Devotionals for the Heart: God's Love

The Measure of God’s Love
A devotional by Mirachelle Canada

“...so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:17-19 (ESV)

How do we measure the love of God? God is great. He is the creator and master of the vast, never-ending universe. He has no beginning or end. Then, the essence of all He is must be immeasurable, right?

When growing up in church, young children are often taught to sing the famous hymn “Jesus Loves Me.” In the very first verse is the assurance that His love is true. It says, “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” Children rarely question this or ask where in the Bible it states Jesus loves me. A child’s faith level allows them to accept this as truth unconditionally. It’s only as we grow older (and imagine ourselves wiser) that we question the truth of who God is, and the validity of His love for us.

Have you ever questioned God with, “If you love me, why did you let this happen?” Or requested of Him, “If you love me, show me...tell me...let me...” If is a word that isn’t in God’s vocabulary of Love. If casts doubt on who God says He is. When we doubt His love, we have but to go the Bible for clarification and assurance to find Ephesians 3:18 that tells us that the measure of God’s love goes to “the breath and length and height and depth” and also that there is a depth of His love that “surpasses knowledge” (Ephesians 3:19). Meaning God’s love knows no worldly bounds. As God is out of this world, so too is His love.

So, how then do we understand the level of God’s supernatural love?

We gain understanding by allowing God to fully dwell in our hearts through our faith (Ephesians 3:17). “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1 ESV). The measurement of God’s love is determined by how deep we are willing to let our faith (and hope) go with Him beyond the confines of our contradicting mind and flesh. To any height, depth, breath, or length. To the expanse of a never-ending universe! To that incomprehensible place where only He can impart the surpassing knowledge of His love so that we may be filled with His fullness (Ephesians 3:19). Then, by being filled with His Spirit, it will bear witness with our spirit (Romans 8:16) and produce in our lives God’s fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV).

By acknowledging the greatness of God and being willing to go to immeasurable, supernatural lengths to be rooted and grounded in His love, we can be confident “that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39 ESV). Thank you, Jesus!

Let’s pray: Lord, I thank you for your boundless love. Help me to overcome any doubt and to unconditionally accept your love for me. Lead me into a deeper understanding with you so that I may be one with your Spirit and honor your purpose for first loving me. In Jesus's Name I pray. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

How has God shown you the levels of His immeasurable love in your life? 

Share your experience in the comments below. 

Are you struggling with accepting God’s love? 

Leave a comment below so we may know how to pray for you. 

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

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Connect with Mirachelle:
Website: www.mirachellecanada.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mirachellecanada/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/miracan

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

Romantic Reads: Together for Good

Interview with Penelope Powell about her book, Together for Good:

Alexis: Why did you write this book?

Penelope: Laney’s character is introduced in A Powerful Voice, book two of the Glen Oak Series. She comes across as a somewhat uncomplicated and easy-going friend. Together for Good peels back the layers of her character and life to show the depth of her faith developed through difficulties. People like that always inspire me.

Alexis: Tell us about your story’s heroine, Laney. What makes her happy? What makes her sad? Describe her looks, personality and heart.

Penelope: She’s lean, taller than average, so somewhat insecure of her not-so-curvy figure, but assured in all other aspects. She values relationships of all kinds, loves to teach, but finds change challenging.

Alexis: Tell us about your story’s hero, Matthew. What makes him mad? What makes him glad? Describe his looks, personality and mindset.

Penelope: Matthew is bookish with a charisma that turns heads. Though smart and funny, he’s grown jaded through his experiences, which makes him a little sarcastic.

Alexis: What is the theme of this story and how does it affect your characters?

Penelope: This story suggests that whether bad circumstances stem from trials, or decisions, God can weave good things into them. Laney and Matthew are challenged to put their trust and hope in God even when life hurts.

Alexis: Why does Laney harbor a secret crush on Matthew?

Penelope: When Laney was a little girl going through a difficult season, Matthew was kind to her. From that she formed an attachment.

Alexis: What prevents Laney from telling Matthew how she feels about him?

Penelope: I think fear of rejection keeps most people from sharing their true feelings. Laney and Matthew are no different.

Alexis: What is it about Laney that made Matthew want to be there for her in the past and why does he push her away now in the present?

Penelope: Matthew is empathetic with Laney’s pain in the beginning of the story. Though years pass, seeing her as an adult isn’t an easy odd transition for him.

Alexis: How does love begin to bloom between Matthew and Laney?

Penelope: Spending time together slowly replaces old memories and conceptions with new versions of the people they’ve become.

Alexis: What threatens to end Matthew and Laney’s love before it reaches full bloom?

Penelope: Like many love stories, miscommunication, misunderstanding, and unrealistic expectations derails their growing interest.

Alexis: What role does faith in God play in Matthew and Laney’s life stories?

Penelope: Both are tested, but events and conversations help each see things from another perspective, and that grows their faith.

Alexis: How did your real-life faith in God impact your storytelling?

Penelope: Facing trials spurred questions about God, which caused me to dig deeper into His Word. Ultimately, that pursuit established me with a firmer foundation of belief and hope.

Alexis: What do you want readers to remember most about this story? Why?

Penelope: I hope readers will be able to look at life’s trials from a more hope-filled perspective by seeing God’s hand in their own stories.

Alexis: If you could step into this story as a professional counselor, how would you counsel Matthew and Laney?

Penelope: First, I would tell them to be honest with themselves and each other, and then give each other the same measure of grace they would like to receive.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Penelope! Would you like to share closing thoughts?

Penelope: Thank you for the opportunity to share some of my thoughts behind writing Together for Good. I hope it will bless and encourage anyone who takes the time to read Laney and Matthew’s story.

~*~
Author Bio:

Penelope grew up in Tennessee, but has lived in various states and a few countries outside the United States. She holds a B.S. in Business/Political Science and a M.S. in Multinational Commerce from Boston University.

After working in the field of banking and finance, she left to invest her time with her children. Now that they are grown, she is pursing the life of a writer. As an avid reader of fiction and a student of Biblical truth, she combines what she learns into stories of redemption.

A Powerful Voice, A Furrow So Deep, and Together for Good are full length romances published through Anaiah Press, LLC, as well as her Christmas novella, My Christmas Hope.

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Together for Good book blurb:

Having lost her mother in a tragic drunk driving accident, Laney Spence is no stranger to grief and loss. Despite this tragedy touching her life at such a young age, Laney has maintained her belief that God brings good out of even the most difficult circumstances. For her, that good came in the form of her older brother’s best friend, Matthew Jordan.

Kind and compassionate, Matthew helped her grieve—and she’s been harboring a crush on him ever since.

Years later, when tragedy shatters Matthew’s life, Laney is there for him the same way he’d been there for her all those years ago. But they’re not kids anymore. She’s a teacher with little life experience, and he’s a jaded divorce lawyer with a past he’d rather keep secret.

Neither of them can ignore the attraction that blooms, though, leaving them both wondering—is attraction, history, and a shared faith in God enough to keep them together for good, or will circumstances beyond their control drive them apart?

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Buy Together for Good on Amazon

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Connect with Penelope:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PenelopePowellAuthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@penpowell89
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/penpowell89/
Website: www.penelopepowell.com

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Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: 

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Devotionals for the Heart: Romance

Real Love in Today’s Romance-Hyped Culture
A devotional by Jessica Brodie

A good romance book or movie can be a great escape, a fun read, even a spiritual encouragement. But sometimes, our culture’s portrayal of romance can poison our expectations of what real, lasting love is and how to achieve it.

As someone who used to be teased as a teen for being “in love with the idea of love,” I’m definitely a romantic at heart. I adore love stories, and I absolutely adore my husband.

But trouble often arises when I compare my life or my wants with what’s depicted in movies, books, or social media. The “comparison game” sets so many of us up for failure, not only in romance, but in life generally. We look at what someone else appears to have, or the way movie couples interact, and think, “Why don’t I have this, too? Am I not good enough?”

In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul reminds us, “Each person should test their own work and be happy with doing a good job and not compare themselves with others” (Galatians 6:4 CEB). It’s the same when it comes to love. My romantic relationship with my husband is not the same as someone else’s (nor should it be!). What I find romantic might be far different from what you do, and what my husband responds to might be different, too. That’s a good thing, for we are all different!

Over the years, I’ve wised up to some myths about love:

Myth one: Romantic movies and books convince me my true love will ask me out on a date. But in real life, I’ve found a lot of guys don’t do this. They’re nervous, scared the girl will reject them or that she doesn’t have “those” kinds of feelings for them, so they don’t. They just fumble along, throwing out hints that may or may not work out. Sometimes, the girl is the one who does the asking. And that can be romantic, too!

Myth two: Romance just falls in your lap.

Romantic movies or books often depict two people who are not looking for love, but they happen to collide and then explosive romantic sparks force them to acknowledge their feelings for each other. But in my experience, most couples are seeking to find someone to love. They smile at or cultivate a friendship with someone they find attractive. They ask their friends if they know someone eligible, and they go on dates. At the very least, they put themselves out in the world to make friends and have fun doing things they are interested in, whether that’s rock climbing or hanging out sipping coffee at a bookstore.

Myth three: Relationships are easy.

They are not! They take work. Men and women are different, and we can’t read each other’s minds. The best relationships start out between friends, and they offer lots of grace, humor, and forgiveness. For me, mind games have always been a deal-breaker. And if there’s an issue or conflict, gently addressing it rather than burying it helps solve a lot of small problems before they become monstrous. Bottom line: feelings ebb and flow. Real love, as with any relationship, takes investment, time, and appreciation.

Myth four: Flowers show he loves you.

Sure, they do—but so does doing the dishes, tenderly taking your hand, or smiling at you at a red light. There’s not one key way to express love. The trick is noticing the little ways he tells you he adores you—and trying in turn to show the same (it’s not a one-way street!).

We need to remember: What we read or watch is fiction—and often, what we see on social media is fiction, too. People usually present the best version of themselves on social media, so even if they are not intentionally trying to be deceptive, we only see the “rosy” stuff and not the real-world daily grind.

Real love is beautiful, too, but it doesn’t always look the way it does in fiction. Sometimes it’s nursing your spouse through the flu or choosing not to fight when your loved one is a little snippy or grouchy.

This Valentine’s Day, whether you are in a romantic relationship or not, take the time to love the people in your world the best way you know how. Romantic love is not the only kind of love—far from it! Love well, love beautifully, and love with all your heart as generously and as extravagantly as you possibly can.

For, as Jesus told his disciples in John 13:34-35 (CEB), “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other. This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.”

Let’s Pray: Dear God, help us to keep our focus on You and understand that personal relationships are a gift from above. Help us to stop comparing, to stop looking to other sources for validation and understanding, but instead know that we are uniquely loved and that You have a plan for us that is special and right. Whatever our situation, help us to know we are loved and precious. Help us to look beyond culture and keep our sights upon You. In the holy Name of Your Son Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning Christian journalist, author, blogger, editor, and devotional writer. For the last decade, she’s been the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism, which has won 118 journalism awards during her tenure. 

She is the author of Feed My Sheep: A 40-Day Devotional to Develop a Heart for Hunger Ministry (2019) and More Like Jesus: A Devotional Journey (2018) and editor of Stories of Racial Awakening: Narratives on Changed Hearts and Lives of South Carolina United Methodists (2018), all from her newspaper’s Advocate Press.

She is a seasoned speaker and contributor to Crosswalk, Christianity.com, and the United Methodist News Service, among many others. She has a weekly faith blog at JessicaBrodie.com and is part of the team at Wholly Loved Ministries.

Represented by Bob Hostetler of The Steve Laube Agency, she is seeking a publishing contract for her two contemporary women’s fiction novels, The Memory Garden and Tangled Roots. 

The Memory Garden won the 2018 Genesis Award for Contemporary Fiction from American Christian Fiction Writers, and Tangled Roots placed in Contemporary Romance at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in 2019. 

Married, Brodie has four children and stepchildren and lives in Lexington, South Carolina.

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Connect with Jessica:
Website: https://www.jessicabrodie.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaJBrodie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjessicajbrodie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicajbrodie/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicajbrodie/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shiningthelightjessicabrodie/

Devotionals for the Heart: A Life Lesson on the way God works!

God Works Behind the Scenes
A devotional by Monique Anderson

“But, Jesus replied, “My Father is always working, and so am I.” 

–John 5:17 (NLT)

Seeing the images online the next day made me feel so proud to have been a part of something so epic. Picture after picture of each model coming down the runway with their sleek, clean looks gave no indication of the madness that went on backstage just moments prior.

Missing shoes, missing accessories, and even missing models is what adds to the heightened tension and pandemonium backstage at a fashion show. However, given all the stress of the last-minute details that go awry, when the lights go on and the curtain is pulled back, the press, and awaiting audience have no idea that something so streamlined came from something so chaotic.

This is what I imagine the heavenly realms look like when we send our prayers up to God. Imagine all the angels he dispenses to see about us, and them scrambling to get to our needs. I envision them getting held up by the enemy and his angels, and the spiritual warfare that takes place just to see to it that God’s will gets done for his children. Imagine what God’s work looks like behind the scenes. Let’s read this verse from Daniel 10:12-13 (NLT):

“Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer. But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia.”

I was reminded of God’s unseen handiwork when I was praying for a loved one to surrender to God. I would constantly ask God what I needed to do: Should I show them Scripture? Should I share a sermon? Should I read a devotional with them?

I felt like I received no response from God, and from what I could see, there was no change in the person I was praying for. I was not sure if my prayers were even heard much less getting answered. So, I just continued with my relationship with God in hopes that they would see all that He was doing in my life and be moved to submit to Him.

From my view in the audience, I could not see all the work God was doing backstage.

Until one day, out of the blue, he confessed he was ready to surrender. He said he felt God chasing after him, and he was tired of running. I was stunned, and almost in complete disbelief. It was presented in such a nonchalant manner. I imagined this day being a fall out, ugly cry praise and worship moment. But it was not. It was presented just as neat, and well put together as the models coming down the runway.

Just like the awaiting audience, I had no idea what was happening behind the scenes. I later found out that he was being ministered to by someone he worked with. He said he felt like there was nowhere else for him to run. His journey to Jesus reminded of this song by Casting Crowns called “Even When You’re Running.” God’s love for him was inescapable. My loved one was getting Jesus at home, and in the workplace, but in very subtle ways. I made sure never to pressure him into submission. I wanted him to want Jesus for himself, and that is exactly what happened.

I couldn't tell from where I was sitting that God had been scrambling backstage to bring all the pieces together. I just saw the finished product of a man of God humbling himself before the Lord. This situation reminds me of God’s promise to us in Psalm 91:11 (NIV) which reads, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

Please remember this: From where you’re sitting it may look like no work is getting done. It may seem like God doesn’t hear you and isn't seeing about your needs. But let me remind you that our Heavenly Father is always at work. He’s never not working. We should thank God that we don’t see the mess happening behind the scenes; we just get to be a witness to the final production once He shines His light and pulls back his curtain for the big reveal.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank you for constantly working in my life, and in the lives of those I care about. I am thankful that my prayers are always received and heard in your Kingdom. I will hold on to the promise of Your Word that says You will command Your angels concerning me. This promise reminds me that even when I don’t see it You’re working. I will continuously sing your praises even while I wait. Father, I love You and thank You. In Jesus's Name I pray. Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Monique M. Anderson is a writer, wife, and bonus mom to a 14 year old. She just recently unleashed her always present yet hidden talent of writing to the masses. She was born and raised in Mount Vernon, NY where she still resides, and serves on the prayer team of her church The Gathering Harlem.  

Monique always felt like God was chasing after her, but never felt the need to surrender. Until that is when life started veering left, and she no longer wanted to steer so she finally gave Jesus the wheel. After forming her relationship with God she always felt compelled to share the revelations that the Word gave to her. She always felt the Holy Spirit prompting her to write, but was afraid of what people might think. So her writing started in her journal. The journal turned into a book, and the book into a blog.

Slowly but surely God’s love started to cast out all fear. She started to consistently update her bi- weekly blog called “Yours Truly, Moe.” Her obedience led to further revelation. God revealed to her that He would use her to help others along their walk the same way God helped her along hers. Since Monique did not grow up in church she always felt intimidated by the Christian life. She thought that she would be losing so much of herself, not realizing that she would actually find her TRUE self.

Since God has shown her who He really created her to be, she now feels it is her life’s work to help those that are taking their first baby steps in this walk with Christ. She is doing so through her blog, and soon to be published book. Monique is excited to extend her reach to podcasts and speaking engagements in the near future.

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

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Connect with Monique:
Website: www.yourstrulymoe.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourstruly__moe/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Yours-Truly-Moe-140255684101423

Devotionals for the Heart: Our Plans

Releasing our plans to God
A devotional by Heidy De La Cruz

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” 

– Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

We all have plans, goals, and desires for our lives. We all want to succeed, and we have a vision of how our life will go. But life doesn't always go as planned. As a matter of fact, can you think of a time when things went right according to your plans?

Prior to getting engaged, I had not thought much about my wedding. I know some females dream of their wedding since they were little girls, but that wasn't me. I had been to plenty of beautiful weddings, but it wasn't until I got engaged that I really started to think about mine.

I'm not much of a party planner; it causes me too much anxiety. So I never gave it much thought about planning a wedding. I did know that there's a ton of small details that goes into planning a wedding, and it all seemed overwhelming to me. Then there is the money part; weddings are expensive! But before my husband, then fiancé, started planning our wedding, we prayed.

We would pray every day for our wedding, for the planning aspect, for the financial aspect, and we would pray that everything will turn out according to God's will for our life. It seemed like everything was working smoothly from day one, considering that we were planning this wedding in five months because I wanted to get married on my birthday, which is in February, and we got engaged in September.

As the days went by, we continued to pray and continued to plan – everything was working out according to plan. God provided the financial aspects, which was only His doing because I wanted to use credit cards right away, but my husband stopped me. There were a few things I started to worry about as the day approached. Like the wedding was on a Thursday, we had family flying in from out of town, the DJ was also part of the wedding party, my siblings went to school in the morning, the caterer was also a wedding guest … but at the end of the night, everything, absolutely everything turned out perfect!

People would ask me how the wedding planning was going if I was stressed out or worried, but because I prayed and left everything in God's hands, He worked everything out and we had minimal bumps along the way.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 16:3 (NIV), “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” and that is my testimony in regards to my wedding. From the very beginning, I prayed to God and released everything to Him, and He worked things out to His will. At the end of the night, it was the dream wedding I never knew I wanted.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, I know we have plans for our lives, but Your plans are far more significant than what we can ever imagine. Help me Lord, to always commit to You my plans first, and let you guide my steps. You work things out for my good. Remind me that You will make things happen in your time according to your plan for my life. In your name, I pray, Amen.

~*~
Author Bio:

Hello, my name is Heidy (Reynoso) De La Cruz. 

I am Dominican-American and I’m passionate about writing! I write poetry, encouraging blog posts about personal experiences and any message that God has stored in my heart. I am working on publishing my first poetry book.

First and foremost, I am a daughter of Jesus Christ. I am also a wife and a mother. I have my master’s degree in Healthcare Administration through Belhaven University’s online course. I have my bachelor’s degree in Science with the concentration of Psychology and Healthcare Administration.

I currently work in the medical field as a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, and I’ve been in the medical field for the last six years. I love my career!

My hobbies include writing, reading, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, traveling, and spending time with my family.

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Connect with Heidy:
Blog: https://heidyreynoso.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidy.delacruz13/
Read my poetry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidyspoems/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/heidyreynoso13
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidyreynoso13

Romantic Reads: Waltzing with a Grease Monkey

Interview with Janetta Fudge-Messmer about her book, 

Waltzing with a Grease Monkey:

Alexis: “Waltzing with a Grease Monkey” is quite the creative title for a story! What inspired it?

Janetta: It is a unique title, for sure. You ask, “What inspired it?” Since my main character is a ballroom dancer and moonlights as a mechanic, the book called for an out-of-the-box title. I wish I could take credit for the name, but I have to thank my friend, Linda A.

Here’s a fun fact: Ray and I owned an auto repair shop for eight years in the 1990s. After one of our mechanics quit, I worked in the bays for about five months.

Alexis: Why did you write this story?

Janetta: I have to blame my publisher. Cynthia puts out ideas, and the dancing one jumped out at me. I love to dance, and I love watching the TV program called Dancing with the Stars, which made a win/win combination. My hubby and I brainstormed and came up with the moonlighting as a mechanic.

Alexis: What was the most fun part of writing this romance?

Janetta: Learning more about dancing as I researched. And figuring out how to combine a dance instructor with a side job as a mechanic. I’m a pantser (write by the seat of my pants), so a scene will pop into my head from nowhere. Most times, it surprises me as much as I hope it does my readers.

Alexis: Tell me about your story’s heroine, Penelope "Nell" Price. What does she look like? Sound like? Act like? What are her greatest dreams and deepest fears?

Janetta: You ask me what Penelope Price looks like. I know I’m different than other authors – I don’t have a picture of a specific person for my character. I want my readers to imagine what they look like in their own mind. One thing I do know about Nell, she has settled into her routine of working all the time. Her greatest dream: To make a difference. Her deepest fear: Stepping out of her comfort zone.

Alexis: Tell me about your story’s hero. What is his name? What does he look like? Sound like? Act like? What are his hopes and desires in life?

Janetta: If I tell you about my story’s hero, I’ll give away the book. It is a novella. Penelope has two men vying for her attention, and both are successful in life. One is happy to share his talents as an owner of an auto repair shop. And grease under his fingernails doesn’t bother him in the least. The other, he’s made his own way in life, not relying on his family name to get ahead.

Alexis: What brings Penelope and the hero together?

Janetta: They realize the Lord has a plan for their lives, and finding the importance of telling the other person how they feel – before it’s too late. Not wait for someone to woo them away.

Alexis: What threatens to tear Penelope and her love interest apart?

Janetta: Their stubbornness. Just like with all of us – our stubborn streak will get us going in the wrong direction more times than not. They (as with us) must listen to God’s leading in our life.

Alexis: Describe the setting for this story. Where does it take place? What makes this setting special to your characters?

Janetta: Newberry is the setting for my story but it isn’t real. The imaginary town is big enough to have a warehouse district (where Priceless Dance Studio is located), but small enough where people know their neighbors. And their business. I loved the name when it came to mind.

Alexis: What gives Penelope a love for dance? How does she like teaching at her mom’s studio?

Janetta: All Penelope has known is dance. From her first steps, her mother and father taught every dance step their students learned. Penelope does love to dance. She also enjoys working with her mom and brother but wonders if there’s something else out there to use her talents.

Alexis: What role does Harrison play in Penelope’s life?

Janetta: As far as Penelope is concerned, Harrison plays a larger role in her life than she’d planned when she first met him. After their unexpected meeting, she didn’t care if she ever set eyes on him again.

Alexis: Who is Derek and what role does he play in this story?

Janetta: Derek is Penelope’s boss at the auto repair shop. He and Nell dated and broke it off two years before. And the more time she spends at the shop, she’s aware he wants to rekindle what they once had.

Alexis: What is Penelope looking for in a man? Has she ever been in a romantic relationship?

Janetta: Penelope wants a man that loves the Lord and works for the good of others. Looks aren’t at the top of her list. Character is of most importance to her. She and Derek dated before, but she wants it to stay in the past.

Alexis: What is it about Penelope that attracts suitors? Does anything that she says or does make these men leave her life? Explain.

Janetta: Penelope is kindhearted, witty, and isn’t interested in dating. Her excuse is that she’s too busy. When she does date, she’s the one who calls it quits before it gets too serious. And, don’t ever pigeon hole her. She’s a female and doesn’t have an issue with pursuing what people believe is ‘man’s work.’

Alexis: What do you want your readers to remember most about this story?

Janetta: 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) is the Bible verse the Lord chose for Waltzing with a Grease Monkey. The verse reads, “Each of you should use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” I believe the Lord gives us gifts and talents to use for His glory. Years ago, He spoke into my heart about becoming a writer. Obstacles stood in my way, but with Him by my side in all the struggles, we persevered.

Alexis: Thanks for the interview, Janetta! Would you like to share closing thoughts?

Janetta: Alexis, thank you for featuring me on your blog. I loved your thought-provoking questions and will ask them when I begin my next book. Blessings, my friend.

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Author Bio:

Janetta Fudge Messmer’s tagline is "Turning Life into Comedy." The reason being, she loves to laugh and that’s why she writes Christian Comedy with a touch of Romance.

She’s also a speaker and editor. For Janetta, writing and traveling go hand- in-hand, since she, her hubby (Ray) and their pooch (Maggie) are full-time RVers.

Most days you’ll find them sightseeing around the USA in their Winnebago…but first Janetta has to sit down and write a few words.

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Book Blurb for Waltzing with a Grease Monkey:

Penelope Price contemplates dating her boss (Derek Hamilton) again. But all they talked about the last time was vehicles they worked on at the auto shop that day. 

Along with her job at Hamilton Auto Repair, Nell also teaches ballroom dancing at her mom’s studio.

And to top off her crazy job schedule, she takes a “Finding Your Spiritual Gifts” test at her church. This sets more things into motion than Penelope ever dreamed of – one being the day her two professions collide. She won’t be able to dance her way out of this predicament.

Will Penelope’s newest dance student (Harrison) waltz into Priceless Dance Studio and steal her heart away? Or will Derek’s gifts of wit and wisdom win her over in the end?

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Buy Janetta’s book on Amazon

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Connect with Janetta:
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01DWHA1EW
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janetta.fudge.messmer
E-mail: janettafudgemessmer@gmail.com
Website: http://janettafudgemessmer.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nettiefudge

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