Category:

Jesus

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

 

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.

Real Love

Posted on February 2, 2018

The following is a prayer I wrote to God when I needed to feel His love.

Our Father,

I’m so in love with You! You’re my entire world, my being. I owe my entire existence to You. God, my spirit cries out to You. I’m in desperate need of Your love. Your love covers all sins and infirmities. Your love cancels the debts I owe. Your love is the cure for all that ails me. Your Holy Spirit comforts and guides me into Your love and peace. Saturate me with Your love so that I may love others. As I sit at your feet and bask in Your abundant love, calm my fears. Reassure me of my purpose. Put in me the passion to pursue Your will. I love You, God. You are the restorer of my soul. You are my fortress, my Redeemer, the truest love of my life. Your love for me is overwhelming. Nothing can match the depths of Your love. Nothing, on earth or in heaven, in life or in death, can separate me from Your love. My heart is so full. I’m amazed that You would even allow me, a sinner, an emotionally charged, fleshly person to even worship You. You humble me, God.  Break me so that I will submit to Your will. I give You all of me. I know there’s something on the other side of my obedience. Loving You is the best decision I’ve ever made. Help me to do everything as unto the Lord. Your word is true and just. You freely give Your love to everyone. You loved me before I was even born. I’m not asking for You to love me, for You already do that. I’m simply asking to feel Your love and to be able to share it with others. I’m convinced that if people could just feel even a tiny piece of Your love, then they’ll come to You. Your love has granted me access to a peace I’ve never known. I am so content with where I am in my life right now. God, You have given me everything I need. Father, help me to love like You. I pray for a refreshing and renewal in my spirit. Provide a vision and enable Your people to carry it out. I know that You can bridge gaps, open minds, and turn hearts. God, You’ve called me to love and I pray that I am obedient. Restore my fervor for You Lord. I am living in the full authority and grace of God. Help me to listen to You and take the direction of the Holy Spirit. Your love covers and protects. Your love lasts forever. Your love is true and real. Thank You for loving me.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NLT)

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wrong. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

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.

 

 

A Thank You Note

Posted on November 24, 2017

During this holiday of Thanksgiving, we often show gratitude for the people and things we value in our lives. I appreciate my family and friends and all the joy they bring into my life, but I just want to take time to thank God Almighty for all that He has done, is doing, and will do.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this day You have made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.  Thank You for Your son Jesus Christ and for His sacrifice. I pray that I am following Your will for my life. Help me not to lean on my own understanding, but acknowledge You in all things.  Thank You for everything that You have already blessed me with. I pray for patience. I know that You will provide my every need according to Your riches in glory. Thank You, God, that I’m accepting of Your will for my life and that I will not push it away or not recognize it when it comes. 

Thank You, Father, that You have given me the authority to speak life. Thank You for the power to defeat death with everlasting life in glory. Thank You for the resurrection power that dwells within me. Thank You for wisdom and discernment. These are gifts that I pray I use correctly every day. Thank You for each spiritual gift You have bestowed upon me. I pray I use each one for Your glory and the upbuilding of Your kingdom. Help me to recognize and utilize each one in Your perfect timing. God, You are glorious, marvelous, and wonderful. Thank You, Yahweh, for being God all by Yourself. Forgive me for trying to do Your job and having the audacity to think I can do it better than You. Thank You for humility. Thank You for the confidence I have in You. Thank You for always being faithful even when I was not.

Thank You for guarding my heart so that I will not give it to the wrong person. Thank You that my husband will come to you, my Father, and ask for my hand in marriage. Thank You, Father, that my marriage will be one that glorifies You. Thank You, God, that my husband will see me as a treasure and will value my worth. Thank You, Lord, that I will see him as Your son, and treat him with the respect that royalty deserves. Thank You for a marriage that will exhibit the love Christ showed, by dying on the cross and rising three days later. Thank You for a marriage that will involve daily prayers together and for each other.  Thank You for a marriage that will have open and honest communication, with a lot of grace and forgiveness. Thank You that my husband and I will be patient with each other. Thank You for a love that goes beyond physical pleasure. Thank you that our love for each other will stimulate our minds, bodies, souls, and spirits. 

Thank you for the power of Your love, God, for it covers all things. Thank You that I will not be conformed to this world, but I will be transformed by the renewing of my mind in Jesus. Thank You, God, for calling, justifying, sanctifying, and glorifying me and my family. Many are called, but few are chosen. Thank You for choosing me. Help me to be selfless and reach Your people. Make my walk speak for itself. Make my testimony help others. Help me to see people through Your eyes. Help me to be who You have called me to be, so that You may be glorified. Thank You, God, for everything You have done for me!

In Jesus’ name.

Amen.

Psalm 24:1 (KJV)

The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

Luke 17:15-19 (NLT)

One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!”  He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” And Jesus said to the man, “Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you.”

Falling Short

Posted on November 10, 2017

Lately, I’ve been feeling like all I want to do is please You, God, but I’m falling woefully short. I feel so inadequate. I know who You are and who I am in You, but for some reason, my head isn’t connecting to my heart.  Help me to receive it.  I want to soak in You so that I can pour You out to those who desperately seek You. Your presence is here. I invite You into my heart. I’m still available to use if You’re still willing to use me.

Open my heart. I need You. Help me to rest with You. Holy Spirit, help me to remember God’s grace and mercy are new each day. Though I fall, His grace bestows unmerited favor on me. When I turn to Him, He makes me right in His sight. He knows me, sees me, and cares about me. Help me to remember how far I’ve come.  It’s with His words I want to speak. I won’t be afraid to do what He’s called me to do. I won’t be ashamed. I won’t be distracted.

I am gifted and purposed. I will fulfill the purpose God has put on my life. I will remember His promises and stand in agreement with them. I will be patient and wait on the Lord. I will let the Lord complete His perfect work.  I cast down every vain imagination and every high thought that comes against the knowledge of God. I command my thoughts into the obedience of God. I have to be available and open to what God has for me. I will remember that I am worthy because God says that I am.

I must die to myself so that Christ can live in me. Holy Spirit, give me ears to hear what the Lord is saying. Forgive me, Father, for not always doing things Your way. Help me to honestly repent. Help me to let go of those things that are not from You. It is my sincere prayer that I am pleasing to You, Father. I cannot do this in my own strength. It’s only in Your strength that I am able to do anything. The accuser is conquered by the blood of the lamb,  the word of my testimony, and by me not loving my own life unto death.

Heavenly Father, 

I’m leaning on You to guide me through. I am grateful for Your provision, Father. I trust in You. I cannot afford to miss where You are leading me any longer. I need to move with You and the Holy Spirit. Please guide me to where You need me to be. Help me to combat feelings of inadequacy with the truth. I am worthy. I am in right standing with You because Jesus died for me and now sits at Your right-hand interceding on my behalf. Let Your will be done in my life Lord. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Romans 3:23-24 (NLT)

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.

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.

 

Rebellion

Posted on October 14, 2017

I rebel against God often. He tells me to do one thing and I do another. Even when I do something that He tells me to do, I mumble and complain because I don’t want to do it. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I know that only good things come from obeying Him. I know that He only wants what’s best for me. But sometimes my best and His best don’t line up.

I really want things to go the way I envision them in my head. So I try really hard to make it happen. The only thing is, it rarely turns out the way I envision it. Then I’m left mad and frustrated because I have put so much energy into making something work that was doomed from the start. So after all of that time and work, I have to crawl back to God asking for forgiveness and seeking His grace and mercy, just do it His way.

Why isn’t His way my first option? Why do I think I know better than God? It’s because I don’t trust Him enough to lead me. I doubt Him. I question Him. I have to be honest with myself. My life isn’t working out the way I planned because I didn’t involve Him in most of my major decisions. I make decisions based on my emotions instead of praying and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Then I get frustrated all over again because I don’t want to do it. I don’t want to war in the spirit for my husband. I don’t want to pray without ceasing and read and study the bible. Why can’t I just be a regular person? Why do I have to do all of this?

I get mad and rebel because I just want what I want now and I don’t want to have to do anything to get it. I don’t want my blessings and promises to be connected to my obedience. I get mad because praying and studying show me who I really am and I don’t like it.  Yes, it shows me that I am God’s daughter and a co-heir with Jesus, but it also shows me that I am lazy and selfish. He shows me that I don’t love like I’m supposed to. He shows me that I have a lot of knowledge of Him, but I don’t apply His precepts and commandments very well. How can I really make a move from acting on impulse and desire to consulting God in everything? How do I move from mere head knowledge to actually living His word out daily?

I do it by surrounding myself with people that are already living for God and will encourage me to seek His ways. I have to ask God to help me do this. I cannot do this on my own, in my own strength. He reveals things to me when I ask Him and earnestly seek Him. I have to pray for wisdom and understanding.  This is a process. I have to learn how to renew my mind every day. I have to crucify my flesh daily. I have to remember that I’m not in this alone.

I have a wonderfully supportive group of family and friends that want to see me flourish in Jesus. I also have a wonderfully kind, patient, and tolerant Father in God that has provided enough grace and mercy to see me through. Although the process of changing into who God wants me to be can be painful and uncomfortable, I know it’s worth it.  I know that it will ultimately work out for my good. I know I can be a disobedient brat sometimes but I’m so grateful God still loves me and is willing to take me back in His arms. I’m so grateful that He hasn’t given up on me, even when I’ve given up on Him.

Thank You, God, for still hearing and answering my prayers. Thank You, God, for still covering and protecting me when I was in open rebellion against You. I don’t know why You still love me, but You do. Help me to be obedient to Your word and Your will Lord. Forgive me for defiantly disobeying You. Thank You for Your grace and mercy that is sufficient to see me through every trial and test. Thank You for still loving me in spite of me. Thank You, God, for touching my heart and giving me the desire to walk in the way You would have me to go. Help me to be holy as You are holy. Help me to just trust You, Lord. Help me to put You first in all things. You’ve been so good to me even when I didn’t deserve it. Help me to live my life for You, in Your power and strength.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Romans 7:15-20 (ESV)

15 For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. 16 Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. 17 So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. 18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.