Devotionals for the Heart: Believing in God isn't the same as knowing Him

Believing Isn’t the Same as Knowing Him
A devotional by Heidi Lewis-Ivey

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

—Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

A pastor friend of mine asked me to teach a Christian Foundations course for a group of aspiring ministers she's raising up. This week's lesson was “Faith Toward God.” I've taught on faith more times than I can count, but I didn’t expect it to hit me the way it did. But somewhere in the middle of preparing, I got stuck on one question: How does faith in a God I can't see turn into knowing Him?

Because those are two different things. I think a lot of us live in the first one without realizing it. Let’s break this down.

Believing He's There:

Most of us start here, whether we remember starting or not. Somewhere along the way we came to believe God exists. We believe there is a Creator, a Judge, a Someone behind all of this. Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) puts words to that starting point: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

That's a real and necessary step. But as I sat with the next verse this week, I realized I read past something important my whole life that is found in Hebrews 11:6 (NJKV). It says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”

It's not just “believe He exists”. It's “believe He rewards those who seek Him”. That second half is the part I think I'd been skipping. Believing God is there is one thing. Believing He responds when you look for Him is another thing entirely, and it's the part that turns faith from an idea into a pursuit.

I Can Believe the Right Things and Still Not Know Him:

This is the verse that stopped me while I was preparing for the lesson. James 2:19 (NKJV) reads, “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!”

I read that and thought, “Well, that's humbling. Demons have better theology than half of us. They know exactly who God is. And it does absolutely nothing for them, because knowing facts about someone isn't the same as knowing them.”

I think I've done that with God more than I'd like to admit. I believed the right things. Said the right things. And still kept Him at arm's length, more like a concept I agreed with than a Person I walked with.

He's Not an Idea, He's Alive:

What changed something in me this week was sitting with this phrase: the living and true God. Paul uses it describing people who'd turned away from idols. He said in 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NKJV), “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”

Idols don't do anything. They don't answer, they don't respond, they don't know you're there. And if I'm honest, I can treat God like an idol without ever bowing to a statue just by keeping Him as a distant idea instead of a living presence. Jeremiah 10:10 (NKJV) says it plainly: “But the Lord is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King.”

Living. Present. Here. That's a very different thing to have faith towards than a concept in a book.

So How Do You Actually Get There?

I don't think this shift happens automatically just because time passes. A few things stood out to me as I thought through it—not as steps to check off, but more like doors that were already open, waiting. One is simply hearing from Him. Paul says faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). I can't know someone whose voice I never listen to, and I think that's true of God too. The more time I spend in His Word and in prayer, the less abstract He becomes.

Another is that seeking Him isn't a shot in the dark. God promises this in Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV), “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” That's not a maybe. That's a promise from a God who wants to be found. It is a reminder that we can't do anything to earn His love. His heart toward us was set long before we ever sought Him.

And then there's what Jesus says eternal life is. Not “believing the correct doctrine.” Knowing Him like He says in John 17:3 (NKJV) that reads, “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” The Apostle Paul wanted that so badly he called it the goal of his whole life. He said this in Philippians 3:10 (KJV): “That I may know Him.”

Not know about Him. Know Him. In other words, not a mere intellectual belief, but an experiential, intimate relationship with Him. That’s what I want. I want to know Him and live so close to Him, that when He whispers, I hear it.

Coming Closer, Not Just Believing Harder

Here's what I keep coming back to since teaching this: because of Jesus Christ, we're not left to approach an unseen God from a distance, hoping He notices us. Scripture says we get to come close. According to Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV), “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Boldly. Not timidly, not from far off, not just believing Him from across the room. We're invited in. That's the shift I was trying to put words to in class this week: Faith toward God was never supposed to be the finish line. It's the doorway. On the other side of it is an actual Person, alive and present, who wants to be known.

The Bible says in John 1:12 (NKJV), “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

The Holy Spirit spoke to me years ago. He said, “Faith is progressive and it is historical.” This means we grow in faith as we continue to approach Him through His Word (The Holy Bible), and in prayer. Faith is historical because there is this record of God’s love and faithfulness toward us that says, “If He did there (wherever there is), surely He can do it here.”

Believing got me to the door. Knowing Him intimately is what's on the other side of it and honestly, I'm still walking through.

Let’s Pray:

Lord,

Thank You that You are not a distant idea, but the living and true God who is near, present, and real. We confess that it's possible to believe the right things about You and still keep You at arm's length. Forgive us for the times we've settled for facts about You instead of relationship with You.

Stir in us a hunger to seek You with all our heart, trusting Your promise that those who seek You will find You. Let our faith not stop at believing You exist but carry us into knowing the way the Apostle Paul desired in Philippians 3:10, “That I may know Him.”

Thank You that through Jesus we don't have to approach You from a distance. We can come boldly, not because we've earned it, but because You've already made the way. Draw us closer today. Let what we know about You become what we know of You.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “I Believe God” by Kurt Carr (feat. Timiney Figueroa-Caton). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “God's Favor” by Donald Lawrence featuring Karen Clark-Sheard, Kim Burrell, and Kelly Price. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “You Are God Alone” by Marvin Sapp. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #5: “Just to Know You” by Mark Schultz. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #6: “Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #7: “Oh, I Want to Know You More” by Steve Green. Listen to it here. 

~*~
Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

She lives in Boston, MA.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: When God helps you use what's in your hand

What’s In Your Hand?
A devotional by Kerry Sue Teravskis

Then the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?”

—Exodus 4:2 (NIV)

We carry many things in our hands. Keys. Food. Backpack. A loved one’s hand. Money. A tool. And many of these things are quite useful throughout our day.

If you are a chef, then a sharp knife is essential. If you are a dog trainer, then a leash along with dog treats is in order. If you are a mommy, then your empty hands are needed to help, guide, carry and comfort a child.

What we carry in our hands can be used by God, if we let Him. Moses had just been called by God to go to Pharoah to bring His people, the Israelites, out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10). Moses had met God via a burning bush (Exodus 3:1-6). It was then when Moses received a call from God and the instructions of what his life would look like from here on out. But he had some questions for God first.

Moses asked God for a sign—multiple ones, even though he had just had the burning bush experience in which God’s voice was heard from a fire-engulfed bush that was not consumed by the fire. Perhaps Moses was afraid to step out into the wide unknown. Maybe that is why he asked God for a sign. God answered Moses by telling him to look at his hand then gave him the sign he needed. Has this ever happened to you? You feel a nudging from God to do something new to you and you do not know where to begin. Maybe you have many different hobbies, interests, and likes, but they don’t necessarily go together except at a salad bar.

This does not matter to God. He takes all things and uses them for His glory. Even our experiences from the past such as the pain, the betrayal, the unforgiveness, and the secret parts of our lives we don’t share because they are too private. God can use it all to transform us and inspire others to know Him on a personal level.

God is a creative God. His creativity is displayed around is in His creation. Animals like the wildebeest, a zebra, a giraffe, a monkey or a hippo are unique in appearance. I saw all these animals on a recent trip to a safari park in East Africa. On that safari, I saw how creative God is in the colors and patterns He chose to incorporate in animals. He was creative because it was in His hand to be creative. It is God’s nature and we are the ones who benefit from the works of His hands.

Before this trip to a safari, God used what was in my hand in a very unexpected way. My husband and I were going to Tanzania for him to teach at a Bible college and I had different teaching type things I was going to do. I had a lot of free time after I completed my assignment. The missionaries we were working with asked me if I had any hobbies or interests. I replied yes and mentioned my passion for sewing garments. And I have a passion for helping women sew garments for themselves, their families, and as a business.

She asked if I could hold a day-long seminar to demonstrate making products for themselves. I began drafting patterns, getting them in Swahili and praying about this day. When we arrived in Tanzania a month ago, that one day seminar turned into a sewing clinic at the training center of the mission. It was going to be a month-long clinic where students lived at the center, learned how to use a treadle sewing machine, learn a skill, how to manage a small business and a budget, and learn more about Jesus Christ.

What I do for personal interest for myself and others (and mine is not a business), became used by God for others to make a living for themselves and their families.

When I saw the training center for the first time getting painted and ready for the 11 students, plus the 15 new treadle machines (electricity is not that reliable), I was overcome. God was using what was in my hand. I thought I was going to teach one small class in something I consider a hobby, where God was using it to reach more for His glory and His work.

I did not ask God for a sign, rather He gave me a powerful lesson on obedience. We went out of obedience to Tanzania. We do not go for the ‘adventure’, nor did we go because we had not been to Africa before. We went because God called us to go. We went because He had something for us to do. We went because of obedience and love. And we received way more than we gave.

Let’s Pray: Father, I have stuff in my hands, but I am not sure if it can be useful for You and I want to glorify and honor You with what I have in my hands. Show me Lord what it is You want me to give to You. I don’t necessarily need a sign, rather a direction on how to use what You have given me for Your kingdom purposes. I lay (fill in the blank) at Your feet, for Your use. And I do it willingly. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “Available to You” (ft. J Moss) by Melinda Watts. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Out of My Hands” by Jeremy Camp. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Use Me” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. 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: 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

My Review of Sun Moon (movie)

Today, I have another Pure Flix movie review for you and a giveaway contest at the end of this post! In case you didn’t know, Pure Flix is like the faith-based version of Netflix. It works the same way but the difference is in the content that points you back to Jesus Christ and shows you how much The Creator of the Universe loves you!

Pure Flix is a one-stop shop for faith and family-friendly movies and shows where you can confidently stream in your home with the entire family. With new premium and exclusive original entertainment choices every week, Pure Flix streaming service has the largest variety of high-quality, curated, positive, encouraging, wholesome movies, series and kids' content in one service. Pure Flix is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment, alongside AFFIRM Films.

Pure Flix VIP Ambassador program asked me to review the movie Sun Moon. The main idea for this movie, in words from the producers, is: Kelsey is running from failure, heartbreak and humiliation. In an attempt to understand God’s purpose for her life, she goes to Taiwan to teach English. Will her leap of faith pay off?

I watched this marvelous movie before it was made available for viewing on Pure Flix. It made me laugh out loud, cry for a moment, sigh several times, smile at one point in almost every scene, and seriously crave some bubble tea at the end!

Now for my review: 

Sun Moon is a beautiful story about how God can turn your heartache into hope and make your life a blessing to others along the way. This movie is filled with faith, hope, love, second chances, sweet school children and characters who have a heart for helping each other. The storyline is filled with highs, lows, twists and turns that will keep the viewing audience engaged. It may even make you want to sip some bubble tea (you'll have to watch the movie to find out why). I loved everything about this wonderful movie and it encouraged me in my real-life journey of learning how to step out on faith and follow God's lead where He may send me. Let me highlight a few main points about Sun Moon…

MacKenzie Mauzy, the actress who played Kelsey, did a delightful job of portraying this character from heartbreak to hope. She stayed in character throughout the movie’s highs, lows, twists and turns. I’m also impressed how in one scene, she climbed over a very tall gate after-hours so she could return to her apartment. I was hoping she wouldn’t get hurt. The movie watcher may identify with Kelsey’s story—especially those who have experienced being left at the altar in real life. But the story doesn’t end with the pain of jilted bride, it only begins there! This is a wonderful reminder about how God can use our pain to catapult us into our purpose.

Kelsey finds her purpose in Taiwan and her life is forever changed in a very good way! Who knew that answering a call to be a missionary would be just what she needed? Just like in real-life, God knew! Oftentimes, we can forget that God has us right where He wants us to be and we cannot mess up His plan for our lives because the Bible says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21).

I also like that the storyline showed that despite Kelsey leaving her church and abandoning her faith in God for a while, God never left her alone to do life on her own. He continued to be with her every step of the way even when she tried to run away from Him and push Him away. This is a beautiful portrayal of God’s love that endures forever not just in faith-based fiction stories or in Christian movies, but in the real world.

In conclusion, I’d like to say that Sun Moon should win an award! It was delightfully done in a way that will educate, inspire and encourage viewers to seek God's plan for their life and follow it fearlessly. This movie will touch your heart and help you hope again just when you thought all hope was lost.

Themes of this movie included:

· Keeping up appearances/your image

· Learning new cultures

· Loving all of God’s people, being afraid of losing loved ones/sick relatives

· Being angry at God for how events unfolded

· Moving forward after loss or unplanned events, healing

· Friendship

· Learning to trust in His timing

· Struggling with disappointment and loss of faith

· God uses everything, even the hurt and pain

· Finding confidence

· How to walk through difficult and challenging times

· There is a season for everything

· Grieving loss

· God will push us out of comfort zone (all the way to Taiwan)

· The difference we make in the lives of other people

· “God did not burn you” your boyfriend did

· Choosing to not blame God in difficult situations

· Overcoming adversity

Sun Moon is a movie that will introduce you to Pure Flix, prompt you to join and watch it again and again! And once you’re a member of Pure Flix, you’ll find more content to view that will encourage your heart. So don’t delay, join today!

Watch Sun Moon movie trailer:
https://www.pureflix.com/movie/sun-moon

Jean Thomason from Momentum Influencer Network interviewed Sydney Tooley, writer and director for Sun Moon. Watch their conversation here: https://youtu.be/UX0a9X4DEcg

Before you go, enter this contest for your chance to WIN a FREE 3-month Pure Flix subscription! Note: This giveaway is limited to U.S. residents only. The giveaway starts today and ends on May 12, 2023. If you're participating in the giveaway for Sun Moon, please note that we cannot accept winners that have won a Pure Flix subscription in the last six months.

Here is the Giveaway Contest link:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f8dcb68c448/?

Disclosure: Many thanks to Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#SunMoonMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

Love,

Alexis A. Goring, MFA

Founder of "God is Love" blog

Devotionals for the Heart: Differences

How is your heart health?
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“Happy are those whose hearts are pure, for they shall see God.” 

–Matthew 5:8 (TLB)

It was my second trip to the east coast of Canada and I was excited.

It was an opportunity to travel, sing, meet new people and encourage them in the Word and I thought this was going to be good!

One day, we went into town and met some people in the community. I remember greeting a group of people and chatting. Not long after, a little boy, about the age of six years old, approached me. I bent down and put my hand out to shake his. With thoughtful and deeply curious eyes he reached out and stroked the top of my hand. He stroked it again. He looked back at his hand as if fully expecting to see something to come off on to his little hand.

I was perplexed. I knew my hands weren’t wet. I was now puzzled! I noticed the adults around him looked disturbed and blushed. He looked up at me and asked, “Does it come off?”

My brain quickly went into fourth gear, as I realized he was clearly expecting something from my chocolate skin to rub off on to his hand. This was the first time he had met a dark-skinned person. He looked up in surprise. The question in his eyes required an answer. I knelt down, looked lovingly in his eyes and said, “No honey, the color doesn’t come off. This is the color of my skin. It doesn’t wash off. This is who I am.”

I waited for a response. There was none to give. In childlike fashion he shrugged his shoulders, turned and ran off to play with his friends.

Friends, it’s this very same attitude that God longs for us to come to Him with. Come without fear, with curiosity and purity. We only need to have the courage to reach out, touch His heart with our questions, our doubts, our fears. Believe me, His heart can handle it. Remember, He understands our makeup.

The Psalmist David said in Psalm 139:1-5 (TLB), “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit or stand. When far away you know my every thought. You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say before I even say it.You both precede and follow me and place your hand of blessing on my head.”

David continues to marvel over the fact that God knows everything about us. Wherever we go, He is there! Whatever we think – He knows. Just like that little boy, God is not afraid of our response – He actually knows it before we say it (Psalm 139:4). That short encounter reminded me of how much God wants me to have a childlike heart in how I relate to Him. He told the disciples to allow the children to freely come to be with Him because they reflected the mindset He wanted us to have in His kingdom.

Jesus wanted them to watch and learn from the children who played freely, forgave easily and whose hearts were pure. When exposed to loving relationships, loving behavior and loving conversation, children will naturally pass that on to others they interact with. So maybe we need to check our hearts. Have you had a heart check-up lately? How is your heart beating? Are you anxious? Are you worried about tomorrow?

Take on the attitude of that little boy during the first time he met someone who didn’t look like him. “She looks different,” he must have thought. But he didn’t linger on that thought or treat me badly because of my skin color. He simply shrugged then decided to go and play.

I believe God wants us to see the differences in people and love them anyway. Remember, He created us all. Rest in knowing what David (the Psalmist) knew: God knows everything about you … everything. Yet He loves you anyway!

Let’s pray: Dear God, there are so many things happening in this world that can overwhelm my heart. I choose today, to trust you in everything. Keep my heart pure so I can see people through your eyes and love them the way You love them. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia Russell is a speaker, worship leader, author, certified life coach and songwriter. 

Her gifts have been shared internationally with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through words and songs. She has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers. Over her 30 years in ministry, she has been a featured artist in musical cantatas locally and the United States of America.

Patricia had the honour of leading worship at the kick-off event for the 2006 the “Just Give Me Jesus” Toronto Revival with Anne Graham Lotz who is the eldest daughter of Billy Graham, a well-known American evangelist.

Patricia serves in ministry along with her husband Rev. Wayne Russell. Together, they have served as guest hosts on a local early morning call in program called “Nite Lite Live” that formerly aired on the CTS Television Network. They have two adult children Raquel and Benjamin.

Patricia has recorded two CD’s: “Lord I Trust You” and a live recording “Draw Me Nearer.” She is also an author. Her first book is titled Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement. It is meant to further encourage and share life lessons as a result of her cancer journey. She is a co-author of a #1 bestseller book titled Crushed Diamonds Still Sparkle, and she has compiled the recent #1 bestseller book titled Stronger Resilience.

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

Devotionals for the Heart: Fear Not!

Fear Not!
A devotional by Ginger Solomon

“But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.
I praise God for what he has promised.
I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
What can mere mortals do to me?”
~Psalm 56:3-4 (NLT)

I’ve been dealing with a lot of fear lately. I’m not sure why. Crazy hormones? Bad eating habits? Too much stress? A teen with a learner’s license?

Two years ago, I also dealt with fear, but then I had a specific reason. I was facing brain surgery. My neurosurgeon was confident in his abilities, but any little thing could have gone wrong and caused my death.

At the time, I took out a notebook and searched for verses about fear. I wrote a bunch of them down. Not every verse applied to me, but many did. And God buoyed my faith in Him at that critical time.

Today, I struggle.

And, sadly, I have not yet overcome. I wallow instead of praying. *Shrug* What can I say? I’m human. I forget God’s promises.

I’m sure you’ve heard, but I’ll tell you again, in case you didn’t know and to remind myself. “Fear not” is in the Bible 365 times. (Someone else says 366 to account for leap year, but I didn’t check it out.) Every day, God has given us a verse to fight against the fear.

And yet, here I am, living my life afraid.

What am I afraid of? In essence, it boils down to one thing—getting hurt. I don’t like to be in pain. But then who does? And I find this utterly amusing because for the last seven years, I have lived with chronic back pain.

I’m not afraid of heights. I’m afraid of falling, or more accurately, of landing. I’m not afraid of cars. I’m afraid of car accidents (people are crazy drivers). I’m not afraid of writing stories. I’m afraid of disappointing God by not writing the right story. Do you see where I’m going?

But my fear is holding me back. And, more importantly, it’s starting to affect my family.

I’ve taught five children to drive (that’s scary, in and of itself). I should have this whole sitting in the passenger seat down, but I don’t. I still get nervous. My inexperienced child is behind the wheel of a four-thousand-pound vehicle. And there are IDIOTS on the streets (and no, I don’t apologize for that word because it is absolutely accurate). Anything could happen.

And therein lies the rub.

I’m scared of what could happen. It steals my joy of the right now. It makes my child think I don’t trust his driving abilities, and really, it’s not him so much as it is what the other people are doing.

What I need to remember, and yes, I’m still working on it, is that GOD is in control. My fear is in direct opposition to trusting Him. If I trusted Him like I should, I don’t need to be afraid.

I learned that lesson during the month before my surgery. I trusted Him like I never had before. It was a supernatural faith. And I want it back. I want to look at life through the lens of faith.

My Prayer: Dear God, whatever comes my way today, help me have faith. Help me to trust in Your divine plan and if pain is a part of that plan then help me rely on You to get through it.

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Author Bio:

Ginger Solomon is a Christian, a wife, a mother to seven, and a writer—in that order (mostly).

She writes or reads inspirational romance of any genre, and if she’s busy homeschooling, doing laundry, or fixing dinner, books are on her mind.

She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), president of her local writing group, and blogs regularly for InspyRomance.com and at gingersolomon.com.

Devotionals for the Heart: Absolutes

The Absolutes
A devotional by Nanci Rubin

"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever."

~Hebrews 13:8 (KJV)

Our world is in such turmoil, and our youth struggle to find their place in an ever-changing environment. Teens look to their peers for acceptance as parental influence becomes almost nil. Don’t we all look for acceptance? The youth desire to be loved. They need to know God loves them.

I have worked with kids all my life. I was Head Nurse in the Health Center at our local university and when I was nursing I worked in pediatrics. I’ve taught Sunday School to middle-grade kids. I love children, and I’ve seen first-hand how easily they can get into trouble. We’re all familiar with the cute toddler who reaches out to grab something, stops, looks you in the face waiting for your response. A “no-no” will be uttered, and those tiny hands quickly grab the desired object and drop it almost at the same time. They push you beyond your limits. The urge to rebel doesn’t seem to go away, even into adulthood there remains some residual. We appear to like the forbidden thing.

I remember when I worked at the college some of our freshman students would come totally unprepared for the liberal world-view, and the freedom associated with being away from home for the first time. It was such a culture shock that some couldn’t handle it, and they ended up leaving school. We had a sweet young lady named, Roxanne. She was so naïve and easily upset that she refused to sleep in the dorm and received permission from the Dean to sleep in the infirmary. She did that her entire freshman year. It wasn’t long into her sophomore year that Roxanne embraced college life with both arms. I watched her bloom where God planted her. I’m glad we took the time to nurture Roxanne, she needed the extra care. She was worth it. However, there is a universal mantra they all relate to. It is, “I hurt, and I’ll do anything to stop the pain.” And they try whether it’s by drugs, promiscuity, or rebellion. They call out for help. But are we listening? 

Our young people need validation. They need to know how special they are, not only to their parents, friends, and relatives but to God. He created us in His image, so we’re starting off ahead in the game of life.

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them."~Genesis 1:27 (KJV)

God knows us before we’re born. He has chosen us and selected our DNA before we were a glimmer in our mother’s eye. I like that. And I’m awed by it.

"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations."~Jeremiah 1:5 (KJV)

I would like every young person, old person and all in between to realize God didn’t make a mistake when he formed you. He made each of us unique and special. No one on planet earth has your fingerprint, your thoughts, memories, and your personal quirks. God didn’t make junk when he made you!

There is a gentleman in our Life Group from church who’d seemed troubled for several weeks but never mentioned anything nor asked for prayer. One evening, he finally asked for prayer. He’d begun to doubt what God had for him, and he felt he couldn’t be of use to God any longer because of his age. So many seniors believe their age can hinder their work for God. I am reminded that Sampson did greater feats at the end of his life than in the beginning. The patriarchs of the Bible were mighty men in the later years of their lives. God is not done with you yet. He is no respecter of persons.

"For God shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another]." ~Romans 2:11 (AMP)

No matter your age or station in life, you are God’s creation, and He loves you. He has a purpose and a plan for each life. Teach your children whom they can believe and count on. God will lead them through life. These are the absolutes they can hold onto. Be blessed and listen to His still small voice that says:

"Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." ~Matthew 28:20 (KJV)

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Author Bio:

Nanci writes Inspy Amish romance. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two fur kids, Romeo and Juliet, rescue cats. She is working on her debut novel, Plain Justice.

She retired earlier than planned from nursing to care for her mother, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Her mom passed last year at the age of ninety-nine and Nanci has delved more into her writing.

She is active in an intercessory prayer ministry in her church, belongs to The Woman’s Club, a service-oriented volunteer organization dedicated to the welfare and enrichment of the community and volunteers two days a week at the Mary Washington Museum.

Currently, she's enrolled in Rhema Bible College’s correspondence Bible studies. She belongs to ACFW and RWA. When she’s not working, reading or writing she’s hiking with her husband at Shenandoah National Park.

My Review of the "Before I Go" Online Bible Study from Sarah Koontz

Dear Blog Readers,

Today, I'd like to share my review of a FREE Bible study with you!

The Bible study is called "Before I Go" and it's authored by Sarah Koontz. It focuses on Jesus Christ's final teaching and prayer for His people before He left Earth. 

This study spans for three weeks and is worth every minute that you spend in it!

Read a word from Sarah below then proceed to read my review of Before I Go.

God bless you!

Love,

Alexis

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A Word from Sarah Koontz:

If you have ever wondered who Jesus Christ REALLY is or questioned His relevance in your life, I invite you to join us for the “Before I Go” study. All you need to complete this free online Bible study is 15-minutes per day and an e-mail address.

The detailed account of Jesus’ final teaching and prayer in John 14-17 reveal the heart of the Man, the Messiah, and the Redeemer. 

They are the gospel truth that brings freedom, joy, and transformation into our lives.

THE “BEFORE I GO” BIBLE STUDY WILL HELP YOU:

● Understand Who Jesus Christ Is

● Receive the Free Gift of Salvation

● Invite others to Accept Jesus’ Invitation

● Study and Apply God’s Word to Your Life

● Pray With Absolute Confidence

As you go through this three-week study, you will notice every day is titled with an action verb. They are actions you can do right now! And every single one of them is a reaction to what Jesus Christ has done for you.

When we get to know who Jesus Christ really is—understand why He came to earth and humbled himself to the point of death upon the cross—we are completely transformed.

This study will be offered free of charge to anyone who wishes to participate. Reserve your spot today at LivingbyDesign.org/Jesus.

Study Format

Throughout the study, you will receive daily e-mails including a brief Scripture reading and devotional along with shareable quote graphics. We are excited to announce that we have included an audio version of the daily devotionals in each Before I Go e-mail—making it easier than ever to learn on the go! We encourage you to set aside a minimum of 10-15 minutes per day to complete the study but don’t be surprised if you are tempted to linger a while longer over Jesus’ powerful words.

My Review of Before I Go Bible study:

This Before I Go online Bible study is amazing! The author, Sarah Koontz, does a delightful job of showing what it means to follow Jesus and take His Truth into the world. She carefully and effectively explains His Mission and shows how it relates to our purpose in life. 

Powerful points are found throughout this study. Early on (page 8), Sarah writes,

“Knowing the character of God helps us believe in the promises of God.” 

She also draws inspiration from movies to help make her points clear such as when she shared a reference to Miss Congeniality and emphasized how the beauty contestants' go-to answer was world peace. Regarding this popular desire for world peace, Sarah says, “Social change will not bring peace. Economic stability will not bring peace. Absence of war will not bring peace.”

Sarah pulls quotes from famous pastors like Dr. Warren Wiersbe, who said, “People in the world walk by sight and depend on externals, but Christians walk by faith and depend on eternals.”

This entire study is perfectly punctuated with powerful words from the author herself, The Holy Bible and popular thought leaders from our modern times. Most of all, it's short and very easy to navigate! Three weeks will fly by when you start this study and at the end, you will not only be encouraged but refreshed by the gems within these 32 pages.

Toward the end of the study on page 31, Sarah wraps up her main points with a quote from American actor Kirk Cameron. He said, “If you had the cure to cancer, wouldn’t you share it? You have the cure to death, get out there and share it!” 

Don't delay. Sign-up here to receive your copy of Before I Go! 

Note: There is an audio version available too! See the promo photo for it below.

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Author Bio:

Sarah Koontz invites Christians of all ages to explore the beauty of God’s design through her writing at LivingbyDesign.org. She is a passionate storyteller who enjoys using illustrations to communicate deep spiritual truths. Before I Go is Sarah’s fifth free online Bible study, and she hopes to write many more in the years to come.

Sarah lives on 13-acres in South Dakota with her husband, two daughters and a rowdy flock of chickens. She revels in their simple, uncluttered life.

You can also find Sarah on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Read Sarah’s full bio here.