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.

“So, Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person in whose heart the LORD had placed wisdom, everyone whose heart moved him, to come to the work and do it.” (Exodus 36:2)

When I ask myself if my heart is moved to do the work God has called me to do, I almost hesitate. I say almost, because some test long ago informed me, I am a direct controller. Yeah, I get that analysis. Raising two kids, managing a home, and nursing ill and dying people in a hospital setting tends to propel a mom into some form of order and control, just to survive.

So, the “almost” hesitation comes from questions that arise when changing complete direction in that path. Life and career were steady, set, and comfortable until an unsettled yearning began to take place.

It may be the same for you in a relationship, career, or health challenge. Your heart may be moved to do the work, but the action required is foreign to anything you’ve ever done before!

Take for example my friend, Halina. She is an avid baker and energetic woman who makes the most amazing perogies you ever put in your mouth. She also has Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that is wrecking her body with inflammation and hormone imbalances. She’s discovered her body cannot tolerate gluten and she is taking measures to remove the substance from her diet.

It’s hard. Cheating here and there, while indulging in bread led to severe inflammation in her hip. Her heart and her body are now moved to do the work necessary to remove this suffering and restore her health.

Moreover, her tent (body) housing the Holy Spirit has much more work to do for God’s kingdom. I think about the picture of our tents often as compared to the first place of worship built for the Lord God. The tabernacle (tent) built in the wilderness required hearts offering something to God bigger than their own desires.

^” Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?  If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 ESV – Do you not know that you are God’s – Bible Gateway

Today however, the most precious things we have to offer God is the temple of our bodies. In order to do His work, we offer our minds in seeking him daily, and prepare our hearts for opportunities to share Him with others. The gifts we came into this world with are and the exact things we are leaving with. I think that is why when we obey God, we store up treasures in heaven.

The tangible things we assign value to are disposable and meaningless spiritually. However, they are necessary to carry out the function of the meeting place, like Israel’s offerings were for the tabernacle in the wilderness.

The scriptures create a picture of freed slaves with absolutely nothing to their name giving their newly plundered gold, jewels, precious stones, and fine linens over in order to worship God.

“So, the Israelites brought a freewill offering to the LORD, all the men and women whose hearts prompted them to bring something for all the work that the Lord, through Moses, had commanded to be done.” (Exodus 35:29)

Morning after morning the people continued to bring their freewill offerings. There were more than enough materials present to do the work and Moses stopped the people from bringing more! The principle here is not the more you give the more you receive. But the more your heart is moved to give your best, the more overflow is present and sufficient to get the job done.

Therefore, whatever efforts you and I put into restoring relationship, career, or health; the more God provides to get it done.

The jewels for health may come from God’s Garden of nutrient rich antioxidants, minerals, and proteins. The fine linen and precious stones to restore our relationships may come from diving deeper into God’s word with our loved ones each day. Remember, morning after morning they came and offered…

So many times, I ask myself, “Is my heart moved to do the work?” What would my life and your life look like if we came morning after morning to offer our very best? What if we consume the very best for our flesh?

I pray this day, we see the wisdom of God’s plan for our bodies, our minds, and our spirit. It is with His help; our hearts are moved to do the work it takes to bring joy and harmony into our lives.

By the way, my gluten free baking week is in honor of my dearest friend, Halina! Please check out the gluten free baking recipes on the blog! I am here to serve you any way I can, so if you need encouragement, wellness coaching or ideas send me a request at mystypfefferwellness@gmail.com

“After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months 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 1:24-25

I can’t help but wonder how a woman in advanced age would feel about not meeting her husband’s expectations. Years of waiting and hope are met with no results, yet she is still admired and cherished. She must be proud he has been chosen, by God, to go into the most Holy place, a high honor for his priestly service.

I get this sense of affection and high regard for one another when I read the account of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke chapter one. The text describes their genealogy and how they are “both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statues of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.” (Luke 1:5-7).

“What do they say about me? Are those whispers pity for my inability to conceive?” are some questions Elizabeth may have asked herself as time passed with her beloved Zechariah. The two of them are very aware of the culture’s expectations. They lived in a time where her value as a woman depended on giving her husband a son and keeping their home.

 The aching lack of producing a child gave her a sense of defeat and shame. Although barrenness was often attributed to some hidden sin or flaw in this agrarian culture, we know this is not true of her in Lukes’s description (Adalmen, 2021). Watching, and perhaps helping, women bring their children into the world through the years brings a bittersweet experience into deeper reflection.

However, this couple’s relationship is solid. Zechariahs’ doubt about the angel’s promise ends in speechlessness. He finds comfort in Elizabeth’s arms and the promise comes to life!

After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five moths 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 1:24-25

Reproach among her people is Elizabeth’s perception of herself as she reflects on the miracle within her. Her statement echoes that of Rachel as she bore her firstborn, Joseph. Her “reproach” had been removed as well. The longed-for baby happening now in Elizabeth’s advanced years removes the disappointment of barrenness.

But can she grasp the intense reason of this new life, at this time in history? His purpose and the special instruction given to raising him without any impurity is clear. Knowing from the angel, Gabriel, that “many will rejoice at his birth, he will be great before the Lord, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,” even in the womb, is a longed-for treasure (Luke 1:14-15)!

Awe and appreciation for the Lord fill her in this time of blessing that removes her perceived shame.  She is aware of the proverb,

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life (Prov 13:12).

The most beautiful desire of the heart is to know and be known by our Lord. Although she didn’t fully experience being known during her infertility, she feels it now as sure as she feels the child moving within her.

Oftentimes, we lose sight of our position with him in the heavenly places (Eph. 2:6) because our focus is on what we don’t have here on earth. The continual battle in our mind revolves around the desires of our flesh. We, like Elizabeth, long for the approval of others and to bestow the fullness of our love onto another without risk.

I believe our perception of what people think of us is based on our unmet expectations in life. It is often skewed as we project our own disappointment on another’s thoughts of us. We see Elizabeth’s intuition meet the truth of her actual status in her neighbors’ and relatives’ eyes as they rejoice with her at John’s birth (Luke 1:58).  

They’ve been rooting for her all along.

My strong sister, I bet your close friends and relatives are too! So, if this truth helps relieve some pressure to preform today, take it to heart. God may have another plan for your life that is more fulfilling.

 He may even prolong the dream until you realize your value as a woman has nothing to do with bearing children or being accepted by many. It has everything to do with being filled with the Holy Spirit and living in humility. Elizabeth’s joy and humbleness in greeting Mary is contagious:

“Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord (Luke 1:43,45).  

Desire satisfied is indeed, a tree of life.

It is also a heart-filling moment in scripture to accept and receive today as an example of biblical womanhood and a devoted couple. Zechariah did not cast her aside but remained committed and intimate. May you and I boldly hold onto our relationships as cherished reward as well. In them, we learn how to please our Savior.

References:

Adalmen, Rachel (June 23, 2021) “Barren Women in the Bible” The Jewish Women’s Archive

Exodus Chapter 17-

Have you ever been so angry you lashed out and hit another person? Understanding our anger can be a challenge. My sister and I got a thorough lesson in a boy’s need to wrestle, banter, and fight growing up with an older brother. Throughout our childhood, he picked at us until we lost our cool and retaliated… or cried and complained to mom.

 Now that I have six grandsons and see they cannot keep their battling hands to themselves, I understand why.  God’s way of protecting the family and preparing men for battle starts very young. It is instilled in a boy’s DNA, because God knows there will be bigger battles ahead.

Israel’s Anger

We see this for Moses today in Exodus chapter 17, as his battle in the wilderness intensifies. Please take a moment to read this chapter before the discussion below.

“All the congregation of the people of Israel moved on from the wilderness of Sin by stages, according to the commandment of the Lord, and camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for them to drink. Therefore, the people quarreled with Moses and said, ‘Give us water to drink’. And Moses said to them, ‘Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test the Lord?“
Exodus 17:1-2)

The dry, uninhabitable land has smacked around Israel as they wander from the bitter water of Marah to the 12 Springs of Elim, and set out for Rephidim. They’re angry, and the target of their anger is Moses. The quarreling begins because they are not getting what they want.

Once again, the weakness of their flesh has caused them to forget the Lord’s hand of provision.  His power in parting the Red Sea, the (dead) water of Marah made sweet, and the 12 springs of living water at Elim is fading in their eyes as thirst invades their tongues. However, with their bellies full of manna from the morning provision, they have energy to quarrel with Moses to the point of stoning him (vs 4).

Moses says, “Why do you test the Lord?”  (vs.2)

Testing the Lord in Our Anger

In the matter of anger, we too, test the Lord every day. It is evident in our sarcasm, sins of omission (knowing we need to talk to someone and we don’t), in our attitudes and tone of voice, and most of all in our lack of praying for Him to take it away.

James, the brother of Jesus, says, “What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.” (James 4:1-2)

Picture this, a million people on their knees humbling asking God for water in a dry and parched land. He smiles regarding their reverence and need, as every rock in the wilderness begins to spray water for their parched tongues to be saturated.

But that is not what happens, is it? No. Much like you and I, the Israelites are ready to go to war and start blaming the closest person within proximity. However, the better response is to get down on our knees and ask God for help.

Brian S. Borgman, in his book, “Feelings and Faith, Cultivating Godly Emotions in the Christian Life” talks about sinful anger. He asks this powerful question, “What am I not getting that I am elevating to idol status and willing to go to war over?” (2009).

I’ll admit, it takes courage to ask and find the answer to this question. But, my friend, how wonderful would it be to finally put it to rest? Borgman suggest an anger journal to record times of struggle, and placing scripture beside it to pray through the process. Please take heart, God’s compassion and mercy is available to you and I, the same as it was to Israel. Let’s see what happens next.

“Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water shall come out of it, and the people will drink’ And Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of Israel.” (Exodus 17:6).

I have such an appreciation for the completeness of scripture and God’s plan! We honor God and draw closer to Him knowing and understanding the books of the Old Testament, just like the writers of the New Testament did. Paul says,

“For I do not want you to be unaware; brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. “ (1 Corinthians 10:1-4).

Do you see the mercy of God in scripture? God did not strike Israel in their anger and unbelief any more than he does us in ours. Instead, he struck the rock. The rock of Christ, as Paul describes it in Corinthians. He, who took our thirst upon his shoulders in the wilderness, just as he took our wrath on the cross. He who satisfies the physical thirst of our bodies is the only one who can quench the ever-longing thirst of our souls. And He has no problem understanding anger.

Consequently, being God, he also gives Israel an outlet for their aggression. We see them flex their physical muscles against the Amalekites in verses 8-16. If Moses holds up his hands, Israel is victorious, if his arms fall, defeat sets in. Wilkin attributes this posture as a picture of Christ on the cross (Lifeway, 2021).

Furthermore, it’s a picture for us. We can stand with our hands outstretched to God in confidence of victory over the sin of anger or we can put our hands down and be defeated by it. The choice is ours. Bold faith is a picture of humble remorse and repentance for anger to those who we have wronged, and more powerfully, forgiveness to those who have wronged us.

In the meantime, let your little boys battle out their aggression on one another. They need an outlet for energy and training for being the protectors God designed them to be. The girls can go cry to momma.

Love you, all. God bless you all as you too begin understanding anger. If you need further assistance working through anger, consider Christian Wellness Coaching with me.

References:

Lifeway.com, Exodus 1-18, God of Deliverance by Jen Wilken (2021) Video Session 9.

Strength Comes Through His Power

May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy giving thanks to the Father who has enabled you to share in the saints’ inheritance in the light.
Colossians 1:11-12

Colossians 1 ESV – Greeting – Paul, an apostle of Christ – Bible Gateway

There is nothing more comforting in times of cultural chaos, fear, and discontent than to read the words of being strengthened with power according to “His glorious might”! It takes the focus off of me and places it directly on the shoulders of the One in control. At the time of this letter to the church of Colossians there was confusion about Christian living and false teaching abounded.

Sound familiar?

As technology becomes the primary focus of our day, information is bombarding our minds and hearts at breakneck speed. Especially through all media outlets. Gone are the days of awaiting news through letters and savoring the words over and over again. Instead, we’re given sound bites of someone’s opinion on a matter instead of a rational explanation of what is taking place. If we’re not careful we and our loved ones can me mislead.

The assurance of God’s inspired word to Paul gives us a better hope in overcoming chaos and fear. He says we’ve already been rescued from the dominion of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves! Although, physically our bodies are still here to working out our salvation with fear and trembling among precarious circumstances, spiritually we are with Jesus. Therefore, through faith in Him, we have redemption and forgiveness of sins.

How We Are Strengthened

Not only that, but POWER to resist the devil’s schemes. How wonderful is this promise amid the constant barrage of divisive tactics all around us? As soon as I feel his schemes coming along in my household, in my workplace, and on the road, I immediately start praising God and thanking Him for placing me with Him!

Moreover, my friend, I’m actively practicing what I read in scripture. If I want to sleep better and throw my anxiety out the window, all I have to do is grasp onto power beyond my own strength. I begin by praising God. Christ is the image of the invisible God, all thrones and dominions submit to Him! He is above all things and in Him all things hold together. You and I are secure in His love, so we can give Him praise when we feel like the world is closing in on us and taking our loved ones along with it.

It’s bold faith that see’s us through the refining fire of chaos, fear, and disdain of others. In our hearts and souls we have an unending calmness. The assurance He is working all things to our good and for His glory.

My Prayer For Today

Holy Father in Heaven, You see all things and know all things, My heart and *[FNAME]*’s hearts are before you this day bare and open to be filled. I ask you today Lord come and fill every empty place in our hearts. Remove any bitterness that lingers over lost dreams or disappointments. Help us come to peace with the things that are out of our control and look to you for fulfillment.

Lord, I pray for *[FNAME]* to be strengthened with all power according to your glorious might! This means the two of us bow before your son as the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created. Visible and invisible entities, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. Just knowing, Father, that he is before all things, and in him all things hold together gives me peace. I pray it does for *[FNAME]* as well. 

We have hope with Jesus Christ as the head of the body, the church. He is the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell and make peace for us by the blood of his cross. I thank you God, for this sacrifice because I know that me and *[FNAME]* were once alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, but Jesus reconciled us with his body of flesh by his death, to present us holy and blameless and above reproach before you. Praise you, God may we live in gratitude this day and every day with the fulness of your love.  (Scripture taken from Colossians 1:15-22).

“And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you….” Colossians 1:9a

The Role of Rebar Intercessors

Several years ago, a lady approached me at my grandmother’s funeral to verify my identity and association with the grieving family. I told her, “Yes, I am she.” The lady smiled broadly and said, “We’ve been praying for you for years!”

She went on to explain that she is in my Aunt Donna’s weekly prayer group, “The Rebar Intercessors.” Flashbacks quickly began to filter through my mind of fast cars, questionable behavior and living outside of God’s will as a teenager. All of which came to an abrupt halt when I became pregnant at nineteen.

I’ve often wondered how and why God would shelter an unworthy person like me through such rebellion. Now, I know. The Rebar Intercessors made an impact on my life when I didn’t even know they were praying.

Women of faith, praying to my Father in Heaven to protect me, guide me, and not give me over to my flesh. He held me close in my loneliness and collected every tear of painful regret because of someone else’s prayers. How wonderfully humbling this lady’s words were to my spiritually mature ears!

Paul says to the church of Colossae,

“We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this, you have heard before in the word of truth, the gospel, which has come to you. And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Colossians 1: 3-6a, 9-)

Colossians 1 ESV – Greeting – Paul, an apostle of Christ – Bible Gateway

Paul does an excellent job of explaining how necessary it is to pray for new believers. Yes, they heard the gospel, and it impacted their lives, but without people ceasing to pray, they will quickly fall into the behavior of the culture surrounding them.

The Impact of Intercessors

Like me, they experienced the grace of God in truth. Grace for safety in foolishness and protection of the soul during immaturity. Spiritual wisdom does not come when we are chasing material things, running from painful experiences, or struggling with body image.

It comes in the gratitude of a reformed heart. The day we look back at what could have happened but didn’t. His grace is in all the blessings that kept multiplying despite a lack of reverent devotion on my part. Moreover, it came because of prayer warriors meeting weekly to intercede for my soul.

Glory to God for the Rebar Intercessors and for listening! Now I have the opportunity and wisdom to act on behalf of those going through the same struggle.

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