🌀WHEREVER you — and we — are today, this is NOT The End of the Story!
Some days it seems like the world blowing up everywhere and fires are ablaze all around us. To some it appears “the end is near” as doomsday sign-toting promoters predicted for ages. Let’s dial that all back and pause here for a moment to reflect…
Worry costs us dearly. Life becomes less about who we are as see happiness and freedom slip just out of reach. The painful result is too much time spent overthinking and long days filled with anxiety.
Do you find yourself wanting to stop thinking “when this is over, I’ll be able to…” Allowing worry to live with us negatively impacts every moment of our lives. This also affects the lives of those around us. It’s a real Joy stealer!
Everyone experiences moments of concern and yes — worry. Gaining a new perspective can end the ‘doom and gloom’ spiral. I have a powerful solution to share that will help you stop worrying about what’s next and start living again.
I know it’s hard to believe we don’t need to be overly concerned or work harder to “fix” problems and resolve challenges. This type of thinking is counter to how most of us live life. As a huge DIY’er myself I know — I’ve been there, too! In fact, it sounds downright lazy, when you think about it.
BUT the truth is we don’t have to worry about “what’s next” or struggle to make things better. Does this sound too good to be possible? It does! Let me share some inspiring insight I discovered that helped me understand how this can happen…
😃Here are encouraging words for anyone in the midst of life challenges and crazy-chaotic times so many are experiencing…
Let’s read this and I’ll meet you on the other side of the passage below:
“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!
So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”
~ 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 [New Living Translation]
🤷♀️HOW do we do this??? By reframing everything.
HOW we do this is by reframing everything not in the way we see/feel/think but rather with God’s perspective (through prayer and according to His Word). This allows us FREEDOM from being stuck in a place holding us captive. By letting go of where we are (or were), we are freed from a limiting mindset we placed on ourselves.
It’s easy to see things only with our own personal viewpoint. We’re sure we know everything surrounding an issue. In reality we’re armed only with part of the story. We’re not seeing the whole picture. It’s not possible.
Even so, we often feel fully confident to forge ahead making (what we believe to be) ‘informed’ decisions, taking ‘effective’ actions, basing it all on partial information. No surprise when this leads to mistakes and creating bigger messes!
The truth is we can’t know all there is to know. How humbling is the day when we discover we are much more limited than most of us want to admit!
When we are willing to let go of what holds us back from seeing things more clearly, we are able to consider issues more objectively. We can do this when fully embrace what our (yes — yours and my) heavenly Father has for us♥️He sees things differently. He sees the Big Picture. He knows what’s ahead!
When we seek Him first, He will bless us with insight and understandings we cannot gain entirely on our own.
We can rest assured He is faithful in keeping His promises. He never leaves us alone to fend for ourselves in a mess. He will hold us close, bringing us through.
You can rely on Him every time. We do this when we seek Him first, tossing our concerns to the side by embracing His guidance and wisdom. (SEE: 1 Chronicles 16:11) He’s waiting to hear from you. His solutions are always appropriate!
🤨And how do I know, you may wonder… I have emerged (maybe as you have) from heart-wrenching situations requiring effective answers …I have been presented with difficult life circumstances I could do nothing about to “fix” or personally ‘make better.’ These circumstances changed my life forever💔
As a follower of Christ, I got through them by relying on Him. In so doing, I experienced His Peace, comfort and protection shielding me throughout the ordeal and afterward.
Perhaps you have experienced this as well, and just needed to hear this encouraging reminder to help you on your way. If you have never sought His amazing wisdom and guidance through life’s hard spaces, I highly recommend!
My hope and prayer is anyone who needs to hear this message finds encouragement here for the journey ahead…
So if you’re having some hard times now, I hope you’ll consider handing it all over to The One Who is able. If you haven’t experienced this or find yourself caught up in a mess, I hope you’ll give this a try because God has an appropriate solution for any problem or situation you have♥️
🔭 Putting it all into perspective: Not diminishing even a bit of what’s going on in life right now — but: a moment in our life today is not even a blip on the timeline of human existence for all time. He has this! He loves all of us! I’m so glad He is in charge💜
When someone shows patience and extends grace, don’t automatically think they’re a pushover or weak.
Granted, that’s a rare sight these days😃Some people may not even know how to deal with someone being so kind! Just look around, and you’ll see what I mean…
Instead of thinking what a dope or weakling they are, see the strength in what they are doing — and how they’re doing it!
It takes a LOT more strength to resist arguing, being rude or talking back to others and extending UNwarranted grace to someone who, by all accounts, isn’t worthy (it seems) to receive forgiveness.
This peaceful practice and actively living life with love and grace, placing Jesus at the center, helps make the world a better place♥️ You know it does!
Look around and note how much of this you see daily and what other types of (undesirable) behaviors tend to stand out.
AMEN to this — but there is the matter of forgiveness, of course! We can’t change the fact that something painful happened. We can’t change the fact that hurtful, evil people exist.
They may claim they “don’t have time” for you (but they apparently do for everyone else including your children)… they’d rather talk behind your back about you, instead of to your face… they go out of their way to do hurtful things.
WHY? Maybe their actions are driven by their own pain, feeling jealous, unworthy, wanting to seem powerful (when they’re not) — any number of things.
We can’t change the fact that these people feel as they do and act as they do. BUT we can control how we handle troubling issues and difficult people in our lives.
In the truest sense, all relationships matter. How we handle these painful situations impacts our lives in far greater ways than playing the victim card or giving in, allowing them to control life.
Forgiving these hurtful people — even if they won’t hear you (because they won’t listen or are no longer alive) — allows us to release that pain and be done with it all!
Forgiving begins with care, and ends with “I forgive you,” all covered in prayer.
Set yourself free of the unwanted (likely unwarranted) pain by forgiving. Sounds good, doesn’t it? You can do this! How do I know? Because I already did😊 Writing to encourage you!
When we measure our sense of worthiness based on the world around us, we are led to a deep, dark place of inadequacy. Some people never escape this trap. Learn the secret of your worthiness… Find out why you are worthy — a worthiness that can never be undone – OR – outdone!
Who doesn’t want more peace and meaningful, life-enriching relationships in their life? Most often we feel loved, valued and healthy when we have strong relationships. Building healthy relationships takes time.
At some point, everyone struggles with relationships. Sometimes relationships are not supportive or caring, no matter how we try our best to nurture them. Relationships naturally involve more than just ‘me’ – OR – ‘you! Relationships involve two or more… BUT being dynamic, things happen! Like…
Suddenly — your best friend disappears😯 Likely our friends didn’t abandon us because they didn’t really care… but maybe things are different now😭Whatever their reasons may be, they aren’t able to go further with us on this journey.
If we’re honest with ourselves, this is probably (in part) because they don’t have the deeply wired default connection inherently born into a family. As close as we thought we are (or at one time were), that strong bond no longer exists.
😳Did You Know: FAMILY teaches us how to extend grace! It may surprise you to realize — as it did me — that family actually gives us ample opportunity to learn to live at peace with and extend grace ongoing to others! There are benefits WHEN we allow these lessons!
Life can be challenging! But difficult, uncaring, unloving people often leave us wondering how to handle troubling situations and how to treat them when they make things so hard 🤷♀️
As a guide for all of us, in Ephesians 4:31-32, Paul tells us where to find encouragement and strength to help us through hard times with difficult people in our life..
Paul clearly explains how we should treat and address others:
“Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk.
Be gentle with one another, sensitive.
Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.”
So applying this as you go about your day…
Think about those who always seem so easy to forgive… and remember those who are more difficult for you to pour grace over.
Pray God’s guidance in your next steps to heal your most troubling relationships. He is always with us, even in our darkest days, and when we feel abandoned by those we thought loved us most.
Above all else, we mustn’t forget “Whose” we are. As believers, we are children of the Most High. The Creator of the Universe. He has never left our side. He loves each of us — every.one more than we can imagine!
By this very fact we are indeed WORTHY. We need not seek approval from others, live to please others, or put on a good show for love and attention. No. We are above that. We are beyond that.
We are worthy by virtue of God’s great love and generous grace available for us every moment of our lives. NO one can top that!
👋🏻Say GOODBYE to UNhealthy Relationships. Get TIPS to Transform Life One Relationship at a Time!
Embracing lies as misguided life truths costs us dearly. Allowing lies to live with us enables them to impact every moment of our lives negatively. Entrusted with unlimited access, they wield significant influence, including our innermost thoughts. The sad result is not being free to live as our heavenly Father intended.
Kicking life-wrecking lies to the curb isn’t easy. But — living with lies is more challenging because it gives them direct control over life. In their presence, life becomes less about who we are, and more about the lies taking up residence with us, as uninvited guests.
In Kick Life-Wrecking Lies to the Curb, author Becky Cortino explains:
How lies easily captivate hearts and minds everywhere
10 ways lies live with us for as long as we permit
7 principles for lie-free living
Sure-fire steps to break free of lies – banishing them forever
After 5 years of research, study, writing, and hearing beautiful forgiveness stories, Becky’s book “Restoring the Broken Places in an Unforgiving World” was published in 2020. She then realized the great need to help hurting hearts address issues that create a fertile environment for pain-filled relationships and unwanted brokenness requiring grace. “Kick Life-Wrecking Lies to the Curb” begins this journey.
Isn’t it time to stand up to the lies and start living the life you were meant to live?
Don’t settle for less. Kick the lies to the curb and accept God’s best for your life!
Kick Life-Wrecking Lies to the Curb! is available wherever books are sold, including:
When someone betrays you or interferes with your life, remember some of the loudest voices are coming from the weakest, who feel they must shout to be heard. Often it’s not really about you, no matter what they say or do! In reality, its their cry for help… They are hurting and weak. In Christ, believers are strong. What we need to do…
Through his deceptive ploys, satan would love to wreck your relationships, destroy your life, make thriving feel difficult, steal your hope, causing you to believe anything -or- everything good is impossible!
Why does he do this? Because he wants to fragment relationships, the foundation of our lives and culture, dash our believing in Hope and ruin lives any way he can. he revels in creating chaos and devastation by undermining order, efforts and institutions that positively impact lives, turning people against each other, isolating as many as he can, fueling hate and hopelessness.
🛑 WAIT: Isn’t satan powerful?
Here’s the deal: satan is not ever as powerful as our Creator (God), or God’s son Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. Never.
As God’s children, we are in His care. We are never left alone to our own devices to do battle!
In Matthew 28:20b, Jesus promised He would never leave us, nor forsake us. He told His disciples He would be with them “to the very end of the age.” This is a promise that includes all believers. That’s you and me!
He said He would always be with us, so rest assured you are not all on your lonesome in a tough spot. Ever.
🛑 Here’s the thing we humans often forget: satan can only negatively impact us if we allow him! The lesson here is: be careful who you give the power to in your life. Don’t willingly see things his way because it sounds so good, or give up control over your own heart, mind and life to one who wishes only to bring pain and grief for as long as you allow.
🛑 Here’s what God’s Word says about that:
“My dear children, you come from God and belong to God. You have already won a big victory over those false teachers, for the Spirit in you is far stronger than anything in the world. These people belong to the Christ-denying world. They talk the world’s language and the world eats it up. But we come from God and belong to God. Anyone who knows God understands us and listens. The person who has nothing to do with God will, of course, not listen to us. This is another test for telling the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of deception.” ~ 1 John 4:4-6 [The Message]
“Little children (believers, dear ones), you are of God and you belong to Him and have [already] overcome them [the agents of the antichrist]; because He who is in you is greater than he (Satan) who is in the world [of sinful mankind].” ~ 1 John 4:4 [Amplified]
“My children, you are a part of God’s family. You have stood against these false preachers and had power over them. You had power over them because the One Who lives in you is stronger than the one who is in the world.” ~ 1 John 4:4-6 [New Life Version]
Our humanness often allows us to easily fall into a pit of despair, trip into an enticing opportunity, or to fall into a hidden trap. We may immediately feel the need to defend ourselves. In the heat of the moment, we react vehemently to harsh treatment with nasty words, be offended by a cunning (untrue) insinuation or come out slugging!
🧰 How to handle this?
If (and when we do): recognize it and call it out for what it is — you (we) have been played by satan. That may be hard to admit! 1 Peter 5:8 describes him as “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” He is resolute and always seeking his next conquest. He aims to win. His every win is our loss in that moment.
❤️🩹Here’s a sure-fire two-fold remedy:
Keep Jesus close in your life, relying on Him every moment for His guidance.
Apply discernment and great care in your words, conversation and response.
Initially you may feel neither of these two strategies are naturally easy to apply. As you realize their effectiveness in practice is greater (versus stirring the boiling pot or adding more to the conflagration that has been ignited), you will discover you can fairly seamlessly transition over to a more appropriate response through Jesus, with His guidance.
🤨BUT — you may wonder how to know if someone is actually speaking the truth?
How to know if you’re hearing from reliable, authentic source?
According to Scripture in The Living Bible, in Matthew 24:4 Jesus warns us, “Don’t let anyone fool you.” Good advice, but in this crazy upside-down world-on-fire that is spinning out of control, HOW do we do this?
Reading a bit further describes how this can happen today, and has happened through the ages. As you read the following, please know I’m not supporting Eschatology by sharing this, because I believe what the Bible says about the end times in Matthew 24:36
Matthew 24:5-14 (New American Standard Bible) says:
“For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains.
Then they will hand you over to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. And at that time many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people. And because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will become cold. But the one who endures to the end is the one who will be saved. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.”
😳Do you see what I see?
We can see many things He said would happen already seem to be… as well as the condition of the world He described… but let’s begin at the beginning:
Jesus said “Take heed that no one deceives you” (Matthew 24:4, New King James Version). We must pray ongoing for God to give us the spirit of discernment, and understanding by reading His Word. We must seek Him first, above all else. Listen carefully for His still, small message to us above the fray, amidst all the world’s noise. In reality, some of the loudest voices are coming from the weakest, who feel they must shout to be heard.
Sometimes people attempt to influence others by promoting popular ways that are considered “modern” or based on contemporary thought. These new philosophies and current strategies may directly conflict biblical principles. Sometimes they may possibly veer just slightly off that path — but the person touting it is so trustworthy you may automatically embrace it without much further thought or question, accepting it as “ok,” too.
Please know I’m not saying anyone speaking deceitfully is “possessed.” I am saying people are often influenced in untoward ways for a variety of reasons. Some seek relevance when they feel powerless or invisible. Some greatly desire to be considered worthy of being a powerful influencer. Sometimes a hurtful person unwittingly presents themselves as being under the influence of satan simply by lying or betraying another.
Satan does this manifesting even in the spirits of people. It is possible they became unduly influenced by falling for satan’s cleverly-disguised lies as truth and running with them. Some may not be aware they are promoting falsehoods. Others readily engage in fraud and treacherous activities for their own purposes. A lot of perceived power is wielded when untruths are poured out and not fact-checked — for now.
Some misguided people misrepresent themselves because they pay attention to what’s most important in the world. Theirs is a false god of all things worldly. In truth, it’s not about you or a real relationship with you. In other words, don’t take it personally — it’s not really about you, no matter what they say or do!
An example would be someone striving for proper aesthetic vibes through all the right optics in their social media posts and everyday personal life. Every picture and all content shows them in the most favorable light. They will do whatever it takes for that glamorous money shot.
To further build themselves up, they may (selectively) zing others getting in their way (or as a show of power), every chance they get. They strive to climb still higher in prestige, power and rankings on the backs of others at their expense. Social media is a prime example of this. You’ve seen it…
🧑🔬The One True Litmus Test: to determine if someone is actually truthful?
Let’s look to Scripture for reliable insighton how to test if what you’re hearing is in fact from the true spirit of God:
“Here’s how you test for the genuine Spirit of God. Everyone who confesses openly his faith in Jesus Christ—the Son of God, who came as an actual flesh-and-blood person—comes from God and belongs to God. And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought!” ~ 1 John 4:2-3 [The Message]
“and every spirit that does not confess Jesus [acknowledging that He has come in the flesh, but would deny any of the Son’s true nature] is not of God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and is now already in the world.” ~ 1 John 4:3 [Amplified]
“And every spirit that does not say Jesus has come in a human body is not from God. It is the teaching of the false-christ. You have heard that this teaching is coming. It is already here in the world.” 1 John 4:3 [New Life Version]
“Those false teachers are a part of the world. They speak about the things of the world. The world listens to them.” 1 John 4:5 [New Life Version]
✔️ACTION “On-the-spot” Checklist:
🛑 STOP! Recognize this for what it is.
Call on Jesus in that moment: Pray.
Follow His guidance.
Then, be done with it.
🥰 BENEFITS of this — you can:
save yourself (and others) heartache.
avoid potential future discomfort.
build healthier relationships.
pour cold water on smoking discord.
unleash what is right and true.
quelch the fire on the spot.
When we live God’s Way, we have a better life — and we please Him!
😭 SIDE NOTE: Here’s the really sad thing about all this:
You’re probably wondering why I’d include this here, but it’s because this all gets down to relationship. Honestly, everything does. True ‘relationship’ always involves more than “me.” Too often “me-first” is pushed by whomever sparks the fire. All relationships begin with our relationship with God. We are all individually wired for connection and relationship. It is part of who we are, as God purposefully created each of us to be.
FIRST: Dealing with life challenges involves our relationship with God.
These are golden personal development, character-building opportunities in the making! God is giving us an occasion to grow into the person we are meant to be by relying on Him (not self), as we learn discernment, self-control, extending grace and truly loving others through it all. In this way we grow closer to Him, build our spiritual muscles, and honor Him.
I can attest that this can be done through Him because I have frequently turned to Him in times like these. In the process, I learned the blessings of wisdom and knowledge by leaning into Him.
💔How to FORGIVE and WHY: What You NEED To KNOW in UNDER 90-Seconds!
I assure you when you work through hard places His way you will be amazed how much more effective it is rather than attempting all the heavy lifting by yourself — eventually making matters worse, or with little positive outcome.
SECONDLY: There is incredible power in His Ways!
His ways speak to eyes that will see and ears that will hear in ways that we could never on our own. The effects of His ways are lasting!
For instance, if a truth has been covered over, or attempted to be buried, know it will not remain hidden for long! Luke 8:17 (New International Version) assures us:
“For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.”
Incredibly, His speaking or unearthing a truth may well be quietly spoken but it will be undeniably, irrevocably apparent. It will be beyond question even to those who would have thought otherwise. I have seen this happen!
His revelation of it, by whatever means God chooses, will speak more powerfully than if you were to launch an all-out no-holds barred very expensive advertising campaign worldwide, hoping to win hearts and minds.
A double-blessing pours over us when we see how we handle a troubling matter in step with Him. This makes our heavenly Father pleased. It’s amazing!
THIRDLY: May we humbly remember WHY these things happen — it’s because we are ALL human.
Like it or not, we are all in this human experience called “life” together. Our Creator and heavenly Father has given it to all of us, as His children — each and every one!
He loves every one of us. No exceptions. None. Ever. Everybody always!*
*(I’m incredibly saddened to say some people are disappointed by this Truth😭I know this because they told me! Please don’t let this be you!)
When bad things happen, a spiritual battle is initiated when someone:
has fallen away from/or not embraced a true relationship with God.
holds personal priorities, principles, dreams above all (material gain, etc).
has low self-esteem, inwardly feels unworthy of receiving blessings.
needs to present themselves as perfect or powerful.
is having personal problems and needs intervention (mental, drugs, alcohol).
FREE Yourself From the PAIN Caused By HURTFUL People
🤦♀️ What if things don’t turn out as we want or might expect?
Sometimes, even when we’ve carefully (and prayerfully) worked through everything we knew we should do by following God’s guidance — this can happen. When it does, it is truly disappointing. I know that pain. Have you been there, too?
Standing back from it, being honest with ourselves, we could also realize this may be a situation where we put our heart’s desire on the line. We did this by perhaps putting the matter first, above seeking God’s Will for it. The result is our disappointment for the outcome differing from what we believed it would or should be.
But WAIT — there’s MORE!
Hold on — this is right now. Today. And this is “us.”
Remember God is in this with us for our entire lifetime — for the long haul. It’s not just for this moment in time.
No matter how smart we are, we don’t know what tomorrow brings. An everyday example is forecasting the weather. If we’re honest, no one has done a highly reliable job telling us when it will rain or snow or… you name it!
Case-in-point: many residents and ski resorts here in North Carolina were stunned when we got hit with a BIG beautiful but unexpected snowfall on January 19, 2024! Which of course begs the question of the accuracy of any forecasting programs dealing with proposed future climate conditions we really couldn’t know about if we don’t know what tomorrow brings… and if we’re honest, we know God as Creator of the Universe is in control of all of it anyway. The cherry on top is… in our area, while always hoped for, snow is a rarity. It is so rare that a snow day is often regarded as an event worth celebrating — and is!
I speak from experience here, because on more than one occasion, I’ve asked Him “why” or to please help me with something I’m struggling with. Yet, while some things seemed to improve, the situation remained at an uncomfortable impasse. Sometimes for YEARS. At times like that, we may not understand, but in my experience, waiting on Him in His timing contains unexpected blessings!
Out of the blue one day, I became aware of a personally hurtful situation I couldn’t do anything about. Very soon after that painful reveal, He spoke to my heart saying, “See how I am protecting you.” Indeed.
Thank you, Father!*
LASTLY: So remember — as believers, Jesus always has our back:
In Matthew 28:20b, Jesus told us: “I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.” [The Message]
We can rest in this! We can rely on His promises because in God’s great love and graciousness, He is faithful in keeping all of His promises.
As believers, we are assured His Power is in us — and we have a responsibility:
“If Christ lives in you, you will live. Though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life. The Spirit does this because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of the God who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you. So the God who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your bodies. He will do this because of his Spirit who lives in you. Brothers and sisters, we have a duty. Our duty is not to live under the power of sin.” ~ Romans 8:10-12 [New International Reader’s Version]
*PROLOGUE: Following up to His speaking to my heart about His protection, He reminded me He was secluding me from hearing painful poison-laden words (many of which I have endured most of my life. His grace covered me).
The flip side of this revelation: I was reminded at least one of the individuals involved was someone I identified long ago and now once again, as ONE to pray for during Bible Study class last fall 🥺Oh my!
Well I had prayed. But not often enough💔I don’t believe my prayers would’ve been instrumental in completely repairing the situation. While restoration remains always as my heart hope, I realize it will take His Hand for that to happen.
Honestly, my prayers may not have averted the vicious rhetoric either. However, I knew I was to pray for this person and I didn’t pray ongoing for them. That’s on me and within my own control.
Our heavenly Father works far more effectively than we do and never lets anything go to waste. While He was pointing out to me He is aware of this situation, assuring me He is standing with me, He also reminded me of my responsibility of praying for this person. He used even this bad moment in my life, for His good.
So now I’m understanding this matter to be of great importance. I do need to pray for them, and they need me to, as well. Like NOW. Not even whenever I get around to it or just happen to remember. (Have you been there?!) Apparently this matter is that urgent. Nothing I do otherwise could possibly be more important. I got the message!
I know this because ever since, I’ve received reminders calling me to pray on their behalf. I must! Romans 8:10-12 mandates this responsibility.
🙏🏻Who is your ONE to pray for? Join me in a prayer vigil. No time like NOW!
This supports a life truth I have learned and share all the time: “You really CAN transform your life one relationship at a time!”
While it’s NOT all about ‘me’ that’s where it begins… and our relationship with our loving heavenly Father… emanating out from there to others.
“Jesus said, “Watch out for doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities, claiming, ‘I am Christ, the Messiah.’ They will deceive a lot of people. When reports come in of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history; this is no sign of the end. Nation will fight nation and ruler fight ruler, over and over. Famines and earthquakes will occur in various places. This is nothing compared to what is coming.” ~ Matthew 24:4-8 [The Message]
How sweet, how wonderful — to hear these beautiful words: “Life is precious!” from a loved one recently💕Indeed!
This is an important and touching reminder for all of us because it’s essential to look at what we engage ourselves in, as well as its impact on life: our time spent. It’s important to consider this ongoing, not just when the year is “new,” during the month of January!
I could work all day and call it “life” (and often have), or I could “play” all day and feel overwhelmingly “behind” in all I think I must do (as I often believed) and feeling life was diminished, not made better by my time away. Can you relate?
These encouraging words come at an interesting moment in time, during increasingly uncertain days. Upheaval, unwarranted hatred and turmoil are erupting everywhere have become a global epidemic.
I’m thankful we really can look beyond all the dark contentiousness swirling about to see what is right and true. Like a single candle glowing silently in the dark, this gives all with eyes to see and hearts to gladly receive needed HOPE.
Through disappointments, pain, struggle and chaos we always have Hope. Peace is found there. “and hope does not disappoint.” ~ Romans 5:5 [NASB]
Life IS precious!
📖In journaling the Word today, my verse was Psalm 138:2-3. I love the Scripture summary: “A Thankful Heart” [CSB], which said it so well. It is where I am right now…
“Thank you! Everything in me says “Thank you!” Psalm 138:1a [MSG]
…I am thankful for all. I’m thankful for all His blessings and unlimited answered prayers ongoing — SO many answered! And so many answered in AMAZING ways♥️ So I say…
“I kneel in worship facing your holy temple and say it again: “Thank you!” Thank you for your love, thank you for your faithfulness; Most holy is your name, most holy is your Word. The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength.”
~ Psalm 138: 2-3 [MSG]
AMEN. Indeed He did! He does! He will! He is!
Thank you, Father! I’m sharing this today to proclaim your Holy Name, to give thanks for all, and to share this for those who need a word of encouragement♥️
MORE VERSIONS of this Scripture:
“I will bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your constant love and truth. You have exalted your name and your promise above everything else.
On the day I called, you answered me; you increased strength within me.”
~ Psalm 138:2-3 [Christian Standard Bible]
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“I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed by all the honor of your name.
As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength.”
~ Psalm 138:2-3 [New Living Translation]
——–
“I will bow down [in worship] toward Your holy temple And give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word together with Your name.
On the day I called, You answered me; And You made me bold and confident with [renewed] strength in my life.”
~ Psalm 138:2-3 [Amplified Bible]
——–
“I will bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your constant love and truth. You have exalted Your name and Your promise above everything else.
On the day I called, You answered me; You increased strength within me.”
~ Psalm 138:2-3 [Holman Christian Standard Bible]
——–
“Thank you! Everything in me says “Thank you!” Angels listen as I sing my thanks.
Happy New Year! As much as we believe things have changed even in the last year, if we’re truly honest with ourselves, many important things that trouble us most remain the same (or possibly they are worse).
Relationships rank high on the list of human needs. When things go awry, life becomes more difficult, we are less free to be ourselves, and to enjoy the company and special times with those near and dear that give life deeper meaning and greater joy.
As we come into the New Year with thoughts of a fresh start, renewal, and hopeful possibility, this is a great time to consider how we might work toward restoration, repairing brokenness and loving others more radically — perhaps as never expected.
Emotions reliably stir as we enter a New Year. Reviewing the last 365 days, happy memories come to mind. They warm us in the January chill. They give us hope for the days ahead.
Painful thoughts inevitably come on the heels of bliss-filled remembering, coloring our yesterdays in darker hues. They remind us of where we’ve been. If we allow, they’ll dictate where we’ll stay in the days stretching out before us.
At the dawning of a new year, many becoming misty-eyed reflecting on events of the recent past. Reviewing mountaintop moments, great joys, incredible accomplishments, happy times, they also carefully inspected their disappointments, tragedies, setbacks, and personal shortcomings. We’ve all experienced sweet moments and difficult times over the last 10 years!
Hope for the days ahead fuels beautiful dreams of what is yet to be. It can be a way forward for us, as a catalyst for the change we hope to live. Not just in personal improvement, but also in life and our broken relationships.
Winston Churchill said: “The farther back you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” There is wisdom in these words. Applied properly, considering past events can give us perspective on important life matters.
Reviewing what got us to where we are is an integral step in making essential life changes. Dwelling on the past promises to hold us there. Steeping in the sadness of overwhelm immobilizes us. As much as we desire to escape the unrelenting pain, we will remain stuck.
‘Understanding’ or trying to figure out a troubling relational situation can be helpful, but a clear view of a matter is not always possible. Things happen in life we’ll never understand. Lingering too long in trying to make sense of what doesn’t, holds us back on what is yet to be, or who we may become.
It’s important to look back and learn from the past. In fact, “history” can never truly be erased — because it happened😉It can be and is an insightful source of understanding and learning for our lives.
Thinking it’s all “in the past,” by complacently believing we can ‘shelve’ it because it’s unimportant, or we can’t do anything about a relational break, never addresses the issue. It remains, glaring at us, impatiently awaiting attention, even when we can rightfully claim “no fault” in causing the incident.
Focusing on the past can keep us stuck in the place we want to free ourselves from. Don’t dwell on it, friend😊Instead, look to the possibilities ahead and relationships to be mended. Our future is not found in our past. Our future may in part be shaped by what has happened, but going back to linger too long is not the direction to focus on, as we look to move ahead.
ZigZiglar said: “How you see the future is much more important than anything that has happened in your past.” In other words, the past may shape us and to an extent “the now, “ but it does not dictate our everyday — unless we allow it.
Our dreams, hopes and desires for a brighter, better future and strong relationships with others are always possible. How do you see these things in your life? I’m hoping for more rekindled friendships and restored broken places this new year!
Eventually we realize ‘letting go’ of the thing (NOTE: not the person — unless it involves abuse or risks personal safety) that binds us to an impossible situation is the only way to move forward. We know we will stay stuck otherwise. Grace for the matter (and those involved) is required. A change of heart in us is what’s needed. That’s where the transformation to live more in love and freely extending grace begins.
Of all the changes and good things we hope for in this New Year, may we enter the days ahead filled with the hope of things that are possible.
We can begin to take steps toward relational restoration and reclaiming needed peace and joy in life. May we embrace the adventure we call life by living a truly radical life. May it often contradict conventional thinking (by the world’s standards), as we set our intentions to live in love and walk in grace every minute of every day.
Through a changed heart, we see things differently. When the pain is too piercing to continue, hanging on to it becomes too great. Then we can see our way clear of it. This is the path to #forgiveness and by following it, we are on our way to restoring life’s broken places♥️I’m on the Road to Forgiveness too — are you with me?
More about forgiveness and building healthy relationships:
If you only read 1 book this year — I recommend reading RESTORING THE BROKEN PLACES IN AN UNFORGIVING WORLD, to help you build healthy relationships and mend life’s broken places!
Restoring the Broken Places in an Unforgiving World is available for sale in any bookstore — your favorite local shop, indie, brick-and-mortar! Ask for it, if you don’t see it, please!
Hard to believe — BUT — the holidays are just around the corner, aren’t they? ?
Are you ready for them? ? So many details… so many preparations and so much more… Unfortunately gatherings sometimes bring challenges and unforeseen difficulties. Tensions can run high ?Anxiety can grow so big that joy gets crowded out.
Unfortunately gatherings sometimes bring challenges and unforeseen difficulties. Holidays don’t always bring the best out in people.
It’s not easy to be prepared for relational issues that develop or become inflamed during these times ? It’s hard to stand ready for ANYthing that can happen — most of which you probably couldn’t predict or imagine.
When the dreaded mishap or a major eruption does happen, it often makes you feel like you had better walk on eggshells if you want to keep the peace — possibly in your own home??
Are you feeling a bit anxious? Who wouldn’t?! What to do?
I suggest my newest book which deals squarely and candidly with challenges just like this:
We all struggle to remain in control of our lives. Isn’t it time to stand up to the lies and live the life you were meant to live? Don’t settle for less. Kick the lies to the curb and accept God’s best for your life!
Embracing lies costs us dearly. Life becomes less about who we are, and more about the lies living with us. They stick around for as long as we allow.
After 7 years of research, deep-dive study, and writing about building healthy relationships, I realized the need for encouragement and insight into issues that create a fertile environment for pain-filled relationships.
Kick Life-Wrecking Lies to the Curb! Letting Go of the Lies Keeping You From Living with Heart and Soul is written from a biblical perspective, offering tried-and-true solutions to some of life’s most nagging relational issues.
Learn effective strategies and discover:
How lies easily captivate hearts and minds everywhere
10 ways lies take up residence
7 principles for lie-free living
Sure-fire steps to break free of lies – banishing them
Kick Life-Wrecking Lies to the Curb! Letting Go of the Lies Keeping You From Living with Heart and Soul is available in paperback and ebook formats on Amazon; also on Barnes & Nobel, Walmart and Lulu:
This was the week September 11th was remembered by many. It really stirs the heart and memories looking back, doesn’t it? I’m sure you have a lot of memories packed-away about this infamous day. We’ll never forget, will we?
Some precious memories of the days that followed came to mind this week, as I remembered garden friends gathering in our Herbal Treasures Garden for a previously-scheduled event turned prayer gathering right in the middle of the garden.
A beautiful glow was cast on our Herbal Treasures of Hickory Hollow Garden by the golden September sunshine. Peace and calm filled our lovely garden. It was a lively place as butterflies flitted about, the bees were buzzily busy doing their thing as birds joyously sang their little sweet hearts out.
Like a last-minute hug before leaving for a long time, life felt secure and assured that all was well as we launched into the day. This morning was so especially gorgeous, it belied the potential evil lurking in the corners of the day. Looking back, it seemed impossible this serene day could take the turn it did in mere hours on 9-11.
22 years ago, on the Saturday afternoon following 9-11, a group of women gathered in our Herbal Treasures of Hickory Hollow Garden. It was September 15th. As the last big event of the 2001 gardening season, it was the grand finale.
This garden gathering had been planned months before. The program offered sweet fellowship time and sharing about our family’s visit to the Chelsea Flower Show — the ultimate garden party! Special refreshments included serving Sticky Toffee Pudding, a delight we discovered on our trip (long before becoming an internet sensation).
The Infamous Day Life Changed Forever
On 9-11 (Tuesday) life changed forever for the United States, and dare I say also the world. The life-altering events of that day impacted every aspect of life, immediately including regular schedules, special plans and everyday life as we knew it.
By Wednesday, I knew I had to decide whether to go forward with our planned event or not. After prayerful consideration, we determined we must continue with our plans. Press on we did!
The women gathered in quiet anticipation of needed time with others in a loving safe space — our garden. These are women of faith. Standing together in the center of the garden, we prayed deeply that day. We prayed over the horrific events unleashing unexpected destruction that week.
There were so many needs to cover with prayer, that it was almost difficult to know where to begin. We prayed for our country, leaders, and all who were touched by the unfolding horrors: affected families… destroyed businesses… lost lives… bystanders harmed, and the cities and areas affected. The list grew on!
He Holds The Whole World In His Hands
That day, each sweet lady left her 9-11 related concerns at Jesus’ feet right there in the garden. While we had difficulty finding all the words, He was there with us, as well (as with everyone calling out to Him everywhere). He is among us and He hears us, sees us, and knows us.
Jesus was with all of us wherever we were on the fateful day of 9-11. Before the dark events caused such a tragic outcome and in the aftermath, He was present. He continues to stay close to all of us today.
Jesus heard all the cries, saw our tears, witnessed the pain and unimaginable desecration. He brought us together with one another to get through the excruciating pain and dark uncertain days that followed. We found we were better together.
People were seeking answers. They needed assurances. They wanted something they could hold onto that was secure in this world gone mad. The truth is, we always are looking for these things. In the topsy-turvy days following 9-11, this quest spread like wildfire!
We Always Have Hope, Even Amidst the Ashes
There are many things we can count on:
Life is always uncertain.
Evil exists in the world.
Our pain and struggles are real.
Even on dark days, we are never alone.
Every day of our lives, Jesus is with us.
God loves all deeply (even bad guys).
He keeps His promises.
God — NEVER man — is “in charge.”
Evil will be punished.
Hope is found in Him, for all our needs.
God hears our prayers and knows us.
God answers our prayers in His time.
His Will, His Plan supersedes man’s.
God uses even bad things for His good.
Man will NOT have “the last word.”
The truth is: even in our darkest days, we are never alone.God is with us. Jesus stands by us and will go forward with us as we press on through it all.
In Deuteronomy 31:6, Scripture tells us:
“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.” (MSG)
“Be strong and courageous; don’t be terrified or afraid of them. For the LORD your God is the one who will go with you; he will not leave you or abandon you.” (CSB)
“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or in dread of them, for the LORD your God is the One who is going with you. He will not desert you or abandon you.” (ASB)
“So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (NLT)
If even for just a moment, Christmastime brings all hearts home, pausing to remember:
happy times
happier times
what once was
what life was like, before…
________ (you fill in the blank)
The memories may be heart-warming, affirming joyful times with family, friends, and loved ones.
Or the memories may rekindle angst and hurt felt during those times (or still feel, thinking back).
You may be surprised when those once-happy sweet, special moments suddenly turn into a stinging source of pain, piercing your heart with every remembrance.
Take heart — all of these reactions, feelings, and emotions are normal! We are human. This is how we roll!
Believers and unbelievers alike, Christmastime brings all hearts home, if even for just a moment:
it gives us that moment to pause amidst the blowout holiday sales and heavy party schedule or the darkness of long, lonely days.
during this small space of time between the old and new years, it gives us a moment to reflect upon life, this year, the way things are, and what we hope will be.
♥️Christmastime brings believers and unbelievers alike:
Comfort, if there is pain.
Peace, the assurance we are never alone.
Joy, knowing we are always loved (unconditionally), more than we could ever imagine.
Hope, knowing God has a plan to prosper each of us. With Him all things are possible!
We are securely held in His love with a bright future if we accept His gracious invitation to receive the greatest gift freely given to all:
“For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son so that anyone who believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it.” ~ John 3:16-17 [The Living Bible]
He is the way, the truth, and the light to help you through your darkest days. He will stand with you as you celebrate your greatest joys!
Over the last 7 years, I have created resources to help you and those you care about, wherever you are in your life at this moment:
Additional favorite versions of John 3:16-17 and John 3:16-18
“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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” ~ John 3:16-17 [NIV]
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.” ~ John 3:16-18 [The Message]
