Do As You Say You Will Do

“When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.” 

(Ecclesiastes 5:4-5)

Back in the day your word meant everything.  A handshake was all that was required; but, in today’s world, a handshake doesn’t go nearly as far as that credit card does. It used to be if you went to the grocery store and forgot your wallet, they’d let you take the groceries and come back later to pay them or they you could ‘put on my tab’.  Don’t try that today; they will look at you like you are crazy.

It’s sad that even religion has taken that same mentality.  Family used to always go to Church on Sunday, get dressed up in their Sunday best and make a day out of it.  They all spoke of the gospel, they all helped and supported each other when they were in need, and their word was actually worth something.  Today, so many young children don’t have the experience of Sunday Bible School and growing up with the word of God and the belief of Jesus.  I know that is one thing I regretting with my own children, and if I could change that I certainly would.  When you go to Church today, everyone is dressed in their jeans and football jersey’s.  You don’t even have to go to Church to watch the sermons; you can catch them on live webinars, facebook video’s, or podcasts. So things are definitely changing in today’s society when it comes to Church.

One thing though that should never change is your promise to God.  If you are going through a tough situation and you then pray to God, “Get me through this, and then I will start going to Church Lord.”  You need to keep your word.  Don’t put it off, do as you say.  When you act on His Will and prove that your word means something, you will be rewarded.  The more you give, the more you will receive!  Your word stands for you, your beliefs, and your trustworthiness.  Be the person God created you to be!  Keep your word, not only to God, but to everyone!  

Think Before You Speak

 “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God...” (Ecclesiastes 5:2)

Words can hurt or heal; discourage or encourage; deter or motivate; or they can be irritating or soothing to a person’s very soul. Words can cut so deep that they may impact someone for the rest of their life without us even realizing it.  Perhaps they were said in jest; or perhaps in a heating moment and you really didn’t mean to say what you did, but it just came out before you could even think.  How many times has someone been sarcastic towards you, and then follow it up with, “I’m just kidding!”  Those words still hurt.  After all the person was thinking that thought, whether they were kidding or not. 

I remember an incident in my young childhood where my grandfather, who typically never got mad about anything, literally stopped dead in his tracks as we were walking downstairs together and turned around and yelled at me, “Think before you speak!”  I was totally clueless as to why and could only guess that I must have said something wrong to my grandmother, but for the life of me I couldn’t remember and he never did explain.  For all I know, he could have been made at her and just took it out on me.  I held that memory for a very long time, so much so that I still remember the details of that scene and can play it back like it happened yesterday. 

Recently, going through some leadership training at work it dawned on me how that quick conversation all those years ago, played such a large role in my life and development. I never used to be the first person to speak up, and my family members always told me I was so quiet.  While I am not so quiet any longer and have learned to speak up, I wonder how things could have been different had my grandfather thought before he spoke!  Before you cut someone down to the quick, we should always take a second to think about how our words will impact the person receiving our feedback.  Put this into practice in all areas of your life, spouse, family, children, co-workers, friends, and even strangers.  When we ‘do all things with Love’, like it says in the bible, we can’t go wrong!  

Recognizing Signs from God

“God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.” (Hebrews 2:4)

I’m going to try and explain for those who feel they have never received signs from God before, what those signs might look or feel like.  My husband and I were talking a few weeks ago and he made a comment that God never talks to him or gives him signs.  I couldn’t believe that he said that, because God clearly gave him a sign.  I was there and had to remind him about the day he was so distraught when he was laid off and had been desperately looking for a job for almost a year.  He was in the kitchen leaning his head in his hands and said, “God, just give me a sign.”  I swear to you, it was not two minutes later when he walked out on the deck to smoke a cigarette when he leaned over the railing and looked down to the ground.  He couldn’t believe what he was seeing, so he called me and pointed it out to me.  I couldn’t believe it, but there lying on the ground was a gold cross that apparently had fallen off of someone’s necklace over a year ago during a cookout party.  It was as if my heart stopped beating for a minute, as I took a deep gasp of air.  All I could say was, “There’s your Sign!”  The fact that I even had to remind him about it, was mind blowing to me because that sign wasn’t even meant for me, well maybe it was meant for both of us, because it sure made a lasting impression on me.  Two weeks later, He received a job offer and is still with that company today!

Signs come in many forms, sometimes they are small voices you hear in your head and you think they are your own thoughts, well usually they are the thoughts given to you by the Holy Spirit when you are a believer!  Other times, God is leading us in a different direction and we don’t even realize it, sometimes he brings people into our lives for a reason or a season to teach us something we need in order for us to grow, or we need to teach them something for them to grow.  We may even receive signs from our loved ones through feathers, pennies, rainbows, flowers, scents, and we don’t even realize it. 

I’m a believer who has become so in touch with God lately that I am able to recognize everything as a sign from Him or that I am being led through the Holy Spirit in order to do God’s Will.  Don’t take this as I am bragging, because that is farthest from the truth.  I am a very humble person; it’s is my dream, and God’s will for me, to share my experiences and help to inspire others to become more God-like in their everyday actions so that they too can receive His abundance of favors.  Talk to God and thank him for everything He has brought into your life and be grateful for what you do have.  The more you do this, the more favor you will receive back, and then the more you will want to do for God, and watch as the cycle continues.  Learn to recognize those signs and act on His Will and you will accomplish your wildest dreams!  Pray Big, and expect Big in return!  God wants an abundance for each of us, so be sure to claim what is yours!

Knock Down Your Walls!

“Then He brought me to the entrance of the court.

I looked, and I saw a hole in the wall.” (Ezekiel 8:7)

What walls do you have built up around you?  Are you harboring a wall of guilt, a wall of dislike for someone, a wall of fear for losing a loved one, a wall of getting too close to someone?  I imagine that everyone during the course of their life has built one or more of these walls, maybe even several at a time.  What you probably don’t realize though is that these walls are buriers that each of us build to protect ourselves from pain and disappointment. That sounds like a good thing, right; because, pain and disappointment is not a good feeling. The thing to realize though is that these walls only hold us back from true inner peace, contentment, unconditional love, and the ability to receive god-like dreams.  Yes, ultimately it holds us back from seeing our dreams come to pass.

Knock those walls down!  Give your burdens to God.  Learn to forgive one another.  Do not fear death, for God will be with you always.  He will get you through every trial and tribulation sent your way. If you have a problem with a loved one, confront the situation head on in a loving manner.  Don’t make them feel defensive.  Talk to them as if you are their friend.  I’m sure they don’t want you to feel the way you do, or to harbor any unresolved issues.  Choose to live in peace.  Talk to God; ask for his guidance to lead you to do the right thing; listen to what God has to say in that quiet voice you’ll hear in your head; and then, follow his lead.  Knock one wall down at a time if you have to, but knock it down!   You will begin to feel so light on your feet and your spirits so high you could fly simply by giving your burdens to God and trusting He will help you make things right!

Everyone Has a Story

“Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.

(Luke 8:39)

Can you remember a time when you were feeling so overwhelmed about circumstances in your life and what you were dealing with at the time that you couldn’t think straight? You probably were walking around in a daze; shutting people out of your life; you probably weren’t even listening when they were talking directly to you.  It was a terrible time, wasn’t it?  More than likely you felt alone, depressed, not sure how you were going to survive, and no one was giving you the advice you wanted to hear.  It’s times like this when we get so caught up in our lives in trying to figure things out for ourselves that we actually forget to ask God for his direction and guidance.  When all we really need to do, is give our burdens to Him.  Listen to what He has to say and then move forward putting the worry behind you.  Worrying about things is not going to change anything except your mood and stress levels.  Lean on God and He will carry our burdens and the dust will settle where it was meant to.

When you know that someone else is feeling that same way, remind them of this too.  Be a person who encourages; help them lighten their burdens.  Listen to their story, be a sounding board, but be honest, don’t say what you think they want to hear; say what they need to hear, and say it with love and compassion as a friend.  God will give you the words they need to hear if you pray about it first.  Remember, every one of us has a story to tell and we have no idea unless they tell us they are struggling or what they are struggling about. 

The next time you run into someone in the store that seems to be so out of it, give them a smile or a compliment; that small gesture could pull them right out of what they were dealing with, even for just a moment, but that moment could impact the rest of their day.  The next time someone flies by you on the road doing 90mph, take a moment to pray for them.  Pray for their safety and that God can lighten their burdens.  We don’t know what they might be dealing with that caused them to drive so erratic; maybe they are on their way to the hospital or a family emergency, etc. We can be so quick to make a judgement when we have no idea what their story is.  Assume the best in everyone and trust that it will all work out as it was meant to. 

It is so much less stressful when you can see the positive in every situation and can encourage a person instead of knocking them down.  Encouraging does not mean you have to agree with those that are being negative just because that’s what they want to hear.  Though, it is ok to be supportive and agree with them that what they are going through is terrible or wrong, or whatever the case may be.  What is even better is to return their focus to the positive aspects and to God so that He can lighten their load and they can have peace in His presence knowing that His light will guide them to where they need to be!

Thankfulness

“Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 

(Ephesians 5:20)

Finding a reason to be thankful in every situation, regardless of the adversity you are faced with, brings you closer to God.  It opens your heart to His presence and your thoughts to His thoughts.  Jesus died on the cross for our sins so that we could have eternal life.  Through His sacrifice, we were sent the Holy Spirit, and through the Holy Spirit we have direct contact with God.  If you let that resonate with you, why would we not thank God every single day throughout the day for everything He has given us, and will continue to give?  All we need to do is give Him thanks, trust in Him, and believe that good things are coming our way!  When we are in His presence, it’s like He is allowing us to see things from His perspective.  It is His shining light that opens our eyes and warms our hearts even in the midst of adversity. 

While Thanksgiving Day is a day to give Thanks, let’s not stop at this one day.  Continue to give God and your loved ones your time, your love, your thanks, and your respect for what each of them have done for you!  

Finding Your Way Back

“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desire of the sinful nature.” 

(Galatians 5:16)

Living through times of hardship, rough waters, and all the trials that life throws our way, can make it very hard at times to trust in God.  We wonder, ‘How could this possibly happen to such a nice person?’   We think, ‘Why me?’ We may even lose our faith for a time, a season, or maybe just give up on it all together.   Even if that happens, it is so important to realize that God hasn’t given up on you!  God is unconditional love.  You just need to find your way back to Him.  He will continue to guide you back to Him in many different ways.  He will send you signs. He will bring people into your life that will spark an interest once again. You might hear a song or read a message that may resonate with you that makes you think of Him or a loved one. 

Until you find your way back to God, you will not have peace in your heart. You will not receive the favors that He has stored up and waiting to send your way.  Someone I am very close to had lost their baby at only nine weeks old.  Her and husband were struggling for a very long time to understand why they lost their daughter; why God took them from her when she was such an innocent and precious gift from God.  They lost their faith for a period of time as they dealt with their grief and finally realized that it happened because it had to happen and God would not want her to go through the pain she would have gone through had she not left this world when she did.  Yes, they are still dealing with their loss, but they are now moving forward and hoping that God blesses them with another precious baby that will fill a little of the void they lost.  Their faith is growing stronger and stronger every day as they find their way back to God.  He is working in their lives and providing them with the comfort and peace they need to move forward and help others that have suffered and are suffering the same loss they felt.  God is so good.  His love is unconditional even when we wander; He will bring us back!  

Giving Back to God

 

As we contemplate this time for giving thanks, thanks to god, thanks to our loved ones, and appreciating all the blessings we do have, it is so important to also think about all the people in this world that are suffering and don’t have the luxuries that we have.  They may not even have their freedom; enough food to eat; clothes to wear; or even a place to sleep. Or maybe they do, but they are struggling with a life-threatening disease; sickness; continuous pain and suffering; dealing with the loss of a loved one; financial struggles; trying to find employment; or perhaps they are being abused, disrespected, and are searching for God in their life.  Think about how you could impact one or two of these individuals with just a simple smile, a kind gesture, or just a small token of kindness.  If we took that a step further, think about if you took a few minutes more out of your day to talk with someone about how God has impacted your life and made your situation better; what better gift could we give of ourselves and give God knowing that we helped someone.  

There are many people out there struggling with the same battles that you are.  We are not alone; we share the same fears as many.  Each of us needs to give our fears and burdens to the Lord and trust that He will work things out for us in His timing!  God has given us all a talent to share with others in ways that will make an impact on believers.  Share your talents.   The more we give; the more we receive!  Look for ways to give back every day; you won’t be sorry!

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38)

Our Dream is God’s Will

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.”  (Proverbs 16:9)

God put a dream in my heart when I was very young.  Ever since I was a child, I wanted to write a book.  I always thought it would be a romance novel, but God had other plans for me.  The events that took place in my childhood led to a much more spiritual adventure and genre.  You see, my mother and I have been on a mission for over 35 years now to document her testimony after surviving for five years from a nervous breakdown.  As you read this breath-taking experience of the “Miraculous” healing that took place after first turning her back on God, and then being given the breath of life from GOD, you will not want to put this book down. God did what the doctors couldn’t do!  It was 1980 and that’s when our journey began.

 It’s been a long time coming, but God directed us every step of the way through this process and guided us through ever phase, every hurdle, and every triumph until we could proudly hold our first book in our hands.  “Signs from God” is now available on Amazon, and is a compilation of stories shared with me by my community on the day God directed me to start documenting signs from God.  These stories have touched the hearts of many and portray the love of God and how He provides us with signs from Heaven in a way that only He can do! 

While our editor was looking over our work, it was determined that we needed to incorporate more of Mom’s story into “Signs from God”.  It was then that we decided to include her Testimony in the book, and that has everyone wanting to hear the rest of her story!  “A Mountain to Climb” is the next book that will depict those torturous five years in both of our lives; from the mother who was held a prisoner in her own body, and the daughter who needed her mother at a vulnerable time in her life.

Today, we are continuing on this spiritual journey, as we work towards publishing “A Mountain to Climb”.  We now have a website www.windbeneathourwings.net where you can connect and subscribe to our site, read our daily inspirational messages, submit prayer requests, follow our blog, check out and buy our book, and much more!

Looking back on this journey so far, I can honest say without a doubt that when God placed that dream in my heart all those years ago, it was His Will that we write “A Mountain to Climb” together and everything He has been doing has been leading us every day closer to our dream.  While we thought it would have been done years ago, we had to learn to be patient and trust in His timing.  Our dream is still coming together and I know it is going to be far better than we ever dreamed; because when God is working in your life and you are working for Him, you just know it will be amazing!

What Dream has God placed in your heart; and are you following His lead to bring that to fruition?   If not, connect with God, listen to what He has to say, act on His Will and believe, and when the time is right, you will receive what He has been longing to give you! All you need to do is ask, pray BIG, and believe and TRUST that it is on its way!  God wants us all to be happy and live a prosperous life!  Give Him THANKS today for what is coming your way and live as if it is on the way, because when you Believe ..... IT IS!!! 

Never Too Late to Be Saved

Never Too Late to Be Saved

 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) 

This verse in the Bible should be something that we all continue to share with whoever will listen.  There are so many people out there that think and have the mentality that it’s too late for them.  But God says it is never too late.  He gave us His one and only son, Jesus Christ, so that we could be forgiven of our sins, and in return, receive ever-lasting life  What God and Jesus gave up for us and went through for us, should prove to everyone just how much love they have for us.  God is unconditional love and all we have to do is believe that to be true and that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins.  Change our ways to be more god-like in all that we do by doing everything with love.  Love is the glue that holds us all together. 

Change your way of thinking, and believe and trust with all that you are and become one with God.  Don’t revert back to the ways of yesterday, but move forward into the life God planned for you.  The closer we get to God and the more we remain faithful to Him, the more favor you will receive.  Once you start recognizing God’s work in your life, you will begin to recognize it more and more every day.  Why waste another day worrying about things we cannot control, and change the things we can.  Ask God and talk to Him, just like you talk to your friend.  Take some time to be still with Him and Listen to what He has to say and watch how He will guide to what it is you are looking for!  

Prepare to Give Thanks

 Prepare to Give Thanks

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

As we prepare for the upcoming feast of Thanks, it is time to reflect on all that we are thankful for.  The Bible teaches us that we need to give thanks in all circumstances.  Giving thanks should not be a yearly occasion when we go around the table sharing what we are thankful for.  While that is a great family tradition, we personally should be praising God with our thanks every day throughout the day.  Everything we have, every favor, every blessing, every friend, every child, every opportunity, every challenge, every lesson we have God to thank.  Even in bad times, rough patches, times of sickness, times of mourning, times where we doubt God, we should still be thanking Him.  It is during these trials where we are tested and given the strength and courage we need to move forward.  For every hardship we go through, there is something to be learned.  There is something to be grateful for.  Sometimes you may have to look a little deeper, but it’s there just waiting for you to discover the silver lining. 

This year, as you are preparing to welcome your loved ones into your home to share a meal, think about what they mean to you. Each of one of them in their own special way brings a memory, a smile, a precious moment in time, or maybe even a confrontation that left an impression on your heart.  God is not the only one we should be thanking.  So give it some thought and be grateful for their presence on this day, let them know what they mean to you. Let them know how they impacted your life.   It’s not just about thanking God, but thanking those that matter in your life too.  You never know what tomorrow brings, so take advantage of today and let those you love in on the secret!  Nothing would give God more pleasure and enjoyment than us giving thanks to Him and our loved ones!  

Are You Looking For More Out of Life?

Are You Looking for More Out of Life?

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the

circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,

whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”

(Philippians 4:11-12)

There was a time when I felt this way a lot.  It would be so nice if I had a better job, a more loving husband, lived in a bigger home, could afford a nice vacation, etc….  Yes over the years circumstances do change and while some are for the good, others might not be so good.  While the grass may be greener on the other side from a distance, but no matter where you look up close, you will still find weeds.   You might change your job for more money, but now you have a boss who doesn’t appreciate you.  Let’s say you moved into a bigger home, but now the housing market crashed and you are left upside down in equity and stuck with a house you can’t afford and now can’t even get rid of.  The scenarios could continue for a while, but I think you get the drift.  It’s human nature to always want more, but we really need to start looking and appreciating what we do have.  If you are unhappy with a situation in your life, before you go and make a drastic decision.  Talk to God about it, and listen to what He has to say.  Look within and think of how you can change your situation.  Instead of buying a bigger home, maybe you can update your existing home for a lot less money.  Have a heart-to-heart conversation with the person who is frustrating you and let them know how they are making you feel; I doubt they want you to feel that way.

For the longest time my husband and I wanted to move into a bigger home.  We actually put in a contract for one over an hour away from us and further from work.  But, God had another plan.  Our home didn’t sell and as it turned out, it was the best unanswered prayer ever.  We were buying a larger home with an in-law apartment for my mother-in-law, and not even a year later she passed away.  We would have been stuck with a house we didn’t need, would have been house-poor, and too far from family.  God’s plan was for us to stay put, update our kitchen, and live in the home we always wanted.

Sometimes, we are looking for change in others, but again, we need to look at ourselves.  We cannot change others; we can only change our reaction to others.  If you were to become more loving and show more respect, you will gain more love and respect in return in most cases.  Forgive yourself and you can forgive others.  Learn to love those you love for who they are, not what you want them to be.  Water your own grass and it will become greener; look within for change, and ask God for contentment, joy and peace with what you do have!

Act On God's Will

November 18, 2016

Act On God’s Will

“But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men;

you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”

(Acts 5:39)

I find this true for me, because all I want to do is God’s Will.  He has led me every step of the way with writing our first book, “Signs from God” which is available on Amazon.  I had never written a book before, and yet, He put the idea in my head.   He practically insisted that I put a post in my Facebook community asking for signs from god and as the signs started flooding in, I was simply amazed and in awe of His great work and His apparent plan for me.  Then as I gathered these signs and verified their willingness to be published, I thought to myself, now how do you write a book; it was as if He were writing the words.  Then I thought to myself, ‘I have no idea how to publish this, or no idea how to find an editor, a formatter, a cover page artist, or get it published; I felt clueless, but I kept pushing forward know this was God’s will and He would make a way.  Low and behold, He directed me to the right people and within six months our book was published.  It’s hard to believe how God is working in my life right now.

God wants this for all of us.  He has a plan for each one of us and all we need to do is talk to Him.  But more than that, we need to take the time to be with Him in our thoughts; be still and LISTEN to what He has to say.  He will put a thought into your head through the Holy Spirit.  A small quiet voice that pops in and you might think it’s just your thought, but actually it was probably God.  And, when we act on those thoughts, God pulls us in closer to Him.  The more we do for Him, the more He does for us.  I’m seeing this on a daily basis in my life and the scripture is to true; I feel like no one can stop me, not even myself.

Get in sync with God and make Him a priority and He will bring peace and joy into your life and allow you to live an abundant life full of favor!  All you need to do is trust in Him and Believe with all your heart that He your dream is about to become your reality.  He wants the best for you and is sending the right people into your life so that you can live an abundant life!  Just be patient is it is all in His timing, but when it does happen it will be bigger and better than you ever expected!

Don't Rush Our Time Together

In today’s busy life, there doesn’t ever seem to be time for all the things we want or need to do.  We are always trying to please someone, and usually it’s not ourselves.  What I’ve learned though is that by pleasing God first, everything else seems to fall into place.  I start my morning talking with God and reading my daily devotional every day.  Afterwards, my mood seems to relax, I feel more confident and at peace, and my day goes much better.  Yes, there are still days when I tend to get frustrated of things that go wrong, but because my focus started with God, I can always get it focused back on God and thank Him for the delay or turn of events I was not expecting.  Everything happens for a reason and though we do not always know that reason, we must have faith and trust in Him.

When you are frustrated, if we you just turn to God or even just whisper the name “Jesus” over and over again in our heads, it can calm you down almost instantly.  He is always with us.  The more and more we grow in our spiritual journey with God, we will quickly realize that He is more or less training us to depend on Him and Him alone.  We will truly begin to find enjoyment in His presence.  And the more we do for Him, the more He does for us, and then we only want to do more, and the cycle continues.  That’s how we live an abundant life through God! 

So, despite how busy your day might be, I urge you to take some time to talk with God.  Do not rush your conversation.  Take the time to talk, be still, and then listen to what He has to say.  Then before you go to sleep, be sure to thank Him for getting you one more day closer to your dream – whatever your dream may be.  He wants to fill us with His love, Joy, and Peace, so stay with Him a while and listen to that small voice He puts in your head as He guides you toward your future happiness!

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, 

for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Stop The Negative Thinking

“Jesus replied, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”  (Luke 18:27)

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve corrected my husband while watching a football game.  As long as our team is winning everything is great, but as soon as they make one mistake he starts throwing out the negative vibes.  I’m sure you’ve heard many times, “what you speak, you bring about”.  If we continually throw out negative vibes, comments, criticism, and pessimistic thoughts and ideas, that’s what we are expecting to receive in return.  We should expect better for ourselves.  There are many pessimistic people I know, and they bring me down so badly and stress me out to the point where I can’t stand to be around them.  Luckily, my husband only gets like this during football games for the most part.  Think about it though, everyone tends to feed off of each other, and it is much better bring about positive feelings than negative.  Bring each other up, not down!

It’s the people who remain positive, even in the worst situation, that have a sense of peace in knowing that everything will work out the way it is supposed to.  When we remain focused on the good things in life, good things will happen.  There is good in everything if you look deep enough. 

Even when you lose a loved one, they are no longer in pain, they are no longer suffering knowing they are going to die, and they are now safe in the arms of Jesus and their loved ones.  How can that not be a positive thing?  Yes, I know we will miss them. Yes, I know they will always be on our minds and in our hearts, and the loss we feel is great.  Those feelings are our feelings and we are entitled to them, but we should be happy that they are where they are.  God is unconditional love and they are feeling that like we have never experienced.  So always look for the good in everything, and remember that with every bad experience, we are growing stronger, learning to persevere, and have God’s grace on our side.   Reach out to God and He will carry you through the storms of life when you are unable to walk.  Eventually, with the support of God and a renewed sense of thinking, things will turn back in a positive direction.

Think about the last time when things were bad for you, you survived didn’t you?  It was probably tough, but think about what you learned during that time.  The next time you go through a rough patch, think back on that and remember what God did for you and how the outcome turned into a positive.  Have confidence in your experiences in life that together with God you can handle anything.  Continue every day to build your relationship with God and learn the promises He’s made to us in the Bible, and remember all things are possible with God.

When You Can't Figure Things Out

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 

in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

(Proverbs 3:5-6)

When you can’t figure things out on your, when you don’t know how to address a bad situation, or you are unsure of a choice you are supposed to make, all we can do is trust in the Lord and He will guide our steps.  He will direct us in the right direction, and even if we take the wrong road because we didn’t hear His voice; He will redirect our paths in the future so that we do wind up where we are supposed to be. 

I can relate this back to when I met my second husband years ago.  Before I met him I was working for a company where I was laid off.  I had worked there for years and it was like my second family; however, there was a merger and my position was no longer needed.  I thought that was awful and wondered, why would God allow this to happen when I was about to become a single Mom.  I thought I would never be able to afford it on my own with the kids and the thought of dating again, was a terrible thought.  However, I found a new job, received a nice raise shortly after I started and became friends with my future husband, who was also going through a divorce.  Over time, we became very close and relied on each other for support.  After about a year into our relationship, I was fortunate enough to go back to that same company that I loved so much, but in a different position making even more money and had more flexibility.  God took a bad situation and made it so much better. 

Give your burdens and worries to God and trust that He will make it right.  Ask Him how you should do something; ask Him for a sign; ask Him to help you make the right decision; ask for His guidance toward the right path you should take; ask for Him to bring the right people towards you to aid in your desires.  Then listen to what He has to say; listen to the quiet voice you hear; and recognize the signs He is providing you with.  It could be as simple as message on Facebook directing to you a resource you need, or a thought just pops in your head out nowhere.  When you believe, He will not let you down.  Just realize though even when it doesn’t happen when we expect it to, it doesn’t mean that it won’t happen.  Acknowledge God and give Him thanks for putting the plan together for when it is the right time.  Believe that it is on the way, and He will make it even better!

Precious Time Wasted

You’ve heard the phrase I’m sure, “why put off until tomorrow, what you can do today.”  This mentality is something that we could and should use for every aspect of our lives.  The reason why is because it will give us peace knowing that we did what we wanted to accomplish and now we can move on to the next.  Granted there are times, when you physically have to put off because you physically are not capable at the time, but once you are, start attacking that to-do list with the vengeance.  It will make you stand taller, feel more confident, proud of your accomplishments and at peace with yourself.  Why put it off when it makes you feel so good?

Now, if we used this same mentality with our relationships, can you imagine how much healthier they would be?  Think about it and take a minute to consider these aspects of your relationships. 

1.         Confrontation:  Instead of harboring ill feelings for each other, address them right away.  Ask God to give you the courage to speak up and the right words to say.  Don’t rehearse, don’t wait; let God speak for you and it will be good!  The words will flow out of your mouths and you will be amazed at what you are hearing.

2.       Affection:  Some show it well, and others don’t.  They feel it, but they can’t or don’t always show it.  I’m sure you’re familiar with the saying, “actions speak louder than words” and that’s a great one to remember.  You can say I love you, but it’s the little things that show one another you love them.  It can be as easy as putting a love note in their lunch, buying flowers or candy for no occasion, filling their tank with gas, wrapping your arms around them when they don’t expect it.  Most of all though, just simply treat each other with respect, love, and admiration for each other.  Don’t wait for the other to start, you start and it will rub off!  Keep up the faith.

3.       Forgiveness:  Jesus died for our sins, and such our sins will be forgiven.  Once we come to terms with our forgiveness, why should we not forgive others as well?  Holding grudges is not good for you or the other person.  It could affect so much more in both your lives and future by holding onto grudges.  And if someone did you wrong, you must think about what they might be facing in the moment.  Everyone has a story to tell, and everyone is dealing with some sort of struggle.  Some may have even been treated unfairly in their childhood and that could be impacting their actions.  We should always strive to be the bigger person!  Learn to forgive.  Everyone will be faced with judgment time when they reach Heaven, and everyone will feel the pain they caused by their actions.  They will also know how their actions affected others, and not only that person but the innocent people affected by the result of that chain reaction.  They will have much remorse for their mistakes and will regret having put us through what they did.  Hold on to that thought and let it go; learn to forgive so it no longer affects us.

4.      When It’s Time to Say Goodbye:   There are occasions when we also must make the decision to put an end to a relationship.  God brings people into our lives and out of our lives for a reason or a season.  We may be there to help them grow, or they were brought to us to make us grow or learn a lesson.  There comes a time when we must part and that can be difficult at times, or a very easy decision, yet hard to act on.  This is when you must get closer yet to God and ask for his guidance and wisdom.  God does not want us to be abused or mistreated in any way.  If that is happening to you, you must seek God for support and support from your family and friends.  We can always forgive, but we can’t forget and we can’t continue to be abused, taken for granted, or disrespected.  You have to weigh your options and decide whether certain individuals are keeping you back or excelling you forward.  And maybe even you are holding someone back from their dream; do everything with love in your heart.

5.       Stop, Look, and Listen:  Stop your bad ways; Look to God, Listen to what He has to say.  He will guide you to a better way of thinking, a better way of loving, and a better way of living in His abundance.  Please don’t waste any precious time when it comes to doing what is right!  Have faith and trust in Him and His timing.  Do not lean on your own understanding.  God wants the best for all of his children! 

“Do everything in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)

God Forgives You

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”  (1 John 1:9)

It is important to know that until we can truly forgive ourselves for our sins, we cannot forgive others for theirs.  We need to come to a place of peace and love for ourselves before we can do the same for others.  If you are harboring regrets and shame for something you may have done, you need to forgive yourself now.  Give your burdens, your sins, your regrets and your worries all to God.  Remember, Jesus died on the cross for us and our sins.  We have been forgiven by God.  That does not mean we don’t continue to ask for forgiveness; because we will continually sin.  It’s our nature and God knew that; He wanted the best for us so He gave up His only Son to give us eternal life. 

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Stop beating yourself up for past regressions, mistakes, crimes of the heart, or whatever you are harboring deep within your soul.  Ask God for your forgiveness and it will be done!  Allow that pain to be released and know in your heart of all hearts that you are forgiven.  You don’t have to be forgiven by those you may have offended.  One day they too will understand why you did what you did, what you were feeling, what you going through that may have impacted your actions, and then they too will have wished they had forgiven you.  And in the meantime, God is all you need to feel at peace and loved.  He is unconditional love! 

Renew Your Mind

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.”  (Romans 12:2)

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ve read my message on “Change Comes from Within”.  This message is similar but one that is very important.  We cannot change people to our liking, and we cannot expect them to change unless they want to.  If your partner doesn’t like to dance, we can’t make them dance.  If your partner can’t stand football, no one can make them like football, and no matter how hard we may try to reform a loved one from an addiction, unless they want to, they are not going to change.  We also cannot bring people to God simply by saying you need to believe in God.  

The only thing we can do is change our own thinking, and renew our own mind.  Instead of blaming, accusing, or maintaining an attitude with those you love because they are not changing to your liking, you need to look within and change the way you react.  Accept them and love them for what they are.  They are God’s children too.  For those non-believers, until they come to God and truly set Him before their own desires and bow down asking for Him to save them, there is nothing we can do other than love them and share our experiences and testimonies with those willing to listen. The best way to overcome your frustrations for those refusing to give in, is to love them even more.  Become more God-like in our ways, thoughts, words, and attitudes.  

When you are disrespected, even by a stranger, instead of getting all worked up, return to them with a smile and simply say I hope you have a better day. A quiet prayer to God is always helpful. Your response will leave them thinking and it may just change the outcome of their next interaction.  When your loved one raises their voice because they had a bad day and begin taking it out on you, your response should be in a loving and caringly calm voice because you know they had a bad day and they really don’t want to be disrespectful to you or hurt you in any way. As you talk calmly towards them, usually they will recognize and calm down as well.  Now I know there are people out there that are literally getting abused, and this does not apply to you.  You have other options you will need to look into and I am not qualified to guide you in any way when it relates to abuse.  Except to talk to God and ask for His strength to help pull you through those difficult times.  God is there for all of us; reach out and grab His hand and He will pull us through. You might even decide to confront your loved one letting them know how what they are doing makes you feel.  They, too, may rethink their ways because they don’t want to make you unhappy and may not even realize what they are doing and how it affects you. Talk to God first, ask Him to give you wisdom and the words to say in order that you and He can make the best choices together.


Only we can change our situation and with God’s help, the outcome will be better than you expected.  I urge you to renew your mind, change your ways and your thinking, and accept people for who they are and pray for them. As we are transformed, let us transform others by sharing our story with everyone that is willing to listen; it just might impact them more than you know!