Category:

Courage

He Who Strengthens Me

Posted on January 19, 2018

Today is the 5th day of being grateful for my life as it is now. While I’m still looking forward to what is to come, I’m learning more and more to appreciate what is. I feel like I’ve been trying for so long to obtain this feeling that I thought it was elusive. I thought it was just something people talked about but never achieved. I’m actually content with my life. I’m actually at peace.

It has taken me almost 32.5 years to get to this place. To truly experience the peace that surpasses understanding. I have the least amount of money I’ve ever had in my adult life. I’m starting new businesses and jobs. I have no boyfriend or any prospects. I’m supposed to be worried. I’m supposed to be struggling to figure out my next step. Yet, I’m not.

Why after all this time of being a believer am I just now believing? Why am I just now taking God at His word? What happened that I now trust Him with my life? I started putting God first. I mean for real.

One of my new year’s resolutions is to be more intentional with and about God. I want to consult Him about every decision I make. Whether It’s big or small. I’m spending more time in prayer and I’m studying the bible more. Last weekend it hit me. My pastor has been preaching an awesome series on peace. For some reason, the revelation that I can obtain peace through Christ because He strengthens me took my breath away.

Philippians 4:13 is a popular scripture. It’s quoted everywhere and people say it all the time, including me. But it wasn’t until last Sunday that the head knowledge finally trickled down into my heart. I finally realized that I don’t have the strength on my own to be totally at peace and I’m not supposed to.

It’s just so crazy how I’ve basically heard this repeated over and over my entire life, but I’m just now understanding it. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. That took such a load off of my shoulders. It seems so obvious, but that’s the secret to being content. To allow Christ to strengthen you.

You’re probably thinking, duh, that’s exactly what the scripture says. Yeah, I know that’s what it says but I have been doing things in my own strength for so long that I fooled myself into thinking it was God. I thought I was allowing Him to strengthen me. But I wasn’t. I can’t even blame it on the devil. It was me. I thought I had to be strong in my own right. I’m glad I let that go because I’ve never felt this way before. I’ve never been so grateful for my life and how He gives me the strength to remain satisfied.

I always thought about peace as an abstract concept. Like it’s for everybody else, but I’ll just have to fight through. I always thought it would just be my portion in life to be frustrated and slightly confused. Maybe I thought that because I’ve never seen real peace before. Maybe I thought that because I didn’t really believe God would do that for me. Because why me? What do I deserve? Yet here I am living in peace because God deemed me worthy.

God has literally blown my mind this year and we’re only 19 days in. I want every person to feel this peace and gratitude by simply relying on Jesus. I know firsthand that it’s easier said than done,  but I promise it’s worth it. Just try it out. Just give putting God first in everything a try. He won’t disappoint you.

Our Father,

I thank You, God, for my life as it is now. Thank You that Your grace and mercy are new every day. Help me to renew my mind each new day. Help me to put You first in every area of my life. Give me revelation, knowledge, and understanding of Your word so that I may live in the peace that only You can provide. Help me to let go and allow You to give me the strength I need.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

 

Philippians 4:12-13 (NLT)

I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.

God Is Still Faithful

Posted on December 29, 2017

No matter what has taken place this year, remember that God is still faithful. In these last few days of 2017, God can do whatever He promised. There are countless examples in the bible where God’s promises have come to pass.

Remember when God promised Abraham and Sarai a child? Abraham and Sarai birthed Isaac. God kept His promise. Genesis 21:1-2–Then the LORD took note of Sarai as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarai as He had promised. So Sarai conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him.

Remember when God promised to take the people of Israel to the promised land? They had some detours and hardships on the way, but God kept His promise and provided for them along the way.  Joshua 21:45–Not one of the good promises which the LORD had made to the house of Israel failed; all came to pass.

Remember when God promised the Israelites deliverance from their enslavement? He kept His promise and set them free.  Exodus 13:3–So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to remember forever—the day you left Egypt, the place of your slavery. Today the Lord has brought you out by the power of his mighty hand.”

Didn’t God promise us a redeemer, a messiah, one who would save the world? Didn’t he give us His only Son, Jesus? John 3:16–For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

What has God promised you? He will keep his word. Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent; Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” As we approach a new year, don’t forget about the promises God has kept this year.

Keep trusting God for all of the promises that have yet to come. The wait will only make you stronger. Habakkuk 2:3 says, “For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail; though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay.”

Though the year is almost up, the time hasn’t run out for God. God is still the same miracle-working, way-making, promise-keeping God that He has always been. Do you believe that He can still do a major work in your life? Do you still trust Him to be as faithful as He has always been? Do you believe that God can move in your life in a major way, even now?

I admit that there have been days throughout the year when I lost faith. I lost hope. I actually believed that God had changed His mind and forgot about me. During these low moments, the Holy Spirit reminded me God is still faithful. He delivered on every one of His promises so far, why would He stop now?

For the remainder of this year, and for the year to come, it is my prayer that you and I remember and rely on the faithfulness of God. Hebrews 13:5 says, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He, Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” That’s another promise He continues to keep. God will not leave us, He will always provide for us.

God is still faithful. This statement has honestly gotten me through some of my lowest moments. No matter the circumstance God is still faithful. It’s not always easy to remember this when times get rough, but believe me when I tell you God is still faithful. He will do what he said. I believe it with everything in me; God is still faithful. For this reason, I refuse to let go. I will not give up. I will hold tight to Him, and not just for what He’ll do for me. I’ll hold on because God is still good, He’s still loving, and He’s still faithful.

Our Father,

You are holy. I give you all the praise and honor. I come to You asking for forgiveness for losing hope in You. Thank You, God, for restoring my joy and faith in You. Thank You for reminding me of Your faithfulness. Without faith, it is impossible to please You. Help me to hold tightly to my faith in You. You have proven yourself over and over again. I trust You, Lord for Your word is true. Thank You for renewing my hope.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Hebrews 10:23 (NLT)

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.

Have a happy new year!

Living My Best Life

Posted on December 15, 2017

As I think about what I want to accomplish in the coming year, the phrase living my best life comes to mind. That phrase is not just a popular hashtag. It’s a phrase that encompasses an attitude about a life that I want to have. A certain freedom that I long for. What does living my best life really look like? Does it mean my dream life or making the best out of what I have now?

I believe I can have it now. I’m making the decision to be happy. Regardless of what is happening in my life, I can appreciate it. I can choose happiness. I can choose to have joy. My best life looks like me living for me. My best life looks like me making decisions that allow me to be free in my finances, free in my spirit, and free from emotional baggage. Living my best life looks like freedom. Freedom in all aspects of life.

I want to be free from the trappings and materialistic things the world says are necessary. I want to be free from other people’s opinions. I don’t want to sit at a desk working to build someone else’s dream. I cannot allow my God-given gifts to go to waste. I want to be free to pursue whatever passion God puts on my heart. The freedom I want is dependent solely on me and God. No one else gets a say.

Living my best life means that whether I’m married or single, I am who I was created to be. I don’t know how long that will take. Maybe it will happen next year, or maybe it will take a decade. I don’t know how long it may take but, I’ve decided to be free. I don’t want to be the old person with regrets. I’m willing to risk it all just for a moment of freedom.  I’m not even quite sure what this freedom looks like, but I know I’ll achieve it.

All I’ve ever seen is the daily grind. You wake up, go to work, come home, pay bills, live a little on the weekend, and that’s pretty much it. Isn’t there more to life? I’m not disparaging anyone living that life. There is nothing wrong with it. I am grateful for it. But this intense desire to be free came from God and I’m going to pursue it with everything in me. I can no longer ignore it. I can grow and live in the freedom God provides.

I cannot and will not allow myself to wonder if there is more to life. I’m going to find out. If I fail, I’ll still gain invaluable experience. But what if I succeed beyond my wildest dreams? What if I do better than I could have ever imagined? Honestly, that scares me the most. If I fail, then no big deal. I’d just be like a bunch of people who go to work and get a steady paycheck. If I succeed if I truly become free, then what? What will my life really look like? I’m ready to find out.

Now, living my best life is not an excuse to take advantage of God’s grace. The wages of sin are still death. I don’t want to die, I want to live. I still believe holiness is the standard. I’m not going to do anything reckless or dangerous. That’s not the type of freedom I’m describing. The type of freedom I want gives me options that allow me to pursue the things God puts on my heart.  

I think the first step to this type of freedom is deciding that I deserve happiness. I’m choosing life. I’m choosing joy. I’m choosing me. I’m choosing to live my best life. Living my best life will lead to me living my dream life. I’m absolutely convinced that it will. The great thing is, I can live my best life today. I don’t have to wait until some magic moment, I can do it now.  I’m ready for a fantastic year for me living my best life. I urge you to live your best life too.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the freedom You have given me through Your son, Jesus. Wherever the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. Your spirit is in me and I declare now that I am free in the name of Jesus. I set aside every weight and sin that so easily entrap me. I cast all of my cares and worries upon You Jesus. I receive my freedom now. I declare freedom in every area of my life. Thank You for the gift of freedom. Thank You for Your grace and mercy which allow me to move in the freedom You have given. Help me to choose You, to choose joy, to choose to live a life that is worthy of the calling You have placed upon my life. For all these things I bless Your name.

In Jesus’s name,

Amen.

2 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT)

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

Galatians 5:13 (NIV)

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

John 8:36 (NIV)

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

 

 

Vulnerable

Posted on November 3, 2017

God, I am diligently seeking You. You are my best friend and my greatest love. Thank You, Father, for blessing me beyond measure. My spirit rejoices in You. I rejoice in You. Help me to to be the way You want me to be. Help me to operate in a new mindset. Holy Spirit, help me to see clearly what You have for me. I want to rely totally on You, Lord. I want Your will to be done. Help me to give You my entire heart. God, I need You to help me tear down the walls around my heart. Help me to be vulnerable. Help me to love completely and truly. Help me to let go of past hurts.

I don’t want to push away any more people because something they said or did reminds me of a past hurt.  Help me to forgive as I have been forgiven. Help me to face the pain and overcome the hurt. Why do I hold on so tightly to things I should have let go many years ago? I know that I’m already healed. I’m already victorious and successful in You. What is still holding me back from your promises? You want me to be vulnerable and I’m being disobedient. Lead me where I need to go, Lord so that I’m comfortable showing my insecurities.  If I ever want to love again, I must open my heart. Why is this so hard for me? Would I rather never love again just so I won’t be hurt again?

I want to love and be loved. God, remove this wall. No matter how painful, or how much I cry and beg, please remove this wall erected around my heart. I need to feel again.  Remove this mask of propriety from me. Help me to stop hiding behind holiness and sanctification. I’m broken and I’m a mess. Not as broken as I used to be, but broken nonetheless. Is it fear that is holding me back from being vulnerable and open? Fear of intimacy and vulnerability? I’m so afraid to express what’s deep in my soul. What if it’s too much or not enough? Why am I so beholden to what others may think of me? I need to be free of other’s people’s opinions. Your opinion is the only one that matters. Help me to walk in the liberty of Jesus.

Set me free, Lord.  Help me to walk in victory. Help me to trust You enough to let it all go. I don’t want to be burdened any longer. You said to come to You all who are weary and burdened and You will give them rest. I’m coming to You, Lord so that I may rest. I’m coming to You, Lord so that I can be free. I need to be free so that I can help others be free in You. This stage of vulnerability is scary. I have no idea what to expect. I’ve never done this before. So God, please remove the walls from my heart. I don’t want anything holding me back from Your promises.

Give me wisdom. You have something You need me to do. I’m a willing vessel, empty me out and pour You in.  I will be obedient. I will go where the Holy Spirit leads me. Even though I can’t see the next step, I will still rejoice. I will trust the Lord. I will be open and vulnerable. Fear shall not be my deterrent any longer! I won’t stop because of fear. I have to keep going, keep pushing, keep living, and keep pressing.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You, for the Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me to break through whatever is in me so that You can get all the glory. You heal the broken-hearted. I walk in that healing. Lord, help me to feed your sheep. Help me to love unequivocally again. I desire to be led by You in every circumstance. Help me to be content in every situation. Help me to let go and let You have control. Help me to guard my heart, not build a wall around it. I give my heart to You, God. I trust You. Give me wisdom and discernment on whom to trust. Help me to be vulnerable and open so that Your will shall be done in the earth.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Proverbs 4:23 (NLT)

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

Psalm 147:3 (NLT)

 He heals the broken-hearted and bandages their wounds.

The 23rd Psalm

Posted on October 27, 2017

I’ve been feeling a little low and discouraged. I feel like I’m not doing enough. I know I shouldn’t be led by my emotions, but I’m tired. Tired of feeling unworthy, impatient, unfocused, distracted, and lost. I was seeking God for some comfort and He led me to the 23rd Psalm. This is a very familiar and popular psalm written by David. Although I have read this particular psalm it seems like a thousand times, a recent worship experience has allowed me to look at it again and see how comforting this psalm really is.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. The Shepherd is the one who watches, protects, guides, and leads.  He provides everything I need. I shall lack no good thing. He alone meets my every need.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. Only in Him are we able to rest. The rest will be productive, refreshing, and will renew me. He leads me, which will result in progress, but only if I follow. God leads the way to quietness, abundance, peace, and to life.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. God continuously and instantly restores my soul, once I make the decision to follow Him. Success is guaranteed because I’m walking in His name. I’m in Him and He cannot fail, therefore I cannot fail.  I’m in right standing with Him because I’ve made the decision to allow Him to lead me. 

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Following the Lord isn’t a guarantee of easy paths. I will still have to walk through a valley. I may have to be surrounded and hedged in by a very real presence of danger. Not only is there a danger, but there is the shadow of death. Death is the ultimate evil and defeat. It’s just the shadow though, which means that it’s real and near. But if there is a shadow, there means there must be a light. Jesus is that light. I don’t have to face death because Jesus defeated death for us all. Yet, I’m still walking through the valley. This means this valley isn’t the destination or dwelling place.  It’s just a place I have to go through. It isn’t the end, it’s part of the journey. The valley experience will not be pleasant, but His gentle pushing and prodding will comfort and protect me. I don’t have to be afraid in the valley. I’m still being led by God, He is with me in the valley.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Even when I’m surrounded on all sides by people who mean me harm, as long as I’m in right standing with God, He’ll provide for me. He’ll prepare a table just for me so I can feast and enjoy His graciousness and abundance.  I don’t have to worry, hurry, or even fight. I can eat of God’s abundance in peace in front of the people who want to destroy me. He will dignify me, make sure I’m treated with respect despite the dangers. I’m refreshed and renewed and provided for abundantly.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.   I can live in faithful expectation that for the rest of my life God’s goodness and mercy is for me and those who come after me. I can enjoy the presence of the Lord now and forever. From here to eternity I am reassured that He is with me and I’m with Him. Though I may not always do or say the right thing, I can count on His mercy always being with me. I can expect healing and forgiveness from God as long as I abide in Him and follow Him where He leads me. 

Our Father,

I bind every distraction, fear, and feeling of unworthiness. I let loose Your peace, love, joy, and abundance. You are my shepherd and I choose to follow You every day of my life. I desire to seek the things of You Lord. Thank You, Father, for Your word. Thank You for the encouragement and hope it gives. Let me think on things that are pure, praiseworthy, and holy so that I can do Your will. Allow me to remember how much You care for me in trying times. Allow me to remember that only in You will l find rest. You meet my every need and allow me to walk without fear of any adversary. I lack no good thing in You, God. In You, I’m righteous, successful, respected, restored, renewed, loved, and comforted. When I’m in the valley and faced with enemies, help me to stay in right relationship with You. You have already defeated my enemies. I don’t have to fight. Help me to abide in You so that I may dwell with You forever. Thank You, God, that Your goodness and mercy are for me and for the generations to come. Help me to live a life worthy of You and the calling You have placed on my life. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Celibacy

Posted on October 20, 2017

Growing up, celibacy was not the standard. I didn’t see anyone practicing abstinence in my world. Sex was just one of those things church people said we shouldn’t do, but everyone did it anyway. I was never taught the importance of remaining pure. I was led to believe that sex was the way to get and keep a man. So, that’s the model I lived by. I just did what I wanted with no thought of the consequences.

I hadn’t realized I was using sex as a substitute for God. The intimacy, closeness, love, and relationship I thought I was getting from sex was all a facade. I was still empty after every encounter. The closeness I felt during sex never lasted, which made me crave that intimacy even more. As a result, I became intimate with more people. I thought that was the way to fill the voids. One fateful night I met this really cute guy at the club and went home with him. Usually, I was able to move on and never think about it again, but for some reason, I felt ashamed. I couldn’t understand why I was so unfulfilled. I remember I slipping out of his bed, into the bathroom, and collapsing on the floor in sobs. God clearly spoke to me and asked me what was I doing. He said sex is never going to fill the voids. Only I can do that. At that moment, I decided to be celibate until marriage. So how do I navigate being single and celibate?

We all have sexual desires.The way to combat this is to focus on God. Pursue holiness. I intentionally honor God with my body. I used to think that celibacy would be a boring way to live but it’s not. The freedom I get from not be a slave to sexual sin is so gratifying. The men and heartache I get to avoid because I’m celibate is relieving. I don’t suppress my sexual desire. I want it to be there. I’m going to need it when I get married. Instead of focusing on my fleshly desires, I choose to focus on being obedient to God. When I focus on God and put Him first, all the other things fall into place. I don’t want sex to keep me from anything God has for me. My body is the living temple of the Holy Spirit. I can’t just have any old thing enter my temple.

Celibacy has been a journey. Through this process, God has revealed a lot about why sex should be reserved for marriage. Sex isn’t just sex. As much as I wanted to believe that I could just move on, my emotions were attached to each partner. I was creating soul ties. Each person I slept with left an indelible mark on my spirit. It’s been a lot of work to be delivered from those ties and to rein in my emotions.  When people are married they are joined as one and sex solidifies that union. They become one in flesh and in spirit. Sex outside of marriage meant my spirit was all over the place, with no unifying direction. I couldn’t be whole physically and spiritually until I got all of the pieces of me back into order in God.

I choose to be celibate to honor God and my future husband. I want my future husband to know that I thought enough of him to wait. I’m celibate because I need to know if the person I’m with really loves me. When sex is in the equation love is often confused with lust. Lust is temporal and fleeting. Love is everlasting, it’s eternal. I need the eternal. An added bonus of being celibate is that I don’t have to worry about diseases or pregnancy. Sex skews things. Sex complicates things.  Living for God simplifies things.

Celibacy isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. We are called to be holy as God is holy. He will give us the strength, power, and grace to get through any situation. He redeems us. There is no need to be ashamed of your past. When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and repent, God removes every sin from you as far as the east is from the west. He makes you new again. There is no need to go back to the old way of life. God has already provided you with everything you need to sustain you in your walk with Christ.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You, God, for your grace and mercy. Fill every void. Steep me deep in Your love. Thank You for giving me the power and the strength I need to live for You. I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. I look to You, Father for guidance and wisdom in this time. Let me not fall into temptation. Thank You, God, for providing a way of escape for every temptation that comes. I marvel at Your power and might. Help me to be holy as You are holy. Help me to put You first in all things, so the rest can be added unto me.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Ephesians 3:16-19 (NLT)

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

 

The Real Me

Posted on October 6, 2017

I recently had a dream where God was swinging me around in His arms. As He was swinging me around I could see the entire earth. I could see the sky, mountains, seas, and meadows.  The view was absolutely breathtaking. Angels starting singing to me as I gazed upon the splendor of all He created. Their song was sweet and gave me great comfort. In the song, they called me His princess. I immediately started crying in the dream and asked God is that how He really sees me, as His princess? He answered yes and continued to swing me around the earth. I’ve never felt more loved, comforted, secure, protected, and happy. Then I woke up asking myself how can I make sure I always feel that way? How can I keep those feelings inside of my heart forever? Can I truly see myself as a princess, as God sees me?

I’ve always struggled with seeing myself as God sees me. Though I’ve gotten much better with casting down negative thoughts, they still sometimes haunt me. Occasionally thoughts still come that say I’m not worthy of love, I’m ugly, and no one wants to be around me. Then I tell myself who’s going to listen to you? You don’t have anything of value to say. You’re just a fraud.Why do you even bother? Even though I know those thoughts are lies, it’s hard not to believe something I’ve been hearing and telling myself for so long. That’s when I realized that these lies are keeping me from continuously experiencing the comforting and powerful presence of God. So, how can I make sure I see myself as God sees me? I definitely cannot do it on my own.  I have to turn to God.

I prayed for God to open my eyes to the truth of who I am in Him. He told me that I’m not fighting against flesh and blood. I have to fight lies with the truth.  He said that I am a princess. I am an heir to His kingdom and a co-heir with Christ.  I am a child of God and I’m beautiful. I’m fearfully and wonderfully made. He said He cares so much about me that He numbered the hairs on my head. The truth is that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ. The enemy has no authority. I’m seated in heavenly realms with God above every rule, authority, power, dominion, and every name that should be named, not only in this age but in the age to come. Armed with His truth, I should be able to stand firm against the attacks of the enemy right? I should feel renewed, comforted, and confident after God told me that I am all of that right? So why do those lies still haunt me? Why do I still have trouble believing what God says about me?

Is it that I don’t really believe He sees me that way? It’s been a constant struggle to accept the way God sees me. It’s been a process of constantly renewing my mind with His truth. Thank God I’m not where I used to be.  Thank Him that more days than not, I can see myself as a beloved princess. I no longer allow those negative thoughts, doubts, or fears to keep me from entering into His presence. In His presence is where I find the reassurance I so desperately need. I’m in awe of what He’s doing in my life. I’m so glad He sees me the way He does. I’m happy His love endures and I get to experience it daily. Renewing my mind and casting down negative thoughts is a priority for me. Letting go of lies I once held onto so dearly has been a painful yet rewarding process.  With God’s help, I will be totally free in my mind and be able to dwell in His presence forever. I’m finally starting to see who I really am. I am royalty and worthy of every good thing God has in store for me.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You, God, for Your grace and mercy. You protect us and show us every day how awesome You are. Allow us to receive Your truth in our hearts right now God. Let not another minute pass with us seeing ourselves as anything less than wonderfully and fearfully made. Help us to not only see ourselves that way but to see others that way as well. Help us to be the light You’ve called us to be. You’re mighty and magnificent. We stand firm in Your truth against the tactics of the enemy. Help us to renew our minds and put on the mind of Christ as often as it takes to know Your truth for ourselves.

In Jesus’ name

Amen.

Psalm 139:14 (ESV)

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

Ephesians 1:17-21  (ESV)

17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him,18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

 

A Prayer for You

Posted on September 29, 2017

Here’s a little prayer for you to keep you encouraged:

Thank You, Yahweh, for Your wisdom and guidance. You truly are the only living God. You are just and merciful. You designed us in our mother’s wombs. You’ve called us from the beginning of time to do Your will and walk in Your way. You’ve told us to walk forth in expectation, to not be afraid of what You have given us, to expect restoration. Without faith, it is impossible to please You. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in high places. The weapons of our warfare are not human. We gain our strength through Elohim-the creator, Abba Father, Yahweh our God.  We desire a close personal relationship with You, Yahweh, the creator, the Awesome One. The One who gave us Jesus, the One who gave us the truth.Thank You, Father, for our different journeys that all lead to You. Thank You, Father, that although some may grow faster than others, we all are on the road that leads to You. Thank You for ordering our steps on this day. Thank You that we don’t have to worry about tomorrow. You are the way, the truth, and the life. No one goes to the Father except by You, Jesus. Make Your will the desires of our heart. When we are in You and obedient to Your word, then our desires will have no choice but to line up with Your will. Thank You for our spouses, Father. Help us to not disqualify anyone based on the questions they ask, but only on the fruit, they produce. You have raised a generation of men and women that are holy and know what to look for in a spouse. Let neither party be disqualified based on our own expectations.

Help us to not lean unto our own understanding, but acknowledge You in all our ways so that You will make our paths straight. Father, we are all growing to know You better day by day. None of our walks are the same. As long as You’re the head then we will be satisfied. Help us as single Christians to be virtuous and discerning. Help us to not be a counterfeit ourselves. Let us seek a genuine connection with You so that we won’t be led astray. Your children know Your voice. Let us become so acquainted with You that no counterfeit will stand a chance. Let us wait on the Lord so He can renew our strength that we may mount up with wings like eagles, run and not be weary, walk and not faint. Let us not faint for we shall reap the good we sow if we keep walking. Help us to walk into our healing, our ministries, our true selves as You called and chose us to be. For many are called, but few are chosen. We are the chosen few. We are Your children first and foremost. Let no man or thing replace You in our hearts. Continue to be the lamp unto our feet and light on our paths. We pray for Your divine guidance. This is the year to celebrate our Lord. Let us praise Him in advance. Yahweh is our source, our provider, our healer. Let us call upon His name in the time of trouble and in time of great joy. For this is a time of great joy. We walk in expectation of the natural manifestation of completed spiritual tasks. Yahweh, deliver our angels from any trap set by the enemy. We pray Your divine protection over the angels sent to guard and protect us. We pray for Your mercy and strength over the angels sent to deliver our prayers. We pray down all tactics of the enemy. We pray against every tactic designed to hinder our prayers and we declare God’s victory. We pray for the spirit of strength, confidence, peace, and comfort. The enemy shall not prevail. He has already lost, for we are more than conquerors! We don’t even have to fight! God fights on our behalf. As done in heaven, let God’s will be done on earth.

In Jesus’ name, 
Amen.

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

 

Isaiah 40:31(ESV)

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

My Internal Battle

Posted on September 15, 2017

During certain times of the year, I start battling with myself. I start seeing people out having fun and start really questioning my life and walk with God. I think things like, I want God to use me, but I also want to do what I want to do. Is being holy really that important? God knows my heart and that I still love Him right?  I know He’s calling me to higher heights and deeper depths, but do I really have to lose my life to do that?  I’d like to go out and be with other people my age, but I don’t want to feel convicted. Why does my life have to look so markedly different? What’s the real cost of giving my life to Christ? Why does this worldly stuff seem so appealing?  Then I ask myself, what is it that I’m really after? Do I want God or do I want the world? There is no in-between.

The bottom line is if I really desire God and to glorify Him with my life, then I have to live for Him. I have to continuously choose Him. This means crucifying my flesh, dying to myself, picking up the cross, and following Christ. When I gave my life to Christ it meant that I no longer have to live in condemnation.  God’s forgiveness means my sins are removed from me as the east is from the west. Now that I’m counted as one of God’s children I have a peace that surpasses all understanding. I’ve finally found a real, totally encompassing love. I have an unspeakable joy and strength in Him that allows me to conquer every storm in life. I’m now surrounded by good, Godly people who support and encourage me. I also get to be in right-standing with God. I know He covers me. I know He sees me and cares for my every need. I finally found my purpose. So why is that old life still appealing?

Now that I’m far removed from the clubs, drinking, and one-night stands, why does it still seem to be so much fun? Why does that old life still hold influence over me? Especially since I remember the emptiness and shame I felt after waking up from a drunken night out with a sick stomach and over-drafted bank account. I still remember the awkwardness of trying to manipulate men into taking me out because I was broke and hungry.  Thinking back on it, those times weren’t so fun. I was exhausted, weary, and busted. I looked good on the outside, but my soul was withering away. I was in a constant search to fill the void I felt on the inside. I may have thought those times were fun in the moment, but the consequences of sin are not fun. The deliverance I needed from doing whatever, whenever, with whomever, is not fun. Sometimes I’m just like the Israelites begging to go back into bondage just because they knew what to expect.

Back then I walked by sight, now I’m doing my best to walk by faith. Honestly, that scares me a little sometimes. I don’t always know what’s going to happen, I just have to trust God. Trusting Him isn’t always easy. Then I remember God hasn’t failed me yet. Every time I decide to trust Him, He blows my mind. He always makes a way for me. He loves me and I love Him. In Him, I’m complete and actually happy.  I can’t go back to that old life.  I’ve decided to follow Jesus. I’m a new creature in Christ, the old me has passed away and look I’m new! So, when I start to feel those pangs of desire for that old thing, I just remember all that God has done for me. I think about the freedom I get to experience now that I’m no longer bound. God still has some work to do on me, but I’m happy to let Him do it.

Thank You, God, for liberating me. Thank You for taking me in dirty and helpless and making me clean and worthy of your Your love. God, You took my mess and gave me a message. Help me to live for you, Lord. Give me the strength to crucify my flesh daily, to look only to You for fulfillment. You are my guard and shield. You lovingly protect me from things seen and unseen. Thank You, God, that I am a new creature in You. I no longer have to be bound to sin. Thank You, Father, for the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to continue to lead and guide me into all truth. Let me not lean to my own understanding, but acknowledge You in all my ways, so that You will make my paths straight. I choose You, God, every moment of every day, I choose You. 

In Jesus’ name.

Amen. 

 

Matthew 26: 41 (NIV)

Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

Patiently Waiting

Posted on September 8, 2017

This a letter I wrote to my future husband. I wrote this letter partly out of frustration and partly as a plea to God for understanding. At the time, someone told me that I was his wife. I didn’t believe it, but I still considered the possibility. As a result, I started questioning my beliefs about love and how it would come. God spoke to me and this letter to my future husband is the result. At the end are a scripture and short prayer that I hope will encourage you as you patiently wait for your future spouse.

Dear Husband,

I always knew that love would be a choice. It was always floating around in the back of my mind somewhere. Today, however, is the first day I really believed it, or should I say accepted it. I get to choose who I love. Looking back, it doesn’t seem like this should be some big revelation, but the way I viewed love and God, I thought I had no choice in the matter. My perception was that God chose who I was supposed to marry, and I had to just live with it. I thought that I had to be with this person, even if they made me shudder. Then I starting thinking, why would God do that to me? Why would he make me wait for “the one” and then I’d be disappointed with him? God wouldn’t do that. God doesn’t do that. I get to choose who I’ll love. If I get to choose, then maybe there isn’t really just one man made for me. I get to choose the best man for me.

I always thought that meeting my husband would be magical. But God isn’t a magician. He doesn’t perform tricks. He is God. I never realized I put God in a magical box and expected Him to recreate some fairy tale fantasy. God revealed love will not come to me that way. I will make a sober decision on who I will love. It may seem cold-hearted but it’s really not. We are called to be sober-minded and vigilant, to not be led by emotions, but by the Holy Spirit. That’s why I said no to someone who recently told me that I was his wife. I chose not to love him in the romantic sense. Everyone has been asking me, why not him? I just say he wasn’t for me, but the truth is I couldn’t imagine myself with someone I don’t want to kiss or touch. I don’t want to be with someone just because he goes to church. From that experience, I’ve been questioning my expectations of love. Are my standards too high? Is it enough that he’s a Christian? Will God provide the rest in time? Will God allow me to look at him lovingly while I shiver in disgust at the thought of anything beyond a hug? God loves me too much to do that to me. He wants me to live and not just exist. That’s why I said no. Maybe the thoughts of some magical, fantastic love are unrealistic, but the reality of no love is unbearable. Is marriage just duty and submission? Is that all I have to look forward to? I know God will do exceedingly and abundantly above what I ask or can even think. So, that loveless and dutiful marriage must be a lie. God doesn’t want that for me. God sent the Holy Spirit to guide me away from that bleak existence. If I had said yes to him, I would have been merely existing, not living.

Thank You, God, for giving me peace and wisdom about that situation. Thank You, Jesus, for coming so that I may have an abundant life. Jesus didn’t come to earth and die on the cross so that I could barely survive or plainly exist. He came so that I could cast my cares, worries, and fears upon Him. His word brings a peace that surpasses all understanding. My heart is so full with the love of God right now. Thank You, God, that although the love I choose may not be magical, it will be heavenly. There may not be a “one” but my spouse will be sent by God. I’m sure you probably considered some others for marriage, but you will choose me. You will choose to pursue me and ask for my hand in marriage. I will choose to say yes. We will choose each other. When I say yes, know that it means that I choose to love you until there is no more me. I’ll still be the dutiful, submissive wife, but our marriage will be filled with love. A love so deep it will be unspeakable at times. The only way to express it will be to show it. The wait will be worth it. We will have a Godly love that glorifies Him. So, until I meet you and choose to love you, I”ll continue to wait patiently. I will be still and know that He is God. I will keep the faith and reap in due season. God is still God and He will do what He said.

 

Heavenly Father,

Allow me to continue to walk in faith. Open my eyes to the truth and don’t allow me to be deceived by the discouraging lies of the enemy. Let my heart have an unshakeable hope for marriage. I will be strong and confident because I wait on the Lord. Thank You, God, for giving me the desires of my heart when I’m obedient to You. Father, I ask for discernment to recognize your will. Faith without works is dead, so help me to work on myself and my perception of love. I pray that I continue to develop and grow in You, Lord. Let your will be done.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen.

1 Peter 5:8-9English Standard Version (ESV)

 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.