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The Expansion of Favor

And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with man (1 Samuel 2:26) BSB

And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (Luke 2:52) BSB

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About a week ago, as I studied the Word, I found myself reading the verse in 1 Samuel and remembered reading similar words in the book of Luke. Again, I continually find myself in awe when God highlights a detail in His life’s instruction manual that resonates. After my time this morning with Him, I felt the prompting to re-read the Old Testament verse and locate its New Testament compliment.

In reading these mirrored verses, I started to thank God for His grace (that unmerited favor) in my own life as I have seen Him move in ways that I sometimes have a hard time believing myself if I was not going through these life events. God has a way of showing us how much He loves us through others, even in dark times.

And when we fully embrace, let go of our own need to control, and submit to His leading, we see this over and over again. Both the boy Samuel and the younger Jesus, had a unique calling for their life and over time they both grew not just physically, but spiritually, mentally, and relationally with our Father. They also became more respected and valued in the eyes of men.

We have to remember that when God is in the midst of our situation and top priority in our life, He will ensure that favor finds us, not just with Him but expanded through others. This morning, take some time, reflect on His goodness, His mercy, His favor, and thank Him. We are living in very volatile times, where everything is topsy turvy, but with God, a curve ball can be converted into an unusual blessing.

The best way I can think of to explain this is through His Word. I challenge you to dwell on the verses above and to meditate on Ephesians 3:20-21 (BSB), Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call, Complete Your Assignment.

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Increase in Love

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NIV)

I have this mini-calendar that a friend gifted me a couple of years ago with daily Bible verses as a word of encouragement. As I stumbled on today’s verse in my waking slumber, I stared at it intently, thinking to myself, “God that is exactly what we need to hear”. I am sure like me, you have been feeling and seeing the turmoil around you wondering where are we headed as a people? I think about this daily as I witness how insensitive we have become towards each other. It is sickening and disheartening and when re-reading this verse, I began to check my own heart and pray.

In order for our love to increase, we must seek and grow in love with the One who created us. I think back to a time when I turned my back towards God’s love, when I stopped investing in our interactions daily, and when I allowed the world to dictate how I felt and responded towards others. But then, He gently tugged at my heart and pulled me out of the world-influenced quagmire and redirected me to one of the most important attributes that we should display and walk out each day: Love.

I hope that today and each day moving forward, we can demonstrate the love of Christ to others we encounter; and yes I know what you are thinking, “even my enemies?” Yes, even your enemies (Matthew 5:44). Treat others the way you would want to be treated. Overflow in it each day. God, I wish everyone would get to this place. Could you imagine for a minute what this would create and how much hate could be erased?

Stay encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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His Specific Word

Then Moses said to Aaron, “Tell the whole congregation of Israel, ‘Come before the LORD, for He has heard your grumbling.’ ” And as Aaron was speaking to the whole congregation of Israel, they looked toward the desert, and there in a cloud the glory of the LORD appeared. Then the LORD said to Moses, “I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.’ ” Exodus 16:9-11(BSB)

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I cannot tell you how many times I have read these Bible verses before and of course in my quiet time with God, my spiritual ears perked up and I had this new found desire to read more. I find it interesting that I never really picked up before that God spoke directly to Moses in the cloud of glory, although the entire congregation of Israel, including Aaron were present.

The Lord even said to Moses, “Tell them”. I mean this is God, the most powerful and supreme being who created everything in the universe including us. He did not need a man to speak on His behalf, but He chose one man specifically for that time to be a conduit for His voice.

I thought to myself, “Wow, God, how moving”. This relationship between God and Moses points out a very important fact to me. If Moses did not have an intimate relationship with the Lord God, he may have been just like one of the spectators; watching the cloud from a distance in the desert, but not actually hearing the voice of God.

I started to think about many who are just like that today. People we know, love or maybe even dislike. Friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances that are so distant from God, unable to receive a specific word from Him, which incidentally leads to that deep haunting feeling of being lost.

I was there a few times in my life, which was due to my stubbornness, blatant disobedience and inability to surrender. I wonder how many specific words I may have missed in those moments, but am grateful that God still desires to draw near to me as I draw near to Him (James 4:8). What about you my friend? Can you hear Him? Are you searching for Him or observing from a distance? I feel deeply the need to ask you to reconsider your relationship with our Father and go the distance by seeking Him first a little further.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Inner Sanctuary

And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings according to the pattern I show you. Exodus 25:8-9 (BSB)

At the start of this year and to be quite honest, the end of last year, I started to think of a few words that would help me categorize what would represent 2023; a year I sense is even more profound than the ones previously. I settled on healing, intention, and transition. As the holidays passed and the birth of a new year encroached the horizon of time, I felt a bit lost, out of my element, like a baby deer trying to find her way out of a wilderness.

I searched and searched for God, tried to hear Him, see Him, and touch Him, recognizing that it was me all along pushing back on my ability to draw closer to Him due to my failed attempts at controlling things outside of my control. I began to ask Him why and He showed me the areas in my heart, wounded by life, time, self, and others that had never properly healed, filled with a temporary layer, like a cut with just a band-aid. So, I began a new journey, and set out to be more intentional on healing.

As I sat with God this morning, I began to ask Him to show me more about me that He has made that I forgot was there, and in my reading this morning, He pointed me back to these bible verses, which ironically, reminded me of a devotional that I wrote around this time last year entitled According to His Pattern. God directed me right back to the importance of my inner sanctuary, that needs to be emptied of placeholders, so that He can truly dwell within. This is the only way for true healing to begin and in my transition, I am reminded daily that I can only truly trust in Him.

As I journeyed down to the end of verse nine, I read His command to Moses. He made it clear that He would show Him exactly how He wanted things designed, and if He did it for Moses and the Israelites, then He will do the same for you and me, in His time.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Heart Guard

Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life. (Proverbs 4:23) BSB

Not too long ago, I could feel my heart becoming more hardened by the injustice that is continually increasing. I am sure you can relate to seeing and almost feeling like the enemy is gaining ground. But then I felt the push to spend more time in worship, knowing that I just needed to redirect my focus on who matters most. I was thankful for the conviction to do so and to just forgive those who are obilivous to their aggregious actions.

I had to shift my attention to who God represents and think on His love. As I began to worship, my spirit was not connected to His presence and then I began to tune myself to His frequency which filled me with so much love and joy all I could do was continue to praise Him. I mentioned in previous devotionals that I was led to re-read Proverbs and now I know why.

God always knows what we need to draw us back to Him and since His love is so welcoming, all I needed was to reflect back on his goodness and not be overcome by the filth of this worlds corruption. Today and everyday, we desperately need to be intentional about protecting our heart and that first begins with acknowledging who we have let in it. Even the most subtle comment or blatant act can distract us. If we are not careful in examining what is within us, we may be consumed by the evil around us.

God was reminding me again to be alert in this season, to stay focused on His presence, to be diligent about my thoughts and actions, to remain upright, to not lose sight and to allow His love to flow out like a spring as a representative of His light.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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His Understanding Will Guide You

For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will delight your soul. Discretion will watch over you, and understanding will guard you, to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perversity, from those who leave the straight paths to walk in the ways of darkness. Proverbs 2:10-13 (BSB)

Lady Wisdom will be your close friend, and Brother Knowledge your pleasant companion. Good sense will scout ahead for danger, insight will keep an eye out for you. They’ll keep you from making wrong turns, or following the bad directions. Of those who are lost themselves and can’t tell a trail from a tumbleweed. Proverbs 2:10-13(MSG)

Well, this morning, I realized why I was led to start re-reading Proverbs again, especially now. The need for divine wisdom and discernment for our own protection is such a critical priority, that the feeling will not leave me; drawing me into deeper intimacy. God has been waking me up earlier and earlier each day this week to highlight to me the importance of NOW. As I read these verses in different iterations, I kept thinking about the bible verse in 2 Thessalonians 2 regarding a strong delusion that will be sent during the end times to those who refuse to believe the truth.

It almost feels like that is where are right now. But God wants to deliver us from any way of evil that would try to ensnare us into darkness. And this can only be completed by becoming insistent on cultivating and strengthening our relationship with Him. This involves our seeking Him intentionally daily, minute by minute, and sometimes second by second so that we not only harness the fear of the Lord, but also that we being to receive much needed wisdom during this perilous season.

Harnessing knowledge creates a path that will keep us safe and provide a way of escape. It also gives us foresight, hindsight, and divine sight. We can see clearly through the dark and the murkiness of the atmosphere. We can remain calm and at peace in these unstable environments. We are more discerning of the time and lead life with Him at the forefront of our mind.

I encourage you to dive back into Proverbs. It literally enveloped me this morning in a deeper truth about what we are all witnesses to everyday. I know that we are all here for such a time as this. (Esther 4:14). Everyday, I am in awe of God more as He exposes me to certain realities and permits me to really see the hidden message by worldly messengers. He is teaching everyday that wisdom, knowledge, and understanding supersede offense, contention, and frustration. I pray as His children we become more aware of His leading, and that we take delight of how much He loves us and that even if we see differently in the natural, that He is ultimately in control.

Stay Encouraged and Stay Seeking Wisdom.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Intention over Idleness

She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27 (ESV)

Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. Proverbs 4: 25-27 (ESV)

A couple of weeks ago, in the midst of a conversation with a friend, I mentioned that I kept hearing the word intention bubbling within me, as I sensed that “being very intentional” next year would be critical. She too agreed as many decisions that will need to be made next year, start now as we posture ourselves correctly. Then this morning in my prayer time, the word idle came up as the antithesis of being intentional.

I began to think about ways to avoid idleness and was directed to the book in the Bible known for wisdom- Proverbs. I take it as a cue to start reading Proverbs this month as we approach a new year since the action steps in my path to get to this new year begin in this present time.

I think the reason this has been something on my mind recently is because I know God has many plans that if I am not invested in my development through Him and intentionally seeking Him, I might miss it. I asked God for His guidance to keep me on the narrow path and to not lose focus, to tend to my affairs, to remain rooted in Him and to be more intentional about what and who I am around, listening to, and interacting with.

I know for me that the only way my feet can remain sure is to tap into His instruction and guidance even more. But this requires dedicated time in His presence, a determination to act in intention, and focus on the decisions made day to day, that will in the end, impact the final destination.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Level Up

“So, Jeremiah, if you’re worn out in this footrace with men, what makes you think you can race against horses? And if you can’t keep your wits during times of calm, what’s going to happen when troubles break loose like the Jordan in flood?” Jeremiah 12:5 MSG

Have you ever complained to God about some difficulty, trial, or storm that you were dealing with and the response you received was to stay in it to win it? I am raising my hand right now as I typed this. I think this is why I can relate to this chapter in Jeremiah. Jeremiah was going through it and in the early verses of this chapter was complaining to God about the state of affairs. He was tired of the wickedness and those who were not of God prospering during his time. Sound familiar?

But there was something that stirred in my spirit when I reached down to this selection verse above. It made me think of the coming time when “the last will be first and the first will be last” (Matthew 20:16). And I sense we are getting very close to this revelation, but it takes preparation. One just doesn’t metaphorically race with horses. The fastest horse reported to date can run 55mph compared to the fastest human reported at 8 mph.

Remember, God knew what Jeremiah was capable of and why he placed him in that time and season. This is the same with us. We may be weary as we contend with men, but we are being built from the inside out when the spiritual chariots of horses come. We cannot jump to the end of our race, we have to go through it. We may fall, acquire callouses, and become discouraged, but in these times, allow God to grow you in your spirit. Things are breaking loose all around, and we need to be ready to occupy the areas that are becoming available.

Trust God in this season. He is the only one that possesses all revelation and spiritual reasoning. If weariness tries to overtake you as you interact with others this week, call on the name of Jesus, seek direction from the Holy Spirit, and walk in that way. We have to learn to crawl before we walk, walk before we run and run before we race. The beauty is that we are not alone. We are surrounded by others rooting for us, interceding on behalf of us and running with us.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Prioritize Patience

By your patience possess your souls (Luke 21:19) NKJV

I was never one who particularly enjoyed patience. I guess that is the “go-go-go” nature within me. It was not until I was really forced to become patient a few years back after a health setback that I realized what you learn about yourself during the “long suffering” process. As I read Luke 21 this morning, and pondered on the disciples and Jesus’ interaction related to the sign of the times, this Bible verse positioned me right back to patience and I became enthralled about its priority in this season.

I know you may be experiencing some type of discomfort, a period of shaking, an uncertainty of what is next and even perhaps persecution by others. And these are all things that we must understand have to happen for what is to be revealed. Jesus provides information for His disciples during those times and since His Word is living, He is also giving us clues and comforts of what to expect.

Our soul; that piece of us that can either be run by the world (our flesh) or ruled by our spirit (connecting us to the leading of the Holy Spirit) is constantly being tested. Of course no one likes to experience of trials, afflictions, temptations, and storms, but during these times, we end up truly seeing who we rely on. I remember having a conversation with someone about not “fitting in” and I reminded the both of us that we can never truly fit into the world’s standards, if we are led by the Holy Spirit.

Possessing something means to have complete ownership of it. And if you just look around your current environment, on social media, on the television, you can see what this world is truly becoming-aggressively. Nothing makes sense these days, people are losing love and empathy and the world is becoming more manipulated by evil and greed. I had to ask myself a hard question as I thought about the tug of war on the soul. I asked, “what is all this world worth, for me to lose my soul to accomplish some man-made goal?” or to “live in alignment and one day in eternity with the One who sits on the throne?”

As you move through your week, I challenge you to read Luke 21. Identify outside influences that may be trying to steer you off guard and ask God to help you resist what He has not intended for you and consult the Holy Spirit for proper direction that must start within.

Stay encouraged and vigilent.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Revisit Your Prayer List

First of all, then I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2: 1-4) NRSV

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I was recently in prayer recently with a group of students that I advise. I have been more intentional about including all leaders and everyone in positions of leadership on our prayer list. Being in a position of leadership requires a certain level of resolve and wisdom, that is not earthly derived. Some think that leadership and being in a position of power are the same thing.

However, there are many people in the world that are in positions of power, but are not equipped to be a leader. This can be devastating for any organization; especially in this volatile economy flooded with workplace instability. When I came across this verse, I was reminded by Paul, who was writing to his “spiritual son” Timothy about the need to pray, intercede and offer thanks for everyone. This led me to become more fervent about those I pray for daily, including those in positions of power.

I had to revisit my prayer list as there were those that I did not include but know the power of prayer and how deeply rooted we must be in prayer in order to navigate where we are and what is coming. Leaders without wisdom, discernment, or integrity are weapons that can be used by the enemy. I am sure you can think of a few leaders right now that you either know directly or indirectly that have been used by the enemy in this way, which created chaos, confusion, and many counterproductive environments.

But God desires that we lead a “quiet and peaceable life”, not one marred with unfruitfulness and strife. I thought to myself, “imagine what could happen if we all made the decision to pray for our leaders, pray for everyone that we encounter, and intercede for others?” If we are truly here to be lights, to be a representative of Christ, then let us consider who we include on our prayer list and thank God for that powerful gift of divine sight.

Stay encouraged and pray without ceasing.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Abound in Hope

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13) NRSV

Have you ever read a Bible verse and felt, “this is exactly what I need to read today”. Well, that was me this morning as the tiredness of the week attempted to steal the true joy, peace, and hope that only God can provide. As I read the word abound, I wanted to know more about it as it was linked to the word hope, which happens to be my middle name. I guess when my mom named me, she knew how important that word would resonate with me all my life.

The word abound correlates to overflow and what a wonderful existence to have an overflow of hope. Hope is the expectation of things to come that can provide great peace, even in the midst of adversity and weariness. Being filled with all joy can only be accomplished by allowing the Holy Spirit in, so that the power of the Holy Spirit can literally ooze out of us which can literally remove the worries and the cares of life that this current world beats down on us.

I had to read this verse about 7 times just to take in what was being delivered. I had to ask God to let it be rooted in me and to carry it with me through this month. As I am minding my business and being more intentional about that, I am also protecting my heart, which is linked to the feelings and the fruit that I produce. And I desire for the overflow of hope, that I be filled with God’s joy and peace and that I make every effort to invite the Holy Spirit in this journey of my life. But it takes the act of intention, the casting off of troubles and placing His armor on each and every day.

Can I get an Amen?

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Mind Your Business

…But we urge you beloved, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we directed you, so that you may behave properly toward outsiders and be dependent on no one. (1 Thessalonians 4:10-12) NRSV

Aspire to lead a calm and peaceful life as you mind your own business and earn your living, just as we’ve taught you. By doing this you will live an honorable life, influencing others and commanding respect of even the unbelievers. (1 Thessalonians 4:10-12) TPT

In my devotional time this morning, I read this verse in several versions and thought to myself, how practical the word of God really is for daily living. I chuckled to myself and thought, we are being told to “mind our own business“. This is something that we may say to others or think about when interacting with others and here in the living Word of God, we are told do just that. And to be honest, I cannot think of a time when this mattered more.

It is so easy to get “caught up” in what people are doing, not doing, pretending to be doing or blatantly disregarding, but at the end of the day, that’s not our business. We have so much more to be focused on… what God desires for us, which requires our focus, attention, and correct position. I needed this as a reminder after having a particularly frustrating day when my fleshy self wanted to react negatively about the actions and demonstrations of others and then I heard God say to me, “focus on what I have you to do”, which I interpreted as, “mind your business”.

There is something so freeing about walking this text out and to be transparent, when I read this, there was like a light bulb that went off and I had to get aligned to this instruction. It produces so much more in the long run as it provides the opportunity to not only be a light in this corrupt, evil and narcissistic world, but it even has influence on others that we interact with; even non-believers.

This was another wake up call as we enter a new month at the end of a very interesting year. I have decided to commit to this for the rest of this year and focus on being intentional about it. We cannot get back time and the world can be very demanding, but focusing on what God is asking you to do, must be primary, so lets focus on just that and prevent whatever or whomever comes to try to distract.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

Stay Encouraged

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Get Up & Go

I asked, ‘What am I to do, Lord?’ The Lord said to me, ‘Get up and go to Damascus; there you will be told everything that has been assigned to you to do.’ Acts 22:10 (NRSV)

I was recently reading the book of Acts during my Bible study time and became enriched in my spirit after receiving a reminder of Paul (formerly known as Saul’s) journey. I am so thankful for the truth that is layered throughout God’s word; especially in this time we are living in, when the world’s view of truth is the exact opposite. As I read this chapter, this dialogue jumped out at me and I became encouraged about the journey of uncertainty.

The journey of uncertainty can often feel like a blessing and a curse. And if I can be honest, many times we allow what we feel to control how we handle the unknown. More common than not, God will give us the information that we need in our season at the time we need it, not before, but in the present time. Of course we would like to know what to expect, but I am learning by leaps and bounds in this current time of my life what “faith without works is dead” (James 2:14) really means.

I am sure Paul had many moments in his life when even though he did not know what was up ahead, he received clear instructions from God to just go. Here we see in Acts, Paul recalling his own process of dealing with the unknown terrain: obedience and surrender. I am not sure where you are on your path, but what I do know is that it is very uncertain, because life is just that; uncertain.

But in the uncertainty, do not become overwhelmed by the “what if’s”. Use your faith to say yes to where He is calling you to, or drawing out of you. God is way smarter than us. We may think we know what is best for our life, but we are often led carnally and He is more concerned about where we will spend eternity. When He calls, just obey, because at the end of the day…. He is the only Way.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

Stay Encouraged.

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The Weight of Opportunity

…..”Great gifts mean great responsibilities; greater gifts, greater responsibilities!” Luke 12:48 (MSG)

…..”From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded”. Luke 12:48 (BSB)

…..”Much will be required of everyone who has been given much. And even more will be expected of the one who has been entrusted with more”. Luke 12:48 (HCSB)

I recently read a post that stated “opportunity is calling, will you answer?” In reading this post I started to think about the dichotomy of opportunity. On one hand it’s exciting and on the other hand it’s burdensome. It can feel heavy and light at the same time. As we receive more opportunity, then more responsibility ensues. This thought drew me back to Luke. I have been reading this chapter over the course of the month as I work my way through the Bible again this year. I read this verse a few weeks back, underlined it and asked God why it kept resonating day after day, not realizing that I would experience this weighted blessing in the near future.

As I began to read this verse in different biblical iterations, I shifted my focus on what God is asking of me and in turn what is required from me. Surrendering our life and will to His is not a natural feeling by any means. It requires separation of self and intense periods of pruning and preparation. God blesses us all with many gifts and inherent abilities that are designed to be sown into the world, but we have the free will to decide how we will use what He has given.

Sometimes the opportunity that is on our doorstep is wrapped up in other’s expectations, our worries, doubt in ourselves and the opinions of man. But, if God presents something to us, which is His will for us and we move in faith, then our response will become what seems to many and even to ourselves as unnatural or even unpopular. This movement is not something that just happens overnight. We literally have to partner with Him which takes a certain level of spiritual diligence to hear when He is drawing us to another level.

As we continue to walk this walk of endurance facing the weight and all of the pressure, let us fully understand that we are not in this alone and if He has provided an opportunity for us, then He will assist in carrying the load with us. Trust His process, not the world’s pressure.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Worthy Fruits

Bear fruits worthy of repentance (Luke 3:8) NRSV

I am pretty fortunate to live in a location where fresh fruits are everywhere. I often visit the local markets to pick up the fresh produce that local farmers have sown and reaped. As I thought about the fruit stands, I was reminded of this verse in Luke. In this passage, John the Baptist is speaking to a crowd full of people including the Pharisees and the Sadducees petitioning not only that audience, but us as well to- examine our ways.

I studied this verse and have been thinking about this verse since early this week, asking God what it means and how it pertains to the life of believers in this time right now. To bear something is to endure and what we produce in our life including our actions is the fruit that should be in alignment with Gods will for us; not what the world desires to see. Living a life in deep repentance requires a level of humility, that, to be honest is very rare to see these days.

Many, even in church systems, perform instead of produce and those actions are not rooted in revelation but more so demonstration. And to be transparent, there was a time in my own life when I thought performing was producing, until I realized that my spiritual walk was stunted and I felt far from God although I thought I was doing “holy” things to please man instead of prioritizing God.

I am thankful for this reminder of what true repentance represents. Turning away from that act of religion and devoting time to true relationship with God, the Body of Christ and to all has caused death to pride and has given me more access to His grace. What we are sowing daily can either produce the fruit that as John the Baptist states is “worthy of repentance” or be just for show without any long term sustenance.

I pray that we all continue to examine what we are doing, saying and becoming each day. As God continues to highlight areas that require repentance and submission, let us all so diligently seek His guidance and His gentle embrace.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Grace in the Wilderness

This is what the Lord says: “The people who survived the sword found favor in the wilderness when Israel went to find rest”. Jeremiah 31:2 (BSB)

I know when reading this title you may be thinking the same thing as I did when I wrote this down a few months ago-“What a paradox”. I thought that too but even more recently, I have come to appreciate the grace of God in the midst of the wilderness. The wilderness can represent many facets in our life. It can be a place where we are being pressed, a season of trauma healing, a period of wrestling, a moment of loneliness, a time of pruning or a walk in uncertainty-all of which we usually do not want to experience but are essential for our growth.

And if we think about the wilderness season as a time of deep introspection and dwelling in God’s presence, even in isolation, we can see the hand of God in our life. And although in the moment, we may feel like we are the only ones who had to journey through the desert place, we are not. If we look back on the life of Moses and Abraham, the people of Israel, John the Baptist and even Jesus Himself, they all had to endure that time in their life to propel them into their next phase. The same goes for both me and you.

I believe we are all in this place in some way shape or form, and we all need to seek the Holy face of God as we make our way through our process. Our life is a continuous journey that ebbs and flows, that is high and low, that is up and down and that is vibrant and dull. If you are in what you anticipate as the low in your life or a walk in the wilderness, thank God for His grace in the wilderness. God will give us what we need- even what we think we do not want in order to uproot us out of the limitations in our mind. Be patient in your wilderness, have faith in God in your journey, listen intently when He speaks and do not be afraid to go the distance in your desert like experience. This too shall pass and God is molding you to be built to last.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Move in Mercy

Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had on you? Matthew 18:33 (BSB)

Mercy. I know you have heard of that word before and maybe have used it many times. When I read this verse this morning, I asked myself a question that I will rhetorically ask you: “Are you moving in mercy?” You might be asking yourself, what does that really mean, as I did as well. If I am being transparent, I know that there are times when the need to move in mercy should occur more frequently if I allowed the Holy Spirit to operate effectively.

But what is mercy really? I am glad you asked. A befitting definition that I recently read in the book Life in Tension by Dr. Stephen W. Hiemstra, describes that mercy has the “same root as compassion and is closely related to forgive”. And being merciful means “being concerned about people in their need”. Jesus is an example of demonstrating mercy at the highest level by dying for our sins. If we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus on the earth today, what does that tell us about how we should model after Him?

Jesus came for us, sinners. He came for those who hated Him, who did not and do not believe in Him and those who would and will deny Him. In reading over this verse, which is based on a parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18: 21-35), I felt the stir to examine my own heart and actions regarding mercy. I pray that we not only have the word mercy as part of our repertoire, but that our ability to move in mercy becomes a core component of who we are.

Stay Encouraged.

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Growth Mindset

Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundations from dead works, and of faith in God. Hebrews 6:1 (BSB)

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. 1 Peter 2:2 (BSB)

A few weeks ago, I wrote down these words as I started brainstorming a talk that I will be delivering in a few weeks. When I scribbled down these two words in a prayer journal, and remembered the term originally coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, I felt a stirring to explore further. When describing the growth mindset, it is often contrasted with a fixed mindset. To sum up the differences, individuals harnessing a growth mindset believe that talent and intelligence can grow with practice and experience. On the contrary, fixed mindset believers, believe that those same qualities are fixed and cannot be changed.

As I thought about that in the context of worldly living, it was as if God was providing me additional emphasis of the importance of possessing a growth mindset spiritually. I even thought about the differences between Apostle Paul and the Pharisees. Paul shifted dramatically and continued to grow in God for the sake of the kingdom. The Pharisees were stuck in religious traditions and missed the mark of transformation and salvation.

Growing in understanding, experiencing God daily, meditating on His Word continually and applying it to life consistently are avenues that not only provide access to spiritual development, but as we mature, we will constantly be developing more and more into the person that God sees, not what the world wants. We can try and live “holy” or be “righteous”, but without faith in God and belief that Jesus saved us, then those are just works that come from human effort instead of authentic commitment.

The Pharisees modeled dead works often and represented the fixed mindset category. Although Jesus was standing right in front of them, based on previous knowledge about carpenter Jesus, they could not see Christ Jesus. As we are all walking out our own salvation each day, ask God for the desire to grow in maturity and shift our mindset to living in liberty.

Stay Encouraged.

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Consider the Lilies

And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Matthew 6:28-30 (ESV)

About one week ago, I went for a walk and decided to take pictures of the arrangement of flowers that were seen throughout my journey. One after one, I marveled at the colors and the uniqueness of each flower, petal and position. As I made my way to a stopping point, I flipped through my camera in awe of the beauty that God creates. I sat on a cut down tree watching the waves from a distance as the nearby seagulls dove head first into the tide to retrieve their breakfast.

I started to think about these verses and quickly found it on my Bible app and read the words as I revisited the pictures on my phone. I gazed up in the blue landscape with paint brush appearing clouds and took a deep breath. I thanked God and was immensely grateful and humbled in that moment realizing how small I was compared to His vastness, but that He is just so mindful of me. It was in that moment, when a charge of renewed faith stirred within me, crowding out any anxiousness and entering the warmth of the sun and His comfort.

In this season, as we are all undergoing many transitions, uncertainty, restlessness and immense shifting, let us remember who God is and think about why we succumb to worry. Our faith will be challenged today and moving forward but just look at the lilies, the birds and even the creepy crawling things around you. God takes care of them and so He most certainly will look after all of us too.

Stay Encouraged.

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Stationed in the Kings Court

To these four young men God gave knowledge and skill in every aspect of literature and wisdom; Daniel also had insight into all visions and dreams. (Daniel 1:17)

and the king spoke with them. And among them all, no one was found to compare with Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah; therefore they were stationed in the kings court. (Daniel 1:19)

Yesterday afternoon, I was washing dishes and thought about the story of Daniel. Little did I know that this would be the story that would be part of my Bible reading in my devotional time this morning. It’s pretty amazing when the Holy Spirit gives you a download of what is coming before you even realize that that is what that is.

I was meditating on Daniel and his BFF’s because I am becoming more aware of the times we are in and what may be required of us sooner than later. It was like God was reminding me to stand firm and to not back down. I felt God reminding us all that who He calls qualified is so; not what “man” thinks.

If God can give these four men extended capacity wrapped in all the knowledge and wisdom that they would need to be given in their role to work directly at the kings station, imagine what He can do for you right now. We are in some pretty dynamic times; filled with intense darkness but also extreme light.

That light is in you and me. Do not be surprised if God places you in big rooms that you were not expecting to be standing in. Do not question whether you belong there or not? You do because He sent you there. Just allow Him to operate fully through you without the fleshy you discounting who you are in this season. As you begin to flow with what He has provided for you to withdraw from, you will become acutely aware, of the why and the reason.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Many Dwelling Places

Your heart must not be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come back and receive you to Myself so that where I am you may be also. John 14: 1-3 (HCSB)

I do not know about you, but if this message as many describe as the “Farewell Discourse” from Jesus is not needed today, right now, I do not know what is. Jesus knew precisely what His disciples needed to hear in that moment, knowing that His death was imminent and that His followers were deeply troubled. He gave them and (us) a clear directive, to ensure that our heart is not disturbed, even when so many disturbing events are occurring all around.

When reading these verses this morning, I imagined the dwelling places in our mind and how that impacts our heart. If our heart is troubled, then most likely our mind is as well. If we focus on all the things around us vying for our peace, we lose the peace that Jesus gives us freely, not the counterfeit version from this maladjusted world.

If we forget that this space that we walk in each day is temporal and fickle, we will not hold on to the promises of God. And God is not one to break a promise right? It may be hard for us to comprehend this because we are human and people break promises everyday, but God is outside of time and space and everything He is doing or what we are seeing, He foreknew .

Today, focus on the dwelling places that Jesus speaks of awaiting us all. We can either be caught up by world or caught into His presence. So you have a choice to make. Which one brings you more joy? Which one brings you more peace? Which one covers you with love? Which one honors the covenant between you and Him? And which one is more concrete?

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Keep Watch over Your Words

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips. (Psalm 141:3) BSB

Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (Proverbs 18:21) BSB

Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword , but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18) BSB

Our Words. This topic has been on my mind and within my spirit for weeks now and I have noticed how the Holy Spirit is beginning to reveal to me more and more the power that they carry. Over the last couple of weeks, I have found myself listening more intently to what others are saying (and “not saying”), what thoughts come to my own mind in discussion and my response in return. I have realized that in some of our frivolous conversations, that we can be negatively impacting our own environment by what we place in the atmosphere.

I am not sure if it’s just me, but I have noticed how much more derogatory others words are becoming and the impact that that may have in my own thoughts. If not careful, I can say something in a response that I wish I could take back immediately, which is why I believe that these verses and so many others pertaining to this topic (Isaiah 55:11) have been stirring within my spirit as a reminder and gentle rebuke, to keep watch over my words.

Our words have the power to build up or tear down, to plant or uproot, to encourage or destroy and to give life or death. The consequence of our action of speech depends on our free will and what we decide to do with those words. In a world built on sensationalism, immediate reactions, hate talk and constant opinions fueled in judgements and covered in ego and envy, I pray that we do not lose our way and get led astray by the deception in dialog occurring in these last days.

I encourage you as I am myself to watch over the words that occupy our space each day. Pray over the atmosphere that you are in. Remember who you are representing. We are to be a light in ever growing darkness. What we say to each other and to our selves about others and even about ourselves, will not return to us void. Consider the light that is within. Do not dim it based on conversation, but use your words inspired by the Good Word to intensify the needed positive illumination.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Power of Your Thorn

So to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it way from me. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness”. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12: 7-9

Question for you today: Have you ever prayed to God to remove something from you that has not been answered yet or fulfilled? If you have and answered yes, then you are not the only one. I have been thinking about that recently after reading more about judgments and forgiveness. It was something that I have been musing on more deeply as we watch the world becoming more radically judgmental and less forgiving.

My mind went back to this verse and I heard someone talking about this verse last week, I think in part as a reminder for me, but maybe also for you. I remember a time in my life when I would ask God over and over to remove some behavior or thinking that I thought was blocking my ability to deepen my relationship with Him, but to be honest, it actually strengthened my dependence in Him, which ironically drew me closer to Him.

Why? How? You may be asking. Well, it made me even more reliant on His guidance and support to let what needed to be stamped out of my life to be done in His timing, not in my fleshly conquest. And as you can see, we are not alone in this journey. Even Paul ( formerly known as Saul) battled with something that led to his boasting in Christ. This same Paul who wrote 2/3rds of the New Testament, was weak in an area that only power of God could strengthen.

Although we do not know what Paul’s thorn was, we know what ours is right? We all have one. It makes us human. It makes us relatable to others. It makes us look at our plank more than the speck in someone else. It makes us more reliant on the power of the Holy Spirit and it shows us that when we are weak, then He is strong. Instead of feeling shame, regret, or perturbed by your thorn, thank God for being made in His image and for the opportunity to be revived in His presence and to receive His power and belief in Him to be reborn.

Stay Encouraged.

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The Cloud & The Light

In the daytime He led them with a cloud, and all night long with a fiery light. Psalm 78:14

I was thinking about God’s leading recently after having a conversation with a friend. She was questioning hearing or seeing God in this murky season that we are all encountering. I recounted a few times where I specifically sensed God steering me in a direction unbeknownst to others around me and gave her a list of ways that I began to become even more intentional about hearing and moving in the way that He advised; even when it meant a season of loneliness or wilderness.

This brought me back to this verse. God was leading the Israelites during their wilderness experience. They had a physical manifestation to cling to day and night and they were led accordingly. What I came to realize during this time of reflection is that to be led requires humility, not pride. Many times we miss what God is trying to convey because of our own inability to submit and obey.

In reading this verse and seeing how God led them all day and all night, it made me even more aware of the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit during this season. Just as the Israelites had the pillar of cloud and the fire of night to guide them, God has given us the power of the Holy Spirit to direct us, to speak to us, to show us what to do through His Word, to give us wisdom, provide discernment and insight along our very personal journey in life.

Let us all be led and fed by the Holy Spirit.

If God gave Him as a guide for us to use, then He knows what’s ahead and understands the critical importance of what path to correctly choose.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Speck vs The Plank

Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:3-4 (NIV)

Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

I took a bit of a pause in writing over the past couple of weeks, but yesterday as I wrote notes in my journal at church, I stumbled upon this title that I must have written about one month ago. I thought during my devotional time that I would be reading a book that I found on our bookshelf, but the Holy Spirit led me to sit down and write. So here we are- you reading this and me writing this.

I think over the past few months in listening to what others are saying whether between the lines or outright, passing judgements is becoming more and more overt. If not careful, one may find themselves either judging in secret or in public, but the question that I pose is, would Jesus approve? When I asked the questions to myself, I could feel the conviction in my own past diction and thought pattern leading me to repent for my own wrong doing.

In our daily experience, we will encounter those who we may not particularly care for and who we believe are wrong, but we must be careful to observe whether we are falling into the trap of judgements either in our mind or dialect and ask God to remove the bitter fruit of that entrapment.

If we honestly look at ourselves in our own mirror, we can see our own plank that needs correction. I know I require help from the Holy Spirit in this area as my flesh desires to react, but my spirit overrules to respond in love. When we posture ourselves in this manner and consider all that God has forgiven us for, how can we judge others? Makes you sit back and think right?

I pray that today and each day moving forward we can both remove our own plank with His help and guidance, see past the speck of others, lead with love and overdose with grace.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him, Obey the Call, Complete Your Assignment.

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Tension in Transition

Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NRSV)

Tension. A word that I am sure we can all relate to especially after reading the definition. According to dictionary.com, tension is defined as the “the state of being stretched tight”. If you have or are experiencing it, tension can be seen right before, during or after a major change or a major shift. Although we may not like the feeling, it is a necessary component for transition (the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another) to occur.

However you consider your time of tension in transition, know that God is still in midst. He is always here, but sometimes we become dull in Spirit and cannot effectively sense or see the infinite possibilities that can occur if we keep moving forward with Him as our guide. Other times we become nostalgic, not ready to give up what needs to be retired so that we can pick up what God wants to spring forth.

In your devotional time today, meditate on this verse. If you are experiencing tension in transition, perhaps that is exactly what you need to embrace and allow God to reveal to you in His time, what is next. Transition is a period of changing and that is exactly what we are doing every day; changing.

Our current condition does not dictate the final outcome, but our internal position and divine recognition plays a major role in our ability to ebb and flow with the tides of life. Give yourself to His internal workings. Allow yourself to be immersed in His presence. Believe on His promises and accept the tension in your life as fuel for transition and the springboard for future elevation.

Stay. Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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He Raises Deliverers

But when the Israelites cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the Israelites who delivered them, Othniel some of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. The spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel; he went out to war, and the Lord gave King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram into his hand; and his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim. So the land had rest forty years. Judges 3:9-10

When reading this yesterday during my devotional time, I sat in awe and marveled on the graciousness and faithfulness of our God as I read what was occurring in the lives of the Israelites and even reminiscing on events that have transpired in my own life, which provided me with a new fresh wind of peace that flooded within. I again began to just thank Him for His protection and provision. In times of uncertainty, in times of unrest, in times of feeling unsettled and even in times of doubt. But with just one reminder and one verse, it is amazing how God’s care for us creates a sense of hope and assurance of a future that if we were to see through the lens of the world is void of that word:hope.

I am even more aware in these times of great darkness that if we are not in this place of active discovery of how the Lord continues to look after His people, we are missing the very true nature of our loving Father. He hears us. He is listening to us. He is in every detail; even in the thick darkness. He is ever present and understands our prayers even when we do not. I am reminded of Paul and Silas (Acts 17) , being persecuted and landing up in prison but praying and praising God until they too were delivered from the very bondage that man placed in their path.

And just like those Israelites crying out to the Lord and the Lord hearing them and raising up someone who delivered them out of their circumstances, God can do the same thing in an instance. But we must seek Him and have faith in His ability. We have no idea what God may up to, but He is always doing something that we cannot even fathom. Our job is to trust and serve Him; to love others and to pray for everyone (even our enemies; yes even them) .

The body of Christ is in this earth for such a time as this so let us rise out of any feeling of defeat and despair and get off our feet and kneel in His presence in deep reflection, thankfulness and prayer.

Stay Encouraged.

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According to His Pattern

The Lord spoke to Moses saying: “Speak to Aaron and say to him: When you set up the lamps, the seven lamps shall give you light in front of the lampstand”. Aaron did so; he set up its lamps to give light in front of the lampstand, as the Lord commanded Moses. Now this was how the lampstand was made, out of hammered work of gold. From its base to its flowers, it was hammered work; according to the pattern that the Lord had shown Moses, so he made the lampstand. Numbers 8: 1-4 (NRSV)

Then I turned to see whose voice it was that spoke to me, and on turning, I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands I saw one like the Son of Man, clothed with a long robe with a golden sash across His chest. Revelation 1: 12-13 (NRSV)

I cannot begin to tell you how amazed I am after reading the Word of God, when He just reveals something to you that at one time you would have glossed over. I know this is not just happening to me as I have had many conversations with others who have been experiencing this exact same process in their personal devotional time. This was how I felt when re-reading these verses over and over again, which if I had not journeyed through the book of Revelation in detail months before, I would not have recognized the relationship between these two books. But who am I kidding, the entire Word of God is connected to each other. It is His inspired Word so why would it not be?

In studying the book of Revelation recently where the messages to the seven churches, representing the entire Body of Christ were given, I have been examining my ways more and more and have been asking God to sift through my heart and hammer out anything that is not pure in His sight; not in the sight of man. And I recognize that this year is a year of deep purging and purifying as God takes us all through the process of sanctification- to be set apart for His purpose, which requires a certain process; according to His pattern. Just like God gave Moses instructions to give to Aaron regarding the way that these lampstands should be made- hammered out of pure gold; every single piece of it, so is God hammering things out of us, in order to purify us, according to His” modus operandi”- a distinct pattern- a method of procedure.

And everything that is occurring in and around us right now is according to His pattern. We may not understand it, and maybe we are not meant to? Maybe we are to trust Him in everything and have faith that He will bring us through. What we may be walking through is a distinct opportunity for us to be refined, to become purified, to remove the vestiges that do not suit us any longer so that we can represent His true nature on the earth, but sometimes it requires a hammering, a forceful repeated molding that might not “feel” good at the time, but is necessary for our growth and for our true selves to be revealed. Let us all embrace what God is doing in our lives and accept the pattern according to the Lord. The more we submit to the change, the better off we will be and the more light buried deep will become more and more exposed for others to gravitate towards and see.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Light in His Word

The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. Psalm 119:130

I know it is not just me as I have heard this from many believers I know, but the Word of God is literally beginning to jump off the pages and taking new shape and authority over my life. I believe part of that is more of the understanding of who God is to me in this season but also because I sense His presence more and more these days and there is nothing more comforting than His righteous Word. During my devotional time, I began reading the selection for today and this particular verse describes what I think many of us feel as we read passages that we have read before but depending on the season we are in, it penetrates more deeper and new understanding begins to surface.

This is the beautiful consequence of studying God’s Word. We begin to see how applicable it is to our experiences and they really do start to provide light to all areas of our lives; especially the areas that need adjustment, correction and direction. Am I right? And just over the last two weeks as I searched for God more in His Word, He began to open up to me again things that I did not see before because maybe I did not want to see it or I was not ready to receive it. But now, as God continues to enlighten me daily, ignorance can no longer be part of my existence. This understanding that He gives us, can literally unlock so many areas in our life that were or are bound; if we want this. It is our decision to make, right? Whether we apply what is in this great Book or gloss over verses that require us to use in our daily operations.

When light comes into our space, it generates energy that cannot be erased. And, this is exactly what the word of God does. Once it exposes us to certain things, we cannot unsee it. It’s a catalyst that requires change in order to be made whole. As God continues to unwrap and unveil certain details to us in our own time with Him and in reading His Word, let us continue to see the light that He is giving and not take for granted the many chances to become made new is in His image in order to properly navigate in this world in which we are living in.

Be Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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This is The Way

And though the Lord will give you bread of adversity and water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide Himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your Teacher and your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, “this is the way, walk in it”, when you turn to the right and turn to the left. Isaiah 30:20-21

I am sure when you read the first sentence of the verse there were two words that jumped out to you as did me: adversity and affliction. I had these verses written out for weeks and happened to read it this morning, not knowing that the pull to write would center around this text. I then wanted to know more of course to understand the context of what was happening during this time in biblical history. This was a time when the people of God were resisting His direction and instruction. Even though they would go through hardships as a consequence, God still shows great mercy and compassion and would reveal Himself to them and guide them into proper sight. However, they still needed to do their part by repenting and removing certain practices which were taking first place in their life.

And this is truly how God responds to all of us; with compassion, mercy and love. I cannot think of a better demonstration of love but from Him. The purest source of light that we can ever experience and the ability to hear from Him or for Him to reveal Himself to us requires a relationship with Him that we must continuously seek after for more and more instruction, daily. Knowing that He our Father, is watching over us, walking with us through much adversity and affliction, but being right there to see us out of it and allow us to continue the journey with Him speaks so much to me about His faithfulness that we do not lose our way or come out of divine fellowship with Him.

Seeing and hearing is great, but listening and seeking is needed on our part. So in your day to day activities, which I am sure are many, because I know how it is these days; take the necessary time to seek Him so that you can hear Him and so that you can see Him. He wants us to walk with Him, but our attention to His presence and guidance requires stillness. The next time God speaks, will you hear Him? The next time He reveals Himself, will you see Him? Only you can answer that question, but go deeper into what He wants from you and as He instructs you on your way, do the next right thing and obey.

Stay Encouraged,

Seek Him , Obey the Call, Complete Your Assignment

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Stillness Speaks

Rest in God alone, my soul, for my hope comes from Him. (Psalm 62:5)

Is it just me or do you find yourself craving for the quiet more as the world around you becomes even more busier…if that is even possible?

I was just thinking to myself “why are we so busy all of the time?” Do we have time to just sit and be and rest in God? Do we allow Him to hear us and even more importantly: do we give Him opportunity to speak to us? Or are we on to the next thing? After taking a bit of a hiatus in writing in order to make several life transitions including deepening my walk, if I am not careful, I can find myself drifting back into a “busy” state by the many demands that may be placed in my path: both self -motivated and created by others.

But when I shift my focus on what and most importantly WHO matters, I become more centered and that rest in “God alone” provides nourishment for my soul. I then realize that it is ok to be quiet, to meditate on His Word, to allow Him to create the inner peace in the midst of the chaos and for me to absorb it in its fullness.

If that commitment to prioritizing alone time with Him is not made, then other things will fill its space creating distractions and unwanted angst. It can damper our ability to be used effectively and will decrease our productivity even if we appear to be doing “all the stuff” that may be externally pleasing but internally depleting us of the very resource we need for sustenance.

God wants our full attention. And we need Him for proper sight and direction.

Rest in Him

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Walk, Stand, Sit

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. (Psalm 1:1-2)

Is it just me or have you felt a shift in energy recently? Almost an urgency that you cannot quite put your finger on, but know something is moving, breaking, exposing and revealing. Well, in my quiet time this weekend, I read through this Psalm in its entirety again and again masticating over the words repeatedly, bit by bit, like how a cow or similar ruminant does when it chews its cud. The first two verses became more clear, easier to digest, providing me with the spiritual nutrition needed to fill me up during this famine like season; this valley of dry bones and shadows of death.

I moved to my prayer space, asking God to provide additional insight to His Word and guidance on the days to come as the battleground becomes more intense. When reading through these verses again, it provides evidence that there are two paths here. One that leads to darkness, and the one that we strive for that leads to light, His light; not anyone else’s. We must be very careful not to be deceived in this season of solitude, as this is the tactic of the enemy which is written time and time again in the Bible. And we must be careful of the company that we are keeping that might lead us to dark areas that might open doorways or access panels that should remain closed.

If we are walking, standing or sitting, we must be mindful of the company we are keeping physically or virtually. Not everyone who is with us, is really with us on this path to righteousness. Some want to steer us in a different direction from His truth and others may be blinded intentionally or unintentionally; so this is the season to test everything against God’s Word. This is the time to seek Him for direction and distance yourself from the enemies weapon of mass deception. Meditate on His word day and night and ask God to remove any veils that may be depleting your sight.

Stay Encouraged and Seek Him even more!

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Transformation in Transition

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2 ESV)

“Wow!”, I thought to myself as I read this verse, amazed at how thirty-five words can be so enlightening, especially in this season we are all enduring. This title has been on my mind for over two weeks now and I wrote down the concept in my journal knowing that eventually God would inform me what direction to go. After recently listening to a streaming message, I heard these two “T” words and then knew that it was time to write as God poured into me again with this Bible verse on my mind and deep within my spirit. I hope that you can join me on this journey for a bit about how we can apply what the apostle Paul is directing us all to do in this season of transition.

I think I told you in a previous blog post that I love to look up definitions of words. So, of course once again, I found myself looking deeper into the words transition and transformation. Transition according to my friend Google is defined as the “process or a period of changing from state or condition to another”, which to me, speaks volumes to where we are as a world. We have all had to make many transitions; from physical to virtual communication, from at school to at home learning, from socializing to solitude and from jet-setting to sheltering in place. It has been a lot and it can be overwhelming, but there is so much we can get out of our transitory period.

This time that we are facing together but separate, is a testing season. I think we all know this by now. We are being tested on all fronts; spiritually, financially, emotionally, and relationally. And I pray that we are all becoming more discerning about what God is speaking to us specifically as this world is upside down and inside out. But we must not be conformed to this world. We are in the world, but not of it and as you see there are more ideas, actions and attitudes that have become acceptable by the world’s standard but not by God’s and the only way for us to combat the flesh is by allowing God to transform us from the inside out.

In studying the word transformation, the idea of “metamorphosis” came to mind which is noted as a “process of change and development“. And in order to be transformed into who God needs us to be in this season and in the next, we must adjust our mindset to prioritize His will for our life and not the world’s. So as you journey through this season of transition, use the extra time that you may be given to seek God and ask Him to assist you on your transformation. We are all transforming during this time whether we like it or not. We will never be the same again, but the question is, who do you want to contribute to your radical change, the ways of the world or God and His Word?

Stay Encouraged as You Transform

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Listen in Limbo

You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear him and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him. (Deuteronomy 13:4)

The world right now is in an interesting place; everything is uncertain, any sense of normalcy discontinued and our state of affairs are out of order. In this time of being in limbo, where we all feel confused and on pause, we must be certain of where we stand with God and which side of the fork in the road we are walking because this determines where we go in the next leg of our journey, on earth and in heaven. In looking at this powerfully packed bible verse, we are reminded of the importance of listening in limbo.

In dissecting the text there were six important verbs or directives that are listed; walk, fear, keep, obey, serve, and hold. Walking requires active movement. When we walk anywhere, it’s generally toward something and this is the catalyst statement to the rest of this verse. If we are walking after the Lord, this means we are following Him and if we are following Him, we have deep respect or fear of Him. In order to respect God, we must retain or have possession of (the definition for keep) His instructions which are provided in His word. Keeping something means we have it with us and like the Word, which are His instructions, we must have that stored up within us in order for us to complete the next directive; obedience. Obeying God requires active listening and heeding. We cannot listen to Him if we do not humble ourselves to His leading and serve Him.

Serving God in this season requires us to be selfless in our time of limbo. It requires us to die to self each day and to starve the flesh. There are probably opportunities presented to you everyday where you can be of service and now is the best time to take advantage of using what God has given you to be a blessing to someone else. Lastly, holding fast is another way of saying that we need to adhere to His principles which cannot be accomplished without obeying His voice or listening to His instruction. So, during this limbo period, use your time to actively listen, ask Him for His instruction, follow the way He is leading and obey the commands He has written.

Stay Encouraged!