Morning Minute
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August 6, 2024
For years I struggled to believe that God could use me, that I truly had a purpose. I didn't understand how the suffering and pain I experienced could be a part of God's plan for my life. He's supposed to be a loving God after all, right? That is, until I started my own healing journey and began sharing my story.
I never wanted to be the person who understood domestic violence, yet I walked that path alone...and it nearly cost me my life.
When we go through trauma of any kind we have a choice to either be defined by it and allow it to affect every part of our lives, or we can trust God through it and believe that He will redeem it. I chose to trust God and have seen Him touch the lives of many through my story. Today, I am a domestic violence advocate providing hope through God's truth.
There is purpose in the pain. We're not meant to hold onto it ourselves or carry it alone. Choose to trust Him. He can and will redeem it. Be prepared, instead, for God to use you through it to bring light to those walking the same path in darkness.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
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January 07, 2023
Have you ever felt like God has abandoned you when you need Him the most? You’re not alone.
In Psalms 221:1, King David cried out to God in a way that seems to reflect the same words Christ used during his crucifixion. “My God, my God, why have you abandoned (forsaken) me?”
In the first half of this Psalm, David describes his dire situation and his desperate cries for help. Even though his situation hasn’t changed, by the end of the Psalm, he declares the praises of the Lord.
David sets a difficult, yet amazing example for us to follow. Praise Him, Honor Him, Show Him Reverence (vs. 23) In the midst of the struggle, even with no answer in sight, lift your praises to God.
It isn’t just a coincidence that the next Psalm is Psalms 23. If you’re going through a battle, meditate on this today.
“The Lord is my Shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever."
Psalms 23 NLT
January 1, 2023
As I sat watching the fireworks with my kids last night, God reminded me of a time when I experienced deep disappointment attempting to do the exact same thing more than 20 years ago.
A previous boyfriend and I made plans to watch the fireworks at the Riverwalk downtown. We got there early to ensure we had the perfect spot, but just before they began he insisted we head back to the car. We heard the sound of each one, but couldn’t see any of them over the height of the buildings around us.
God showed me how in this moment, He was redeeming my previous disappointment. It was an amazing reminder of how deeply He truly loves us. He took something seemingly insignificant and exchanged pain for restoration. I can’t think of a better way to start off a New Year. I pray that you experience that same restorative love of God in your life.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…”
James 4:8
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have the power…to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
Ephesians 3:16-19
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November 02, 2022
Romans 6 verses 5, 10 says, “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” “The death he died, he died to sin once and for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” NIV
When we choose to give our lives to God, we are essentially dying to sin so that we may find life in Christ. As verse 10 said, “He died to sin once and for all;” however, for us, that is a daily, sometimes hourly choice we are required to make.
Verse 13 tell us to “offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. Romans 12 begins with the instruction to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.”
Have you sacrificed your life of sin? Are there times you have chosen to cling to things of this life instead of letting them go and fully clinging to the Father? We have to put to death our old ways of living before we can walk in a new life of righteousness with Christ. Are you ready?
“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives.
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.
Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.”
John 12:24-26 NLT
November 1, 2022
Don’t let your light go out because the battle is hard. Whatever you are facing right now, whatever the struggle, it is only temporary.
You’re not walking through it alone, even though it may feel that way at times.
When you’re faced with hardship, no matter the kind, when it feels like you take one step forward just to be knocked three steps back, when you’re going through a storm and the sun is no longer shining, when you’re faced with loss, heartache, betrayal, or persecution that seems never-ending, Don’t Give Up!
Put your focus on the one that has overcome it all. Even death was not victorious! Cling to Christ and let His light shine through the darkness.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 NIV
If you struggle to find him in the storm, Don’t Quit, keep moving forward. He’ll never leave you.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 NIV
If you can’t see Him, Don’t Lose Heart; It is during those times that He is fighting the battle behind you.
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14 NIV
“Therefore, we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day.
For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory.
So, we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.“
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 HCSB
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October 31, 2022
Putting God first in everything and honoring HIM and Him alone seemed to hold a greater importance today. There was an urgency in my spirit to prepare for battle.
As I spent a few minutes in the Word this morning, I read Psalms 31:3-4 and felt it was the perfect scripture to start the day (every day).
There has always been an additional scripture that is provided as I’m writing these Morning Minute devotionals. After reading the Psalms and the insistent presence of the need for preparation, I wondered what message I was meant to share.
Then, I received a notification from one of the Bible study apps I have downloaded. It was Jeremiah 1:17-19, saying “Get up and prepare for action.” Needless to say, that got my attention.
On a day with a history in darkness, it is more important today than ever to put on the full Armor of God and prepare for battle!! We don’t have to fear the battle or the plans of the enemy, for God is our Rock, our Fortress, and our Refuge. Verse 19 says it all, “They will fight you, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the Lord, have spoken!” We already have the victory! and We Will Stand!
“Get up and prepare for action. Go out and tell them everything I tell you to say. Do not be afraid of them, or I will make you look foolish in front of them.
For see, today I have made you strong like a fortified city that cannot be captured, like an iron pillar or a bronze wall. You will stand against the whole land— the kings, officials, priests, and people of Judah.
They will fight you, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the Lord, have spoken!”
Jeremiah 1:17-19 NLT
June 16, 2022
Is there something that God has been urging you to do but you haven’t done it yet or been consistent with it? Or maybe there’s something He wants you to remove from your life but you’re still hanging onto it?
As children of God, we have an obligation to put on the mind of Christ and crucify the flesh (or fleshly desires).
Romans 8:7-8 says “The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.”
This hit me hard today. It’s so easy to allow life to happen and provide excuses why we can’t set time aside for God, or take a step toward what God is calling you to do. For me, it’s getting in that secret place and writing.
I encourage you to pray Psalms 139:23-24 each morning asking God to search your heart for any offensive ways that you may have and to lead you away from those things. Allow the Spirit to lead you into righteousness and community with God.
“Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.“
Romans 8:5
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May 20, 2022
So that there should be no division in the body, but that it’s parts should have equal concern for each other. – 1 Corinthians 12:25
Unity is defined as “the state of being joined together or in agreement.” With the enemy working overtime in his efforts to cause division, it is even more important for us as children of God to stand together in unity.
We were each designed for a specific purpose, and though there are many differences between us, we are all a part of the whole body of Christ.
What are some things you can do to promote unity in your circle of influence? Are there areas where you struggle to see past our differences or value yourself over others?
“But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.”
1 Corinthians 12:18-20 NIV
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
Philippians 2:3 NIV
May 19, 2022
Have you ever noticed the sunrise after a brutal storm? Flowers are more vividly colored, the grass is a deeper green, and the sky is a more vibrant blue. Even the birds seem to notice a difference as their songs fill the morning air.
God never promised us a life without storms, but He did promise to walk with us through them. When we seek Him in everything do, through everything we endure, His light will shine on our lives like that sunrise after a storm.
We may not enjoy the rain, but it is in the rain that our faith is strengthened and our character refined.
“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day..“
Proverbs 4:18 NIV
“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us and eternal glory that far outweighs them all. “
2 Corinthians 4:16-17
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May 19, 2022
Have you ever noticed the sunrise after a brutal storm? Flowers are more vividly colored, the grass is a deeper green, and the sky is a more vibrant blue. Even the birds seem to notice a difference as their songs fill the morning air.
God never promised us a life without storms, but He did promise to walk with us through them. When we seek Him in everything do, through everything we endure, His light will shine on our lives like that sunrise after a storm.
We may not enjoy the rain, but it is in the rain that our faith is strengthened and our character refined.
“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day..“
Proverbs 4:18 NIV
“Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us and eternal glory that far outweighs them all. “
2 Corinthians 4:16-17
May 17, 2022
To be “steadfast” is to be firm and unwavering, relentless and unyielding, sustained and unshakable even in the face of opposition.
It’s important to understand that we should not only be steadfast in our faith, but also in our praise and obedience. The level of our steadfastness is determined by the level of trust we have in God.
When you are faced with an unsurmountable challenge, do you trust that He will see you through? Do you still praise Him while a storm is raging? Are you obedient even when you don’t know the outcome?
As you walk through fire trying to consume you, I pray that your faith will be unshakable, that your praise will be unyielding, and that you walk in relentless obedience to God. He “WILL” sustain you.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.“
Isaiah 26:3 NIV
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April 15, 2022
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ dies for us. – Romans 5:8 (NIV)
For many of us, it would be easy to say we would give our lives for friends or family. But could we say we would do the same for a stranger or someone who has wronged us?
Could you pay the ultimate sacrifice for someone who has rejected, abandoned, deceived, betrayed, abused, hurt, or condemned you?
If I am honest with myself about when I experienced those same things, how they affected my life and how difficult it was at times to forgive, I can confidently say I wouldn’t be that self-sacrificing.
Even after Jesus experienced all of those things and knew the sin that had not yet occurred, He still CHOSE to give his life in exchange for ours. Because of his sacrifice, we can have eternal life with Him when we believe.
If you know Christ, honor his sacrifice today. If you don’t know Him, I encourage you to give your life to Jesus and you’ll discover the unwavering and everlasting love he has for you.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life “
John 3:16 NIV
January 3, 2022
Today was my birthday. I went to bed last night with expectations of leaving work early, spending time with the kiddos, and an enjoyable birthday dinner out with a friend.
What I got was a 10 hour shift, sick kiddos, and a quick and easy meal at home, yet I still sit here with a feeling of expectation.
I looked back over the last few years and see how God was working even while I questioned the struggle. Closed doors opened the path God laid out for me and inconveniences were blessings in disguise.
I am so very grateful that He loves me enough to set things in motion even as I wrestle with doubt and disobedience. He has done soo much for me over this past year that I now wait with eager expectation for what He’s going to do next.
My prayer for you this year is that you discover how God has been working in your life and you seek Him with that same eager expectation.
“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.“
Isaiah 40:31 NIV
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January 2, 2022
Imagine baking a cake, building a house, or going to war without being equipped to successfully accomplish the task. Would you still try?
Now, imagine doing those same things, but this time you’re “thoroughly equipped” to handle all aspects of the task as well as any unexpected challenge that may arise along the way.
That’s what God’s Word does for us. It provides everything we need to fulfill the calling God has on our lives regardless of the challenges we face along the way.
The Scriptures teach us, correct us and train us for the spiritual battles we will face as we pursue righteousness and a deeper relationship with God.
Ask God to show you any strongholds that may be keeping you from doing the work He has called you to do. Then, start speaking Scripture over that area of your life.
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.“
2 Corinthians 10:4 NIV
January 2, 2022
Imagine baking a cake, building a house, or going to war without being equipped to successfully accomplish the task. Would you still try?
Now, imagine doing those same things, but this time you’re “thoroughly equipped” to handle all aspects of the task as well as any unexpected challenge that may arise along the way.
That’s what God’s Word does for us. It provides everything we need to fulfill the calling God has on our lives regardless of the challenges we face along the way.
The Scriptures teach us, correct us and train us for the spiritual battles we will face as we pursue righteousness and a deeper relationship with God.
Ask God to show you any strongholds that may be keeping you from doing the work He has called you to do. Then, start speaking Scripture over that area of your life.
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.“
2 Corinthians 10:4 NIV
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December 26, 2021
We’ve heard the saying “Joy comes in the morning,” and to most it’s a reminder that tomorrow is a new day. For me, it’s a little different.
Joy is knowing that we don’t have to fight the battle, that we’re not alone in the struggle, and that we serve a God that is greater than any storm that may come our way.
No matter how dark the clouds are around us, we can have Peace when a storm is rolling in and our Hope reminds us that “God’s got this!” Joy comes after the storm has passed, when the sun starts breaking through the clouds and we’re still standing hand in hand with Jesus.
Joy is found in the journey when God is your travel partner.
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.”
James 1:2 NLT
December 25, 2021
Peace. We know it to mean tranquility, serenity, calm, solace, quietness and without contention or war. But, do we know it is also a result of living in righteousness?
Peace is found in virtue, honor, integrity, honesty and goodness, each of these a characteristic of God.
Imagine walking through every trial, every struggle, every challenge, every heartache, or devastating event at a level of peace that does not match the circumstance. We can.
We can live in “perfect peace” regardless of what we experience. We can find peace in the middle of the storm swirling around us when we put our trust in Him. We trust Him when we know Him. How well do you know Him?
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Isaiah 26:3 NIV
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV
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December 24, 2021
Hope is a confident expectation. It gives you the ability to look beyond what you see in this moment and cannot be stirred up your efforts. Hope is a gift of God that accompanies salvation. – Pastor Jason Masters of Bold City Church
Hope is being confident that God will remain true to his word regardless of the circumstance or how many times you mess up.
We have this Hope because of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His crucifixion was more than just a sacrifice; it was a covenant God made with us signed in blood of his only son.
I pray you have found that Hope by choosing to give your life to Him as He gave his life for you.
“Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord.”
Psalms 31:24 HCSB
“May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my Hope, Lord, is in you.”
Psalms 25:21 NIV
December 23, 2021
Immanuel – “God With Us.” Think about that for a minute. Joseph was encouraged not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife and to name the baby she carried “Immanuel.”
“God With Us” doesn’t only refer to when God became flesh and lived among us through his birth to Mary. It also shows his heart.
There weren’t conditions added when He was named Immanuel. He isn’t with us only when things are going well or when we are walking in righteousness. He is with us at ALL times, through EVERYTHING we face and EVERY choice we make.
This image not only represents Jesus holding onto Joseph’s hand after his birth, it also represents each of us holding onto God’s hand as He walks with us through life.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Psalms 46:1 NIV
“You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely”
Psalms 59:17 NIV
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December 22, 2021
In the book of Amos, the Israelites were victorious in battle, wealthy, prosperous and celebrating the coming “Day of the Lord” when they believed God would make them the undisputed ruler of the region.
What they got was a call to repentance; a message they didn’t accept. They became bitter and turned away. As a result, God sent a famine through the land, a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. They were exiled from the presence of God.
Do you have bitterness in your life? Is there something that God has encouraged you to repent of? I urge you to examine your heart and seek Him. Don’t risk living outside of His presence.
“There are those who turn justice into bitterness and cast righteousness to the ground”
Amos 5:7 NIV
“The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign Lord, “when I will send a famine through the land – not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.”
Amos 8:11 NIV
December 21, 2021
God has desired a relationship with His people as far back as Creation, but he cannot get into relationship with sin. After sin entered the world, the Law was given and a priesthood established to atone for the sins of the people.
Under the law, the high priests had to make daily sacrifices, first for their own sins, then the sins of the people. However, the law was imperfect and the separation from God still existed.
Because of his love for us and his desire to be in relationship with us, God appointed his Son to be the final sacrifice and High Priest forever. Jesus now stands before the Father on our behalf, and the only sacrifice required is giving our lives to Him.
“But there was an oath regarding Jesus. For God said to him, “The Lord has taken an oath and will not break his vow: “You are a priest forever.” Because of this oath, Jesus is the one who guarantees this better covenant with God.”
Hebrews 7:21-22 NLT
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December 20, 2021
Proverbs 4:23 tells us to “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”
We have to guard our hearts from bitterness, anger, anxiety, fear, anything that isn’t a representation of God’s character.
When that’s hard to do because of circumstances we face, be consistent in prayer and thanksgiving. Focus on what God has already done in your life and praise him for it. He can take it from there.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7
“Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us..”
2 Timothy 1:14
December 19, 2021
We have each been given different gifts according to the purpose God has placed on our lives. We have a responsibility to identify those gifts and develop them to use for the Kingdom of God.
In Nehemiah 3 and 4, each family was given the responsibility to rebuild a portion of the wall around Jerusalem. It’s the same for us. We’ve been assigned a task and given the skills, talents and experience to complete it.
It’s up to us to be obedient, dedicating our gifts to God and using them to share the Gospel with the world around us.
What are the gifts you’ve been given? If you’re not sure, what are you drawn to? Explore that and how you may be able to use it for God’s purpose.
"Therefore, my brothers and sisters make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,”
2 Peter 1:10
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December 18, 2021
This will forever be one of my favorite scriptures. Not only does it give instruction during times of trouble, but also for our daily walk.
“Do Not Be Afraid” – No matter what you are facing.
“Stand Firm” – On The Word; Be unwavering and unmovable in your Faith.
“Be Still” – Dwell in Peace knowing God has your back.
“Move On” – Never Give Up, Always Keep Going.
Give everything to God. Put His Word in your heart and pursue Him. Let God handle the rest.
“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians (enemy) you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; You need only to Be Still.”
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to Move On.”
Exodus 14:13-15
December 17, 2021
Joseph endured a lot for years (slavery, false accusations, prison) before seeing how God was going to use it for His Glory. After all he had been through, his faith never waivered; his family and an entire nation were saved as a result.
When we’re faced with a tragedy or suffering it’s not easy to see how God can use any of it for good, especially when dealing with loss or illness.
It’s during those times we need to be encouraged that we can get through it and reminded that God is ALWAYS faithful. We will conquer whatever the world throws at us through our faith and God will use it for good, even when we don’t think it’s possible. Stand Firm!
“because whatever has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith. And who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? ”
1 John 5:4-5
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December 16, 2021
Stand Firm. Be steadfast and unwavering. When used with a military perspective, it means “to hold a critical position while under attack.”
We are in a spiritual battle in which the enemy wants nothing less than to steal, kill, and destroy. It is imperative that we Suit Up in the full Armor of God, Stand Firm in our Faith and on The Word and encourage each other in the battle.
“This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything to take your stand.”
Ephesians 6:13 HCSB
“May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal encouragement and good hope by grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good work and word.”
2 Thessalonians 2:16 HCSB
December 15, 2021
I love the symbolism of Day and Night in the Bible. Day represents the times when life is good and we have the ability to focus on God’s teaching and direction. Night usually depicts times of sorrow, trials and challenges when it’s easy to focus on the struggle instead of staying focused on God.
Seek His instruction and follow the path He sets before you. In those teachings you will find the songs that will carry you through the night.
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eyes on you”
Psalms 32:7-8
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December 14, 2021
Peace, “at all times and in every way.” How often do you feel overwhelmed by the chaos around you?
Peace and sanctification go hand in hand. We know sanctification (to make holy) is a process that guides us on the path to righteousness. It doesn’t happen overnight and undoubtedly will not be complete until the return of Christ.
Until then, the peace of God can be found in God. The more we get to know God, through His Word, the more peace we will have as we walk in the midst of the chaos.
I love this quote from biblestudytools.com “The God of peace and the peace of God sanctify the child of God.”
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7
December 13, 2021
There is nothing we can do to change the depths of God’s love for us. There is no bad choice, mistake, trauma, experience or action that will make Him question his love. There is no limit to how many times He will be waiting with open arms for us to come back “home.”
He will never turn you away. He will never leave you or abandon you. When it feels as if you are undeserving of love, respect, honor, hope, happiness, or life itself, know that, even then his love for you is unwavering.
God Chose Us to be a part of His family, to be His children and heirs to the treasures of heaven. He Chose You!! There is nothing you have to do to earn his Love and nothing you can do to lose it.
“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow – not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.”
Romans 8:38-39
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December 12, 2021
Forgiveness, something we, ourselves, don’t deserve, yet God chose to give with the sacrifice of his son.
We are instructed to forgive in the same way God has forgiven us. Think about the forgiveness you receive from God daily, the mercy and grace poured into your life….even when you don’t deserve it.
Is there someone you need to forgive in this way but can’t? Pray for them, asking God to help you to see them he same way He sees them, even if this is all you are able do.
"Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you must also forgive.
Above all, put on love – the perfect bond of unity."
Colossians 3:12-14 HCSB
December 11, 2021
To be strong is to “have a powerful means to resist attack, assault, or aggression, to be decisively un yielding, to be of great force or effectiveness.” It also means “to be distinct, or marked.”
To have courage is to be fearless, to have bravery, fortitude, valor and endurance.
If we fully put our trust in God, we can walk in strength and courage every day, because He is walking along side us.
When you face trials, struggles, or hardship, remember you ARE strong and courageous. That’s what He’s called you to be. Believe it, Claim it, and Walk in it Today!
“Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
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December 10, 2021
Are you in a place where you’ve been crying out to God but it seems He isn’t listening or has abandoned you? In this scripture “night” refers to those “dark days.”
It goes on to say, “You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak.” Even when it feels like you can’t keep going, God will sustain you.
In those moments, remember your songs. Remember everything God has done and Praise Him! In that praise, you will find the strength you need. Don’t Give Up and Praise Him!
I encourage you to read the full chapter of Psalms 77. The author was walking that same path…..I have too.
"Your ways, God are holy. What god is as great as our God?"
Psalms 77:13 NIV
December 9, 2021
God loves us soo much that he wants to dwell with us…with you. He created you by his own hand for a very special purpose, even if you may not know what that is yet.
He cherishes every moment with you. With you is where God wants to be. He wants to walk along side you, talk with you, have a relationship with you.
You are his temple, his dwelling place. As you move through this holiday season, don’t neglect yourself. Take time for self care, even if it’s only 5 minutes. It’s not selfish; it’s taking care of God’s house.
"And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit."
Ephesians 2:22
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December 8, 2021
“…test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Psalms 139:23-24
This is a simple, yet bold and challenging prayer. If you are feeling anxious, commit this scripture to memory and pray it over your life every morning.
Ask God to search your heart and help identify anything that may be hindering you from full surrender to him. Then, be willing to follow where he leads; peace is found on the path of obedience.
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.”
Psalms 25:4 NIV
December 7, 2021
Did you notice this scripture talks about finding rest in your soul, not physical rest for your body? It’s unlikely that many of us will get enough physical rest during the holidays, but it’s VERY possible to live in spiritual rest. We do that by giving everything to Him, the good AND the bad, the joy AND the stress, the love AND the heartache.
It gets easier as we learn more about who He is, of his unconquering power and unwavering grace, and how much he truly loves us. In His Word we find rest and hope…We find Jesus.
"Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge."
Psalms 62:8
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December 6, 2021
If you find yourself struggling a little more during the holidays, Don’t Give Up. You are not alone and you are loved more than you’ll ever know. Push in close to God and He’ll carry you through.
"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."
John 1:4-5 NIV