Devotionals for the Heart: When the press is part of God's plan for you

Hardship Produces What You Never Knew Was Inside
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”—2 Corinthians 4:17 (KJV)

Long before olive oil found its way onto kitchen shelves and dinner tables, someone had to press the olive. Not gently. Not carefully. The stone wheel rolled over it with full, crushing weight and only then did the oil flow. The most valuable thing inside that small, humble fruit was never going to come out on its own. It required the press.

Now think about your life right now. The weight you’re carrying. The pressure that seems relentless. The season that is lasting far longer than you thought you could endure. What if, just what if the press you are under is not punishment, but process? What if God is not squeezing the life out of you, but drawing something priceless from you?

The Press Has Always Been Part of the Plan

The Garden of Gethsemane—the very place Jesus Christ went the night before His death on the cross—means “oil press” in Hebrew. Jesus, on the most agonizing night of His earthly life, chose to go to a place named for crushing. It was there, under the weight of what was coming, that His surrender produced the salvation of the world.

Nothing about that night felt like victory in that moment. But Heaven knew what the press was producing. Let’s read about it in Isaiah 53:3-5 (KJV). It says, “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

Christ was bruised so that peace could flow. That is the theology of the press. Not that suffering is good, but that in the hands of a sovereign God, nothing is wasted. Not one tear, not one sleepless night, not one moment of pain that you thought would break you.

Suffering Has a Produce

The Apostle Paul was not a man who wrote about suffering from a distance. He was well acquainted with suffering. Paul was shipwrecked, beaten, imprisoned, and abandoned. He knew what it felt like to be pressed from every side. And yet he teaches us that every step is producing something.

Let’s read more about this in Romans 5:3-5 (KJV). It says, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

Tribulation produces Patience then Experience that turns into Hope, which results in God’s Love Shed Abroad. Every step in that chain has weight and purpose. Tribulation is not a dead-end, it is producing patience. Patience does not grow in comfort. Experience is not produced on easy days. And hope the kind that maketh not ashamed is produced in the exact moments when hope seems hardest to hold onto.

What the Press Produces in You

Think about the people whose faith has moved you most. The ones whose testimonies stopped you in your tracks. Chances are, they were not people who had easy lives. They were people who had been pressed and out of that pressing came depth, compassion, resilience, and an anointing that simply could not have come any other way.

God is not interested in producing a shallow version of you. He is after the gold. And gold, scripture reminds us, is tried in fire. Let’s look at 1 Peter 1:7 (NIV) to explore more of that this means. It says, “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.”

Your faith is being tried, yes. But it is also being proven. Every time you choose trust over fear, praise over despair, and surrender over control, the press is producing something eternal in you.

You Are Not Being Crushed—You Are Being Prepared

There is a difference between being destroyed and being pressed. The Apostle Paul knew it. He lived it. And he made sure we understood it. Let’s read what he says in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV). He wrote, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”

Troubled on every side but not distressed. There is a boundary on what this season can do to you. The press is real, but it does not have the final word. God does. And what He says about you is that you and I are being prepared for greater fruitfulness, for deeper influence, for a testimony that will set someone else free. Hallelujah!

The olive doesn’t get to choose the press. But it doesn’t have to. Because the one holding it knows exactly how much pressure is needed, and exactly when to stop. The Lord knows the same about you. Let’s read Job 23:10 (KJV) for more knowledge about this. It says, “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.”

Be Strong and Let the Press Do Its Work

In my devotional published on this blog last month, we talked about what it means to be strong. But strength is not the absence of pressure it is the decision to trust God in the pressure. It is believing that the One who allowed the press is the same One who will catch every drop of what it produces.

You are not being punished. You are not forgotten. You are not too far gone. You are in the press and what is coming out of you is more valuable than you know. Your tears are not wasted. Your endurance is not invisible. Your faith, tried in this fire, is orchestrated by Heaven and will be used in ways you have not yet imagined. Hold on. The oil is coming.

Let’s Pray:

Lord, I don’t always understand the press I’m in, but I trust the hands that are holding me through it. Help me to remember that you waste nothing. That every hard thing is being worked together for good. That I am not being destroyed; I am being prepared. Help me to surrender to the process, to give thanks in the midst of it, and to believe that what you are producing in me is worth every moment of the pressing. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Greater is Coming” by Jekalyn Carr. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Refiner” by Maverick City Music. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Blessing in the Storm” by Kirk Franklin. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

She lives in Boston, MA.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should keep faith in Jesus Christ

Keep the Faith
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Funerals for many people are morbid and sad, but I have found them to be very sobering and educational. For me, they serve as a constant reminder that I must steward every day I’m alive with wisdom.

We are reminded in Scripture to ask for wisdom so that we can use the time we are given wisely (Psalm 90:12). At most funerals, there is music and tributes. The dead person in the coffin is not able to confirm or deny all being said, but you can tell by the smiles and the nods of those who knew the person whether the speaker is telling the truth or not. 

Recently, I sang at a funeral, and the testimony of those who spoke before me was that “He loved the Lord.” This is like music to the ears of people who follow Jesus Christ because his life testified to his love for God. When he was alive, the evidence of his love for God showed in his behavior. He consistently treated people in the church and in his community with agape love and respect. He lived out his beliefs. He did what the Apostle Paul stated he had done, which was, "I have kept the faith."

The Bible books of 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy focus on a letter the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy who was a young pastor at that time. Paul was encouraging him Timothy, knowing that his days on earth were coming to an end. It was important for Timothy to keep some important things in mind as he moved forward in his role as a pastor. Paul, from the first day of his conversion (Acts 9), had learned to look fully to God for his every need. From day one of becoming a Christian, Paul understood the power of God and the call on his life. He was entrusted with a task to preach the gospel. Likewise, he reminds Timothy that he, too, must do the same.

To keep the faith means you have be prepared to be persecuted. Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:12, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Therefore, we have to prepare ourselves. The scriptures are loaded with guidance and direction for us to read, meditate on and believe what God says. It will direct us as we move through life (Psalm 119:105).

Our ultimate goal is to hear our Savior (Jesus Christ) say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) when we stand before Him. So, like Paul, as we start out this year, let’s keep this in the forefront of our hearts and minds.

We can set our goals, but our ultimate goal is to keep the faith that we have in Jesus Christ. Let’s live in a way that the world can see the character of Christ in our lives through our speech and behavior. Challenges in many forms will come but be determined to keep the faith! Hide the Word in your heart. As you obey God, prepare to be persecuted but remember that the one who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

God’s word is certain and sure; He will keep us. Let’s set our hearts and minds to stay focused and come what may, keep the faith.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, 

I am so thankful for the assurance that you’ve got me in the palm of your hands. Nothing happens without You knowing about it. We are grateful for You. Strengthen my heart and help me to remember your word when I forget and am tempted to become discouraged. I want to be able to say like Paul, “I have kept the faith.” 

In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Keep the Faith” by Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Will Follow Christ” by Bob Carlisle, Clay Crosse and BeBe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: 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: God's Love for you is deep, true and forever!

God’s Deep Love for You
A devotional by Essie Faye

“However, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you.”—Deuteronomy 23:5 (KJV)

Lately, I can’t help but think about the importance of grit and perseverance.

So many things and people in life can discourage us from living, if we allow them. Some life challenges may include being evicted from your home or experiencing a home foreclosure. Some people are suffering in silence in a toxic relationship. Others are wallowing in grief from the loss of a loved one. Perhaps you are suffering from the grief of disappointment in your current state in life. There are women who experience pain from an infertility journey that seems never-ending. Countless numbers of patients are each fighting a terminal illness. Through it all, it is important to know that God loves us. His profound love for us blesses us in ways that we could never imagine (Romans 8:35-39).

God’s love for us blesses us with His favor. Favor is the unearned, unmerited kindness of God. Because He loves us, He is good to us, even when we were His enemies. Even when we deny His very existence, God is good to us. Even while we are shouting obscenities about Him and accusing Him of wrongdoing, He loves us and is kind to us, extending mercy and grace. God has mercy on us. He doesn’t give us what we deserve (Romans 6:23). Instead, He extends grace and gives us what we don’t deserve: God’s grace and the free gift of salvation (John 3:16-17).

God’s love for us blesses us with protection. Animals protect what they love; it’s second nature. Humankind also protects what they love. We get this attribute from our Heavenly Father (God). He made us in His image and likeness. We are His children. God has commanded His angels from Heaven to protect us in our daily lives and watch over us while we sleep. He does this because He loves us.

God’s love for us blesses us with abundance. God provides for His children because He is concerned about our well-being. He provides our physical needs: food, shelter, water. He also provides our spiritual needs: nourishment, communion, character development, and fellowship. God provides our social needs: divine connections and partnerships. God provides our financial needs. He promises to supply all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19) who is His Son.

God’s love blesses us with favor, protection, and provision in the face of life’s difficulties. Because of His love and through faith, we can do hard things. When life gets tough and insurmountable challenges arise, we can do hard things. When life circumstances seem unbearable and current situations appear hopeless, we can do hard things with the help of Christ. Because He was victorious, so are we when we place our faith in Him.

All things work together for the good of those who believe in God (Romans 8:28). All things are not always looking good, nor does everything always feel good. But it is all working together to bring you into your place of purpose. God’s love works to turn every curse in our lives from the enemy into a blessing from our Savior.

Call to Action:

1. Receive the blessings from God’s Love.

2. Rest in God’s favor, protection, and provision.

3. Love God in return.

4. Demonstrate your love for God by obeying His Word and living according to His standards.

5. Remember: God’s love blesses you to do hard things. All of it—the good, bad, and ugly—is working to make you into the person God ordained you to be.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving us so passionately and so deeply. Your unconditional love looks at our faults and loves us still. Your love for us is a complete blessing that we don’t deserve. You love us still. We make mistakes yet You love us still. We offend You. You love us still. We reject You yet You love us still. We ignore you. You love us still. Your love is inescapable and incomprehensible. Help us to receive the blessings of your love: favor, protection, and provision. And help us to love You in return. Expand our capacity to love You passionately and to serve You intentionally. Teach us to have the kind of faith that please You, God. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayers.

In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “God’s Favor” by Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “For The Good” by Riley Clemmons. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Good And Loved” by Travis Greene & Steffany Gretzinger. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Essie Faye is a woman of faith. 

She’s a bilingual author, educator, speaker, psalmist, and interpreter.

Essie is the author of the “Finding the Love You Deserve” series for women and teens. She is deeply committed to motivating minorities, women, and youth to heal themselves, love and accept themselves, and pursue God while chasing their dreams and carving out their life’s path.

Essie is a Chicago native.

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Connect with Essie:
Website: www.essiefaye.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/
Read Essie’s YouVersion Devotion Plan here:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/58980-grow-through-it-7-healing-practices-that

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.

~*~
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 should never stop praying to God

God Rewards Relentless Prayers
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, “Grant me justice against my adversary.”—Luke 18:3 NIV

“I just can’t do this anymore. I am tired. I am done. I quit.”

Have you ever uttered these words? Or been the listener to them? When life gets hard, we want to give up—on our marriage, our pain, our financial duress. Fighting is so much harder than walking away, it seems. However, there are times when true grit is longed for, required and rewarded.

Are you in a situation where the tough has got going so long ago that the distant past seems, well, quite distant? Perhaps what started out as a passing affliction or momentary trouble has taken over, consumed your life, pocketbook, and emotional tank. Have you more than once wanted to throw in the towel, or have already quit?

Jesus Christ shared a parable in the Bible to give us His desire (and reason) for prayer. In Luke 18:1 (NIV), Jesus tells us to “always pray and not give up”. He knows perseverance and persistence in prayer is not only vital but powerful for our faith walk with God. Are you asking how this is possible? Let me explain with some questions for you to ponder: Do our prayers change God’s mind? Do our prayers change our circumstances from what God has intended all along? What does sovereignty of God mean for us in modern times?

These are tough questions that may not be answered in our lifetime. But we can know from Scripture that Jesus is concerned about our prayer life. He knew in Bible times and this modern era that we would want to give up. He knew life would get hard and doubts would plague our minds or shake our faith in Him. Jesus knew we would face obstacles that appear larger than life. He knew a doctor’s office, the unemployment line, the courtroom and an empty holiday table would be part of life here on earth.

Jesus knew the true enemy (Satan) would be relentless in pursuing us with dashed hopes, unfinished business, broken relationships, mortgages and car payments. God is Sovereign, He knows all. And He wants us to know He is with us through it all. God promises to always answer us when we call on Him—even when we offer Him our relentless, wild and desperate prayers. He welcomes us into His Throne Room and He wants to help us. Hebrews 4:16 (NIV) says, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

This is the definition of a real walk with a loving Heavenly Father. Only God can handle the big prayers we send up to Him. Only God can handle it and truly comfort us when we lose it, mourn, and cry out in agony. Only God can wipe away the never-ending tears that emerge from experiencing a sad, life-changing event.

What are you facing or contemplating today? What situation has you fretting and feeling like giving up? What is God saying to encourage you to keep pressing on? We all have problems and situations that we have spent a long time—days, months, years—praying for, asking God to intervene. Let us not grow weary in praying.

We are given permission by Jesus to pursue Him relentlessly, all day, every day with our requests. Big or small. Long or short. As you read Luke 18, you can see His compassion and desire. His love. His care.

Let us knock and keep on knocking at God’s door and coming boldly before His Throne with our requests. May we not stop petitioning our Savior until we receive justice, answers and a blessing from Him.

Let’s Pray: Father God, sometimes the fact that our prayers can change your mind seems impossible to believe. We may fear that we will wear You out with our relentless pursuit of You as we ask for your justice, mercy, healing, and answers to our life problems. But You literally are all we’ve got when we have nothing left to give, take, follow or hold onto—except You. This is everything. You are everything we need. You are enough! I lay myself at Your feet, exhausted, but in a posture of prayer, thanksgiving and worship. Thank You for hearing me, Lord. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Don’t Stop Praying” by Matthew West. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Everything” by Lauren Daigle. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: "Pray On" by Babbie Mason. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

As a wife and Marmee to three adult children and one brand new daughter-in-love, Kerry Sue’s life is very full. She met her husband in college and served in the mission field with him for a few years before settling down back in the United States of America to raise their family. 

Kerry Sue’s family was a homeschooling family for 20 years and they enjoyed it immensely. For the last 23 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 our 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 eight years, a Bible study writer for two years, and a devotional writer for about one year.

Kerry Sue writes about finding God’s Sovereignty in our pain and suffering.

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

Our world is broken, but God is not! We can have a happy ending with Him.

 

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to focus on joy in when life is hard

Growing in the Cracks of Life
A devotional by Kathleen Rouser

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”—James 1:2-4 (WEB)

The presence of icicle pansies tends to brighten my day.

The delicate yellow, cream, and purple flowers are always lovely to see. They provide a pop of color in late fall, early spring, and sometimes through the summer. Even though they’re annuals, they’re hardy! Last year, about five icicle pansy plants had seeded themselves into the cracks of our patio.

I didn’t plant, fertilize or water them, but there they were popping up from hardpacked soil, between large slabs of concrete. The back of the house receives the morning and intense early afternoon sun. It’s exposed to the cold rain and wind. Yet, these little flowers flourished, even when they were stepped on or picked.

After a storm, I’d peek outside as I wondered about their fate. But when they dried, they perked right up, still beautiful. At some point, during the summer, I started giving them a drink each time I watered the potted flowers around them, and I marveled at how well they’d done without my help.

The first chapter of the Bible book of James reminds us that it’s the testing of our faith that produces patience and endurance, fruits that blossom with gaining spiritual maturity—much like beautiful flowers that grow well in the harshest circumstances. Testing puts our faith walk with God on the line.

Quite a few years ago, I had a tough time. It began with losing a very wanted baby through miscarriage, having to move my elderly mom away from me and closer to my sister, experiencing postpartum depression, being diagnosed with anemia, and feeling brokenhearted when my mother passed away. Soon after her death, I was diagnosed with chronic Epstein-Barr virus, which is like a prolonged mono, and my husband (Jack) fell off the roof of our house!

Completely worn out, I wasn’t sure how I’d ever take care of my husband while he recovered. The long road began with a month in the hospital for Jack, with surgeries and recovery from multiple head-to-toe fractures. While he was in a wheelchair for the next five months, learning to walk again, and then continuing rehab, God continued to intervene at every turn.

People from hundreds of miles away prayed for him and many friends also supplied us with delicious meals for us to eat until my kids missed my cooking enough to beg me to make my special recipes for them again. At the hospital, my husband chose thankfulness, despite the overwhelming pain. He even wrote thank you notes to the cafeteria staff at the hospital! We saw answered prayer and miracles almost every day. In the midst of the valley, God lifted us to the mountaintop and held us there in His arms.

We grew closer to the Lord and to each other. This fearful Christian (me), who hadn’t grown much spiritually in eighteen years, was forced to grow in my faith as tests and trials pressed in around me. For me, it was the beginning of a new stage of growth in my faith journey with Jesus Christ. I may not have chosen these trials, but God knew what He was doing as He allowed each one.

The end game God has in mind is to conform us to the image of His Son (Jesus), but will we choose to cooperate with Him? Romans 8:28-29 (WEB) says, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”

I once read a book that challenged me to thank God for my trials. And I did so begrudgingly for more recent testing I’ve endured. Yet, that somehow set me free and allowed God to do a new work in me. There wasn’t instant joy by any means, but perhaps that’s what it means to “Count it all joy.” If I can look at each trial—big or small—as something that God wants to use for my good and His glory, then thankfulness and even joy may flourish.

Like the pansies in the cracks of the patio, we too can grow to be hardier and our roots deeper into our faith despite the hard circumstances around us.

Let’s Pray: Father in Heaven, help me to see that You lovingly allow the difficulties, whether big or little, into my life that I might shine brighter for You. Please give me a more thankful heart that leads to Your special kind of joy. Help me to conform into the image of Your Son. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Count It All Joy” by BeBe and CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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 C’s: cats, coffee, and chocolate.

Kathleen is mother of three children. She is also a former homeschool instructor, mild-mannered dental assistant, and new Community Bible Study Children and Youth Director. Kathy lives in Michigan with her hero and husband of many years, and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.

As an author, she is represented by Linda S. Glaz of the Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency.

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Connect with Kathleen:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerouser
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/kathleenerouser
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KathleenRouser
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rouserkathy/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kerouser/_saved
Website: https://kathleenrouser.com
Mewe: https://mewe.com/i/kathleenrouser

Devotionals for the Heart: What to do when the storms of life assail you

When You Encounter Euroclydon
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“But not long after, a tempestuous headwind arose, called Euroclydon.”

—Acts 27:14 (NKJV)

There is a story in the New Testament book of Acts that tells of a storm called Euroclydon. In the Greek language, Euroclydon is a compound word joining “Euros”, meaning “East wind” and “kluzo” which according to Wikipedia, means “to billow” or I’d say to “surge, rage, or vigorously agitate”. This was what in modern terms is called a “Nor’easter” or a northeastern storm.

In this Bible story found in the book of Acts, the Apostle Paul was being transported by ship to Rome to be tried for treason and sedition. Because of his faith in Jesus Christ and his forceful preaching of the Kingdom of righteousness, he was considered to be a danger to the Roman empire.

There were 276 people aboard the ship. After being caught in the Euroclydon, they were adrift on the stormy sea for 14 days. Paul assured them that the storm would pass and they all would survive. Ultimately, the ship was wrecked and torn apart by the raging sea, but all aboard survived and were washed ashore on the island of Malta. I have been to Malta, and I have endured vicious storms at sea while stationed aboard U.S. Navy ships. Though tossed about and occasionally suffering damage from the waves that assaulted our ship, the storms eventually ended, and we always reached our next destinations.

The Bible story above is an object lesson for when storms rage into our lives. When they do, it disrupts normalcy, threatening our sanity, security and destiny. However, when we rest confidently in God’s plans and provisions for us, these storms will also pass. We will survive and ultimately thrive.

An equivalent concept in the Hebrew language is “Gam Zeh Ya’avor”, which means “this, too, shall pass”. This encouraging saying is meant to inspire optimism in the minds of people who are enduring the most trying situations. It encapsulates the paradoxes that we all endure while growing up and living life as an adult.

When we meet exceptionally bad, difficult and sad times, failure, betrayal or disappointment, it is then we must remember “This, too, shall pass.”

Just as night is followed by day and the crest of a billowing wave is followed by a trough, then another wave, this too shall pass. Remember: God will never put upon the believer more than you can bear, without providing a coping strategy (read about it in 1 Corinthians 10:13). As you go into today, whether you are on top of the world or groveling through one of life’s storms, take heart knowing that your past successes are preparation for future challenges and that your current challenges are rungs on the ladder of God ordained triumphs.

Keep your hope alive! Let optimism and confidence be like air in your lungs. They will create buoyancy and resilience that will allow you, like the people who accompanied Paul during the Euroclydon, to swim or cling to the debris of your former security until you reach the safe shores of a new reality.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, in some way we are all sailing, floating, or struggling in the sea of your love and mercy. Deliver us all through the passing trials and storms of life, into the destiny that You have planned for us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “This Too Shall Pass” by Yolanda Adams. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Chaplain Anderson is the Director Emeritus of Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries for the North American Division. In this role, he was the friend, advocate and gatekeeper for the profession of chaplaincy among Adventist pastors. 

His new mission is to specialize in personal and personnel development coaching.
He journeys with and guides clients, personal and corporate, as they define their goals and grow into their full potential.

His pastoral career began in the Allegheny East Conference where he was ordained.

Subsequently, he served in the Potomac Conference at the Sligo and Seabrook churches. His professional dream was to be a chaplain in the United States Navy. He got to live that dream and achieved the rank of Commander before retiring from Naval service in 2015 with 26 years of service.

Chaplain Anderson has earned four graduate degrees: He earned his Master of Divinity Degree was earned at the seminary at Andrews University. He earned a Master’s of Education from the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Sacred Theology from Boston University. His Doctor of Ministry was conferred by Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C.

Chaplain Anderson and his wife Debra have been married for 41 years. They have two healthy, saved and well-adjusted adult children who picked good spouses and delivered four grandchildren.

Adventures through traveling, reading, praying, preaching, teaching and writing are the avenues of ministry and self-care that define his now and his destiny.

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

My Review of the "Unsung Hero" movie and a giveaway for you

My Review of Unsung Hero (movie)

Today, I have another movie review for you and a giveaway contest at the end of this post! Momentum Influencers Network asked me to watch an early screening of a new movie they are promoting: Unsung Hero.

Here’s the synopsis of Unsung Hero with words from Momentum:

When David Smallbone's successful music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States in search of a brighter future. With nothing more than their six children, their suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING + COUNTRY's Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds; and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs.

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Now for my review:

Unsung Hero is a captivating story on screen that will reel you in from the start and keep you hooked all the way to the end.

It’s the story of the family behind famous music group “for KING + COUNTRY” and popular singer Rebecca St. James. This is a behind-the-scenes look into everything they went through to become who the world knows them to be today.

A special feature of this film is the faith element. It was wonderful to see how when times got tough, the Smallbone family got going! They didn’t give up. When they moved from Australia to America, they went from rich to poor but they got creative, starting a successful lawn and house cleaning service. Little did they know then that one of their rich and famous clients would open more than just the door to his home—he’d open the golden door to their future fame!

While this movie showed us how two famous Contemporary Christian Music artists made it to the world stage with their songs playing on the radio and in concert halls around the world, it also showed us the backbone of the family—Helen.

Daisy Betts played Helen Smallbone. She is the wife of David and mother to their seven children including Joel Smallbone from “for KING + COUNTRY” and Rebecca St. James. Helen’s dream was to be a wife and mother—roles that she took very seriously. No matter how hard life got when they first moved to America, she not only made the best of it, she made it fun—turning every day into and adventure and every need into a prayer. God didn’t disappoint! He delivered miracles to the Smallbone Family, starting with Kay Albright who they met in church.

Candace Cameron Bure—famous for her roles in Hallmark movies and on Great American Pure Flix—played Kay Albright. Kay was a woman of faith with a big heart. She felt led by God to help the Smallbone Family not just survive but thrive. Throughout the movie, Kay and her husband were like real-life angels for Helen and her family. They showed up for them in ways that were truly God-ordained though sometimes it irritated David Smallbone.

Joel Smallbone from “for KING + COUNTRY” played the role of his father, David Smallbone. No stranger to the screen, Joel put on a very convincing performance—successfully showing the how the mountain highs and valley lows of his family’s journey impacted them, especially him. There were scenes in this movie that showed David so low that he couldn’t get out of bed. But when he was able to climb out of depression, he was a fighter for his family. I love how his story went full-circle but I cannot share details without spoiling the plot.

Finally, Kirrilee Berger played Rebecca Smallbone (later known as the famous Rebecca St. James). I admired how they showed her to be so humble about her gift for singing and so devoted to ministering to the world through music and being a witness for Jesus Christ. I understood her pains and disappointments but that made her victories at the end all the more worth it. Yet another detail I cannot go into depth about without giving away the storyline.

Curious to know more? Go see Unsung Hero in theaters starting April 26, 2024!

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More words from Momentum:

Watch the trailer for Unsung Hero:
https://youtu.be/CoLmPx9kuvc?si=IKyPlg872ySlWeLC

Buy tickets to see Unsung Hero in theaters:
UNSUNG HERO | Official Website | April 26 2024
 
Watch Jean’s interview with Luke Smallbone from "for KING + COUNTRY":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QfJOigc0kQ

Visit the official movie page for Unsung Hero:
Unsung Hero | Coming To Theaters April 26

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A Giveaway Contest for you:

Momentum Influencers Network would like to give a $10 Amazon gift card to the winner of this giveaway contest! Please note: This giveaway is limited to U.S. winners only.

Here is the Giveaway Contest link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c496/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#UnsungHeroMIN #UnsungHeroMovie #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Devotionals for the Heart: A life lesson learned from receiving a "starter"

Fight to the Finish
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NLT)

Several years ago, my sister-in-law offered me a “starter” to take home and bake.

It was a mixture of a few ingredients that would eventually be added with other ingredients to form a loaf of bread. The interesting thing about this “starter” was that that each person who received one were challenged to share one with someone else so they too could make their homemade loaf. This was not the first time someone had shared their “starter” with me. It was actually fun to take it and finish the process of making a loaf.

This process had me thinking about what it means to be a “starter” in life. Many of us start things. We’re great at getting people together to form the team but the team is only as successful as when they move forward on the plans that they came together for in the first place.

I remember my son saying to me one day, “Mom you’re great at starting things, but when are you going to finish something?” At the time his words stung me like a mosquito bite! Rather than getting uptight, I stopped and thought carefully about his words. He was seeing a behavior that I needed to address.

Starters are great at pulling ideas together and people to help carry the ideas forward. But the true version of success is when you’re able to keep that same energy and actually finish. It is an endeavor that cannot be done alone. We need each other. We need a community to carry forward the plans and ideas. Oftentimes I’ve had to speak to myself, pray, journal and bounce ideas off others to not quit. It’s easier to quit than it is to finish, and I want to be a finisher.

The Apostle Paul in what would be a farewell letter to his mentee Timothy, gave him a list of things to keep in his mind as he carries out his ministry. Paul is not shy in telling Timothy that the mandate he was given to preach the gospel is not easy. It has come with adversity and testing. However, he has pressed through. He has not quit. He states he has “fought a good fight”. He has fought through depression, discouragement and even disillusionment when times were tough.

Can you relate to what Paul has experienced? I get the feeling many of us have had to decide many times whether to give up, throw in the towel and like the referee in a boxing match, start the countdown to declare our most formidable opponent (Satan) the winner. Are we going to give up or are we going to get up from where we left off and keep moving?

Jesus Christ told us that here on this Earth, we will have troubles and hard times. He didn’t stop there though and leave us without hope! Regarding the troubles of the world, Jesus said in John 16:33 (NLT), “But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Reading those promises from God, let’s remind ourselves that we’ve been declared the winner in the fight of this life because Christ has overcome any and every challenge we will ever face. As my son challenged me, I challenge you to not quit. Fight to the finish line because you only get awarded the prize when you finish what you started. But don’t worry, God will be with you all the way!

Let’s Pray: God our Father, we thank you for reminding us through Your Son (Jesus Christ) that greater is He that is within us than he (Satan) that is in the world. Remind us that this Bible truth means we have your power, your presence and everything we need in Jesus to overcome the troubles of the world. Help us to get up and keep moving forward despite the challenges we face. We love You and thank You for this reminder today in Jesus’s wonderful name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Believe for It” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

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

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

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 33 years. Together, they serve the community through their local congregation in various capacities. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: God's Grace

God Promises to Give You Grace
A devotional by Essie Faye Taylor

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.”–2 Corinthians 12:9 (CSB)

I sat quietly in disbelief after receiving the news that three people in my life were now deceased. Two men of faith who mentored me for decades, suddenly fell asleep (they died). A younger cousin, who I'd seen just months prior, was suddenly taken from our midst.

My heart ached, but the tears would not come. Death can be unexpected and sudden. I felt as if I’d been punched in my gut and the wind was knocked out of me because this pain caught me off guard. There was nothing I could do about this loss. I was emotionally and physically exhausted from fighting in this game called life. I was working two jobs in order to provide for my family and still I was barely making ends meet. I was overwhelmed to say the least and I cried out to God, “Lord, help! This is too much to bear.”

If we are honest, as Christians, we find ourselves at a place of overwhelm a lot. Life throws us curveballs, monkey wrenches, and game-changers unexpectedly. We are oftentimes faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This is a part of our faith walk. Our faith does not make us exempt from the adversity of life. However, our faith sustains us as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. The Bible says we should not fear evil because God is with us! This truth is tested when we are in the valley because it is then when we experience feelings of despair, loneliness, depression, anxiety, doubt, pain, anguish. We feel defeated as we struggle to walk through the valley. However, we can find solace in the fact that God is with us. He is present to console us, guide us, and provide for us in that place of hardship.

In 2 Corinthians 12:6-9, Paul finds himself in an unfortunate situation. He sought the Lord diligently multiple times, asking God to remove a thorn from Him. He uses a thorn to express a point of extreme difficulty, pain, complexity, and/or controversy. According to three Old Testament scriptural references (Numbers 33:55, Joshua 23:13 and Judges 2:3), Paul’s “thorn” was a demonic angel or messenger sent by Satan to continually stir up persecution against him.

It is documented throughout the book of Acts that virtually everywhere Paul visited, he was persecuted. 2 Corinthians 11:23-26 details his experience. According to this scripture, Paul testifies that he was imprisoned for the sake of the Gospel several times, beaten, and had near death experiences as he spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Five times he received thirty-nine lashes and a beating from the Jews. He was beaten with rods three times and pelted with stones. He was shipwrecked three times and spent time in the open sea. He was constantly on the run from people who wanted to harm him. His life was full of persecution, but this was God’s plan for Paul. Remember: Jesus prophesied that Paul would suffer many things for the sake of Christ at his conversion on the road to Damascus.

After seeking God to take this burden away, God responds by promising His grace. God doesn’t remove Paul’s “thorn”. Instead, He gave him the strength to endure it. Grace is the God-given ability to do what God requires. Grace is giving us what we don’t deserve: ability to conquer and overcome. God enables us to do what we cannot, within our own power. The grace of God is sufficient–it is enough for us to endure hardness as a good soldier.

God promises grace over our lives every day so we can navigate life’s hard situations. The Bible says His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23) and that He is always with us (Matthew 28:20). Not only is God with us, He enables us to stand in the face of adversity even when it feels like our knees will buckle. And if our knees buckle, we can find grace, mercy, and help at His throne. When we are weak, He is strong. In essence, we find our strength through our relationship with God. We lean on the strength of an all-powerful God and our character is perfected. In our weakness, we discover His power and greatness as we walk through life’s valleys. We grow to know and love Him more deeply in trying times and we are better for it.

We can do difficult things and overcome obstacles through the power of Christ.

Call to Action:

1. Acknowledge your true feelings. It’s okay not to be okay. Take that overwhelm, anger, frustration, etc. to God. He is able to accept anything you bring to Him. He can handle your anger, frustration, and pain. Give it all to Him and exchange them for His grace.

2. Face the situation head on. Know that you have sufficient grace to stand firm by faith in the midst of any difficulty. God is with you. 

3. Lean into God’s presence. Find solace in His presence through prayer, mediation, praise, and worship. Even silence, when you don’t have the words, allows you to tap into God’s presence. 

4. Believe that God enables you to accomplish what He requires. If you need to grieve properly, forgive, confess, repent and change your lifestyle, it may not be easy. But God will empower you through His grace to do it. It may be difficult, but it is possible.

5. Remember: All things are possible to him who believes. God’s grace is enough and by faith through grace He equips us to address whatever life brings our way.

Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your grace that is enough for me. It is enough to sustain and comfort me when I’m in a state of overwhelm, sadness, hopelessness, and despair. You enable me to stand by grace and in faith when life hits hard. When misfortune catches me unaware, I am not alone. You are with me and You are not caught off guard. You know the ending from the beginning and You know the way that I take. Help me to believe in the power and presence of Your grace in every circumstance I find myself experiencing. Thank you, Father, for hearing and answering my prayers. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Were It Not For Grace” by Larnelle Harris. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Essie Taylor is an author, educator, minister, youth advocate, recording artist, podcaster, and improviser. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rockford College. 

She is a veteran educator of Bilingual Education, English as a Second Language, and Spanish Language Acquisition with National Board Teacher Certification. She is an advocate of lifelong learning, language learning, and multiculturalism.

Essie is the CEO of KenMar Press, an author agency, and The Essie Faye Collection. Essie is the author of Finding the Love You Deserve: 30 Lessons in Self-Love & Acceptance, and Finding The Love Your Deserve: A 60-Day Healing Journal For Women of Faith.

She is deeply committed to motivating minorities, women, and youth to pursue God while chasing their dreams and carving out their life’s path. She loves God, people, and helping others.

Essie has been a Christian for nearly all of her 39 years. She was born again at 15 years old. She has been a bilingual worship leader and interpreter for 10+ years. By the grace of God, Essie helped to establish bilingual ministries at five churches in her young life. She is a survivor of domestic violence (verbal and emotional abuse) and marital abandonment in a prior marriage.

Essie is a Chicago native. She lives in Chicago with her husband Donald Taylor II.

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Connect with Essie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_essie_faye/
Website: www.essiefayetaylor.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Loving People and Living for Jesus Christ

Start with the end in mind
A devotional by Patricia Russell

"I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." —Philippians 3:14 (NLT)

Have you ever heard the words “start with the end in mind” in relation to planning an event, a recording or any project? What do you think the reason for this is?

The end is what you want to accomplish. The end is the culmination of all the plans, preparation and processes you’ve gone through to arrive at the destination. So, in order to write the plan, having the end in mind and working backwards is ideal.

When one’s life has ended, and final goodbyes are planned to honor the person by having a homegoing service, there are many people who want to share their thoughts about the person and what they meant to them. I have often thought about who would say what about me at my homegoing. The more we think about it is the more we want to live with that end in mind. What I mean is, I want to love people so well that if I die before Jesus Christ returns to Earth to take His faithful followers home to Heaven, the life I lived leaves a legacy behind showing everyone that I loved people, I loved Jesus, and I used my God-given gifts for the benefit of others.

The best person to teach us how this is actually lived out is Jesus Christ. On the night of His arrest, He gathered His disciples together for dinner. He asked them to eat bread and drink wine in remembrance of Him. So that when He died, they would remember and reflect on what He taught them. Now, the question is, “Are we following Jesus, serving Him and others, and living intentionally with purpose from day to day?”

We should also ponder these questions: “Do we do things, share knowledge with people, encourage and empower others so that we are not keeping the knowledge to ourselves?” and “What mark are we intentionally leaving on this world so that when we leave, they will know we were here? Will people know through the way we lived and legacy of faith we leave behind, that Jesus loves them?”

The apostle Paul had accomplished so much when he said in Philippians 3:12, “I press on”. 

He had not finished. He still had more to do. He was focused on the end goal. The goal kept him moving in the right direction. He continued by saying in Philippians 3:14: “I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”

The race was ongoing, and he was not quitting. No one wants to quit when there is a “prize” to gain. And when God is giving out prizes you know it’s gonna be good.

The Apostle Paul calls us who are spiritually mature to agree to run to win. How do we do this? We listen and look for people who need encouragement to keep going. You know how just one word of encouragement can change your life for the better. Just one word can push you forward when you feel like quitting. Weeks will come, months will pass, and years will close but whatever you do, don’t give up. Focus on the goal which will keep you pressing forward despite the discouragement and distractions. Stay determined like Paul and run to win!

Let’s Pray:
Father God, we praise You and thank You for everything. You know the end of our days and it is your desire for us to receive the prize you have set before us. Lord, we believe your Word and know you will strengthen us as we run this race of life to win! In Jesus’s Name we pray, Amen.

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

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

She also travels to speak to audiences internationally.

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

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

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to trust God through karate lessons

How Karate Lessons Taught Me to Trust God
A devotional by Chaplain Paul Anderson

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”

—1 Peter 5:10 (ESV)

When we lived in Okinawa, Japan, I enrolled my children in a karate class.

My son asked “Dad, why don’t you do it with us?”

So I did.

It was brutal. I was already fit and working out with the Marines. Calisthenics and running three miles, three days a week was my norm. The karate regimen, on top of that, was grueling.

There was one exercise that seemed over the top. We would kneel, then lean back until our shoulders were on the floor. We were expected to do sit ups from that position. We could not do it when we started. It was hard and painful. I can’t do it now.

We watched as those who had been in this class longer did it with ease. We watched as the Sensei would move around, checking the strength of their abdomen by jumping on their stomachs. Seeing this action shocked us and amazed us at the same time!

But we persevered. For weeks we did it. Finally, the Sensei came around to us and put his foot on our bellies. We were not ready yet. Keep stretching, he would say. After a few months he came to me. He put his foot on my belly. He nodded and walked away, leaving me feeling a little disappointed. I had begun to look forward to the day when he would jump on my stomach and I could hold him up.

Just as I relaxed, in my mind, thinking that he was not going to do it, he leapt backward and landed his entire body weight on my abdomen. I took it! He stood on my stomach and said to me, “You are a chaplain. You teach people to be wary and ready for demonic assaults, but you were not ready for me. Always be ready for an adversary. The worst attacks are those that come by surprise.”

He said, “How do you feel now?”

I replied, “Happy!”

He asked, “You are happy that I am standing on you?”

I said, “No. I am happy that I can take it.”

It was then that I knew why we worked out so hard in these karate lessons. It was because the strength comes after the exercise.

1 Peter 5:10 is like that experience. It is after some inevitable sufferings, that the strength of our character and purpose shines. Don’t be a masochist, seeking suffering. But be a warrior, hardening yourself for the battle. Because it is after the exercise that muscles grow. It is after our spiritual suffering that we are made perfect, mature in faith and practice.

It is after the challenges that we become leaders. It is after effective leadership that people become willing to follow. It is after you have proven to yourself that you can do it, that you do it best. It is after the struggle that praise springs forth.

Here are some steps I gleaned from 1 Peter 5:7-10 that can help you to maximize your spiritual growth plane and leadership.

Step One: Cast your cares on God.

a. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all thy ways and He shall direct thy paths.

b. Delight thyself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.

c. Be like Jesus and you will gain testimonies. You will be a living testimony.

Step Two: Sobriety is an imperative.

d. This is not just the absence of intoxicants. It is awareness, watchfulness and preparation. I took a martial arts class some years ago. The Sensei said, “Any man who stands with his hands in his pockets is vulnerable.” Why? Because you can’t defend yourself.

e. Challenges are going to come your way. A mind that is clear and focused on the presence and the will of God in your life, is the best preparation and defense against distractions and attacks of the evil, enemy of God.

f. Some amount of suffering is assumed and expected.

Remember: When God brings you to it, he will see you through it.

Someone told me that the finger of God never points where His hand has not already made a way. Trust, obey and exercise His grace. After that is when we experience His eternal glory!

Let’s Pray: Dear God, as we move from this devotional moment, please give us a sense of readiness and a grateful enthusiasm for the blessings and challenges that we will meet today. Bless each reader with grit and fortitude. When the day is over, may each reflect upon at least one success with which they have been blessed. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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