Category:

God

Resurrection Weekend

Posted on March 30, 2018

There will be no official post this week. I challenge you to spend this Resurrection Weekend becoming more intimate with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. There are some scriptures listed below. Please take some time out this weekend to read them and know just how much Jesus sacrificed for us.

“As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples…’” Mark 16:5-7

“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’” Luke 24:6-7

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” Matt. 28:6

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live,” John 11:25

“And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power.”  1 Cor. 6:14

“We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.” Romans 6:4-5

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” 1 Pet. 1:3

“For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:40

“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.” 1 Thess. 4:14

“If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” Rom. 8:11

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last, he will stand upon the earth…” Job 19:25

“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, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 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.” Eph. 1:18-21

“That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” Phil. 3:10

“He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.” 1 Cor. 15:4

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” 1 Pet. 1:3-4

“And with great power, the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:33

“Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Rom. 6:8-11

“And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit.” Rom. 1:4

“Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised— who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” Romans 8:34

“He will swallow up death in victory, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.” Isaiah 25:8

“For as by a man came death, by a man has come to the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ shall all be made alive.” 1 Corinthians 15:21-22

“We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.” Romans 6:9

“He was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” Romans 4:25

“Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” Col. 2:12

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9*

 

 

 

 

*Taken from 25 Resurrection Scriptures to Celebrate: He Has Risen!

 

Online Dating

Posted on March 23, 2018

Is Online Dating wrong for Christians? Not necessarily. But, let me tell you my story.

Back in the summer of 2015 on the advice of some friends I joined an online dating site.
Before I joined I always said I don’t think I’m going to meet my husband online. I just never felt that way. I joined anyway.

I went on my first online date in the summer of 2015. Although I was super nervous, the date went well. He was a gentleman. He walked me to my car and pulled out my chair. After the date, we even continued to talk, but it eventually fizzled out.

After that, there were a series of guys I talked to online. Nothing really ever came from those interactions either. After talking to a guy and it not working out, I would always go back to feeling like I’m not even supposed to be online dating in the first place.

I felt like it was a distraction from what I was really supposed to be doing and a waste of time. Yet, I persisted. I wanted to give online dating a real shot because some of my friends met really good guys from online dating.

I mean really good Christian guys and some were even getting married to these men they met online.

Even though I persisted, I always had a little tugging in my spirit saying that this isn’t really for me. By this time it is late 2016. I tell myself that if I’m going to do this, I will try out a paid online dating site. So I take my profile down from the free site and pay real actual dollars to meet men online.

I met a few men, and I went on a date with 2 of them. The first one was bad.He basically said that all he wanted was sex. I said thanks for being honest but Nah.The next date I went on was the worst date of my life.

After that date, I decided to take a break. I took down every profile and sat myself down.Here are some lessons I learned from my experience of online dating:

Although online dating by itself is not sinful, it’s not for me.

1 Corinthians 10:23 says, “I have the right to do anything,” you say–but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”–but not everything is constructive.”

I could have been in a very different place in my life had I just listened to the Holy Spirit. There is no telling what my life would be like right now.

I’m not going to beat myself up about it though because Romans 8:1 says, “so now there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ.”

I’m not condemned for my mistakes. I’m forgiven and through God’s mercy and grace, I have another chance to do it right.
I learned to listen to and follow the direction of the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:16 says, “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.”
Had I been following the direction of the Holy Spirit I would have saved myself some time, money, and headache.

Ultimately what I want is for God to be glorified in my waiting, dating, and marriage.
1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

I have to make sure that all of my decisions and actions give God the glory. That definitely wasn’t happening when I was online dating. My motive was to find a husband, not to glorify God.

So is online dating wrong?

Not necessarily. But for me, it is, at least for right now. As I said before, I’m deciding to be more open to whatever God has for me and if He tells me to go online then that’s what I’ll do.The most important thing is to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit and make sure God is getting the glory out of everything.

Online dating may not be wrong for you. But don’t try to match anyone else’s story. God has written a unique and amazing story for each and every one of us. They all don’t have to be the same.

Some may meet their husband or wife online, some may meet them at Walmart. Just follow God. He’ll tell you what’s right or wrong.

Our Father,

God, I come to You asking that I allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me into all truth. I ask that the desires of my heart match Your will for me. Let me not be distracted. Let every decision I make and every action I take be for Your glory. Thank You, God, for forgiveness. Help me to not relive old mistakes, but keep pressing forward in You.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

 

Check out my latest podcast episode: Is Online Dating Wrong?

 

 

 

Open To Dating

Posted on March 16, 2018

Single In Christ is a space for those who are single, saved, and patiently waiting. While we are patiently waiting for the Lord to bring us what He’s promised, how do we handle dating? I asked myself this question because I was recently asked out on a date.

It’s been a hot minute since I’ve been on a date and I wasn’t quite sure how to handle the request. Should I go to God and seek an answer before saying yes? That doesn’t seem practical because if we’re at the point of him asking me out, I should have received some discernment by now. Plus, how long do I make this man wait before giving him an answer?

I should have prayed before I even started talking to him. I should have already asked God if this is this a man He wants in my life. Okay, lesson learned. I’ll know the next time this happens to seek God before. As a matter of fact, I will stay prayerful about my love life so I can have God’s wisdom at the time I need it.

Another thing that complicated my decision was that he wasn’t black. Now, I’ve always imagined that my husband would be black. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with interracial dating, I just never envisioned myself doing it. Now I’m faced with this opportunity to go out with a man who doesn’t look like me. He doesn’t have the same background or culture as me. Oh God, what should I do?

Should I stick with what I’ve always imagined or should I be open to trying something new? Should I just try this out? How is this even going to work? All of these thoughts ran through my head. I ended up saying yes to him, but ultimately I did not go on the date.

Why didn’t I go on the date? The main reason is that he canceled. But honestly, I was so relieved. I was so caught up in the fact that he wasn’t black that I’m sure I would have made the date awkward and awful. I was so in my head about what I thought my future should look like that I didn’t take the time appreciate the man for who he was.

This entire experience made me ask myself some questions. What do I really want? Do I want what God has for me, or do I want what I want? I know we all profess to want what God has for us, but what if it doesn’t fit our expectations? What if we reject God’s best for us because it’s not what we want.

Could it be that my type is the reason I’m single? Do I reject certain guys that may be God-sent just because they don’t fit into my idea of the man I think I should have? Is my type even attracted to me? I’m not saying that I’m unattractive or anything, but I ask these questions to myself and to God because I don’t want to be single forever. I’ve resolved that I do want what God has promised me. I also know that I have some work to do on myself. I have some imaginations to let go.

The next question I thought about was am I willing to be open? Am I willing to let go of my imaginations and expectations and allow God to have control in my life? Especially my love life? I’ve been single and dating on and off for about 6 years now. As I look back on who I’ve dated, they all seem to be a certain type.

What if that’s not what God has for me? Would He tell me? Would I even listen? Am I listening now? God said He would give me wisdom liberally and without reprimand when I ask, but I really had to evaluate if I was really asking or just telling Him what I want. I really want to be open and let go of these fantasies that I’ve held on to for so long, but how do I really do that?

I had to be honest with God. I’m glad that I serve a God that I can be honest with. I’m glad that He loves me enough to let me approach His throne and cast my cares and worries on Him. One worry is that I don’t want someone who I find unattractive. It seems silly but that’s a concern of mine. I had to give that to the Lord.

Another concern is that the last time I tried “opening up” it didn’t go well at all. In fact is was pretty terrible. You all remember that horrible date. I don’t want to experience that again. I guess I’m like everybody else, I want to be open, but only to pleasant experiences. That’s just not the way life works. I have to give up control. I have to surrender my will to God.

After my last date, I decided to sit myself down and give dating a break. The last experience was a little much for me and it left me feeling a little defeated. I gave that over to the Lord, at least I thought I did, and now all of these other concerns about dating are popping up in my head.

So, I just go to God and be totally honest again. I thank Him for being God and tell Him that I’m not particularly feeling this waiting period and ask Him to increase my faith and help me to trust in Him even more. His power is made perfect in my weakness. I’m so glad that I can rely on Jesus. I honestly don’t know how I would make it without Him.

So, how do I be open, how do I allow God to give me His best?  I have to start with crucifying my flesh. That means I have two spirits in me. I can either follow God’s Holy Spirit or my fleshly/sinful spirit that goes against what God wants.

By crucifying or killing my flesh, I allow God’s spirit that dwells in me to win. I do this by praying, studying God’s word, and receiving Godly counsel. I kill my flesh by simply (or not so simply) depending on God. Depending on God requires self-discipline and intentionality.  It requires that I lay my will down daily, even hourly. I cannot do this on my own.

It’s crazy how I got all of this revelation from being asked on a date. As a result, I’m taking myself off of the bench. I am open to dating or courting who God has for me. If you are in a place where you feel like you’re healed and ready to date, then I encourage you to be open as well.  Don’t just date for fun or because you’re bored or hungry, take the time to find out who a person really is. Date with the purpose of marriage in mind.

I’m not saying that you will necessarily marry the person you’re dating, but they should at least want marriage too. Your husband or wife may not look like you’ve envisioned, but they might just love you better than you could ever have imagined. Let God into your love life. It may be difficult to give up the reins at first, but whenever I’ve totally put something into His hands, He’s never disappointed me. I”m looking forward to what He has in store. 

Our Father,

Allows us to feel Your love today. Strengthen us with Your love, power, and might. Let our faith in You increase so that we’re able to cast all of our cares, worries, and burdens at Your feet. We cannot do this alone God. We need you. Help us to crucify our flesh and surrender our wills to Yours. Give us the vision and revelation to see that what you have for us is the best. Help us to trust that Your will is better than anything we could ever imagine. Let Your will be done.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Galatians 5:24 (ICB)

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their own sinful selves. They have given up their old selfish feelings and the evil things they wanted to do.

2 Corinthians 10:5  (ESV)

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

 

Watch or listen to the latest podcast episode: Open to Dating

 

I Need You

Posted on March 9, 2018

Father, I need You. Help me live as You intended. I want my life to be holy, pleasing, and acceptable to You, Lord. I’m already in Christ, who is well pleasing to our Father. I just have to live according to Your precepts and commands. I have to be what You fearfully and wonderfully created. I have to stop trying to live up to the expectations of others. I have to live for Yahweh.

I still have to work and believe, but I don’t have to try so hard to make everything perfect. I’m not perfect. There is no one perfect except Jesus. The land and the fullness thereof has already been laid at my feet. I thank You, Yahweh, for what You have already done. I praise and worship You, Yahweh, because of who You are.

You already set the end before the beginning. So, thank You, Yahweh, for already providing.Thank You, Yahweh, for meeting every one of my needs. Thank You for giving me the desires of my heart. For allowing me to be me, the person You created uniquely. Thank You for removing fear and doubt and replacing them with love and approval. Yet, I still need You. 

I need Your strength. I need Your Holy Spirit so that I can be more available to You. I need to be Your vessel.  I need to be in the position You require so that Your will may be done. I need to put Your desires above my own.  Yahweh, I cannot do this alone! I need you! I need you! I know that all I have to do is believe and walk. Give me the strength to endure.

Hold me up on all sides. I command the angels ordered to protect me to make the path as clear as possible. I charge them to hold me up as I walk. I need to complete this journey to be able to successfully complete Your will. Without a vision, the people will perish. Help me to see the vision plainly, Yahweh. 

Thank You for already planting the seeds within me. Thank You for allowing me to learn and my faith to grow. Thank You for desiring an intimate relationship with me, for allowing me to know Your name.  Thank You for transforming my mind and allowing me to learn from You and those around me. I need You, Yahweh. 

In Jesus’ name, I pray,

Amen.

Psalm 91:11-12  (NLT)

For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.

Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Isaiah 46:10 (NET)

10 who announces the end from the beginning
and reveals beforehand what has not yet occurred,
who says, ‘My plan will be realized,
I will accomplish what I desire,’

Romans 12:1-2New Living Translation (NLT)

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

 

Check out my latest podcast episode Patiently Waiting:

https://youtu.be/Pk_99JYzI4s

https://youtu.be/Pk_99JYzI4s

 

Still Patiently Waiting…

Posted on March 2, 2018

I feel like giving up. Is all this really worth it? Everything is on my nerves. It seems like everyone else is getting exactly what they want and I’m over here waiting. Other people are living any kind of way and still getting promises. Is there something more I can do? I don’t want to hurry God along, but my goodness, He sure is taking His sweet time.

I’ve heard it all before. Those people seem like they have it all, but I don’t know the state of their soul. I don’t know what they had to do to get that. Well, you’re right. I don’t know the state of their soul, but they sure do look happy with those new cars, houses, and husbands. I don’t know what they’re doing to get all that, but I do know what I’m not doing and that I don’t have all that. They look like wives and mothers and I look like super-saved Sally. I’m exhausted. Maybe I’m doing too much or not doing enough. I don’t know.

I do know that blessings are not necessarily material things. I know that God also gives us spiritual blessings. But, sometimes I want the material things. It sounds bad, but it’s true. My focus should really be on pleasing God and seeking what He has for me to do in this waiting season. I’m sure my patience is being tested and I’ll have an awesome testimony on the other side of this. I’m just not feeling it right now.

I really appreciate all those people who waited 50 and 60 years for God to deliver His promise, but honestly, I don’t want that to be my testimony. God, can I be one of those ‘suddenly it happened’ people? I don’t want to have to wait forever. I know it’s whiny and selfish. I should be grateful for the way my life is right now. I am grateful for my life, mostly anyway. In the grand scheme of things, my waiting season hasn’t been that long. It just feels like it’s been forever.

I’m not just talking about marriage, house, and kids. I’m talking about whatever big or small thing is next. Whatever will take me out of this holding pattern. I know the waiting period has a purpose–to make sure I’m in a position to receive the next thing God has for me. That’s why I don’t understand how I got into this headspace. One day I just woke up and was tired of doing it all. Tired of being a leader. Tired of answering questions. Tired of being the poster child of a saved single woman. I want to quit.

I had to call on God. I told Him through prayer and journaling how I honestly feel. I want to wait with anticipation, expectation, and hope, but it’s hard right now. The problem is I don’t know why it’s so hard. Usually, I pray and read scripture, talk to God and some friends and I find encouragement. Usually, I am able to make it through this feeling. This time feels different. I really want to be grateful and obedient but it’s a real struggle right now.

I’m probably on the verge of some big breakthrough or receiving God’s promise. I feel like I’m hitting a wall and I’m just tired of everything. I want to stop everything. I know it’s my flesh rebelling against submitting to God. But again I ask, why now? Why do I feel this so strongly? I get like this from time to time and the only thing I can do is rely on God to renew my strength. His grace is sufficient and His power and strength are made perfect in my weakness. I gladly boast about how weak I’m feeling because I’m only making it through because of God’s power and strength.

I’m grateful that even this is working for my good. I don’t know how yet but I’m glad it is. I’m glad that I serve a God that gives me what I need when I need it. I’m so grateful that I can cry out to God and tell Him how I truly feel. I’m glad that I don’t feel the need to wear a mask and hide how I’m feeling. I’m thankful that God restores me and strengthens me. I’m happy that I can ask Him to help me with my unbelief.

I know that now is the time to press deeper into God, not run away. I have to trust Him now more than ever. I am totally relying on His strength. I cannot do this alone. I cannot rely on my feelings, I have to rely on my faith in Him. My faith tells me that Jesus is Lord and I have the Holy Spirit leading and guiding me. My feelings are telling me to quit everything and just do whatever I want to do.

Thank God, for His Holy Spirit. It’s a struggle, but I choose to crucify my flesh and follow Christ. I know what He has for me will be worth the wait. He didn’t bring me this far to leave me. I still love and trust Him, I just have to dig a little deeper to keep Him first. God is a promise keeper. God is faithful. I can’t lose sight of the promise. I don’t want anything less than what God has promised. I’ll just have to make sure that I’m grounded in God and constantly being led by the Holy Spirit. I’m not giving up, I’m still patiently waiting on the Lord.

 

Our Father,

Thank You, God, for my life as it is right now. Thank you that I am able to trust in You and You will renew my strength. Thank You, Father, that I can come to You with my honest feelings and thoughts. You give rest to the weary. I thank You for rest God. Help me to not compare my journey to the journey of others Lord. I believe that what You have for me will be worth the wait. Father, please remove every negative thought and feeling and help me to focus on You. Help me to renew my mind and crucify my flesh as often as necessary. Help me to think about things that are pleasing and worthy of praise. Help me to submit to You in every area of my life. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen. 

Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV)

But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

Check out my new podcast: Saved.

https://youtu.be/z2e3_raiVn4

 

Saved.

Posted on February 23, 2018

Single In Christ is a space for those who are single, saved, and patiently waiting. I don’t want to take for granted that everyone is saved or understands what salvation is. No matter what stage of life you are in, being in Christ and being saved will be the best decision you have ever made.

What does it mean to be saved? 

Being saved means you believe by faith that Jesus Christ lived, died, was resurrected, and now lives again for you.  You accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Once you believe, you are saved by God’s grace from eternal punishment from sin. Once you believe you receive the Holy Spirit and He seals you with a promise. That promise is that you’ll never be alone. The promise is that you now have a life beyond this earth. You now have the power to become a new person through Christ. You’re now free from sin and condemnation. You’ll always have a comforter, a guide, and an advocate. 

How does one become saved?

Acts 16:30-31 says, “Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” Salvation comes from first believing in Jesus. This means you believe he was born of the Virgin Mary. This means you believe that he was hung on a cross and died to atone for our sins. This also means that you believe that he rose and is now living with our Father in heaven. The only way to be saved and receive the grace and redemption available to us is to go through Jesus Christ. “Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

God is the only one who can save. “For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this not because we deserve it, but because it was His plan from the beginning of time–to show us His grace through Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 1:9). Salvation is a free gift from God. He didn’t save us because we are so good or because we are so deserving. God sent Jesus to save us because God is good, kind, and gracious. We only receive salvation because of God’s grace. It’s up to us to accept His gracious offer of salvation.

How does one keep up salvation?

Once you’re saved you can now rely on God and His power to keep you. He sent His Holy Spirit to lead and guide you into all truth. God loves you. He wants to spend time with you. The way to keep up your salvation is to develop a close relationship with Him. Take all of your cares and worries to Him. You now have the power to change. You have a new life through the Holy Spirit. You will have to pray and seek God about what to remove from your life so that you can stay close to Him. Repent of any sins that will separate you from God. Join a church that teaches and preaches the real Word of God. Find a group of like-minded people who are living the way you want to live. You will have to study and read the bible so you know what God says for yourself. Remember that this is a journey. Life will still happen. You may fall short of God’s glorious standard. Just keep going and striving to do your best for God.  

What does living as a saved person look like?

There is a perception that saved people are old and boring. Salvation is not just for old people. Salvation is for everyone. You do not have to wait until you’re old to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.  Ecclesiastes 12:1 says, “Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.” Life in Christ is different from life in the world. Once you’ve accepted Jesus as your Savior then the things that you considered fun won’t have as much appeal. The things you pursued before Christ were only fun temporarily. The fun moments were fleeting. Eternity is what concerns Christ. Try God for yourself and “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8). It’s true that as a Christian you give up some things, but that does not mean life as a Christian cannot be fun. The difference is your motivation will be to please God and not please yourself. Your life will not be the same once you truly are saved. The things you talk about will change, the way you dress will change, your friends may even change. Don’t be discouraged, God has something better in store for you. Life as a Christian involves going to church, serving and lots of praying. You will be able to find joy and fun in the things of God. 

Christian life may not be easy, but it’s worth it. In John 16:33, Jesus said “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.” Jesus Christ promised that he has overcome this world and its troubles. We don’t have to worry, He gives us peace when we are in Him. Receiving salvation grants you immediate access to Him.

If you are not saved and want to have full access to God through Christ, I urge you to read the prayer below aloud and invite God into your heart.

 

Our Father,

Thank you for the gift of salvation. I come to You asking to be saved. I believe that Jesus Christ died and rose again to save me from condemnation and to wash away my sins. I invite the Holy Spirit into my life to guide me. I receive Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I repent of all sins that will lead me away from You. I thank You, God, for your Son Jesus. I thank You, Jesus, for your love and sacrifice. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

 

Titus 3:5

He saved us, not because of the righteous thing we have done, but because of His mercy. He washed away our sins giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 2:8

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.

What’s On the Other Side of Obedience?

Posted on February 16, 2018

Have you ever wondered what’s on the other side of obedience? What would happen if we all obeyed God like we say we want to? What would our life look like? What would the world look like?

Seeing the results of our obedience starts with us being obedient to God and His commands. How can we do this? How can we be more obedient to God? First, we must love Him. John 14:15 says, “If you love me, obey my commandments.” Do you love God? If your answer is yes, then I urge you to examine how obedient you are to His commandments. This is a tough area for me personally because I’m not always obedient to what God says to do. That’s why I’m so thankful for His grace and mercy. I’m thankful that He never gives up on me. I’m grateful that I get more than one chance to be obedient. He shows His love to me by giving me life every single day. All I have to do to show my love to God is to be obedient to Him.

As Christians, we should always look to Christ as an example of how we should obey. In Philippians Paul encourages us to have the attitude of Christ.  Philippians 2:6-8 says, “Though He was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave and was born a human being. When he appeared in human form, He humbled Himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.”

In order to be obedient, we have to become more like Christ. We have to humble ourselves like Jesus did. Jesus gave up His divinity in order to save us. He gave up all of His privileges to be obedient to God. He didn’t think more highly of Himself than he could have. He wasn’t selfish. He was loving and compassionate. He worked with one purpose in mind, to obey His Father. In order to be obedient to God, we have to do exactly as Christ did. We have to lay down our own fleshly and selfish desires and put on the characteristics of Christ.  We have to know our purpose and pursue it. God isn’t asking us to make the ultimate sacrifice like Jesus did, He’s just asking us to put Him first and obey Him.

Once we obey God, what’s on the other side of obedience? 2 Chronicles 27:6 says, “King Jotham became powerful because he was careful to live in obedience to the LORD his God.” God gives us power when we are careful to live in obedience to Him. Ezekiel 20:13 says, “But the people of Israel rebelled against me, and they refused to obey my decrees there in the wilderness. They wouldn’t obey my regulations even though obedience would have given them life…” There is life on the other side of obedience. In this context, life means restoration, protection, and prosperity. Job 36:11 says, “If they listen and obey God, they will be blessed with prosperity throughout their lives. All their years will be pleasant.” On the other side of obedience is your blessing. On the other side of obedience is pleasantness. All of your years will be pleasant, not just some.

Let’s look back at Jesus. What was on the other side of His obedience?  Philippians 2:9-11says, ” Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names,  that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Jesus was elevated and given honor. Once we are obedient to God, he will elevate and honor us when the time is right. Let’s not forget the best thing on the other side of obedience, eternal life. 1 Corinthians 9:25 says, “ All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.” We do this for an eternal prize. We obey for eternal life. We obey so that we can live forever in Heaven with our Father, God. On the other side of obeying God is restoration, protection, prosperity, blessing, pleasant years, power, honor, elevation, and most important eternal life in heaven. We get to live forever when we obey God.

Obeying God shouldn’t be about obtaining blessings and favor, although those are great things. We should obey God because He is good and what He has for us is always better than the alternative. God has done so much for us and all He asks in return is that we love Him and obey His commandments. Granted, that isn’t always easy. But why isn’t it easy when we see all that we get from obedience, not only in this life but also in the hereafter? Disobedience not only delays our destiny but the destiny of those people who need our  God-given gifts. We are needed in the earth. We all have a purpose from God and are needed to accomplish His will. If we don’t obey God, what’s on the other side of disobedience?

Judges 2:10-13 says, “After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the Lord’s anger because they forsook him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths.” Disobedience arouses God’s anger. Disobedience is a sin. Sin always separates us from God. Sin caused Adam and Eve to run away from God. Sin caused the people of Israel to run to other gods. Sin disrupts our relationship with God. When we aren’t in right relationship with God, we are outside of His protection. Our prayers don’t reach Him as well as they used to. On the other side of disobedience is God’s anger and separation from Him. So, what’s keeping us from fully obeying God? 

What has kept me from fully obeying God is following my own selfish desires. I wanted to do what I wanted to do. Which really means that I didn’t trust God enough to keep me. I didn’t trust that God would do what He promised. What’s keeping you from fully obeying God? Do you trust Him? Do you love Him? Is there another reason? This is the perfect time to go to God and ask Him to reveal to you what’s really keeping you from obeying Him. Once you get the answer, ask Him how to turn from that. He loves all of us so much that He will reveal Himself strong in your weak area. We don’t have to do it alone. God has given us His strength to accomplish those things we can’t do on our own. That thing you’ve been praying for is on the other side of your obedience. God’s promises are on the other side of your obedience. All you have to do is love Him and obey.

Our Father,

You are awesome! We see what you have done for all those who are obedient to You. Thank you for showing us love, kindness, and mercy throughout our disobedience. We love You, God, show us how to obey you completely. Reveal what is hindering us from fully submitting to You. We desire eternal life with You. Help us to put You first and love You more. Help us to put on the attitude of Christ. Be strong where we are weak Lord. We desire to be in right relationship with You God. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen. 

1 Samuel 15:22  (NLT)

But Samuel replied,

“What is more pleasing to the Lord:
    your burnt offerings and sacrifices
    or your obedience to his voice?
Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice,
    and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.

Single, Saved, and Sold Out

Posted on February 8, 2018

 I was recently featured as a guest on WYTV7’s Kingdom Talk with host Mia Cohen. We discuss tips for battling loneliness, why waiting for God’s promise will be worth it, and why being single is fun.  Take a listen!

 

Am I Who I Post To Be?

Posted on January 26, 2018

Am I who I post that I am? I post about God and living for Him all the time, but is that really who I am in private? Does my life really measure up to what my posts say that I am, or are they just my desire? I don’t want to overestimate my character. I need to do an honest assessment of where I am and what I want.

What I desire is real intimacy with God. No pretenses, no holding back. Just me and Him. I want to be able to be so in tune with Him that I know what He’s going to say. I want to be intentional. This is my prayer. Show me who I really am God; the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Reveal to me any character deficiencies that undermine Your power in my life. I give myself to You completely. I give to You my mind body and soul. I want to do better. I see Your hand in everything now. You are renewing my mind each day. I see You. I feel You. You are my peace. You are my strength. All that matters is who I am in You. Help me to let go of everything that is not like you. Give me the strength to let go of people and things that do not advance your kingdom and your presence here on earth. I want to be who I post that I am.

I want to be righteous and holy, pure and unblemished. There’s no way I can do that without You. I want my private life to match my public posts. The truth is this walk with Christ is not always roses, sunshine, and rainbows. But a lot of times the discomfort I experience is just growing pains. I’m being stretched and developed. I’m being called out of the place that I would like to be, to a place God wants me.

I was never one for the spotlight. I was and still am the quiet girl that goes along to get along. But now I have a confidence in who I am that wasn’t there before. I can’t just sit quietly in the back anymore. I have something to say now. There’s more to me than I could have ever imagined. When I started Single In Christ, I honestly thought that I’d just be sharing my journal entries from the past several years. It definitely started out like that. What I didn’t know was that God had other plans in mind. He called me to more. 

This blog has helped me evaluate who I am and what I want. It has changed my outlook on life. Writing every week has made me pray more and seek God for what He wants me to say. This blog has caused me to study the bible. I want to be a conduit for Him, a willing vessel. I’m not perfect, I still don’t spend as much time as I should with Him.  I want to be better. I want to do better. I want to know more. I want to be in true relationship with Him.

I am a different person now. The way I think is changing. The way I spend money is changing. The way I live is changing. I am changing. When I started this blog I told God that I didn’t want to be the poster child for singleness. What ended up happening is that I discovered who God wants me to be. In going to God and asking him about this single season of my life, I discovered my purpose in Him. I developed an intimacy with Him that is indescribable. I am completely in awe of what He has done and what He can do.

I’m actually excited to spend time with Him. I worship more. I listen to Him more. I’ve allowed God into my heart in a way that I didn’t know was possible. I’m forever changed. I wish I had the words to describe this. Who knew that being single would lead me to want more of God and not just a husband.  Prayerfully this encourages you to live boldly for God, no matter what His will is for your life.

I pray you get to know Him for yourself and discover His will for your life. I pray that you are content with just you and God. I pray that you grant Him full access to your life. Let there be no pretenses, nothing hidden. I pray that your life is in full submission to God.

Although my life isn’t looking like I expected, it’s better than I could have ever imagined. I will not apologize for living for Him. I give Him permission to transform me. No one can come into true relationship with Him and not be transformed. I choose to act and react ways that honor God. I choose life. I choose holiness. I choose God.

 

Romans 12:1-3 NLT

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice–the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves by the faith God has given us.

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.