Do you ever feel your faith and trust in God is lacking or you do not have any? I know I have felt that way. Hebrews 11:1 “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” The definition of faith is complete trust or confidence in someone or something. Which we Read More
We Are Overcomers and More Than Conquerors in Jesus Christ
Revelation 12:11And they overcame him by the Blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. (KJV) Romans 8:37Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. (NKJV) The Power of Overcoming Through Christ You ask, how do we overcome? We need to Read More
Transform Your Thoughts, Speech, and Actions: Aligning With Jesus
Defining Transformation What is “transformation?” Webster defines “transformation” as a change in disposition, heart, character, or the like conversion, the change, as of an equation, or quantity into another form without altering the value. Biblical Foundation: Romans 12:2 Now let’s look at the Scripture reference: Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the Read More
Maintaining Church Unity in Politically Divided Times
This is another presidential election year. In an increasingly politically divided nation, the Church must set an example of unity, respect, and love in our culture, which serves as a testament to our dedication to the gospel. The other day, I was hanging out with a small group of friends, and we ended up having this unexpected chat about politics, Read More
Faith: It is What Pleases God (Hebrews 11:6)
When we love someone, naturally, we want to please them. Not because we expect to get anything in return but because we want to make them happy and proud of us. The same goes for God. We should want to please Him because we love Him; we want to make Him happy and be proud of us. But what pleases Read More
Being Obedient to Do God’s Will
Do you struggle with being obedient to do God’s will? I know I struggle with this all the time. Why do you ask? Because as a child, I was very strong-willed and hyper, to say the least. I always wanted to do what I wanted. Not what anyone told me to do. This got me in a lot of trouble Read More
Waiting in the Silence
Are you uncomfortable with silence and feel the need to fill it with noise? Discover how embracing silence can deepen your faith in God. This blog explores the meaning of silence in biblical terms, the importance of quiet time with God, and practical tips for effective Bible study. Learn how to connect words and phrases, remember what you learn, and experience the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Join our Deep Dive group to dive into scripture, understand verse mapping, and grow in your relationship with God through reflective silence. 🙏📖 #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #VerseMapping Read More
From No to Next: Harnessing Rejection for Success
Have you ever felt rejection? Have you ever felt like you aren’t good enough? Have you ever just felt like everything you do isn’t good enough? Me too, I’ve felt rejection in so many forms. It’s hard to understand or know why there is rejection. Why do we have to go through it? Let’s talk about it. What is rejection Read More
Take Your Blessing
Have you ever been through a situation that tested your faith and trust in God? I’m pretty sure we all have at some point in our lives if not several times in our lives. I had car trouble not too long ago, leaving my family in a financial bind! My youngest son and I had traveled to Norman on a Read More
3 Reasons to Go Anyway: Let Faith Lead the Way
Have you ever faced an overwhelming obstacle but chose to press on anyway? The phrase “Go anyway!” has been echoing in my heart lately, prompting me to meditate on Mark 16:1-8. This passage shares the incredible story of three courageous and devoted women whose actions speak volumes about faith, love, and determination. Join me as we explore the significance of Read More
Overcoming Fear with Faith: Finding Strength in Isaiah 41:10-13
Fear not {there is nothing to fear}, for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My {victorious} right hand of rightness and justice.” Behold, all Read More
Divine Illumination: How the Holy Spirit Highlights God’s Words
Before you read this blog on “Words,” I would like to say a prayer: “Father, I ask You to open up Your knowledge of these words to those reading so that the understanding of Your Knowledge will allow them to clearly see how to apply Your instructions to their life with Your wisdom and Your discernment. As you open this Read More
Who Do You Say I Am?
Matthew 16:13–17 NIV 13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16 Simon Read More
God is Calling: Answering God’s Call on Your Life
Imagine you are going about your day-to-day when you hear your phone ring, look at your caller ID, and see that “God is calling.” Would you answer the call and say, “Hello God, here I am,” or would you ignore it and send it straight to voicemail, assuming that if it’s urgent, He will leave a message, and you can Read More
WRONG RICHES: BIBLICAL THOUGHTS ON MONEY
Have you ever felt guilty for wanting to have the best of the best? A huge house, a fancy car, elaborate vacations, a closet full of all the name brands, or gobs of money in the bank? Have you ever thought: Is it OK to Want Money & What Money Can Buy? Well, let’s see what we can find in Read More
A Fresh Start
When I think of January, I think of new beginnings, a fresh start to hear from the Lord and draw closer to Him. For me personally, it means spending time in His presence, listening for that still small voice to give me direction and guidance for the coming year and to show me how I can help others and get closer to God. Read More
Navigating Through Life’s Trials
What do you do when you feel the world is falling down around you? Do you run to your friends and family for advice or complain about what you are going through? Do you suffer in silence? Or do you run to God? Read More
The Changing of The Seasons
Over the years of my life, I have been through many different seasons. I have been through some of the greatest moments of my life. Like getting pregnant and giving birth to my amazing child. Watching that child grow into the most amazing, strong-willed, and caring woman. She gives her heart away to every relationship she has. She will definitely Read More
5 Steps to Live A Purposeful Life
Do you feel like life is passing you by? Do you find yourself wondering, “Where does the time go?” Are you pondering all the things you wanted to accomplish and didn’t? Do you set goals year after year only to forget about them within a few months or give up on them altogether? It doesn’t have to be that way! Read More
Three Ways God Rewards Those Who Seek Him
When you have a relationship with Jesus, you naturally want to please Him. But did you know God says that He gives rewards to those who diligently seek Him? Read More
In His Presence 24/7
We know the Scripture states: God is present everywhere! But do we have to “feel” that God is there to “know” that He is there? God’s Presence is His Working God is present without us being overwhelmed with feelings of love, joy, and praise. His Presence is in our Soul. His Spirit is His work. The dwelling of His Presence Read More
Sweeter Than Wine
I’ve always loved a good story, especially the ones that hold a secret within. I often tease, “Secrets are my favorite.” Anytime I write, the Lord always leads me to a very vulnerable place. I can’t be afraid of those vulnerable places, because maybe, just maybe, the vulnerability within my story, will change someone’s life. They say your greatest test Read More
The Bible: Truth or Myth?
I haven’t always believed the Bible was this “one source for all truth.” As a teenager, I read the Bible as a story – an instructional story that was meant to teach valuable moral lessons. I didn’t believe that Moses parted the Red Sea or that Jesus turned water into wine. The idea of God raising someone from the dead seemed ridiculous to me. Good stories, yes, but likely untrue. These things were foolishness to me. You see, human wisdom and pride kept me from even considering that the Bible might be true – that its message may have saving power. Until I did……. Read More
Psalm 23 and the Lord’s Prayer
Psalm 23 is unquestionably the most loved, most quoted, and most well-known psalm. There is so much truth and comfort in this short psalm which is comprised of only six verses. It expresses so much about the character of our Heavenly Father. Each verse corresponds to one of the names of God. Read More
Three Reasons Why You Need a Posse
Have you ever felt like you were alone and did not have any friends? I understand that feeling. I was so dependent on my spouse that I did not think I needed anyone outside of him. This is extremely far from the truth. Everyone needs a posse! The Bible, on several occasions, tells us how important friendship is. Ecclesiastes Read More
Your Authority in Jesus Christ
Do you feel beaten down in today’s world? You look around you, and there are things we could never imagine could happen. The world is evil, and it is not being hidden anymore. What should you do? Should you worry? Should you hide in your house? Jesus knew we would go through things like this. He didn’t just die for Read More
Real or Fake?? Beware..
I have really been meditating on Counterfeits and being Deceived.. A counterfeit is made with the intent to deceive, often times people do not even see the differences between the authentic and the counterfeit. The most counterfeited items include designer shoes, purses, handbags, perfumes, sunglasses, and jewels. This list goes on and on. The USPTO suggests the counterfeit product industry Read More
Destiny
Do you know where you will end up? Have you planned your course of action? According to the word in Habakkuk 2:2-4 NKJV, The just shall live by faith. Then the Lord Answered me and said; 2 write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for Read More
Much More Than Just a Body!
Have you ever thought of yourself as the temple of God? In Ephesians 2:21-22 NLT states, “We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a Holy temple for the Lord. Through him, you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his spirit.” In Corinthian 6: 19 -20, NIV states, “Do you not know that Read More
Give Me Eyes
We look at people every day, but are we really seeing them? Looking involves only a moment in time, but seeing, yes, seeing, requires more from us. Seeing people requires taking in information, empathizing, sympathizing, and having compassion that moves us to action just like Jesus was moved. Read More
The Element of Surprise
I love to give good gifts to my children. Whether it’s a birthday, Easter, Christmas, an out-of-town trip, or just a random Wednesday after school. I love to see the look of surprise spread across their faces as they gasp and take in the fact that I loved them enough to think of them. You can almost feel the memory Read More
Surrender or Fear? You Choose
What keeps you awake at night? What weighs on your heart? What causes you worry, distress, or fear? For some of you, the answers may come quickly and easily. You may feel like the list is too long to even mention. Others of you may not currently be battling anything that would cause concern. If so, consider yourself blessed! Some Read More
The Holy Spirit: The Only Power Source You Need
You never know how much you depend on something until it’s gone. Take power, for example. Without power, not only are we without light and heat, but we can’t charge our cell phones. Sure, light and heat are important, but we can burn something and stay warm, right? But without cell phones – what do we do? I mean, my life Read More
God Will Deliver YOU!
Deliverance is ours for the asking. Our God wants to set us free from anything that puts us in bondage, and enslaves us. Don’t let the enemy hold you back for what is rightfully yours. Jesus paid the ultimate price, receive your deliverance and be set free. Read More
How To Hear From God
Have you ever felt like you don’t know how to hear from God? I know I have. I use to look at others around me and wonder why do you hear from God and I don’t. I pray, I talk to Him, and ask Him questions but all I hear is silence. A few years ago, I started really trying Read More
The Cross: It Was All for Us!
When I think of the cross, I’m reminded of what Jesus went to the cross for.. ALL OF US! John 3:16 “For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life. I’m reminded when Jesus hung on the Cross, and the darkness overtook the land. Matthew Read More
OFFENDED? ME? ABSOLUTELY NOT!
What happens when a person is offended in a church and that offense is never dealt with? That offense takes over and the devil has succeeded at his job. He has caused that person to move out of the will of God. And that person will move on to the next church still harboring that offense and never growing up Read More
Good Friday: Always On His Mind
I have been reflecting today, Good Friday, on the sacrifice that Jesus made for the whole world. The History Channel aired a special about crucifixion, which I watched. They talked of Jesus and the excruciating pain he experienced as he suffered on the cross. We get the word “excruciating” from the word “crucifixion”. It is the most horrific, gruesome way Read More
Equipped Beyond My Ability
My pastor often says, “if you can achieve your dream on your own, it is not big enough.” God is calling us to go beyond our own abilities, talents, and resources. Do you have a word you are clinging to for this year, or for the season you are currently in? I am not talking about simply choosing a “word” Read More
Finding Your Destiny In Christ
Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny, and the good work we would “do” to fulfill it. So, what is your destiny in Christ? Read more to find out. Read More
No Word From God WILL EVER FAIL
Luke 1:37, NIV For no word from God will ever fail. There are many verses over the last several years I have clung to, and Luke 1:37 is definitely one of them. It is especially incredible when we consider the context. The speaker is the Archangel Gabriel. He is talking to a teenage girl called Mary about a virgin birth. Read More
One,Two,Three – Not It
Do you ever feel like God picked the wrong person when he chose you and gave you an assignment? Do you ever think: “I’m not good enough? I don’t have enough education or experience. This terrifies me. God is going to have to choose someone else?” One-two-three-not-it! Well, believe it or not, there were many very normal people in the Bible Read More
Change Your Life in 2023 By Doing This One Thing
What is the most important thing in your life? What is your priority? James W. Frick said, “Don’t tell me what your priorities are. Show me where you spend your money and I’ll tell you what they are.” That’s true, isn’t it? We tend to spend our money on those things that are important to us, whether that be food, Read More
It Is Time To Move Forward
The new year is a good time to reflect on our lives. You may have had a great 2022, or you may have faced numerous challenges. Either way, it is now in the past. It is time to move forward. Forward is the word I sensed God gave me for my own life for 2023, and I believe God may Read More
Don’t Forget to Laugh
When is the last time you laughed? Really laughed? Science even understands why the Bible tells us to laugh—it’s good for our health! Laughter reduces stress, fights against depression, and sorrow, and can bring a positive perspective on life and the season we’re in. Read More
Names of God
God has so many names because He is so many things to so many people. He is there with us through everything we go through. Let’s find out what a few of His names mean. Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness Jeremiah 23:4-6, Then I will appoint responsible shepherds who will care for them, and they will never Read More
Unshakeable Trust, Part 2: Can we Grow Our Trust Level?
Can we grow our trust level? We can! We must! In Unshakeable Trust, part 1, we talked about different people in the Bible that demonstrated unshakeable trust. Now let’s take a look at how to grow our trust. A good friend of mine, Bonnie Hammer, recently reminded us that the men and women of the Bible who demonstrated unshakeable trust Read More
Unshakeable Trust
Have you ever seen the trust exercise? One person is standing and is supposed to fall backward, trusting the person behind them to catch them. I decided to try this at our recent women’s revival, but with a twist. I arranged for someone to be up there with me. Just before the person was to fall back, she was to Read More
Our Amazing God
Have you ever read a Scripture and thought, wow! Well, that happened to me not too long ago. When that happened, I decided to read the whole chapter of Psalms 147. This is what I would like to share with you today. As I read this chapter, I made it personal. Verse 1 begins with, Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! How Read More
Stay Planted
Celebrating our family’s 8-year anniversary this month at Common Ground Church. What a journey it has been. Some of my little thoughts on staying planted: It’s easy to want to pack up and leave sometimes. Don’t quit. Stay faithful. When you are so full you’re bored, serve. When you’re empty from serving, rest and refill. Mentor someone. Don’t be late! Read More
Don’t Let Go of His Promises!
God is a promise keeper! “The Lord is faithful to ALL His promises and loving toward ALL He has made” Psalm 145:13. This does not mean we will not face challenges just because we are believers.. BUT God will turn all things meant for evil to our good and His Glory! Genesis 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God Read More
Salt-Life: Living a Life Well Seasoned, Part Two
We continue our discussion on what it means to be “the salt of the earth” that Jesus said His disciples are. In our last blog, we talked about why Jesus compared us to salt, what salt is, and how as followers of Jesus, we can be the salt of the earth. Today we continue with 7 uses for salt and Read More
Salt-Life: Living a Life Well Seasoned, Part One
Have you ever seen those bumper stickers that say “Salt Life” with the picture of a sea turtle or a palm tree? I first saw them on cars in Hawaii and California almost 20 years ago. They were created by three guys in Florida that were passionate about the ocean and all the activities in and around it like fishing, Read More
Refocus: Three Ways to Have Real Peace
Do you ever get overwhelmed with work? Do you ever get overwhelmed with kids? How about bills, spouse, money, having a nice house, driving a nice car, etc., etc., etc…? I get overwhelmed with these things and many more all the time. When is the raise going to happen? I have been waiting 3 years (truth, I have been waiting Read More
The 4 W’s of the Unstoppable Woman
Just who is the unstoppable woman? What makes her unstoppable? As I share with you four characteristics of the unstoppable woman, I want to encourage you to read each scripture. Consider looking the scriptures up in your Bible. Highlight the ones that speak to your heart. Write them on an index card and choose one a day to meditate on. Read More
What is Your Treasure?
As I was listening to the Pastors message “On Purpose,” a passage he read really caught my attention! Matt 6:22 “for where your “treasure” is there your heart will be also.” This passage got me thinking, “treasure” what is our treasure? It is something we place great worth or consider as valuable. What could be of great worth or what Read More
Unstoppable
Hello, let’s talk about unstoppable faith. The Bible tells us that we serve an unstoppable God, doesn’t it? Girls, do you ever wish you had a stronger faith or a closer relationship with God? That you were unstoppable? I do — all the time, I can remember being a young mother going to Church, seeing older Christian women who seemed Read More
Did You Ask?
We’ve all read Matt 19:14, or Luke 18:16, where Jesus said “Let the little children come to me…”. I’m also sure we’ve all thought about the meaning behind his words and how we ourselves could be more like a child and believe like a child. I really like the way The Passion Translation goes into a bit more detail, “…Then Read More
Live Fully Today
It is good to have plans so we can make the most of our days, but we really only have today. Right now. Psalm 118:24 says, “THIS is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” Hebrews 3:15 says, “TODAY if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” II Corinthians 6:2 says, Read More
Come and See: Following Jesus Boldly and Without Delay
I looked forward to Vacation Bible School every summer when I was a kid. I loved learning about Jesus, memorizing Bible verses, and singing songs like I‘ve Got the Joy, Joy, Joy Down in My Heart, and Deep and Wide. I was particularly fond of the story about how Jesus called His disciples to follow Him. The other day, I wanted to Read More
Worship is Our Weapon
Praise is a spiritual weapon against the enemy. When we resist the enemy, he will flee from us (James 4:7). Since God inhabits our praises, the enemy will take flight. Darkness must depart in the presence of Light. Also, praise is what we do to secure victory in any battle; by engaging in praise, we transfer our battles to Him Read More
Wait Till Spring Comes
Have you ever felt as if you are in the longest winter season of your life? I’m not talking about the actual season of Winter, but a spiritual season of Winter. Well, it has for me, I feel as if this has been an extremely long winter season, and I could definitely use some springtime in my life about right Read More
How Does Your Garden Grow?
Comparison either cheapens God’s purposes for you or His purpose for others, depending on where your heart is. Instead, God designed us to live in unity. He designed all of our garden patches to fit together, side by side, creating a stunning visual. Read More
Joy: What Are You Choosing?
I was going through a devotional on the YouVersion Bible app regarding Joy. These are a few of my takeaways from that devotional. Bible plan is Walking in Joy: The Fruit of the Spirit 7-day bible-Reading Plan. Joy Isn’t Optional I thought to myself, what do you mean Joy isn’t optional? Psalm 119:1-3 NLT Joyful are people of integrity, who Read More
8 Tips to Help You Have a Thriving Quiet Time with the Lord
Are you tired of quiet times that leave you feeling empty? Tired of spending time in the Word of God only to forget what you read by noon? Maybe you made a goal this year to get closer to the Lord, read the Bible through, or do something similar. But, here it is, the end of January, and you have Read More
Trusting God???
Entering 2022, my thoughts keep going to “Trusting God.” As I look back at 2021 and my walk with God, the things I went through, and the words I believe God had given me, I began to ponder, “Do I really trust God?” Yes, I do want to trust God. I do want to believe what He had given me in scripture Read More
I Ain’t Playing
I like to think of myself as a light-hearted person who likes to tease and playfully banter with my friends. But, one area I do not play in is my stance against satan. He is evil, a liar, and he wants to steal your joy. Don’t you let him!!! I have been amazed at all the stories in the Bible Read More
Watering Wednesday
Last week while I was praying, God gave me a vision. It seems so silly to even say that. It seems “religious”, which I’ve always steered clear of. I’ve always just tried to live my life for Jesus, as a good example, being real, and learning so much along the way. But seriously, the more our church has studied Ephesians Read More
The Sound of Silence
“Turn it off.” “Be quiet.” That’s what God said to me one night. At first, I thought He meant the fan in my room, which added noise to my otherwise silent night. And He did. But I came to discover that it was about so much more than my fan. He wanted me to turn off the sound of the Read More
Why Cry Out for More?
The Bible is clear that we have been given everything we need to live a victorious life if we have made Jesus the Lord and Savior of our lives. We are blessed with EVERY spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3). We are MORE than conquerors through Christ who loves us (Romans 8:37). God has given us EVERYTHING pertaining to Read More
Fishers Of Men
We are called to be fishers of men. There are so many hurting, unsaved people in the world that need Jesus. We are called to be fishers of men not only to avoid others spending eternity in hell but also so that they have peace and a life worth living. We have been called to introduce them to Jesus not Read More
What Are You Known For?
What are you known for? Think about it for a minute. Are you known for being a great parent, a stellar employee/employer, a servant, a peacemaker, joyful, teacher, gracious…. We could go on and on. I am wondering what I am known for? Those are all great traits, but Jesus said, they will know you are my disciples by your Read More
A Root of Bitterness
Recently I had the opportunity to serve at a beautiful event! It was a big undertaking and took lots of planning. It needed many hands to do the work so schedules were made and jobs delegated to make sure it went off without a hitch. But when the time for the big event came, some people did not fulfill their Read More
Unchanging Promises
When I find myself in the midst of trying circumstances, in lack, or in the middle of a storm, my tendency or temptation (and I think it is with most people) is to put my eyes on the current troubling situation. But I find that when I purposefully focus my attention in prayer on the Lord and His word instead, Read More
He Did Not Throw Us Away
On a Sunday morning, as we were worshipping about God’s love and mercy, I started thinking about the words we were singing, GOD’S MERCY!! My mind went to “God, thank you for not throwing me away.” After we worshipped and sat down, my mind went to Adam and Eve, “God did not throw them away.” All the complaining the Israelites Read More
Live Your Life With Heaven In Mind
In this world, most people live for what they can accomplish here on earth. For example, we continue our education now so that we’ll have more opportunities after we graduate. We work hard for a promotion that will come with a raise, and with that raise, we envision a new car, a new home. We save today so we can Read More
Let’s All Go to Church!
If I were to count on my fingers and toes how many Sundays in my lifetime that I have missed a weekly church service, I’m not sure I would reach 20. 52 weeks in a year, 35 years of my life… boop boop boop Calculators out! We are talking roughly 1,800 church encounters, and that’s not even including a mid-week Read More
Rearview
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV There is an older song by Lecrae called “Tell the World.” Part of it goes like this: “I got the old me in the rearview, now the new me got a clear view… My face Read More
Jesus Understands
Do you ever feel everyone has turned against you? Even some of those closest to you? Jesus understands. When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus after Judas’ betrayal, all of Jesus’ disciples scattered. When He was led away to stand before the high priest, Peter denied he even knew Him three times. In Mark 15, several groups are mentioned that Read More
Natural Springs
This past March I was at a Prayer retreat – God was showing me so much about his flow, and how he wants to strengthen us and use us by his spirit. This is how a natural spring is created: Springs occur when water pressure causes a natural flow of groundwater onto the earth’s surface. … This pressure moves water Read More
The Search Is On
I am a very organized person most of the time. I am one of those, “A place for everything and everything in its place.” My house is not perfect, but I can easily find things as I am not a clutter person at all. It is a rare occurrence for me to misplace something and especially to not be able Read More
When There Seems To Be No Way
How many of us have been going along, minding our own business, enjoying life, as we are able to get out again with family and friends then, WHAM!!! you hit a pothole in the road of life! The whole bottom falls out from under you. Now there is this giant gaping hole in the road in front of you. You Read More
Wisdom is Not Enough
What comes to mind when you hear the name, Solomon? Wisdom? Wealth? Indiana Jones? Solomon was King David’s son and successor to his throne. Solomon had a front-row seat to the trials and blessings of being King-watching his father David. Before Solomon even became King, God chose him over David to be the one to build His Temple, God’s permanent Read More
On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand!
Standing by the bank of a river, I heard a plop. I turned to see what had happened, and the plop happened again. Over and over again, it happened. I watched as parts of the riverbank continually fell into the water. As it did so, it was quickly swept away. The water was muddy and unappealing. I was standing on Read More
Freedom to Choose
Matthew 18:24-27 talks about a servant owing a debt of about $10 million in our time. When the servant fell on his knees and begged for his master to be patient with him, the master had pity on him and canceled his debt. I started thinking about my debt of sin, at everything wrong which I have done, or thought, and Read More
Judgment Day
There are many things in life that we can’t avoid, sleeping, eating, water, taxes, death, and the list goes on and on. Another thing that not one person can avoid is that we all will stand before God someday and give an account for our lives here on Earth.The most important thought that should occupy our minds is that of Read More
The Journey
In all my years of listening and receiving in church, I never thought I would have a testimony worth sharing. I never had an earth-shattering moment of getting saved and turning from my wicked ways, I’ve always loved Jesus, and I’ve always served Him with my whole heart. It was this last year (2020), as I was working through some Read More
The Ripple Effect
Do you ever look around at others who are making a difference and question whether you can do the same? Sometimes it just takes one act of obedience, surrender, courage, passion, or generosity to dramatically affect the lives of others. When Moses obeyed God (though reluctantly) and confronted Pharaoh, the people of Israel were delivered from bondage (Exodus 12:31-50). Esther’s Read More
Don’t Postpone Joy
Last year marked something new, something different. Things started shifting and moving. I’ve been locked in and locked out. I’ve been shut in and shut up. I’ve been passionate. Sometimes a little too passionate. I’ve spoken when I should have remained silent and remained silent when I should have spoken. I’ve felt this urgency, an urgency I can’t explain. And Read More
Warriors
So, where do I start? As we enter into 2021, The Lord has impressed on me TO FIGHT, FIGHT IN THE SPRIT! We are in a battle, but not just some ordinary battle; this is Spiritual warfare! Everything that has been going on around us the past twelve months has made it easy for us to take the bait of Read More
New Beginnings
Happy New Year! Well, we made it through another year, and what a year it was! So much happened in 2020, but it feels as though not all of it was a loss! As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about [a]this present result, to keep many people alive. Genesis 50:20 NASB I Read More
Unseasonal Gifts
The gifts God urges us to give are not limited to fitting under a Christmas tree one day of the year; they are not seasonal. The gifts He urges us to give are as endless as His creativity and compassion. Read More
Joy in the Midst of a Crazy and Turbulent World
Have you ever noticed; when God starts working something on the inside of you, the enemy immediately comes to try to steal it away. That is what the enemy does. He comes to kill, steal, and destroy. (John 10:10) God has been stirring in my heart the truth about joy. One moment, I would be thinking about the joy of Read More
Have You Ever Thought?
Have you ever thought about Jesus being led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil? Luke 4:1-13. The Holy Spirit lead Jesus, the Holy Spirit was with Jesus. Just like the Holy Spirit is with us and in us. John 14:16-17 JESUS KNEW HIS ENEMY I thought to myself, wow, Jesus, you were willing Read More
Dead Ends
I went for a walk this afternoon and there were several ladies walking around praying. I looked around, trying to find an area where I could be alone. I spotted a path with only one other person on it. As I walked, I began to tell the Lord of my love for Him and to invite Him to do as He wills in Read More
Keys to the Kingdom
Keys open locked things. You need a key to get access. Let’s take a locked box, for instance. The box without a key is useless; if you don’t have the key, you can’t get to what’s inside. If someone told you that the box contained everything you needed, then gave you the key, would you throw the key away or forget Read More
Jesus Our Sure Foundation
With everything going on in our world, we need a sense of security more than ever and the only true security comes in our relationship with Jesus. One of my favorite verses is Isaiah 33:6, “He shall be the security and stability of your times.” Like the old hymn says, “On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground Read More
What Type of Lenses Are You Wearing?
There are different types of lenses. A few weeks ago, I was with some friends; one of them was trying to read something to me but was struggling because she didn’t have her glasses. I happened to have my cheaters with me, so I let her use mine. Unfortunately, she was still unable to see a thing as we obviously Read More
Walk Worthy
Castles, knights, princesses, and crowns – these are the stuff of every girl’s pretend years. What girl (of any age) doesn’t love her a sparkling tiara? I will be the first to admit that I got up in the middle of the night in the summer of 1981 to watch Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s royal wedding. We have a Read More
What Are You Looking At?
I work in the early childhood field, and we tell teachers frequently, “What you focus on you get more of.” What we are trying to convey is if you focus on a negative behavior, you will get more of it. If you focus on the positive, you will see more behaviors that are positive. The same is true as Read More
Fighting For Change
It’s time, we all need to be fighting for change. First, we have to change ourselves. To do that we need to know which areas of our lives need more God. We all have some area in our lives where we need to let Jesus in. Just stop here for a moment….take a deep cleansing breath, hold it, slowly Read More
Believe
There have been two times in my life where I was asked; “if money was not an object what would you do?” I was thinking about that not too long ago, what would I do if money wasn’t an object, and as I was sitting there daydreaming of all the things I could and would do, God spoke to my Read More
In His Presence 24/7
Psalm 27:4 AMP “ One thing have I ask of the Lord, that will I seek and inquire for, and insistently require; that I may DWELL in the house of the Lord, in His presence all the days of my life, to behold and gaze upon the beauty, the sweet attractiveness and the delightful loveliness of the Lord and to Read More
Listen
I wouldn’t say I’m an expert on listening. Not even close. As a friend, I catch myself interrupting others. As a wife I find myself zoning out while my husband tells me about his monotonous workday, and as a mother I find myself blocking out all noise pertaining to my four dear children. I like my music loud. I like Read More
It’s All In A Name
Every day God reveals himself to us. He beckons us to come closer, to see Him for who he is. He gives us glimpses of his glory through that sunset we cannot stop looking at, that thunderstorm that leaves us breathless. Creation clearly displays God’s power and glory. (Romans 1:2) Not only does God reveal himself to us through His Read More
A Perspective on the Pandemic
The world is focused on the pandemic and there is no doubt it is a powerful virus, but some people have elevated it to a place in their lives and thinking where it should not be. As believers in God and as those who have put our hope and trust in Jesus, we can make it through this time stronger. Read More
Blink of an Eye
During these uncertain times, we are living with a global pandemic and having to practice social distancing. I have had more than enough time to really seek God in prayer. As I was praying one evening, the thought came to me, IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE. In the blink of an eye, literally, everything changed. Suddenly we couldn’t attend Read More
God’s Everlasting Love Never Fails
In these uncertain times, it is easy to fall into a state of fear, or anxiety but the word says in Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and Read More
Hope Below the Surface
Spring has sprung as the old saying goes! I love this time of year! Dreary days of barren trees and colorless landscapes suddenly respond to the warming temperatures and the abundance of rain. Every day it seems I see new evidence of life bursting into reality. Branches begin to swell with buds that slowly unveil new leaves or beautiful blooms. Read More
What is Your Level of Hope?
I recently won a book about the science of hope at a training I was attending. Several interesting conversations sprang up around this topic. The one that really caught my attention was, “what is your level of hope?” It was thought-provoking to hear others’ beliefs and opinions. The group I was with began to consider where each of us was regarding Read More
You Are Worth More
For many years I felt inferior to everyone I met. I can’t explain it. I don’t exactly know when it happened, but I think it may have been a culmination of getting married, having my first child, and moving from England to the US within a span of about 18 months. Up until that point, I was confident, successful, and Read More
Trusting God
Have you ever thought “Is God dependable in times of adversity” or wondered “Do I have the type of relationship with God and such a confidence in Him that I believe He is with me in my adversity even though I do not see any evidence of his presence and his power”? I would have answered, “Yes, I do”, and Read More
EMPTY
I’ve known I was empty for quite some time. I went from a place of grief to a steady and constant push to be what I thought others needed me to be. “Don’t give up!” I told myself. Words of a mentor echoed over and over in my head, “He is taking you from glory to glory.” Ok, God, let’s Read More
Outdo One Another in Showing Honor
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” – Romans 12:10 (ESV) What does it mean to honor others? To understand what honor means, let’s look at Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology definition: “To honor others is to appreciate, value, and respect them. It means to recognize the full worth and importance of a person”. Read More
The New Year is a Good Time to Let it Go
As 2019 comes to an end, it’s a good time for reflection. What was the year like for you? Was it filled with joy, celebrations, victories, and accomplishments? If so, you are probably optimistic about 2020. But you may be one who is saying, “Good riddance. I can’t wait until this year is over!” You may not be facing the Read More
Truth-Tellers
Have you ever avoided a difficult conversation because you don’t like conflict? Maybe you’ve noticed a family member or a friend going the “wrong way,” but you couldn’t bring yourself to risk your relationship with them by speaking the truth. I know I have. Confrontation makes me uncomfortable. I’ve overlooked and ignored things, instead choosing to remain silent because I Read More
Patience
Has anyone ever been waiting on God for something? Anything at all? I know I have been waiting on GOD for several things, some for a very long time, and some for just a short time. God says to come to him with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, to let our requests be made known to Him (Phil 4:6). Read More
Delayed
I had worked all day getting packed and ready for our trip. I left instructions with our daughter about what plants to water and when to take the trash out and pick up the mail. I packed sandwiches for an airport picnic before we boarded the plane for our flight. Everything was going according to plan! My husband and I Read More
God, Do You Like Me?
Have you ever wondered: God, do you like me? Well, I have. On September 5, 1985, I married my husband, Wilson Mace. One day as we were driving around Austin, Texas, I looked at my husband and said, “I like you”! He looked at me and said, “Oh, OK, well, I love you.” I said, “I love you too, but Read More