance novels and speculative fiction. Tessa believes God loves stories, and through her writing, she wants to reveal the happily ever after God dreams of for each of His daughters—one where Jesus is the knight in shining armor.

Tessa loves all things Georgian/Regency, needlework, and dainty teacups of every size. When she isn’t writing or studying for exams, Tessa can be found in the kitchen with more flour in her hair and on the floor than in the mixing bowl, though the mess is always half the fun!

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

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

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

Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing as well as speaking.

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

Her personal mission is to empower others to achieve their goals and dreams.

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

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

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

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

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

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

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

~*~
Returning Writer 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 teaching them 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.

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

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

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

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

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

She is the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism. Learn more about her fiction and read her faith blog at http://jessicabrodie.com.

Jessica has a weekly YouTube devotional and podcast.

She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed.

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

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

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

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

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

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

Patricia is an encourager. She passionately uses her gifting as an author, speaker, pastor, recording artist, worship leader and coach to encourage people around this world.

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

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

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

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

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

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

Wendy is a Genetic Genealogist by day, a writer by night, and an artist in between.

Her love of what we can learn from history compels her to write the true stories she unearths because she’s found that truth is indeed much more exciting and inspiring than fiction.

Wendy writes about family, faith, grief, art, and overcoming obstacles in life by coming to know who we really are—the children of God, and the descendants of incredible people who paved the way for us despite their struggles. Wendy believes in learning from our ancestors, honoring them, and then standing on their shoulders to become a better generation.

As an award-winning family history writer, Wendy’s debut novel, Once Upon an Irish Summer, released in April 2020. This book is a dual timeline historical fiction novel about a young, gifted artist suffering from debilitating grief, who finds healing and inspiration in her Irish ancestry, and goes on to paint a masterpiece.

The sequel, Celtic Winter: Eliza’s Story, released in November 2021. The story goes back in time to the little sister left behind in Ireland to keep her family alive, woven with present-day Beth’s continuing story as she races the clock with the young man she loves to find the only person who could save his mother’s life.

When Wendy is not researching or writing, she hikes, paints, loves being a church youth leader, binges on epic Bollywood movies, and hangs out with her greatest loves—her family.

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

Monique M. Anderson is a writer, creator, wife, and bonus mom. She was born and raised in Mount Vernon, NY, where she still resides. She released her always present yet hidden talent of writing to the masses in June 2019. 

Monique always felt like God was chasing after her but was never ready to surrender. Finally, she reached a point in her life when things started going left, and she no longer felt in control. At this point, she was ready to hand over the reins to God. After forming her relationship with God, she always felt compelled to share the revelation’s that His word gave her. She felt the Holy Spirit prompting her to write but was afraid of what people might think. So, her writing started in her journal. The journal turned into a book and the book into a blog.

Her obedience provided more opportunities. In late 2021, Monique became a partner with the notable YouVersion Bible App as a Content Creator. With her first Bible plan debuting in December of 2021, she will continue to provide content for the app as long as God allows her to.

In 2021, God revealed her prophetic gift and how He wants her to use it. Monique always felt compelled to pray for others but had no idea God would use her in this way. Through this gift as a prophetic intercessor, she’s not just writing about what God can do but showing what God can do.

Since God has shown her who He created her to be, she now feels it is her life’s work to help those taking their first steps in their walk with Christ. She is doing so through her blog, prayer, and soon-to-be-published works. She is excited to extend her reach to YouTube, podcasts, and speaking engagements soon.

Her blog is the stepping stone to fulfilling the vision God gave to her – “Sharing God’s revelations so we can all better reflect his image and fulfill His purpose.”

~*~

Returning Writer Bio:

Mirachelle Canada is a writer, playwright, screenwriter, and theatre director/producer from Northern Virginia, where she teaches television production at her high school alma mater. 

She earned her Master of Fine Arts in Script & Screenwriting from Regent University and is an alumnus of Act One: Hollywood Film & Television Writing Program.

Mirachelle is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, American Fiction Writers Virginia Chapter, The Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, and Your Novel Blueprint.

She is currently working on her first historical fiction novel set during WWII.

~*~
Returning Writer Bio:

Shirley A. Denson is a native of Statesboro, GA. 

She found out at a young age that she had a creative mind and a way with words. Later on in life, she learned to cultivate her passion for writing as a budding author.

Shirley is very passionate about writing. Each book that she releases will be a product of God stirring and cultivating the gift He’s entrusted her with. She has won numerous writing awards/certificates, and is a published poet and blogger.

For the past six years, Shirley has worked as a professional ghostwriter, editor, and author. It is her joy and goal that through print, she might impact lives and leave the imprint of the King.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Born in the highlands of Scotland, Anthea Kotlan made her way to Texas as a third grader.

After studying the new language at length and mimicking the Houston locals, she found ways to blend in. Years later she floated down the San Marcos River, attended Journalism classes, and completed an undergraduate degree in in Journalism.

After getting married to Bill, she completed a graduate degree in English at Texas A&M. Ever the multi-tasker, she had two daughters and carried one of them into her graduation ceremony hidden under her billowing graduation gown.

Over the years she has served as a women’s ministry leader in several churches, spoken at women’s events, taught college freshmen English and led various Bible studies. She also writes whenever she can on her blog.

Anthea makes her home in Conroe with her husband Bill, a bi-vocational priest and engineer. She spends all the time she can with her two grandchildren: Ian Michael and Margaret Yael.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Janis Van Keuren is a published author and freelance writer with stories appearing in “Divine Interventions,” a Guideposts’ compilation, and in denominational and secular publications. 

She began writing for her high school newspaper and the career stuck through college, despite a temporary blip when she toyed with majoring in economics. 

When she hung up her hat as an award-winning professional writer to raise a family, she discovered the Lord calling her to write and edit a publication for her Christian community. Occasionally, she guest posts inspirational pieces on other author’s websites.

Currently, Janis is working on her first devotional book revealing God’s touch in the stories of thirty individual women’s lives.

When Janis is not writing, she and her husband Tom enjoy traveling through God’s majestic and varied creations capturing His artistry in her photography and coupling it with Scripture.

Summers find these desert dwellers relaxing along the beaches and rugged coastline of California.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Kathleen Rouser is the award-winning author of Rumors and Promises, her first novel about the people of fictional Stone Creek, Michigan. She is a multi-published author of historical Christian romance. She is a longtime member in good standing of American Christian Fiction Writers. 

Kathleen has loved making up stories since she was a little girl and wanted to be a writer before she could even read. She’s in the grip of God’s grace and is a fan of the three Cs—cats, coffee, and chocolate.

Kathleen is a mother of three children. She is a former homeschool instructor, mild-mannered dental assistant, and current Community Bible Study kids’ teacher.

She lives in Michigan with her hero and husband of thirty-some years, and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.

Kathleen is represented by Linda S. Glaz of the Hartline Literary Agency.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Learning to read as a young child opened a world of adventure for Kay Pflueger. She came to realize words can have a unique power and beauty. 

Choosing to share those words in her devotional writings has become a joyful and rewarding experience for her. As a widow, she feels a special affinity towards those who are grieving or experiencing loss.

Kay recently completed a Copyediting certificate program and is currently pursuing a Creative Writing certificate. Her leisure time is spent with her married son and three grandchildren. She also enjoys writing, reading, and trying new recipes.

Kay is an avid baseball fan who looks forward every summer to following her favorite team, the Chicago Cubs.

She is active member of Victory Lutheran Church in her hometown of San Diego, California.

Kay enjoys writing devotions to be shared on her church’s website as well as on her personal social media.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Kerry Teravskis leads a full life as a wife and Marmee to her three adult children and one daughter-in-love.

She met her husband in college and served in the mission field for a few years before settling down in the States to raise their family.

They were a homeschooling family for 20 years and enjoyed it immensely. For the last 22 years Kerry and her husband have lived on a small farm in Northern California where they have raised many farm animals, along with growing and preserving their own food as well. Their farm has been a great source of enjoyment and a place to host many family gatherings. They keep the door of their home open for dear friends, old and new.

Following and serving Jesus is an integral part of Kerry’s life as well as that of her family. Whether it’s singing in her church choir, teaching children or leading and lecturing at a women’s Bible study, Kerry loves to demonstrate her love for Jesus by giving to Him in service.

She has been a blogger for seven years and a Bible study writer for one year. Kerry has spent this last year writing devotionals about finding God’s Sovereignty in our pain and suffering.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Michelle Medlock Adams is a best-selling author and an award-winning journalist who has earned top honors from the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Hoosier State Press Association. 

Author of over 100 books with more than 4 million books sold, Michelle is also a New York Times Bestselling ghostwriter. She has won more than 70 industry awards for her journalistic endeavors, including the prestigious Golden Scroll for Best Children’s Book in 2020, 2019 and 2018 for How Much Does God Love You?, Dinosaur Devotions, and My First Day of School.

Since graduating with a journalism degree from Indiana University, Michelle has written more than 1,500 articles for newspapers, magazines and websites; acted as a stringer for the Associated Press; written for a worldwide ministry; hosted “Joy In Our Town” for the Trinity Broadcasting Network; blogged twice weekly for Guideposts from 2013 to 2015; written a weekly column for a Midwest newspaper; and served as an adjunct professor at Taylor University three different years.

Today, Michelle is President of Platinum Literary Services, a premier full-service literary firm; Chairman of the Board of Advisors for Serious Writer, Inc.; an online instructor for the Serious Writer Academy; and a much sought-after speaker at writers conferences and women’s retreats all over the United States.

When not working on her own assignments, Michelle ghostwrites articles, blog posts, and books for celebrities, politicians, and some of today’s most effective and popular ministers.

Michelle is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeff. They have two daughters (Abby and Allyson), two sons-in-law, two granddaughters and two grandsons.

She and Jeff share their home in Southern Indiana with a miniature dachshund, a rescue Greyhound/Lab mix, and two cats.

When not writing or teaching writing, Michelle enjoys bass fishing, cheering on Indiana University sports teams and the Chicago Cubbies, and all things leopard print.

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Backup Writer Bio:

Sharon Musgrove is a self-proclaimed sociologist. The opportunities opened to her over the years have led her on a fascinating journey observing human behavior.

She has a diverse background in business, fitness, and health industries. This background led her to a unique position writing curriculum and teaching for two private, Christ-based, residential recovery programs. Both programs primarily served women in the homeless community.

Sharon has traveled multiple times to Kenya, serving on medical teams and teaching in the rural Maasai communities. She’s been privileged to participate in leadership camps for maturing young women. These annual camps have a mission of encouraging and empowering the impoverished, underprivileged, and often abused young Maasai girls.

Identifying personally with the brokenness of the women she’s served, Sharon sees all people as needing more encouragement regardless of cultural or socioeconomic status. Within these ministries, Sharon has witnessed the transformative power of loving words spoken to the broken-hearted. Sharing God’s love and witnessing its transformative power has become her passion.

In her leisure time, Sharon enjoys her garden, health food, travel, and a good story. She and her husband, Jeff, divide their time between Oregon and Hawaii. They have two grown children.

Currently, Sharon is encouraging others via her inspirational blog, but prefers sharing face to face. Additionally, she is studying Christian fiction writing.

~ The End ~