Through The Years

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:6 NIV

Oh, be careful little tongue what you say. The tongue can be like a two edged blade of a sword. It can cause trouble and damage that is difficult to repair. Have you ever spat out words that you wish you had not used? Almost every single person who occupies space on the Earth has been guilty of this kind of behavior. What can one do about this type of action? It is not as easy as hitting the delete button. Words can keep on hurting or helping the person who receives those words.

All of the words we use have the power to tear down or build up others. One of the most powerful things my mother taught me was that we are responsible for the words that come out of our mouths, and only the individual has that control. No one else has that power. Words used in gossip are extremely toxic. It does not matter the purpose of the gossip.

“They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips,”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭29‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to.”
‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭5‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Gossip is deceptive. It can fool us into thinking that we are justified. There are times when we have to share what we have been told or what someone else has done, but those times are few and far between. My prayer is that I will stop and think twice before I share what someone has done, what I have heard, or been told. I do not want to be a stumbling block for anyone.

Please pray for me as I am praying for you.

10 “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. (‭‭‭Luke‬ ‭16‬‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

Our Heavenly Father is Faithful in All Things, and He desires us to be Faithful, also. My heart and mind strives to always remember this and to be consistent in my actions. However, my human self often struggles with this because of my inconsistency in my prayers. I allow myself to feel and think things that cause me to be hurt, angry, and upset about circumstances and situations that occur.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” – James 1:2-4 NKJV

If I keep my focus on God and the fact that HE is in control of everything that concerns me, I am much happier and more content. I am able to do what I need to do, and I can make better choices and decisions. If I allow my Heavenly Father to take control of my life, HE provides and protects me in my daily activities. Faith and patience work together when it comes to growth in our relationship with God. We need faith because, without it, it’s impossible to please God Faith gets you going, but patience keeps your faith growing.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” – Hebrews 11:1 ESV

Faith believes God will do what He says, but patience keeps us strong until we see it with our eyes. When we don’t have faith, we are not convinced that what we are waiting for will happen. People in this state usually use the statement “it is what it is.” However, if we are living by faith, we know that God is going to come through. It may not look like we thought it would, but He will do it.

Please pray for me as I am praying for you.

Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Psalms 51:11-12 NIV

My heart, mind, soul, spirit, and body craves my Heavenly Father’s Presence. With all the disastrous and tragic events occurring at this time in our world, it is clear that what we all need is a closer relationship with Our Heavenly Father!

We were created to be HIS and only for HIM. It is positively crucial that we read HIS Word and understand HIS Plans for us. HE knew everything that has happened in our lives, and HE gave us freedom of choice in our decisions. HE forgives us and gives us the freedom to choose HIM with all of His Grace, Mercy, Love, Forgiveness, and Amazing Blessings. All we need to do is allow HIM to be the center of our lives, be faithful, read HIS Word, communicate with HIM by praying, and PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME.

“he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬

My heart breaks when I see, hear, and learn about all the suffering, pain, and trauma that has been inflicted on God’s children. However, I am confident HE is truly in control. HE IS ALIVE! HE WINS!!

“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Please pray for me and all God’s people, as I am praying for you.

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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 ‭NIV‬‬

I asked someone I respected to please pray for me. When they asked what about, all I could think to say was that I just felt like there was something wrong with me. Like, deep down, at my core, wrong with me. I didn’t have the words to express what I felt. However, I knew it was shame.

It was not guilt. Guilt is about recognizing you have made a mistake. Shame is feeling that you are a mistake. Big difference. Shame convinces us that the real us must stay hidden, because no one wants to see the real us. It leaves us afraid of the thought that the real us is exactly who God sees. That is what I was experiencing because of things that were said and done to me a long time ago. Those words and actions embedded themselves in me and became a false lens on my self-image.

God sees the real us, every bit of us, and He still opens His arms with love for us. When He looks at those of us who follow Christ, He sees spotless daughters and sons because Jesus died to take the place of our shame. I can let go of shame and embrace the value He places on me.

Letting go of shame isn’t a “once and done” deal. For me, shame is removed like layers stripped away as I realize and reject each lie I have believed. I check each piece of shame off my list and remove it from me as I discover truths from God’s Word to replace each lie. Letting go of shame may not be quick, easy, or simple, but it is freeing. God does not believe the garbage we have believed about ourselves, and He will remove it, if we let Him

Please pray for me as I am praying for each of you.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29 NIV

One of the most important lessons I have learned in my life is to be careful of the words which come from my mouth. I pray constantly that I put my brain in gear before I allow my mouth to be in motion. Sometimes it is difficult, but I know there will be fewer misunderstandings if I can achieve that goal.

I frequently ask myself, “What do my words communicate to those around me?” Healing, hurt, wisdom, foolishness? It is not a secret that our relationships are affected positively or negatively by what we say. When we strive to incorporate principles for healthy communication, we are able to strengthen our relationships.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We are able to diffuse an argument by responding with statements which are not harsh, offensive, or judgmental. Pausing and thinking for a moment before replying is always a great idea.

“The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God wants us to have the tools we need to improve our relationships with others. We will be better at expressing ourselves in all situations. We will be able to express ourselves in a more loving and respectful manner. Praying for Our Heavenly Father’s guidance is a great place to start. Sometimes it is better to not say something that could cause misunderstandings or confusion.

Please pray for me, as I am praying for you and all God’s children.

1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. (‭‭‭Psalms‬ ‭40‬‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

– 1 Timothy 6:12 ESV

Sometimes it can be difficult to be patient; however, it is vitally important and necessary that we are patient with Our Heavenly Father. He truly knows what we need and when we need it. He knows everything. HE supplies for our needs even when we do not realize we have a need. God is pleased by faith, therefore we need to know how to live by faith. One of the most overlooked aspects of faith is patience. Patience is needed for a life of faith. Patience has great benefits if we allow it to have its perfect work in us.

The good news is that God has already made me more than a conqueror. It is what I was designed to do, so I cannot be afraid when trials show up in life. I am made to overcome trials because God designed me that way, and HE created you that way, too. When tests come, remember that you are more than a conqueror. You are not stuck in the storm, you are going through it. Throw your counterpunch by speaking the Word. Remind yourself that you are more than a conqueror. Remind the storm that God lives in you!

Please pray for me as I am praying for you.

by Hester Guest

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 NIV

According to Max Lucado, “He places Himself between you and the need. And at the right time, He gives you the ticket. This is the same promise God gave the children of Israel. He promised to supply them with manna each day. But he told them to collect one day’s supply at a time. Those who disobeyed and collected enough for two days found themselves with rotten manna. God gave them what they needed in their time of need.” Max Lucado.

After most storms or times of suffering, there is usually a time of straightening and cleaning. We always go out and get the pinecones, moss, and debris out of our yard. We strive to be diligent about having a neat lawn and life. Some “storms” are emotional and leave a different kind of debris! The emotional storms can wreak havoc and even destroy relationships if we don’t gain control quickly. The emotions that engulf us are indescribable! I know God has everything in control, and I trust Him. However, the human side of me wants immediate action.

When confronted with change, I ask myself what needs to happen now. My heart and mind do not always agree and that leads to difficulties. I have learned through experience and practice that the only way to achieve success is through determination and perseverance only after praying for My Heavenly Father’s Guidance. My relationship with God influences all of my other relationships. As things around me change, I realize how important it is that my personal communication with God’s Will is consistent and continuous. Relationships come and go, but the important relationships need constant attention, patience, and understanding. Keeping in mind God wants us to cultivate His Kingdom with those who have the courage and attitude to be more like His SON, JESUS.

Please pray for me as I am also praying for you. Hester

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalms 18:2 NIV

Suffering happens to everyone, even the sinner and the saint, and it was endured by the Savior. Suffering came into the world because of sin. Satan used sin to bring suffering; however, God used the suffering of Jesus to bring salvation to mankind. God, through our suffering, purifies our faith and glorifies his name. 

Faith in God does not make us immune to suffering. Sometimes, we are delivered from a fiery furnace; other times God makes us fireproof. We have to have faith in God’s power to deliver us from sickness, suffering, and pain. Our faith cannot be in healing but in the Healer. We have to rest our faith in God not in answers to our prayers.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had faith that God was able to deliver them and that he would deliver them. Faith allows us to believe that God is able and that God will. “But if not” faith is faith that is in God even if we do not get what we pray for, even if things do not turn out as we expect them to turn out. “But if not” faith says, “I will continue to worship God even if things do not turn out as I hoped for.” 

Many people have faith in things but not in God. They believe in healing. They believe in miracles. They believe in answers to prayers. That kind of faith fails when those miracles do not come. The Apostle Paul had faith. When he was suffering, he said, “I know whom I have believed.” For Paul, faith was not just something he believed in, it was Someone he believed in. Our faith is not in faith itself, but our faith is in God himself.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV

“No one has to remind you of the high cost of anxiety. Worry divides the mind. The biblical word for worry (merimnao) is a compound of two Greek words, merizo ( to divide) and nous (the mind). Anxiety splits our energy between today’s priorities and tomorrow’s problems. Father, give me the courage to place in your hands all of my worries. And give me the faith to leave them with you.” Max Lucada, Traveling Light

We spend time and energy on worrying about things, people, situations, and problems that never happen. We should spend our time in God’s Word and doing good deeds. If I could add up all the hours I have spent fretting over things that never occurred, I am positive it would be years in total.

Jesus tells us not to worry, listing specific things His listeners worried about. If Jesus was addressing us today, He would list things we worry about: getting into college, staying healthy, getting married, our 401K plans. Jesus is not telling us those things aren’t important. They are important, and uncertainty is related to all of them. However, there is a way to face the uncertainties of tomorrow without worrying about them today. He is inviting us to trust—not in fate—but in our heavenly Father. Jesus wants us to work hard and do our best, and once we’ve done all we can do today, we don’t need to worry about tomorrow.

“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” – Matthew 6:27

When we worry, are we really helping ourselves? Worrying today can’t create certainty tomorrow, so it’s a waste of time. Please pray for me as I am praying for you.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,” Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“The suitcase of guilt. A sack of discontent. You drape a duffel bag of weariness on one shoulder and a hanging bag of grief on the other. Add on a backpack of doubt, an overnight bag of loneliness, and a trunk of fear. Pretty soon you’re pulling more stuff than a skycap. No wonder you’re tired at the end of the day. Lugging luggage is exhausting.” Max Lucado, Traveling Light

If you have ever been backpacking, you know it can be lots of fun and leads to destinations that are breathtaking. When you go backpacking for the first time, you realize that everything you bring is something that you carry. You can’t bring everything you want. You can’t even bring everything you think you need. Every single ounce counts. Way too often, we try to carry what God never intended for us to carry. I know God doesn’t want us to carry family brokenness, financial pressure, regrets over bad decisions, missed goals and whatever else we try to pick up as we journey through life.

God asks us to give our baggage to Him (1 Peter 5:7) and to ditch anything that is slowing us down.(Hebrews 12:1). God seriously wants us to throw off everything that prevents us from a relationship with Him. God want us to travel light. He is trying to take our fears, shame, addictions, regrets, and control issues. When we pack. our bag to go backpacking, everything we leave out is room for something else. God wants more room in our lives for Him. Think about it; we give our burdens to God and He gives us Himself. Yet, somehow the more we carry from Him, the lighter we are. We need to look at things we picked up along the way. We don’t have to carry them anymore. We can trade them for more of God.