“And Moses was content to dwell with the man, and he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah. She gave birth to a son, and he called his name, Gershom, for he said, ‘I am a sojourner in a foreign land.”

Exodus 2:21-22

Exodus 2 ESV – The Birth of Moses – Now a man from the – Bible Gateway

The messiness of passing through this life affects us physically and spiritually. I see this in my life and the lives of the ancient people in the bible as God shows me how they struggle, just like me.

In Exodus 2 this morning, I learn about Moses’ journey to becoming a leader. I see the cry of his heart gain a voice as he names his son, Gershom. ‘A sojourner in a foreign land’; he is not a permanent settler but readying for a temporary stay.

It’s a familiar story in his life.

He is passing through Midian as he passed through the tall reeds of the Nile River as a baby escaping infanticide. Displacement sets deep in his heart as Pharoah’s daughter took pity on his crying frame.

Although his sister secures continued nursing from the mother who loves him by offering the princess a wet nurse, he is destined to be raised an Egyptian. A few short months later, the young toddler is handed over to the princess. She calls him Moses because she drew him out of the water.

It’s messy when you know you are different and you feel like you don’t belong.

He is an outcast among his adopted family because of his heritage and he is scorned by the Hebrews because he looks, and acts like an Egyptian. Although he risks his own life defending a man being beaten by an Egyptian, he is not accepted.

One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his people and looked at their burdens, and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people. He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand.  When he went out the next day, behold, two Hebrews were struggling together. And he said to the man in the wrong, “Why do you strike your companion?”  He answered, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you mean to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid, and thought, “Surely the thing is known.”

Exodus 2:11-14

Fleeing in fear as word of his killing the man spreads to Pharaoh, he arrives in Midian. He is rewarded for defending the daughters of Reuel as they attempted to water their flocks among rowdy neighboring shepherds. Reuel gives him Zipporah as a wife, and she bears him Gershom.

Lean On Jesus and Follow His Example

I think you and I can empathize with Moses’ predicament. In a culture whose values and morals are very different from God’s plans and ways, we can feel like outcasts, too.

Not feeling a kindred spirit with the people of Pharoah’s palace or in Midian is the same way we feel about the world. It has no eternal hold on us because we are just passing through.

We have a heart for the weak and the downtrodden, just as Moses did, and we’ll face retribution for standing up for what is right. At times our biblical worldview clashes so abruptly with the culture we have to decide when to stand our ground.

The best news of all is Jesus came passing through our mess to share the load. When the weakness of spirit and body begins to overwhelm us, we lean on his example of perseverance and prayer.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”  (Mathew 11:28-29)

We can also rest in what He accomplished on the cross. Defeating sin and death by taking on God’s wrath was the major purpose of his sojourn. However, in the process, he also accepted the outcast thief beside Him, forgave those who persecuted Him, and secured the care of His mother.

 His short, messy stay here changed the entire world.

We can too.

Focus More on God as We Pass Through Life

Knowing you and I are sojourners in this place helps us focus more on God and what He wants us to do.

The apostle Paul understands this age-old struggle. He assures Christ’s followers at Corinth to rest assured when this tent of a body is gone, we have a heavenly home with God for eternity. It is normal to groan in these feeble bodies as we long for our heavenly home.  (2 Corinthians 5:1-2)

Despite feeling out of place, we can be effective and fruitful in our calling.

The darkness of the world is passing away and the true light is shining through the hearts and faith of every believer. (1 John 2:8) We have hope as we keep our eyes fixed on Christ.

“And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”

(1 John 2:17)

So, if the cry of the outcast is on your heart today, embrace it!

Following the examples of Moses who struggled with it, and Jesus who accepted it, is part of our ministry. Neither one of them let the messiness of passing through stop them from accomplishing God’s purpose.

Stewardship of our thought life, our time, our bodies, and our relationships pays huge dividends!

I just finished a 40-Day Sugar Fast with a few others in a Facebook group, and the most surprising dividend from that experience for me is mental clarity. I did it to detox from Thanksgiving and Christmas cookies, but I realized journeying with others, brought benefits beyond the physical.

The clear thinking helps me process conversations better (listen attentively), show grace, and manage my time. The spiritual component came in with daily scriptures and focusing on God. There was a time in my life when I felt all these elements were out of control or never quite in sync.

Maybe you can relate to a thought life immersed with raising children and the next big activity. Perhaps your time was split between working, cooking, cleaning, and running children to events, too.

Although I was blessed to work part-time and give my family my full attention, stewardship of my time did not come easy. I can only imagine how difficult it is for the parents working full-time!

Still, with all the activity, I did not see dividends coming in steadily. Maybe, I was just too busy to notice.

Spiritual Dividends

Dividends are a return on an investment. So, how you and I steward our thoughts in everyday tasks and situations now, will determine our rewards later.

For instance, when we steward our thoughts on God and His plan for our redemption and protection, our return is peace. The shalom of full contentment in every circumstance can be the forefront of our thoughts because we trust our Father to care for us and those we love.

Life’s demands on the other hand, make stewardship of our time a little trickier. There are so many days we feel pulled in several different directions to complete our list, it’s hard to prioritize what to do first.

I think the words if Isaiah teach us what is wisest to do the minute, we open our eyes:

“The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him who is weary. Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.”

Isaiah 50:4

Time spent in God’s word first thing in the morning prepares our thoughts and our souls for the day’s challenges. Praying for the connection with Him in our Spirit also guides us to place what He prioritizes most, first.

The dividend is less stress, an increased sense of purpose, and rest.

The rest our bodies long for, is the kind of rest from people pleasing, meeting the world’s expectations of success, and materialism.

Physical & Emotional Dividends

The fuel we fill our bodies with matters too! God gives us all the nourishing plants in gardens around the world to meet our needs at the cellular level. Therefore, stewardship of our bodies includes choosing wisely from the abundant provision He provides over ultra-processed foods that steal our health.

We are stronger, well rested, and functioning at our best with His goodness from the garden.

As we begin to combine the qualities of stewardship in our thoughts, our time, our bodies, and our relationship with the Father, the enriching of relationships with family and friends naturally follow.

You may be like me and expect dividends to pay big this week, and they may! However, they usually come much later, in the celebrations of life. The times when we look back and see our children are thoughtful in their choices, kind in their giving, studious in their learning, and generous in their spirit.

Possibly the best part is when they marry and begin a family of their own and you see them sharing the poured-out love from your heart in their own families.

Take a moment today, my friend, and see where stewardship in these areas is abundant in your life. How are you blessing others with faithful stewardship in your thought life, time, body, and relationships?

I am here for you if you need a faith-based RN Health and Wellness Coach! My greatest passion is to see believers live the full life God calls us to live! He has given us everything we need spiritually and physically to do so!

As I continue to grow in my faith, I see no act of love is too small. Last night, a small group from my church went to sing Christmas carols to a few of our shut-in members. As I witnessed the smiles and slow seeping tears from the recipients of this gesture, I humbly realized their hearts were refreshed through us.

Comfort and joy are derived from small acts of love. A visit, a song, a card, or a phone call can relieve the weight of despair on a lonely soul. Moreover, it requires very little effort on the part of the giver.

In the apostle Paul’s letter to Philemon he says,

“I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.”

(Philemon 1:4-7)

Philemon 1 ESV – Greeting – Paul, a prisoner for Christ – Bible Gateway

Paul was hoping to be delivered from the chains of prison to be with his fellow saints. Our saints are hoping for a reprieve from health issues so they can join us again. In the meantime, they relish our prayers and any contact we can offer.

Although my small group visited shut-ins as a loving service to them, every single one of us were refreshed in Christ by going!

It’s proof my friend, when following the lead of the Holy Spirit, the gift of love works both ways!

What small acts of love have refreshed you today? I look forward to hearing them in the comments below!

The Gift of a Pure Heart

As I’ve gotten older, I realize a renewed mind and spiritual health begins with God’s example of unselfish love. Like, Him, it is steadfast and immovable.

When you and I follow Him, our love can look the same. 1 Timothy 1:5 tells us it flows from three things:

1. A pure heart

2. A good conscience

3. Sincere Faith

Putting aside everything else and focusing on His example allows us to pray for a pure heart.

A scripture I often pray when the pressure is on and I’m not feeling love, is:

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10 NIV)

A good conscience is helpful in showing steadfast love, too. So, when the Holy Spirit prompts me to act on behalf of someone, speak encouragement, or forgive for the 1000th time, I do it automatically.

Yeah, well, I pray to do it, and the more I pray, the more automatic it becomes.

Sincere faith is either there or it’s not. Although, I’m not always “feeling it,” I know that lack of feeling makes me do a heart check. Also, I know I will never do it perfectly, but I sure want my conscience pricked to remind me to do so! I talk more about that topic in Holding Fast to The Good article.

We are known by our fruit, right? The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)

How about you? What is most helpful in sharing God’s steadfast love?

The Gift of Eternal Life

For me, sharing God’s steadfast love occurs the most with family, friends, writing a blog, and teaching sassy GA’s (Girls in Action).

It’s the most active path to spiritual health I can think of for myself and them!

Recently, I asked my 5^th and 6^th grade GA’s, “Why did Jesus have to become a man?”

The quick and cheeky response from one girl was, “So he could die on the cross, duh!”

I responded, “Well, that’s true, but that is not the answer I’m looking for.”

Another bold and impatient response followed, “To forgive us for our sins, duh!”

Ignoring the disrespectful attitude, I silently pray for God to guide me in gentleness and self-control.

The child does see the need for salvation, and she understands we all sin. Yay, for getting that clear message from all her church visits and vacation bible schools over the years!

There is hope this message of good news and the gift of eternal life becomes real to her someday. Although there is no evidence of budding fruit and the plant is still a little weak, the seeds are planted and well-watered.

With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, hopefully she realizes love is at the heart of Jesus becoming a person. She can feel tenderly cared for and internalize this message.

I explain to the girls how God loves us so much he had to send a perfect and holy person to earth and accept the punishment sin deserves.

There was no human being capable of taking on the sin of the world. It had to be born on the shoulders of God, Himself (Jesus, who is fully God and fully man).

That’s why the heart of the gospel is,

“For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Although, I had to throw a few “Duh’s” back at her in our musical candy game, my heart softened when the same cheeky girl wrote this verse on the whiteboard before she left for the night.

There is some budding fruit of God’s love in her heart and mine after all!

My friend, knowing how much God loves you and me is the key to spiritual healing and health too!

 It’s what drives us to care for difficult people who are not easy to love. I’m still learning and growing as God leads me. I’d love to be sounding board and resource for you, too!

So, leave me some comments on how you share the gift of God’s eternal love!

Christmas brings a mixed bag of emotions for many people. Sometimes the gift of peace and joy mingle with sorrow and grief.

If you’re confused and having trouble finding peace today, I pray you find rest in the promise of your obedience.

In it, you may find your shalom, an indescribable ability to be content in all circumstances.

Jesus said:

” Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

John 16:32-33

” Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

(John 14:27)

Here is what I’ve witnessed in myself and others over the years:

• 1. Peace does not mean freedom from pain, sorrow, tension, anxiety, difficult relationships, or doubt. It is finding contentment with who you are in the midst of it all.
• 2. Fear is a tactic of the devil to steal peace and disarm you from your purpose.
• 3. Time does not heal all wounds, Jesus does.
• 4. People will reject you more if you faithfully follow Jesus, ask for the peace only He can give to do it anyway.
• 5. Emptiness in your soul will never be filled with food, intimacy, drugs, money, material things, or alcohol. It only disappears with full surrender to Jesus.

I’d love to hear what you are learning about peace this season; will you share your wisdom in the comments below?

The Gift of Peace is Jesus

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6

The names of Jesus in Isaiah chapter nine reassure me God is in control. The eventual plan of His mercy and grace is for those who accept Him to be restored to right relationship with Him.

It’s a gift of peace deep in our souls only the Prince of Peace can bring.

Sinful lives you and I live daily, and the curse of the garden, will have no power to separate us from God ever again. However, it is not the kind of peace the world gives. We still experience grief, sadness, loss, and conflict with others.

We have to live in the tension of our secure relationship with God and our longing for others to know Him. Living peacefully with others to our best ability looks a little different too. We can honor others, while still sharing truth in the following ways:

1. How we respond to dishonorable behavior and harsh words
2. How we act towards other people
3. How we talk to people
4. How we look at other people

Jesus responds to dishonorable behavior by asking questions and telling stories. He gets to the heart of the situation and brings light into the darkness. We can too!

New Testament accounts show our Wonderful Counselor treating the least of these with dignity and respect. Calling simple fisherman, tax collectors, and sinners to follow him establishes their place of honor for eternity (Rev. 21:14)

Our Mighty God, who became a baby and grew up a poor and humble servant, talks to people with compassion and respect.  Following His example, we can put pride aside and see others as equals.

The Everlasting Father looked at people through the eyes of mercy and saw them as image bearers of Himself. So, we can joyfully do the same.

The Gift of Peace: Living in the Spirit

“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”   (Romans 12:17-18)

Although, I know as a Christian, I am not going to intentionally return evil for evil. I find myself talking about those who hurt me to my closest inner circle.

It may be to my husband who doesn’t know how to handle my ugly cry, or my mom and dad who’s been in my shoes.  Do you find yourself doing that too?

“As far as it is possible live peaceable with all,” is a statement from God’s word to which my rebelling heart sometimes cries, Ok, how?

How do I let ignored texts and phone calls roll off and not take offense?

The truth is, when weeks go by and I can’t spend time with those I love most, I feel rejected and unloved. It may not even be true, but it’s clear where I fall in the list of priorities.

My heavenly Father whispers deep into my soul, “Yes, daughter, I feel your pain, because I remember you doing the very same thing to me.”

I remember it too.

How sobering to be in a tiny speck of my Father in heaven’s shoes.

Moreover, how freeing it is when my heart understands what the Holy Spirit is telling me!

He gently reminds me over and over, “whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” (Mathew 10:37b)

I am living in the flesh and not according to the spirit. I am reacting to unmet desires and placing my love for people above God.

“For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”

The gift of peace comes into my heart when I release my unmet desires before the Father and rightly adjust my own priorities. I set my mind on Jesus and my focus on why He came into this world in the first place.

He came to restore me and you to right relationship with God the Father. It’s a mistake to think He came to bring peace on earth, or within our own households (Mathew 10:34-39)

But as far as it is possible, you and I can live peaceably with all.

So, we pray.

We call upon the Giver of Life to silence any raging thoughts and make them obedient to Christ Jesus. Help us treasure every moment with loved ones without expecting them to fill an emptiness in us they will never be able to fill.  Remind us to reach out in love in all circumstances.

Most of all, if there is any lingering resentment present, we pray it vanishes as the love of God fills us to overflowing as peace fills our hearts.

I pray this gift of peace settles your sweet soul today as much as it does mine. I am here for you if you need prayer or someone to walk alongside you in your pathway to wellness– physically and spiritually!

You can book an appointment to talk your own personal RN Health and Wellness Coach here:

Mysty,

Simplifying Health God’s Way

Boost post

The gift of joy is the most satisfying element in life, and it is free.

Everyone who thirsts may come.

He who has no money may buy and eat! It has no price.

Why do we spend our money on things that are not bread and labor for things that don’t satisfy?

Isaiah says, “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near”

When we return to the Lord, he has compassion on us and abundantly pardons straying thoughts, selfish desires, and pride.

The Lord’s Word goes out from his mouth and does not return empty but accomplishes all that He purposes.

“For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:12)

The word of the Lord comes to Joseph in a dream to reassure him the child within his virgin betrothed is indeed from God. I can only imagine the relieved joy in his heart upon hearing this news.

Mary has remained faithful to him, there is no shame in this conception. Nor is there a need to divorce her quietly. The angel says, “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Mathew 1:21)

 When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus (Mathew 1:24).

Joseph, son of David, his thoughts whirling about how to get out of this situation is led to accept all the Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah.

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name ‘Immanuel’ (which means God with us).  (Mathew 1:22-23)

The gift of joy is coming through his wife, and he is privileged to raise the Son of God. How quickly his thoughts of turmoil turned to dismay and wonder!

Although righteous, he did nothing to earn this highest honor. Even though his culture shuns the unknown circumstances of Jesus’ birth, and may question the purity of his bride, the gift of joy overrides doubt.

What gift of joy overrides the fear and doubt in your life today?

Let God’s thoughts over you and His reassurance of who you are in Him be the gift of joy in your heart today. Your spiritual health and wellness are of great importance to Him, and to me! Jesus came so we may have life abundantly, here on earth and eternally.

What needs to take place for you to experience joy for a lifetime? King David may have some ideas for you and me today.

A Gift of Joy for a Lifetime

I will shout to the heavens over you Lord, for you have pulled my face away from anxiety, fear, pain, and illness.

When I cry to you for help, you heal me.

You take my soul from the pit of hell and restore life to me.

I sing praises to you among my brothers and sisters in Christ and give thanks to your holy name, because your anger is but for a moment, and your favor is for a lifetime.

“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5b)

I take king David’s words of song in dedication to the temple and put them in my own words because God is worthy of extolling praise and has taken my drawn face out of the pit many times.

The foes of doubt, never measuring up, not being accepted fully by those I love, and physical infirmary pale in comparison to the gift of joy coming when all God’s plan is fulfilled.

The lowly shepherds relate to my occasional feelings of being the outcast. Taking care of animals night and day would be a low position in society.  However, it is thought the shepherds keeping watch over the flock by night were assigned to care for the sacrificial lamb to be slain (Wilson, 2012).

The perfect spotless lamb had to remain free of injury for the coming sacrifice. A heavenly calling and important job requiring diligence and commitment brought the angel of the Lord to their presence.

What has your face drawn and downcast today?

Pray this with me today:

God there is an emptiness on my heart that can only be filled by you. The loss of my loved one runs deep and at times sadness pulls me into a pit. Lord, please take my weeping and turn it to joy. I praise you for giving me the true spotless lamb who sacrificed all for me and restores life to me. I look forward to the day when I can rejoice with the one, I’m temporarily separated from, because we share a deeper eternal joy surpassing this lifetime. Give me the strength to continue your heavenly calling on my life that I may pursue you with diligence and commitment as the shepherds did.

In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Conviction, A Gift of Joy

Another surprising way God has of bringing us joy is conviction!

Although conviction has a way of bringing remorse and sorrow, once its power grieves the heart enough to seek repentance, there is a gift of joy-filled relief.

There is no more bearing the weight of guilt and shame.

In its place is the ability to say goodbye to selfishness that prevents healing in relationships. Conviction is bittersweet truth bringing lasting comfort, only the Word made flesh can do.

I see the nation of Israel under conviction in Nehemiah chapter 8. After seventy years of captivity, they are allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild its wall of protection.

On the day of completion all the people were gathered to hear the reading of the law (God’s Word). Many are hearing it for the first time and raising their hands in worship.

As the priests move among them explaining the words, Israel is moved to weeping and mourning their sin.

{And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law.  Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:9-10}

Nehemiah 8:9-10 ESV – This Day Is Holy – And Nehemiah, who – Bible Gateway

The night of Jesus’ birth the lowly shepherds witnessed a multitude of heavenly hosts praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, among those whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2;14)

Elevated to a position of grace and favor, they made haste to find the baby lying in a manger. “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told to them.”

God wants to restore you and I to the place of grace and honor too.

He makes a way for us, just like he did Israel and the lowly shepherds. It is through the Word made flesh, Jesus.

Once we see and understand this, the joy of the Lord becomes our strength. Conviction, my friend, is the gift that brings us to Him.

May He be your strength today! I look forward to serving you and helping you simplify your health physically and spiritually. Contact me for your next women’s event for speaking or teaching!

Mysty

RN Health & Wellness Coach

Simplifying Health God’s Way

Do you ever get frustrated planning for the holidays? Or does the gift of hope get lost in the pressure of expectations?

If you are like me, you take time to choose a special gift and pay careful attention preparing a loved one’s favorite dish. All the while, you’re really wondering if they’ll even show up.

Pressure mounts when you can’t find the item you need or the ingredients that make your recipe just right.

In addition to figuring out the month’s itinerary, work still has to be done, errands ran, and bills paid.

If we’re not careful, we can lose sight of the hope of the season.

“The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations.” (Psalm 33:11)

“Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in His Holy name. “

The gift of hope is coming! 

As you and I begin to celebrate the advent of our Savior’s birth, we can rest assured in God’s steadfast love. 

Overthinking everything else dims the brilliance of this perfect gift in our hearts.

The hearts of our loved ones are not won by special gifts, or by our skills in the kitchen.

The gift their hearts truly crave is Jesus, since God placed eternity on the heart of all mankind.

May you and I let the greatest gift be resting in the shield of his protection and love. The gladness of our hearts will illuminate the gift of hope for everyone around us.

God’s love is indeed steadfast!

Hope Deferred (Luke 1:1-24)

You, O Lord are my hope.

Even when you say no.

Even when the root of bitterness rises, you gently remind me to trust you.

You incline your ear to me and save me from my own thoughts.

My rock of refuge, I continually come. Just as the Psalmist turns to you when his strength is spent, so do I. Upon you I have leaned from before my birth, you are He who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you

(Psalm 71:6).

God’s plan for you and me is clear from birth too. From scripture we see his love for His own.

His plan for Zechariah and Elizabeth to have a son was delayed, but oh so glorious. The hope deferred was so overwhelming it brought disbelief.

Yet it still came.

The multitude of people were praying outside at the hour of incense when the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah.  Five months later, she who was called barren conceived a son. For nothing is impossible with God.

The bitter self- disgrace was removed from Elizabeth’s thoughts. She kept herself hidden saying, “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people (Luke 1:25).

Reproach is a cause or occasion of blame, discredit, or disgrace.

What is an area of your life that needs blame or disgrace removed?

Let the hope of the Lord remove it today. Remain steadfast, righteous, and faithful as God works through you and around you.

The miracle child of Zechariah and Elizabeth is to pave the way and ready a people for Jesus. You, sweet friend, have been chose too.

In your circle of influence, you prepare children, friends, and family to see the beauty of hoping in Jesus too.

The impact on their tender hearts will have eternal rewards!

Gift of Hope in The Word Made Flesh

“My Soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your Word.” (Psalm 119:81)

The hope of salvation rests on the Word of God. Coming to fruition is the everlasting covenant promised to king David, and revealed to the virgin in Bethlehem.

I imagine Mary, breathless with fear as the Word of God comes out of the mouth of Gabriel. Assurance is hers, as it will not return empty, but accomplish all that He purposes (Isaiah 55:11).

“You will conceive in your womb and bear a son. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

(Luke 1:31a, 32-33)

A word of assurance and a true gift of hope in God’s word.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. And the word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as the only Son from the Father full of grace and truth.

(John 1:1,14)

The promised Messiah. The Word becoming flesh. Is coming through her, how can this be?

Simple, dear Mary, the power of the Most high will come upon you.

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:36a)

You and I don’t rest in fantasy or empty promises from those who may disappoint us. Like Mary, we can rest in the living Word of the Most High who humbled himself to become a babe in the womb.

It’s the hope of the Word made flesh our souls long for, because in it is salvation. Our spiritual health depends on applying scripture’s truth to our lives each day.

How will you hold this gift of hope close to your heart today?

The Gift of Hope in Obedience

When I get some amazing news, I can hardly wait to tell my family. I make haste to grab my phone and tell my husband, my daughters, or my mom and sister!

Mary is no different. When the angel departed from her, Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country of Judah. With the hope of the angel’s words fresh in her heart, she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

Confirmation of Elizabeth’s condition combined with her excited proclamation of, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”, fills Mary with rejoicing humbleness. (Luke 1:42-43)

As the infant, John, leaps for joy in Elizabeth’s womb, the Holy Spirit fills her to quiet the emotions this enormous task places on the young virgin.  “Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:25)

All amazing news is a gift of hope from God we can’t wait to share.

It fills us with the hope and brings us closer to our Savior. Mary’s song of praise represents how our hearts can accept and share the hope of Jesus.

• *My soul magnifies the Lord
• *My spirit rejoices in God my Savior
• *He looks on the humble state of His servant
• *He who is mighty has done great things for me
• *His mercy is for those who fear Him
• *He has shown strength in His arm
• *He has brought down the mighty from their thrones
• * He has filled the hungry with good things

Although the task God calls Mary to do is above and beyond any you and I are called to do, we can still capture the spirit of being called and glorify the Lord humbly in obedience.

For some of us, that may mean walking away from sin and committing ourselves to the Lord. For others, it may require removing our pride and apologizing to someone we’ve wronged.

Whatever the call is upon our lives, make haste to rejoice like Mary and Elizabeth, and move forward in the hope of Jesus clearing the way for belief.

The Gift of Hope in Salvation

God of our salvation and hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas.

O you who hear prayer, to you shall all flesh come.

By awesome deeds you answer us with righteousness.

Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! (Psalm 65:5b,2,5a,4)

The blessed hope of a son arrives for Zechariah and Elizabeth in the joyous presence of friends and family. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah’ muteness dissolves into a glorious prophecy for his son:

• *Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed His people
• *Raised a horn of salvation for us
• *Spoke from the mouths of his holy prophets from of old, that we be save from our enemies and those who hate us
• * We being delivered from the hands of our enemies might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness
• *And, the child John, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you go before the Lord to prepare his way
• *Give knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness of their sins
• *Because of the tender mercy of God
• *Giving light to those who sit in darkness to guide our feet in the way of peace

(Luke 1:67-79)

The enemy who hates you is Satan, and he wants you to stay bogged down in self-loathing lies.

Lies that invade your thoughts about yourself, your friends, your family, and your coworkers.

The hope of his defeat is herald by John and the angels, the Most High becomes a babe, lives a sinless life, and suffered and died on a tree so you and I can live free of Satan’s lies.

Despite walking among those who are still living in darkness, Jesus makes a way for peace to enter our souls. May the God of our salvation who brings hope from the farthest seas speak softly to your spirit today, friend. Rest in knowing, “Oh you who hear prayer, to you shall all flesh come!”

What is the deepest hope of your heart today and how can I pray for you?

You may not be comfortable sharing personal things in public places, and I understand.

So, just say in the comments, “God knows!”, and that will be enough information to let me pray for you.

 Let God work a miracle in your heart this season with His mighty word, and may your spiritual health be lifted today as you trust in Him for all your needs.

I am here for you as a RN Health & Wellness Coach if you need spiritual coaching, as you navigate the beautiful gift of hope during on this journey of life! It is a sure path to complete wellness alongside our physical health!

Mysty

Simplifying Health God’s Way

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-`8

1 Thessalonians 5 ESV – The Day of the Lord – Now concerning – Bible Gateway

Is there someone in your life that reminds you to hold fast to the good and be thankful in all circumstances? Who is the person telling you to look at the bright side?

I’ll be honest, I’m not always thankful in every circumstance.

Other than Paul in my daily bible reading, there is no one around me reminding me to be thankful in all circumstances either.

Sometimes I savor a little self-pity before conviction takes over and I see God is up to something. My heart needs tweaking from the Holy Spirt to hold fast, love more, give grace, and be patient.

When I think I have difficult times, all I have to do is attend a local community sporting event or interact with children at our Wednesday night church program, and see my life is not as complicated as I think.

Satan is harassing families and tearing them apart. The grade schooler playing soccer and running to the sidelines for a drink of water from his parents seems perfectly normal. The little girls at church giggle and hold fast to the joy of playing with others, until they settle down for our lesson and tell me about their parents in jail.

I notice the distance of the soccer player’s mom and dad from grandma and grandpa at the game. I also wonder about who is mothering these girls while they are separated from their mothers. I’m more than a little sad, I’m angry because I know Satan loves this. He thrives on tearing these families apart.

Many grandparents in the area are raising their grandchildren due to the drug use of their parents. They do the best they can and hope for the better days ahead. I’m certain they are especially hoping for freedom from this cancer of the soul.

In his letter to Thessalonica, Paul says,

Hold Fast to What’s Good in Life!

They are holding fast to the good, while their children are struggling with evil. A physical example of what I sense in the families of those sweet girls on Wednesday night. Lord, may they never fall into the cycle of addiction their parents are trapped in at the moment. Instill them with the power of your Word, so they abstain from every form of evil.

  Only Jesus can soothe the loneliness of an absent mother, calm the overwrought emotions of a fearful child, and remind them who He is. He is the Great I am. He is worth rejoicing, and only He will find a way for these families to survive all the evil placed before and upon them!

I pray for them to find relief, and the sanctuary of hope through Jesus. As I studied the state of humanity in bible study this week the question arose, “What are you most looking forward to when Jesus returns?”

I’m looking forward to no more child abuse and innocents suffering!

I’m tired of Satan having his way with families, as the evilness of the human heart overflows with pain and misery, looking to fill the void with substances and hurting those they love in the process.

Thanks, in All Circumstances

How do I rejoice and give thanks in these circumstances?

I rejoice because I know the Healer who can put his arms of protection around these families. I look to prayer warriors who call upon the name of the Lord to remove wicked desires and unnatural cravings. I ask for forgiveness for lack of action on my part, and pray He shows me a way to help.

Most of all I rejoice that God is good, and I can hold fast to what’s good. Although He doesn’t remove all evil, He works it out for those who love Him. In His timing, and in His way.

If you are also struggling to rejoice in all circumstances and mourning the status of torn families, I pray He shows you how to hold fast to what is good, too.

You and I can take comfort in knowing, Jesus has the power to reconcile all the angry, frustrated, drug-addicted, abused, and sad people we know to God, in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. Because he came and preached peace to everyone far off and those who are near (Ephesians 2:16-17).

Glory to God.

If you need further encouragement to embrace bold faith, check out more devotions here!

The Burden of a Health Crisis

A few years ago, my two co-workers were diagnosed with cancer around the same time. One of them colorectal, and the other breast cancer. The first had recently adopted two boys from Russia, while the other found her lump breastfeeding her child.

Although the burden of this catastrophic diagnosis weighed heavily on these ladies and every single one of their family members, they both faced it matter-of-factly, like they did everything else in life. 

I remember watching them continue working in the intensive care unit as they underwent treatments. They’d say, “Everything is going to be ok; God has this.” They tolerated chemotherapy like champs, and they’d laugh and joke with the nurses hooking them up to treatments.

The unspoken ruminating going on in their minds remained a hushed mystery.

I can only guess their thoughts as I put myself in their shoes. “How long do I have, Lord?” “Will my family remember me fondly?” “Did I do what you wanted me to do?” “How will my children react, and who will look out for them when I’m gone?” “Will my husband be ok?” “How long before he finds someone else?”

The emotion of the unknown is stifling.

The apostle Paul felt it come crashing in upon him and his comrades in Asia, much like today’s newly diagnosed cancer patient and their families reel from the shock of this diagnosis. The burden is so heavy he despairs life itself. He says in 2 Corinthians,

Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him, we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.

2 Corinthians 1:9-10 ESV – Indeed, we felt that we had received – Bible Gateway

Although the burden is overwhelming, he draws strength from God, who he knows delivers. He implores the church in Corinth,

You also must help us in prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted through the prayers of many.

2 Corinthians 1:11 ESV – You also must help us by prayer, so – Bible Gateway

Purpose of the Burden

I rejoice as I read this because the prayers of many helps lighten the burden of the unknown for my friends and family facing cancer. The purpose of it also becomes clear as we draw closer to each other and to God. Prayers restore peace to the heart under great duress. The power of prayer can heal the body of cancer cells and deliver ruminating minds from unanswered questions too.

Most of all, the prayers of many are felt wholeheartedly by the one receiving them. The Holy Spirit moves in and among us, connecting our thoughts to those of our friends in need. He can span many miles in mere seconds to soothe and comfort a hurting and doubtful soul.

The breath of life also works miracles.

It’s been almost ten years since my two friends faced cancer and won. Even though it was not an easy road to take, and the burden of complications from being sick is ongoing, their hope remains.

They didn’t lose heart, nor should you and me. The reality is our outer self is wasting away, but our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light and momentary affliction is preparing us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the unseen things. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things unseen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:16-18).

A Prayer for The Burden

Father God, I pray today for my friend whose burden is beyond her strength. You see her, know her, and love her more than words say. May the prayers of many reach her and her family at this moment. I pray you lift the burden of the unknown and the fear. Eventually, all of us will face the day when this tent, our earthy home, is destroyed.

But we have a building from you, God, a house not made with hands, but eternal in heavens. On that day, the burden of the immortal will be swallowed up by life. Praise you, God! You have given us the Spirit as a guarantee. (2 Cor. 5:1-4) Until then, Lord, prepare my friend and me for whatever we face in this tent. Please give us more time to do what you have called us to do and draw us closer to you in the process. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

For more encouragement in your walk with God and easing your burden see the devotions page; Bold Faith.

The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

John 3:7-9 ESV – Do not marvel that I said to you, – Bible Gateway

Yesterday, the humid 95-degree heat made breathing difficult. Days like this cause my dad to burst out in thanks to God for the man who invented air conditioning. His reaction teaches me to be grateful for all things big and small. I also feel sorrow for those without that luxury.

As I was walking to a neighbor’s house, the heat index a mere 105 degrees, I noticed a soft flow of air over my skin. The same breeze I felt in the garden earlier in the day.

Under the brilliance of the sun, it felt like and oven wave, but in the dimness of the shade it became cooler. Refreshed and relieved, I thought about the thoughtfulness of God. Despite the situation, He provides a way to help us muddle through.

 He also gives us the spiritual strength necessary to face the sultry culture and times in which we live. Although I don’t know where it comes from, I know the Holy Spirit guides my thinking and my thoughts toward Him. At just the right time, my restless soul is convicted when I fall short. He encourages me to help others, and boldly convinces me to die to self.

Like a cool breeze in the shade, on a hot day, He is welcome to join me!

The Wind Obeys

Jesus said, “The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where is comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)

The metaphor of wind Jesus uses to explain the Holy Spirit to Nicodemus is solid and functional. As our senses of touch and hearing are aroused to the wind’s presence, our eyes see its effects on trees and waves. Although you and I don’t see the Holy Spirit directly with our eyes, or touch him, we are witnesses to His great power. His life-changing power is evident in the people who accept Jesus as Lord.

If you and I question when this event takes place for those we love, or how our little ones will survive as evil progresses, we can rest assured. God supplies the Spirit softly and steadily as the spiritual heat rises. Although we feel it’s intensity, we will endure, and so will they.

He who rebukes the wind, and it obeys, is in full control.

Prayer

God, Almighty Creator and Provider, I thank you this day for sending your son Jesus to save our souls. He is the presence of light and hope. I praise you for sending the Holy Spirit as our counselor, comforter, and guide. In all things your glory is evident and pure. I confess my thoughts thar are contrary to your ways, Lord.

The selfishness that reigns in my heart at times and the critical spirit that tempts me to malign others. I place them before you, Lord and ask forgives. Give me the power to love like you, the boldness to proclaim your glory, the humility to remain pure of heart, and to forgive others as you forgive me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Talking through spiritual fears and frustrations is helpful and I offer life coaching for those who need an ear to listen, Contact me for a free consultation any time.

The three principles of scripture to help us through loss are:

1. Love God with All Our Mind
2. Be Transformed by the Renewing of Our Mind
3. Set Our Mind on the Things Above

Where our mind is set in our daily routine helps us keep our focus when our groove is disrupted. For instance, my pastor lost his dad a couple of weeks ago and my sister in Christ lost her husband. Although he’d been ill, his death was sudden. In the middle of my day, doing regular chores, I think of their loss and send up a prayer. I think about how I would feel if I couldn’t talk to my dad or my husband again. Along with them, a wave of intense grieving overwhelms me. Greif is a hard hitting and persistent fact of life.

And it’s not just occurring with death.

The loss of someone we love is happening in friendships, marriages, among siblings, and among parents and children. The burden for them is just as strong. It’s hard enough to lose someone to death, but when it’s by choice, it sends another message altogether. The death of a loved one is a shock to our system. The emptiness is sudden. Habitually turning to him to say something or picking up the phone to call him happens before we realize he’s not here.

The death of relationships, on the other hand, occur slowly and painfully. We turn to say something to him, and we’re shut down, ignored, or belittled. We make plans with a friend, and she frequently cancels. The call we make is not answered or is rejected.

Can you believe technology has advanced so far, it makes sure we know the minute our texts or calls are rejected? Who would think to make sure you know that on the other end? It sounds like the devil is at work on our mind. But it’s also a wakeup call to assess where our mind is set, and how high above God we place these relationships in our life.

Love God With all Our Mind to Help Us Through Loss

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

Matthew 22:36-38 ESV – “Teacher, which is the great – Bible Gateway

What does help that look like?

When we love God with all our mind, we turn to His Word for comfort, wisdom, and knowledge. In the scriptures we fill our mind with His steadfast love, protection, provision, strength, and purpose. The very things we lose from the death of a loved one or a relationship. This principle helps us through loss because it fills us with truth and not lies. Lies say we’re not going to be ok without this person in our lives; we can’t handle the responsibilities alone; or we are not worthy of this person’s love.

But scripture assures us we are not alone, we have God the Father as our provider. He is worthy of our devotion. When we know who He is and how He cares for us, a sense of peace begins to seep into the turmoil. We can take a deep breath, and let it filter through the doubt, fear, and anguish. There are prayers spoken over us and our situation to comfort us through this loss.

Be Transformed by the Renewing of Our Mind to Help Us Through Loss

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

Romans 12:2 ESV – Do not be conformed to this world, but – Bible Gateway

How do we discern the will of God? …by testing.

Greif and loss are a test. Conforming to the world’s way of coping is turning inward for a strength that is not always there. It also looks outward to fill the void of emptiness with food, alcohol, smoking, pleasure, or hobbies. Neither way is meeting the needs of our soul or help us through loss.

To be transformed by the renewing of our mind is to accept the things outside our control and trust God anyway. What happens when our loved one is gone or the relationship fizzles? What is the worst part of doing life alone or what is the worst part of not having help? What resources do we have among family and friends that can help us carry the burden of loss?

No matter what the test is, God will ultimately show us, how dependent we are on Him. We can renew our mind by praying for God to help with the rising emotions of pain and loss, as well as the added responsibilities. Also, pray as bitterness takes root to remind us of what should have been. One step at a time, we pick the doable task for the day and push through doing it, knowing God sent His Son Jesus to experience the same loss, rejection, and anguish. He suffered and died to pay for our sins and rose again on the third day to redeem and restore us to the Father. He will walk us through whatever loss we experience.

Set Our Mind on the Things Above to Help Us Through Loss

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 

Colossians 3 ESV – Put On the New Self – If then you have – Bible Gateway

Lastly, setting our mind on the things above (in Heaven with Christ) helps us through loss because we are here to glorify Him. It brings the perspective of the eternal above the temporal. I can’t help but think of the many families with young children struggling with cancer who are forced to consider this reality prematurely. The many trips to the hospital, the treatments making the child sicker than the disease itself, and the fear of losing them so soon are more tests that put our dependence on God in the limelight.

Yes, we want healing for little ones, comfort in loss, plus restoration for marriages, friendships, and family…but God wants to put to death what is earthly in us. Every test puts us in full view of what really matters in life and draws us closer to God. The times we put our comfort above others, or when we began thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought, are earthly temptations pulling us away from God. As Colossians chapter three clearly shows; coveting, impurity, selfishness, anger, wrath, obscene talk, and evil desires all result when we place our affection for things and people above God.

Setting our mind on the things above also helps us through loss because we are God’s chosen ones, and dearly loved. In Jesus, we put on humility, meekness, compassion, and kindness, as we bear with one another. He calls us to forgive well and often, just as He forgives us! In that difficult test, we let the peace of Christ rule our hearts and be thankful. He is always with us, and we can boldly praise Him. Although His ways and thoughts are beyond what we can understand, we can be sure every loss conforms us closer to His image.

Thank you, and God bless you. I am here for you if you need prayer or help physically or spiritually.