Category: Uncategorized

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43: 18-19 (NIV).

How many of you know letting go can sometimes be tough, but in the book of Isaiah we are reminded that God wants us to let go of the yesterdays to see the new things He has in store for us today! When people or relationships have a way of disappointing us, I remind myself of Jesus and Joseph’s story. They both suffered betrayal and great disappointment from those closest to them. If we are all honest, we all have been betrayed in some form or another.

Jesus endured excruciating physical and emotional pain on the cross, a sacrifice depicted in Isaiah 53:5. “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his stripes, we are healed.” This verse encapsulates the depth of suffering Jesus willingly embraced for humanity’s sake. His crucifixion, as depicted in Luke 23:33-34, reveals Jesus praying for forgiveness for those crucifying him, demonstrating his divine love and compassion even amidst agony: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” This act of forgiveness amid suffering exemplifies the redemptive nature of Jesus’ sacrifice, offering salvation to all who believe in him, as emphasized in John 3:16, “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.” Through his pain and death on the cross, Jesus provided redemption for all mankind, offering a path to salvation and reconciliation with God.

Joseph’s journey was also one of pain and redemption. It poignantly captured how he was sold into slavery by his own brothers, Joseph faced years of hardship and injustice. Yet, through divine providence, he rose to become a powerful ruler in Egypt. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph reflects on his tumultuous past, declaring, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” This verse encapsulates Joseph’s recognition of God’s sovereignty over his suffering and his ultimate purpose in preserving his family. Despite enduring betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment, Joseph’s steadfast faith and obedience to God’s plan led to the salvation of his family during the famine. His forgiveness toward his brothers, as seen in Genesis 45:5, demonstrates his ability to overcome personal pain for the greater good: “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Through Joseph’s story, we witness how God can use even the most painful circumstances for His redemptive purposes, bringing hope and salvation to those who trust Him.

Through my own story of betrayal and pain, God has also assured me according to Romans 8:28 “All things are working together for the good of those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” I believe God will use my story to bring hope and healing to countless others, providing them with my own unique perspective, a deeper empathy, and a greater spirit of resilience that will allow me to connect with and uplift those who are also hurting.

Father,

May you grant me the grace to overcome my personal pain for the greater good just as Joseph! In Jesus Name! Amen.

“Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Isaiah 61:7

The concept of God repaying twice what was lost is mentioned in Isaiah 61:7. In this verse the prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Israel, assuring them that despite their past shame and disgrace, God will restore them and bless them abundantly. The promise of a double portion signifies restoration and an increase or multiplication of blessings beyond what was lost. It’s a message of hope, redemption, and God’s faithfulness to His people.

Wow, look at how God reassures his chosen people! As I meditated on this and other scriptures, I, too, am reminded of God’s faithfulness and how these passages apply also to my life. According to Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours!” I don’t know about you, but I stretch my faith and believe God, for this “Double Portion” blessing!

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself, restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10. Our Amazing God knows how long and how much we can bear. When He says to his children, He will personally do these four things we can confidently find rest! Knowing we can look forward to the fulfillment and manifestation of His word to come to pass in our lives. The Benefits of the blessing included:

1. Restore: This promise suggests that God will bring us to a state of wholeness or completeness. It implies renewal or rejuvenation for us after a difficulty or trial. When believers face challenges or setbacks, God promises to restore us, bringing us back to a place of spiritual and emotional well-being.
2. Confirm: This promise indicates that God will affirm or establish the believer’s identity and purpose in Him. It implies a strengthening of faith and confidence in His promises. When believers face doubts or uncertainties, God promises to confirm our faith, by reinforcing our beliefs and convictions.
3. Strengthen: This promise assures believers that God will empower us with inner strength to endure these challenges and difficulties. It suggests fortifying the believer’s resolve and resilience in, the face of adversity. When believers feel weak or weary, God promises to strengthen us, by providing us with, the courage and endurance to persevere.
4. Establish: This promise signifies that God will firmly ground or establish us in our faith and relationship with Him. It implies a solid foundation and a sense of rootedness in God’s love and truth. When we encounter instability or uncertainty, God promises to build us up, ensuring that our faith remains steadfast and unwavering.

Overall, these promises in 1 Peter 5:10 offer us, as believers hope, assurance, and support during our journey of faith, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and care for His people, even when the outcome of His word appears to be the total opposite of what we have envisioned that promise to be. So remember, “We walk by faith and not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7. We must trust God’s ultimate plan for the outcome of our lives! According to Jeremiah 29:11, He holds the key “For I know the plans I have for you sayeth the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”

In His Service,

Carolyn

“For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” Deuteronomy 20:4

Through Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection, we as believers are granted victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness.

According to the word of God, Jesus’s death on the cross served as the ultimate atonement for humanity’s sins, providing reconciliation between God and man. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we have forgiveness of sins and are declared righteous before God. Jesus’ resurrection is seen as the triumph over death, demonstrating His power over sin and confirming His victory over satan. Romans 8:37 affirms this victory: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”

For Christians, acknowledging and embracing this victory means living in the assurance of salvation and the hope of eternal life with God. It also entails living a life transformed by the love and grace of Jesus Christ, as we strive to follow His teachings and example. 1 Corinthians 15:57 states, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

A Time for Meditation and Reflection:

1. Atonement: Jesus Christ’s death on the cross paid the penalty for humanity’s sins. His shed Blood is understood as the sacrifice necessary to forgive sins and reconcile humanity with God. 1 Peter 2:24.
2. Redemption: Through His sacrificial death, Jesus redeemed humanity from the power of sin and death. Believers are no longer enslaved to sin free to live in righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 1:7-8.
3. Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. It signifies His victory over death and the grave, demonstrating His power over sin and offering the hope of eternal life to all who believe in Him. John 11: 25-26.
4. Conquest over Satan: Jesus conquered the powers of darkness, including Satan. Believers are empowered to resist temptation and overcome the influence of evil through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:37.
5. Assurance of Salvation: Victory in Christ Jesus provides believers with the assurance of salvation. When we place our Faith in Him, we can be assured of God’s forgiveness, acceptance, and eternal life. Romans 10:9-10.
6. Transformation: The victory in Christ brings about a transformation in the lives of believers. We are called to live in obedience to Christ, empowered by His Spirit to grow in love, righteousness, and holiness. Romans 12:2.
7. Hope for the Future: We as believers have hope for the future because of the victory won by Christ. We look forward to His return and the culmination of God’s kingdom, where no more suffering, sin, or death will occur. 1 Peter 1:3.

Overall, victory in Christ Jesus through the finished work of the cross is paramount! Providing us as believers the assurance, hope, and motivation to live lives that honor and glorify God.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19.

As we journey through life we will face many challenges and setbacks, but I’m here today to offer you a few words of encouragement. God is the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2. Nothing we do or fall short of doing catches our Heavenly Father by surprise. He is always there and watches over us – the LORD is as close as the shade on our right hand. Psalm 121:5.

When life gives us lemons, we must make lemonade! The Bible offers several principles and teachings that can encourage us to overcome our past and move forward in our lives: Here are some I use to guide me during my meditation:

1. Forgiveness: One of the central themes in the Bible is forgiveness. It encourages us to forgive others who have wronged us, just as God forgives them. This includes forgiving oneself for past mistakes and failures as well.
2. Letting Go: The Bible teaches about letting go of the past and not dwelling on former things. Philippians 3:13-14 says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
3. Renewal of the Mind: Romans 12:2 instructs believers to renew their minds, which involves adjusting their thinking patterns. This will require the help of the Holy Spirit. By focusing on God’s truth and promises, we can overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors from our past.
4. New Identity in Christ: The Bible teaches that we are made new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). This means that our past can no longer define us, and we can find our identity and worth in Christ rather than in our past mistakes or experiences.
5. Seeking God’s Help: Through prayer, meditation, and seeking guidance from God, we can find strength and wisdom to overcome the challenges of our past. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength.”
6. Community Support: The Bible emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship with other believers. Being part of a supportive community can provide encouragement, and accountability, and help individuals overcome the effects of their past.

Overall, the Bible teaches that through our faith in God and His grace, we can find the strength and courage necessary to overcome our past and live a more fulfilling life in the present and future.

“A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” – Mignon McLaughlin.

This powerful quote speaks to the idea that in a strong marriage or relationship, both partners must continuously grow and evolve together, supporting each other through ups and downs, and finding new ways to love one another over time. Rebuilding marital and relational walls through scripture is a beautiful and transformative journey. The Bible offers profound wisdom and guidance for nurturing healthy relationships and restoring broken ones. Here are some key scriptures and principles to consider:

1. Foundation of Love: Ephesians 4:2-3 – “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Love forms the cornerstone of any relationship. Cultivate humility, gentleness, patience, and peace in your interactions.
2. Forgiveness: Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Forgiveness is essential for healing and restoration. Letting go of resentment and choosing to forgive as God forgives us can mend even the deepest wounds.
3. Communication: Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Communication is vital in relationships. Practice active listening, speak respectfully, and seek to understand each other’s perspectives.
4. Unity: Philippians 2:2 – “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Strive for unity and harmony in your relationship. Align your goals, values, and attitudes to strengthen your bond.
5. Servanthood: Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Serve one another selflessly, considering each other’s needs above your own. Acts of service foster intimacy and build trust.
6. Patience and Perseverance: Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Relationships require patience and endurance. Stay committed to reconciliation and growth, trusting in God’s timing.
7. Seeking Wisdom: James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Turn to God for wisdom and guidance in navigating challenges within your relationship. Prayerfully seek His direction and discernment.
8. Gratitude and Appreciation: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Cultivate a spirit of gratitude and appreciation for your spouse. Acknowledge their strengths, efforts, and contributions regularly. Helping you build intimacy for one another.

By incorporating these biblical principles into your marriage and relationships, you can rebuild and strengthen the walls of love, trust, and unity. Remember, God’s grace and power are sufficient to overcome any obstacle or hardship you and your partner may face. “For my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Heavenly Father,

May these scriptures serve as a biblical foundation for those who need your loving guidance and support in their marriages. I pray that your word will build up those torn down, strengthen those who have become weak, and give hope to those who have become discouraged. Let your Grace and Mercy cover those hurting and be a wall of protection around them and save those who may be facing separation or divorce. In Jesus Name. Amen!

In the grand tapestry of human existence, the concept of rising through sacrifice stands as a profound testament to the inherent goodness and potential for growth within each individual. This principle illuminates the path toward spiritual elevation and communal upliftment and is rooted deeply in the pages of the Bible, As we delve into the scriptures, we will discover profound insights that guide us toward a life of selflessness, service, and transcendence.

At the heart of this journey lies the fundamental truth articulated in Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Here, the apostle Paul encapsulates the essence of rising through sacrifice – the willingness to prioritize the needs of others above our own desires. It’s a call to embrace humility, recognizing that true greatness is not measured by personal achievements but by the extent to which we contribute to the well-being of those around us.

Moreover, the Gospel of Mark echoes this sentiment in Mark 10:45, where Jesus himself declares, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus’s life serves as the ultimate exemplar of sacrificial love, a beacon of light guiding us toward a higher purpose. His willingness to lay down his life for the redemption of humanity exemplifies the transformative power of selflessness. Through his actions, we learn that true fulfillment is found not in the pursuit of personal gain, but in the service of others.

The narrative of sacrifice is intricately woven throughout the biblical narrative, manifesting in thousands of forms that inspire and challenge us. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges believers to present their bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” This profound injunction beckons us to offer ourselves wholly – mind, body, and soul – to serve God and humanity. It’s a radical call to abandon the trappings of self-interest and embrace a life characterized by radical love and devotion.

Furthermore, Hebrews 13:16 underscores the transformative power of sacrificial deeds: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Here, the writer of Hebrews emphasizes the intrinsic link between sacrificial giving and divine favor. When we extend ourselves in acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity, we not only bless others but also find favor in the eyes of the Divine. Our sacrifices become offerings of worship, ascending as fragrant incense before the throne of God.

In contemplating the concept of rising through sacrifice, we inevitably encounter the profound paradox articulated in Matthew 16:25: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” This paradox lies at the heart of the Christian faith, challenging us to relinquish our grip on worldly comforts and embrace a life of radical surrender. In letting go of our own agendas and desires, we discover a deeper, more abundant life rooted in communion with God and service to others.

In conclusion, the biblical narrative resounds loud and clear the call to rise through sacrifice – to transcend the limitations of self-interest and embrace a life of radical love and service. As we immerse ourselves in the timeless truths of scripture, we are beckoned towards a higher purpose, a nobler calling that transcends the ephemeral pursuits of this world. May we heed the words of Jesus, who declared, “Greater love has no one than this: than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13), and in doing so, may we truly rise to the fullness of our humanity.

Heavenly Father,

May we seek to fulfill the longings of scripture, that will propel us to service and the betterment of all mankind, as we strive to live a life worthy of your calling. In Jesus Name! Amen.

“I repeat, be strong and brave! Don’t be afraid and don’t panic, for I, the Lord your God, am with you in all you do.” Joshua 1:9 NET

Have you ever worked so hard to put something together and just before you got ready to bring the finished product to fruition, the bottom began to fall out! You can literally look to the Lord in disbelief and wonder how could this be? In the Book of Joshua chapter 7 verses 1-26. Joshua found himself in a similar situation, where the account of their defeat against Ai left him in a profound sense of distress, panic and almost disbelief.

Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, had experienced triumphant victories in the conquest of Jericho, but was faced with very different results during the battle at Ai. The Israelites, were confident after their previous success and sent only a small force to conquer Ai, assuming it would be an easy task. However, to their astonishment, the smaller Ai forces overcame them, leading to a resounding defeat.

Upon learning of the unexpected failure, in a panic Joshua tore his clothes, in deep anguish and distress! He had led his people through the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River and the fall of Jericho, now he has found himself grappling with the shock of defeat. The panic among the Israelites was palpable as they realized that their winning shrink had just been shattered! A feeling, I myself had just experienced. Like Joshua in response to my crisis, I looked to the Lord for His divine guidance.

As Joshua fell prostrate before the Ark of the Covenant, pouring out his concerns and seeking answers from the Lord. The divine response that followed included instructions for identifying and addressing the sin that had tainted the Israelite’s camp. Their disobedience compromised their spiritual purity and as a result, God withdrew His favor during the battle at Ai. The discovery of Achan’s sin and the subsequent removal of the devoted items from the camp helped pave the way for the restoration of divine favor and the eventual victory over Ai. This episode underscores the importance of our obedience and how it affects our purity when we walk in disobedience to the Lord.

As I meditated on God’s response to Joshua and the Israelites, I began to pray for insight as well. “Lord, shine your light on what is hidden” and sure enough sin was likewise in the camp. I was able to see more clearer the areas that demanded change. Painfully, God revealed persons in my circle that needed to be removed, in order to successfully fulfill my destiny. In prayerful obedience I began to move what needed to be moved and changed what needed to be changed. Thankfully, God in His great mercy brought restoration through my obedience.

Like the defeat at Ai, this serves as a pivotal moment for me as well, highlighting the complex interplay of faith, human error, and divine intervention. It also demonstrates Joshua’s resilience in the face of adversity and the significance of seeking guidance in times of crisis. Before we panic we must remember, God in His great mercy always has a plan to restore. Through obedience and restoration He ultimately allowed the Israelites to regain their strength, rectify their mistakes, and eventually achieve victory over Ai, underscoring the redemptive nature of their journey and the great Mercy of our God! Hallelujah!

Heavenly Father,

Just as you told Joshua, “Don’t be afraid and don’t panic!” (Joshua 8:1) Help us to see that through our obedience you will always cause us to succeed when we follow your divine leading. For you alone Lord are our refuge, our place of safety, our God whom we trust.” (Psalm 91:2).

In Jesus name,

Amen

When the storms of life begin to rage, we must learn to search the scriptures to find the promises of God. I personally look for scriptures that speak directly to my situation and began to pray the word of God over my life, then thankfully meditate on those scriptures with an expectancy to see God move. For Colossians 4:2 encourages us to “Be persistent in prayer, and keep alert as you pray, giving thanks to God. The one thing I was assured of in my scripture search was God’s word was the truth and the binding authority on the matter! As “I kept my mind steadfast on Him, He kept me in perfect peace, because I trusted in Him.” Isaiah 26:3.

Regardless, of what I encountered, I remained steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that my labor here on earth would not be in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58. Victory for the believer in Christ is knowing, the battle has already been fought and won on Calvery over two thousand years ago. The renewed mind is the one battle that continues to wage on in the flesh. In order to overcome this struggle you must seek God’s Grace to help you renew your mind. We are instructed according to Romans 12:2  “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 His perfect will.”

May God grant us wisdom for long life in this new season. When we walk in wisdom “long life is in her right hand;  in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;  those who hold her fast will be blessed.” Proverbs 3:16-18. We must “set our minds on things that are above , not things that are on earth.” Colossians 3:2. We must strategically divise a plan, without distractions to study the word, to build capacity for transformation and meditaite on scripture. (Philippians 4:8, Joshua 1:8 & Psalm 1:2).

Let us this year “Put off the old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24.

God has a plan for each of us. We must rely on the Holy spirit’s leading and “Trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not to our own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct our paths.” Proverbs 3:4-5.

Heavenly Father,

Let your wisdom be our guiding light. May it lead us down that path that leads to long life. Fill us with a hunger and thirst after your righteousness that we may be filled. Create in us clean hearts and renew the right Spirit within us. In Jesus Name!

Amen.