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Scripture

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.

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.

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.

 

 

Healing From A Broken Heart

Posted on December 1, 2017

I know the pain of a broken heart. The despair, the brokenness, and feelings of helplessness and loneliness. I’ve cried those same tears. I’ve felt there was no one to turn to; no one who could understand what I felt. I’m here to encourage you. You’re not alone. There is an after-this. There is hope. You can heal from a broken heart.

Healing from a broken heart requires you to first process the pain. Processing the pain looks different for everyone. Some people cry, others shout, and some go to therapy. In my case, it was all three combined. Whatever you do, don’t hold it in. Someone or something broke your heart and it hurts. It’s OK to hurt, just don’t suffer in silence. Don’t allow your feelings to control you. Let the pain out. Psalm 34:17 says, “The Lord hears His people when they call to Him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles.” The Lord hears you when you cry out, so cry out. No one can hear what you keep hidden inside. Once you cry out to Him, he will hear you and rescue you from your troubles.

Once you’ve processed the pain and cried out, stop replaying the hurt over and over in your mind. Stop thinking about all the ways you could have avoided it, or things you should have done. It won’t ease the hurt. It only makes things worse because you keep reliving the pain. I know it’s going to be hard, but try not to think about it. You have to let it go. Let it go by keeping your mind fixed on God. Isaiah 26:3 says, “God will keep you in perfect peace when you fix your thoughts on Him.” You can keep your thoughts fixed on Him by thinking about what is true, honorable, right, pure, excellent, and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8). If you find yourself thinking about the hurt, stop and redirect your thoughts to God and more pleasurable things. In time you will find that you are in His perfect peace and on your way to having a healed heart.

In that peaceful place, you’ll find it easier to forgive. You will be fully healed when you forgive one who hurt you. Why should you forgive someone who hurt you so deeply? Why should you forgive someone who knew you, loved you, and still hurt you? Why should you forgive someone who doesn’t even deserve forgiveness? It doesn’t seem fair. Believe me,  I struggled with this the most. It seems like someone should pay for the pain they inflicted. Someone should hurt, just like you are hurting. The thing is though, it’s never quite satisfying to hurt someone else just because you’re hurt. It doesn’t erase your pain. You may feel vindicated, but what does that feeling do? It just adds more hurt to the world.

In order to forgive, you have to do so from a place of compassion and mercy. Forgiveness cannot be done in your own strength. You have to rely on God to give you the grace to forgive. Why does God continually forgive us when we constantly hurt Him? When we intentionally disobey Him? He forgives us because He is full of grace and mercy and expects us to extend that same grace and mercy to others. Colossians 3:13 says, “make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” We are commanded to forgive as we’ve been forgiven. In order to forgive, I had to remember that God forgave me when I didn’t deserve it and He did the same for you. Consider how God has forgiven you. Think about all that you have done and how much mercy God has shown you. Ask the Holy Spirit into your heart so that you can rely on Him for the mercy and compassion needed to forgive someone. Forgiveness will lead to healing. Healing and wholeness are God’s desires for you. Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.”

Healing is a process and there is no timeframe for it. It may take some people a week and take others years. Although dealing with and healing from pain isn’t easy, you will survive. I did, as have so many others. You are still living and breathing and making it through. You may have been knocked down, but you were not destroyed. There is a joy that is coming that you cannot believe. Not only will you survive, you will be happy, whole, and completely healed. You will love again and it will be all that God has promised. He hasn’t failed you yet and He never will.

Heavenly Father,

You are a healer. I pray that you come into my heart and heal every wound and every broken thing. You are close to the brokenhearted. You rescue those whose spirits are crushed (Psalm 34:18). I am in need of rescue Lord. I cry out to You Lord. I’m looking to You for help so that I may be radiant with joy (Psalm 34:5). Help me to remember all that You have done for me, all the mercy you have so graciously bestowed upon me. Give me the compassion and mercy I need to forgive. Help me to forgive the person and not judge their actions. Help me to keep my mind fixed on you and stay in your perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3).

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NLT)

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.

 

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.

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.

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.

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.