New Years Blessing

As the new year approaches, I want to say a small prayer for you....

Father God,

I want to thank you for the gift of another year. Another year full of blessings and your love. Another year to praise and worship you. I come to you to ask you to pour your love over the person reading this. Father, this is my prayer for those who read it and follow my blog.

I pray for strength for each day during the year

so that they may face ANY situation that comes their way.

I pray for happiness and blessings to pour over them

while they make their way through the new year.

Help them to live a life full of gratitude and hope.

Help them to not be bitter but glad.

Pour joy into their lives, Father.

I pray for anything negative to be taken 

and left in the past.

Father,

grant them joy, peace, and love.

Hope, Faith, and Grace.

In Jesus Name

-Amen

Wrapping Up 2015: What I Learned During the Year

As another year closes out, I feel it's important for me to reflect back on the past year to acknowledge everything the Lord has done for me. Under normal circumstances, I'd push for the New Year ball to drop and not look back. However, I have so much to be grateful for and I can't allow myself to let this pass without taking a moment to reflect. I believe that by doing this, I am shedding the negative, not quite pretty stuff, which can hold me back from the blessings in store for me within the upcoming year.

I'm opening the comments up to you to share what you have learned during the year too. 

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I have gained some new insight, gained new knowledge, expanded my faith, reexamined my life, and got rid of the things/people that didn't help me in my walk with Christ. I know there's so much more within life which I need to learn, however, I'm grateful for the journey the Lord has led me during 2015.

This had been the first year that I truly dived into studying the Bible and keeping up with my daily devotions/studies. I had the privilege to see and witness God work in many lives and perform several miracles. I have learned that the Bible isn't only a set guideline for our lives but a WAY of life. On the days where I didn't make time to read His Word, my day felt off and it just wasn't right. I have learned that through the Bible, many people through time have faced difficulty on every level and the Lord was right there with them. 

In order for my days to start and end well I included Jesus. A morning without Jesus and coffee... boy.. it was rough. I NEED the two for my day to tick by with grace, love, and joy. 

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Now for the smaller blessings/lessons I have came across during the past year.

1. Prayer Wall

By starting my prayer wall, I've been able to keep track of all the prayer requests I have received and easily go through each one. 

2. Weekly Bible Verse/Prayers 

By doing this, I have opened up my heart to more and to others. I've noticed that when I started the weekly Bible verse on my blog, I was able to explore different verses in the Bible and learn the Word of God easier since I used the week to learn a verse.

3. Laughter (and lots of it)

They say that laughing is good for the soul. I must say that I agree. When I laugh, it makes the environment around me free and more relaxed. This made it easier to enjoy the time with my kids and husband when we were carefree and focused on that moment. 

4. When life is falling apart, God's plan is falling into place...

During the year, my family and I hit some hard times, which caused us to give up our home and move in with family. It's been within the past few months that I have learned so much about WHY this has happened. I have learned that it it's not about WHAT you have in your life, but WHO you have. Within the time, I have seen my children form a bond with my parents like no other. I love the crazy times full of laughter AND the hard times mixed in with pain. Each moment has taught me a lesson in life that I believe God needed me to learn.

5. Instagram really isn't that boring....

Like so many others I know, Instagram is one social media platform that I'm part of. At first I wasn't so sure about it until I started to meet some amazing people and form awesome relationships. Here are my most popular posts from 2015 on Instagram.

1. my daughter and I after her school photo shoot

2. my son and his many smiles

3. my husband and I showing our support for PAIL

4. my son's joyful smile

5. my daughter's beautiful smile

6. Father's day collage for my husband

This is my year wrapped up. 

How was your 2015 year?

Book Corner: 'More Than' Discussion

Welcome to our first book discussion. Thank you for joining. 

I'd like to talk a bit about the book we'll be reading over the next few weeks, along with the author. Shall we?

At this time, Vonae Deyshawn's main website is down. Therefore, I'll direct everyone to her Twitter page. To visit, simply click here. Perhaps even give her a follow. 

Small tid bits about Vonae:

Shes's a Mom, Dreamer, Speaker,#Author of More Than, Discipleship for @cfimpact & lover of pretty sparkly things. She finds joy in helping others discover hope and purpose.

Remember, More Than is FREE right now on Amazon. Grab your copy and join in. 

I'll be reading Chapters 1

Chapter One

In this chapter, Vonae talks about self-labels. We all give them to each other and even ourselves. I remember doing a post about this on my "Mommy" blog. Labels are all around us and until we sit and reflect on our own labels, does it occur that perhaps this world relies on them a bit too much. 

We're asked to write down a list of the labels we've had in our lives, given to us by others or ourselves, and then think about the lessons that have come with each. 

Here are my thoughts about labels: 

Everything in this life has one kind of label. If you're talking about food, it's a label identifying all the ingredients. If one is talking about a person.Unfortunately, we are labeled by a variety of things, such as the way we look, dress, and act. Humans are constantly putting labels on each other. We tend to wear labels just as food in the store does. 

What is your label?

I've had a lot of labels throughout my life. Many were hurtful. I've been UGLY, POOR, UNWORTHY, and a DISAPPOINTMENT.

These labels were given to me when I was young and in my school days. Of course, I didn't know this then, but they do NOT define me. God defines me. He defines you.

The Lord has shown me that I am none of the above. 

I am not UGLY....I am BEAUTIFUL, FLAWLESS.

Song of Solomon 4:7 says:
"You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you."

I am not POOR. I am RICH.

Matthew 5:3 says:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

I am not UNWORTHY. I am WORTHY.

John 3:16 says:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

I am not a DISAPPOINTMENT. I am FORGIVEN.

Romans 5:8 says:
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

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Words hurt when used against another. This is why we must always be careful of what we say. It's important that we recognize how we use our words towards others. Not only do our words affect those who we are directing them at, but they also have an effect on us in Christ. 

What are the labels I would believe now?

REDEEMED, LOVED, PURSUED, CHOSEN, FORGIVEN

I am a Woman of God

Redeemed by Jesus Christ

Love, Pursued, and Chosen

Equipped with Words of Life

Clothed in Strength and Dignity

Commissioned Here and Now

Gifted by the Spirit

Forgiven and Unbound.

~Blessed is she who Believed.~

****

Today, I ask you what labels have you had given to you? What labels would you give yourself? You are not anything other than what Christ has labeled you as. He is the ONLY one who matters. 

I believe...

Two bold words.

I believe.

They have the power to change. The power to inspire. The power to give hope. 

They also have the power to stir up the pot and create a shield among us. 

However, I chose to push this words for good.

By writing it down, it gives me the time to think and reflect on the words, which were laid upon my heart.

I believe. 

I believe in miracles. 

I believe in hope. 

I believe in faith.

I believe that our Lord of Heaven is as incredible as you ever imagined. He is one who loves and cherishes us. He gives us a future we can look forward to. He gives us strength and has the power of life and death.

I believe that Jesus died for me to save me from my sins.

I believe that prayers are answered when said from the heart.

I believe in the power of prayer.

I believe in you when you feel as if no one cares.

I believe in me when I feel I'm at the end, so I push on.

I believe it's never too late to have your happily ever after.

I believe pain ends where faith begins.

I believe love finds and conquers all. 

What do you believe?

Book Corner Reading List

As mentioned yesterday, here is the upcoming reading list for the Blogging Book Corner. The prices listed beside each title on the Book Corner page are listed at the time of posting. The prices may change.

I look forward to discussing this amazing books with you all. The discussion will take place within the comment section of each post during the book reading.  Don't forget to spread the word so others can join in.

You can learn more about each book by visiting the Book Corner. 

2016 Reading List

1. More Than: Abandon Your Labels, Embrace Your Calling by Vonae Deyshawn
2. Breakthrough Faith: Living a Life Where Anything is Possible by Larry Sparks
3. empty. by Cherie Hill
4. Hope...the Best of Things by Joni Eareckson Tada
5. Live Uncaged: Find the Freedom You've Always Wanted by Mary DeMuth

** More books may be added **

Book Corner

Each year we open up to new and exciting things. I've given it much thought for the past few weeks and I wanted to add to this blog in more ways than only sharing the news about my work. I wanted to offer readers more. Don't get me wrong...I love doing what I do, however I believe I have so much more within to share and need to just do it.

Starting in January, I'll be selecting a book from my "To-Read" list and blogging about it every few chapters. I'm inviting you all to join in. So, I'll give you a heads up with what books I'll be reading and you can purchase your own copy to follow along.

This section of my blog will be the Book Corner: Blogging about Books. I'll make a section dedicated to my study of each chapter and this will in turn help you find new/exciting books or authors.

I hope this sounds interesting and that you'll join in. I'll work on the reading list today and post it later on. Keep your eyes open for the release of this list so you can join in.

a prayer for your week

this is for the weary at heart. the ones who feel overwhelmed, stressed, or just worn out. 

Father God,

please place your hands upon the person reading this. help them father during their week to face each situation as you would. give them the strength to face each situation. the wisdom for tackling the different situations they may find themselves in. Father, give them peace and pour your love over them.

thank you, Father for Your everlasting love and grace. You are the utmost high and we praise You in all of Your glory.

- In Jesus' name

Amen

Faith in Action: Strength

Isaiah 40:31

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

When we know the meaning of faith, have a tiny bit of faith, continue to grow our faith through questions, be content in waiting, and rely on God, we are building our strength in faith. This means that even though we walk in a dark world if we build up ourselves by taking in the Word of God, we will be ready to overcome any battle we may face. 

Each Christian in this world is weak compared to God. This is why we must lean on Him and allow Him to direct our steps. We are not perfect and this is a gift when realized. We need to realize that we need God and His love and mercy. 

The best way we can strengthen our faith is to practice our faith. This means that we let go of our worries, fears, anxiety, and sadness by handing it over to Jesus. Once we pray for His will to be done and we allow God the opportunity to take these things from us, we need to remember to LET IT GO! That doesn't mean to pray about it and continue on with these negative feelings. That means once you pray, move on to something that is worth your time and energy. 

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We are now in the last part of the Faith in Action Blog Series. Thank you for following along and I pray that you see your faith in a different light and see just how important it is to have faith as a child of God. 

If you enjoyed this series, please send me a little note telling me what it was that you enjoyed so much and keep an eye out for my next blog series. 

God Bless

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas

I wanted to send a quick note to you all by saying 

Merry Christmas

I hope you have a blessed holiday with lots of laughter, hugs, and cheer. 

Faith in Action: Waiting

Wait. 

This is often a word that no one wants to hear.

Waiting can be difficult, especially when we're desiring something good in life.

For example, "As a child on Christmas Eve, we must wait for Christmas to arrive to dive into the pile of gifts laid out nicely for all." 

As a child, it's hard for us to wait for joyous moments such as these. I remember a time when I was little where the value of waiting was too much. On Christmas Eve, my mother used to give me and my sisters one gift to open. We joyfully ran into the living room, sat down in anticipation, while my mom handed us these beautifully wrapped gifts. We tore off the wrapping to reveal what was inside. As I dropped the last of the wrapping paper on the floor, I noticed that the gift I held in my hands were different then what my sisters unwrapped. The two of them marveled at their new dolls while I held a knitted scarf and hat. They were beautiful, however, my next set of actions weren't. I threw the gift down and threw a fit because I didn't get a doll of my own. After my fit, I ran off to my room. In the haste of my fit, I didn't realize what my actions had done to my mom, who was excited for us to see what she worked so hard to get us. 

In my mom's anger, she shuffled through the bits of gifts hidden in her room for the one she thought she grabbed and threw it at me. I came to find out that I did get a precious little doll from her but in her rush to give these gifts, she grabbed the wrong one for me. Her feelings were hurt because I wasn't being grateful, nor did I wait to see what Christmas day would bring. 

I remember this Christmas and the feelings that I felt afterward weren't pleasant. I felt guilty, sad, and I felt bad for not being grateful for what I had. I felt bad for what I did. If I had been grateful and waited, I would have found out the next day that my mom got me a doll too. That was the year that I ruined Christmas for my family. If I would have waited, I wouldn't have broken my mom's heart, stole the joy from the season, and I could have saved myself my own heartache. 

Our relationship with God and faith is just that... waiting. Sometimes when we ask God for things, we take His response as Him not answering our prayers or ignoring us. That is not the case. We need to have faith when we take things to God in prayer that He will answer them according to His will. Perhaps God did answer your prayer and it was a simple "no" or "not yet?" 

When we are praying, we need to wait patiently and have faith that God will answer us in His time and in the way He sees is best for us. Sometimes when He says no, we later find out that it was, in fact, better for us. Therefore don't let the enemy to persuade you that God is deaf to your prayers or ignoring you because HE'S NOT!

I believe that waiting is God's way of testing our faith and helping us to grow in our faith. Therefore, the next time you feel you're in the waiting period, thank God for the waiting moment and see what blessing He's trying to show you.

Faith in Action: Questioning

The meaning of faith, as mentioned on the start of this series, is a form of trust in the Lord when you can't actually see Him. It's given just as love is, unconditionally. There will be times in our walk with Christ where you'll have questions about Heaven, the Bible, and God. That's okay. When we ask questions and seek answers; we learn. I have been actively pursuing and growing my faith for several years now and I yearn to learn more. That's why if you watch my morning routine, it includes reading my Bible. If you watch my afternoon routine, it involves more reading of the Bible. Lastly, if you watched my nightly routine, it includes even more reading of the Bible. I crave to learn more of God's word and his hopes for us.

However, I'm not a Biblical scholar by no means. As a matter of fact, I still have A LOT to learn.

I still find myself asking questions, as I believe we will ask them until the day the Lord takes us home.

... and that's okay!!

Just because we ask questions doesn't mean we are lacking in faith. It means that we are seeking to grow our faith in Christ and His word. 

Since we are told to LIVE by faith, this means that in everything we do, it should involve Christ and we should be making a conscious decision to TRUST in His promises. We shouldn't ever stop asking questions, especially when it comes to our faith. To learn and grow, a child drives their parents crazy with questions during their young years. I believe that we should drive Jesus loopy with our questions to learn of His ways and His desires for us. 

Therefore, DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK.

The Bible tells us,

 "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV) : This is telling us to ASK!!

What are you asking the Lord to help you learn to strengthen your faith?

Faith in Action: A Mustard Seed

He replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you. - Luke 17:6

I'm sure you have heard this verse many times before but have you ever stopped to truly see what it means for us today? First let's take a look at the mustard seed. 

Look at how TINY a mustard seed is -------> 

It's so small that you can hardly see it when holding it. This is the point of faith. It only takes a tiny bit and we can move mountains through God. How amazing is that? 

Faith wasn't something that was easy for me to come by and I do find myself struggling with it at times. I mean I am only human. However, when I feel my faith wavering, I stop to think of this verse and what Jesus told his apostles. When I start doubting, I remember Jesus telling the apostles that they needed to increase their faith. 

Jesus said, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that birds come and perch in its branches. (Matthew 13: 31-32)

We are God's creation, his family, sons and daughters. We have been commissioned as Saints. We are to walk the earth as we proclaim of His return. If we believe and have faith, we can do wonders within this world through Jesus Christ. 

When we have faith, it's a hard road. I'm not saying it's going to be easy, however just the smallest bit of faith can be grown through our dedication and love toward Christ. If we devote our time to reading His word like we devote to checking our Facebook page, just imagine all of the things we can do for Christ!! 

But most of all, we NEED to put our faith in Christ. He said that he would never leave us, even when times are tough or when we sin. He still loves us. I know how rough life can get. I've been through so much that was designed to ruffle my feathers and it could have wavered my faith. However, in my darkest moments, Jesus was there for me. He listened to my cries and answered my prayers. 

Let me tell you about how my faith started with Jesus.  

I was at the lowest of lows. My soul was crushed and shattered. I was planning the one thing in life I never imagined that I'd have to do. I hurting because of the death/burial of my infant daughter. She was born still, forever sleeping, or some may recognize it as a stillbirth. I was lost, damaged, and depressed.

On this particular day, I was alone at home. My husband was at work and my oldest daughter was in school. I was supposed to be picking up the house and doing my daily chores. However, instead of doing my wifely duties, I sat in the corner of my living room, worship music blasting through the speakers of my computer while I held on to the only thing I had left of her; her hospital blanket. 

I remember standing up, walking to the center of the room, and crying out to God. I went weak in the knees and dropped to the floor. While praying, I asked God, "Why?" I did a bunch of unrecognizable rambles through my screams of pain and heartbreak.

Then, the most unexpected thing happened. My music stopped in mid-song. Then jumped to another song on the list. (Phil Collins "You'll Be in My Heart) started blasting through the room. Immediately, my sobs stopped. I turned to look at my computer and a strong peace filled the room. I felt comfort, love, and a renewed strength. That's when I knew that Jesus was with me. To this day, these words ring in my mind when I'm faced with difficulty: 

Come stop your crying
It will be alright
Just take my hand
Hold it tight

I will protect you
From all around you
I will be here
Don't you cry

For one so small,
You seem so strong
My arms will hold you,
Keep you safe and warm
This bond between us
Can't be broken
I will be here
Don't you cry

I believe that these words are to me from Jesus. He was comforting me. He told me to stop crying and hold His hand because He was going to protect me from all that was going on around me. He was promising me that he wasn't going to leave me. To the world, I'm small but through Christ, He had made me strong. However, when I would feel the need to fall, His arms would catch me, keeping me safe and warm. That's where our bond grew and I knew it'd never be broken.

That day was the day that my mustard seed was watered and began to sprout in all directions. 

Think about it: Is your faith that of a mustard seed that's waiting to be watered by Jesus so it can grow into something so profound, that it will change your life?

Faith in Action: What is Faith?

Faith.

I asked today on my Facebook page, what does faith mean to you? 

Here are my thoughts to this question:

Life. Faith to me means life. In today's world, many claim they have faith and are living a life full of faith. To some, it's a bonus to living with Christ. It's something that's optional or completely misunderstood. I have seen this. I have told others who I have seen going through trying times to have faith. They've responded, "I have faith but..."

NO!! STOP!!

There aren't any BUT'S in faith.

When one has faith, they turn EVERYTHING, every worry, fears, and all anxiety to Him. Everything. They take their issues directly to the Lord and ask for the help, strength, and wisdom to get through whatever it is they're facing. Then, they LET IT GO!! Once you give it to God, don't look back. Don't worry about it. Don't give into the whispers to the ears from the enemy.

Faith isn't perfected overnight. It's an ongoing process that EVERY Christian must work on. I don't believe anyone has perfect faith because if that were the case.... then, they'd be right there beside Christ.

Faith is an important part of the life of a Christian. It's vital to our walk. My faith helps make the world around me make sense. It shows me that no matter what I'm facing, God is with me and HE knows what's going to happen, so I don't need to worry about the ending. I know this because I'm His child and He will take care of me. Everything will happen according to his plan.

Faith is my identity and way of life. I may struggle with it at times but when I catch myself not showing faith, I pull the reins and pull my faith back.

Faith is a form of trust in the Lord when you can't actually see Him. It's given just as love is, unconditionally.

Faith isn't stepping into a situation and having doubt. When faced with a difficult situation, one must fully rely on God. They can't claim that they have faith if they let worry, anxiousness, fear, doubt, or any other negative feelings in. When one has faith, they let go and let God. Then, they don't worry about the situation again because God WILL take care of it.

*Previously published on RaeBeth's Corner*

What would you say?

Christians.

What exactly does being a Christian mean to you?

I was recently asked this question by a friend who takes a high respect for my faith and relationship with Christ.

Until that moment, I never really thought about what it REALLY means to me about being a Christian. After much thought, I have come up with this...

First, upon thinking about it, I approached this question and realized how broad it is. But I believe I'll outline my major thoughts on this question.

I believe that the greatest thing about being a Christian is the renewed relationship I have with Jesus. This is something that is close to me and highly cherished. In a world where everything is steeped in rebellion against Jesus, it's amazing for me to push past the negativity, hatred, and anger and step into the light of Jesus Christ. A Christian walks beside Christ in every circumstance, thus giving him life and winning over condemnation. Being in a relationship with Christ and creating a grounds of friendship is being a Christian.

This relationship with Jesus is one that I have to pursue because Jesus is a gentleman and waits for us to come to Him. He doesn't force himself on you. By being a Christian, I can say, without a doubt, that when my time is up on this earth and I'm standing at the gates of Heaven, I'll be welcomed in. It is by His grace that I am saved. Humanity and life is a gift from God and Christians realize this. We change our ways from being bitter, hate-filled to joyful and loving. Being a Christian means that we have been saved through Jesus Christ and we don't need to strive for God's approval. Jesus took care of this on the cross.

Being a Christian doesn't mean that I am perfect and sin free. It just means that I was weak enough to allow Christ in to my heart so He can direct my steps and lead me in my new life. This life that I speak of is filled with hope, faith, love, gratitude, and submission to Christ. This also means that we have the heavenly kingdom waiting for us once our body dies. Through Jesus, we have beat death and will dwell with the Lord in Heaven for all eternity.

I feel that as a Christian, I have been blessed and most fortunate because I have been given life outside of death, hope in a new life with Christ, and a very loving God. By my faith, I'm pursuing the life God has in store for me and I'll keep my hope that he'll be there at the gate to embrace me when I go home!

Now... if at any given moment... someone would approach me and ask tell me that I had five second to proclaim my love for Christ and in doing that I would die, I would say I am willing to die for him. I can say this because I have been redeemed through Christ and I live my life striving to follow the ways of the Bible and loving Jesus.

How would you respond if you were in the position of the couple in the video below? Take about ten minutes and watch the video and then let me know in the comments below.

What would your response be??

Makes you think.... doesn't it?

Happy Thanksgiving

I just wanted to take a moment and say Happy Thanksgiving to all the readers and bloggers out there. May the Lord bless you with what it is you need in this life and give you the strength to keep going.

There's still time to start on the journey towards Gratitude. Why not start today by grabbing my newest book from Amazon and allowing it to help guide you?

"... incredibly uplifting even on my darkest of days." - Amazon Reviewer

Monday Muse

Be an everyday Christian.

I stumbled on to Facebook this morning while enjoying a cup of coffee. The crisp fall morning air showed it's chill by the dew gently covering the fallen leaves outside. 

After I get my daughter off to school, baby boy and I hang out at the kitchen table. He eats his breakfast and I prepare for my day. 

This morning I was taken back by the amount of people who I see are standing in the doorway of Christ. 

Let me explain...

These are the types of people you see in Church every Sunday, worshipping the Lord, thanking God for each blessing, and the first to pray at the alter. 

Monday morning comes and their page is full of so much negativity, curse words, and Unchristian like posts, which saddens my heart.

I'm not here to judge, however, I am called to help keep my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ on track. 

Let me say this... you can't be in between.

What I mean by this is... one minute you're praising God for the wonderful blessings He gave and then the next, cussing out a person on social media because they crossed you the wrong way. I know that if we are going to be for God, we need to be for Him all the way. This mean both in church and outside of church! 

Don't be afraid of what the world will think... Jesus wasn't.

Don't be afraid about what your friends might think... Jesus wasn't.

We need to start being BOLD and stand up FOR Christ at ALL times of the day, week, and year. 

Jesus wasn't ashamed of us, therefore we shouldn't be ashamed of Him. We should fully let go of the worldly ways and focus on Christ.

What's to come?

Hey friends!!

I just wanted to take a moment to update everyone on myself and the things that I do.

I'm currently in the process of writing an inspirational book for wives everywhere for our marriages. This book comes from a deep place in my heart and contains some good stuff to follow for a happy marriage, and it is based off of the experiences in life that I have endured.

I'm cooking up some goodies that include Instagram, Youtube, and Facebook. As well as my website. So, keep an eye on them for any changes.

I have a wonderful series coming to the blog within the next few months that will give you inspiration daily, as well as my daily prayers for you all.

Lots of good stuff coming up within the next few months. Don't want to miss it? Be sure to sign up for my newsletter for news, reminders, and tid bits that don't make it to social media or my blog.

Thanks for stopping by.
Have a wonderful Monday.

Release Blast Celebration

Heavenly Realities: Stumbling toward Gratitude Release Celebration

Released: September 24, 2015

DESCRIPTION:

Gratitude is often thought of as a gift or a blessing. By choosing gratitude, we teach ourselves to see the blessing in all situations, which leads to a more thankful life.

This thirty-day challenge will take you on a journey, which will have you looking at different parts within life to find gratitude and give thanks. We will focus on the meaning of gratitude, seeing gratitude in difficult moments, ungratefulness, thankfulness, and even focus on saying thanks to friends and family who deserve recognition. When we choose gratitude, we teach our children to be more thankful and live a life with "eyes of gratitude."

Join me in this journey to better your life with joy, happiness, and an attitude of gratitude.

PURCHASE LINK: AMAZON

The Day I Let Go...

Let me tell you a story.

This story isn't just a story. It's a true story about the day I was rescued from darkness, heartache, pain, and depression. You see, I've endured the worst type of pain. Heartache one couldn't imagine, unless they've experienced it, too! This type of heartache is meant to destroy. It will shatter your soul if you let it. 

This time in my life was supposed to be one of the most joyful times of my life. However, it turned my world into chaos and pain; in an instant. Any and all securities I had within the world instantly vanished and was replaced with uncertainty and anxiety. I truly felt as if I were free-falling from the sky and at any moment I would hit the hard, merciless ground with a thud. 

I lived life day by day, without a care in the world. I was numb. I didn't feel as deeply as I once did. I allowed nothing to move my soul. I glided through life with no joy, hope, or remorse. My care was stolen and others saw me suffer. Many times I was asked, "why" but I had no answer for them. Sorrow flooded my soul.

I had reached the point in my life where nothing mattered. Not a care in the world crossed my heart.

I let go! I slowly faded over time. Things that once meant a lot to me no longer mattered. This included me. The day my world shattered, part of my soul died. Those who love me tried, oh how they tried. They tried to get me free from this darkness, but they didn't succeed. It was hopeless because, up to this point, only one thing mattered and that was to get through life so I could find my joy waiting for me at the gates of Heaven. 

Little did I know, I had to do a lot more while I was here on earth to make it to the gate and walk through. I didn't realize this until much later.

Against my better wishes, I packed my bags and headed off. I was in search of my joy. I needed to care again. I needed to truly love again. But...how?

I climbed to the back of the SUV with a fake smile. Those who were around me lived life with joy. The entire trip was full of singing and worshipping of the Lord. The love I saw flowing from them caused my heart to soften a bit from its stone-like state. Oh, to live as they did once again!

By the time we reached our destination, I had one thing in mind, which was to get away. My heart couldn't handle all the happiness and joy that flooded the car. It was too much. How and why did they expect me to be happy and hopeful again?

Several hours passed and it was time for worship. Don't get me wrong, I took part and hoped that something would reveal itself so I would know what I needed to be free. I was in so deep that I needed out of this world power to be set free. However, I sang my heart out and felt nothing.

Then, I heard a voice, "Let go."

I chose to ignore it because, even the thought of letting go was absurd. If I let go then I risked forgetting and I never wanted to forget.

 A message was shared and more songs were sung, but I stood there unmoved. How could these women be so happy when I was forced into this darkness? Where was their compassion? Their love? The joyful laughs stung.

One woman came to me with sadness in her eyes and said, "Rae-Beth, I don't really know you, but I'm so sorry." Then she grabbed me, held me tight, and cried. Oh, how she cried! Her tears did something to me. My heart softened a bit more. A strange but known feeling came into my heart. For the first time in months, I felt a bit of compassion for her as she did with me. I, then, realized as this woman hugged me that her compassion moved through me and I felt it. This was when I realized I wasn't a lost cause. 

Time passed. I experienced no new feelings. I felt defeated. I believed that my life wasn't meant for joy again. I cried. I begged. However, nothing changed.

I heard the voice again, "Let go."

"No, I can't," I pushed back. I couldn't and refused to forget.

The voice pushed further, "Trust me."

I had a difficult time with trust. I hadn't trusted anyone or anything since that horrible day. In addition to losing my joy, peace, and happiness; my trust in everything (including me) disappeared. I told the voice, "I can't."

A sad voice responded, "I love you." Then I didn't hear it again for some time.

I continued to join in with the music and worship. I sang my heart out but still couldn't understand why God hadn't heard my cries. I needed him and it seemed like He left me. 

After an exhausting weekend, I laid down on our last night of the retreat. I felt empty but most of all, I felt disappointed. I was almost certain that the Lord would have heard me over the weekend, especially with so many prayers that had been said. 

I tossed and turned until exhaustion claimed me and I fell into a restless sleep. My dreams weren't relaxed and refreshing. Normally, they were filled with violence, pain, and chaos. They seemed to reflect the internal war that had been going on inside of me. I was numb to them.

I found myself standing in a beautiful field of Gerber daisies of all colors. They were bright and calming. The warm wind gently blew and their lovely fragrance filled the air around me. For the first time in months, I felt peace. The sun shined warm against my face, as the birds sang their amazing grace.

Off in the distance, a figure appeared to me in a burst of glory and caught my attention. The person gracefully walked toward me. As the person got closer, my heart raced until He was completely in view. He wore a cloth garment that went all the way down to the tops of His feet. A gold chest band hugged his mid-section. His hair was white, like freshly fallen snow, and his feet had bronze sandals on them. 

It wasn't until He was standing in front of me that I noticed His eyes. I couldn't take mine off of them. His gaze penetrated me, as His eyes burned into my soul. They looked like fire.

Then He spoke, "My daughter, how I have longed for this! Please sit," He finished as He gestured to a bench I didn't notice before.

I stood in amazement. I didn't need Him to tell me who He was because I already knew. "Lord," I started, "Why haven't you answered my cries? I've spent hours pouring my hurts and pains out to you. I needed you, but you weren't there." I cried. 

"Yes, Rae-Beth. I know. I've heard you all along. It has been you who has chosen to not hear me." He explained.

I was surprised because I had spent many hours waiting. I never once heard Him.

"But Lord, I tried to listen for you. I waited and waited, but nothing happened." I told Him.

"My precious child, do you remember when you were in your living room, on your knees, screaming while you were crying?" He asked me. 

"I do," I replied, wondering what that moment had to do with where He was when everything happened.

"Do you remember how you had music playing in the background?"

"Yeah."

"I'm the reason why the song didn't play out to the end, but instead it skipped mid-song to a different one on your list," He explained. 

I thought about this moment a lot since it happened. I was at a loss. My heart felt broken and my soul was shattered. I was home alone on this particular day. I held a piece of paper in my hands while I prayed in my chair. This certain chair, I had intended on using as my breastfeeding chair, but the sudden death of my daughter stopped that one.

I really thought Jesus didn't care or chose not to hear me. I went to the center of my living room and fell to my knees as I cried. In the background, my music stopped in mid-song and skipped to "You'll Be in My Heart by Phil Collins".

"I remember," I said.

"I made the song come on so you'd know I was there. Like I have told you, I've been here since her heart stopped beating and always," He explained.

"I never thought that Jesus was trying to get my attention, especially through that kind of music."

"I had been trying to get you to hear my voice and heed to my words. I tried reaching you in your dreams, through the clouds, butterflies, and music. I created dreams to tell you that I was with you. I shaped the clouds just for you. I sent many butterflies of color. However, you didn't seem to notice it was me." He said as he hung His head. 

How could I have been so blind? The Man who I cried to, the Man who I needed had been here this entire time. I began to cry. 

"I'm sorry, Lord," I wept, "I didn't know."

"It was me who spoke to you this weekend. I have been trying to tell you to let go of the pain, anxiety, fear, and heartache. All of these feeling at one time for how intense they are; is too much for your soul. My daughter, hand them to me. I carried them for you the day I carried the cross. The day I was lifted into Heaven was the day I promised that you wouldn't ever have to carry them. This burden is too much. I love you and it pains me to see my daughter in so much turmoil." He said. 

I had no words. I didn't realize just how much I meant to Him. They 'ole me was and is loved by the glorious King of Kings!

"Rae-Beth, open your right hand," He instructed.

I did. A ball of emotions circulated in the center of my palm. 

"Hand it to me," He demanded. "It's no longer yours to bare!"

I did as I was told. The Lord took a hold of it and as He did, I instantly felt relief. My shoulders didn't feel as heavy. I could breathe once again.

"Thank you, Lord," I said and smiled.

I felt wonderful. I never imagined I'd ever feel this way again. 

"I must go now. It's time for you to wake. Remember, I love you. Listen for my voice and I will always be here." 

"I love you, too."

I woke with joy and peace. As I was worshipping that morning, I truly believed the words I sang. I believed that Jesus was with me always. 

This was the day I let go.

This was the day I fully let Jesus take control of my life.

This was the day I felt His amazing grace.

This was the day I started to fully believe!

(c) 2015 by Rae-Beth McGee-Buda

All Rights Reserved

Forgiveness

In today's world, there's a lot of negativity and hatred. One can see this just by looking at the newspaper or television. If you glance through the comments on any post, hatred fills the spaces. When we see this or someone acts against us, we have two options. 

1. We can dwell on it and allow it to consume us while causing more anger within us to stir. Thus, allowing someone else to steal your joy for that moment in time.

OR

2. Forgive them quickly and move on. 

When we allow someone to control us like this, we are only allowing time for the enemy to jump in and cause more damage. Through God, we are supposed to forgive quickly. Forgiveness is a key part of the Christian faith. 

Matthew 6:14-15 says, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. 

Ephesians 4: 32 says, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgive each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

There it is. In God's words. We are supposed to be kind and forgive one another. What do you think the world would look like if more people lived by these rules? I understand that it's hard to let go and just move on. Believe me. I struggle with this sometimes too. I dislike when people hurt me, especially when it's someone who I love very much. 

How can we overcome this?

As of lately, I have been tested over and over with forgiveness. Attitudes flair up. Mean words have been spoken. Negativity flooded my surroundings. Before I did anything, I took a breath and collected myself. This way I could control my anger. I didn't want to say anything that I would regret later on. After I collected myself, I thought on how I could positively add to the situation. If I figured out that I couldn't add into it, I kept my mouth quiet. Only when I have something to add that will help in a good way, I share what is on my mind. This seems to help out a great bit. Why not give that a try?

Self Harm and God's Love

 I full heartedly support those who are fighting the battle of depression and self-harm, hence my book Silenced and The Overtaking. Therefore, I want to share a few things about this subject and God. I feel that God has called me, through my writing, to help spread His word. God loves us. He loves us regardless of our past sins and there isn't a thing in this world that you could do to make Him stop loving you. 

When a person feels they need to hide because of pain, this is a sign to seek Jesus. Self-harm included. Now this can include many different forms, which include cutting, burning, or any other types of activities that hurt our body. 

I understand that we are living in a broken and sinful world who is working on removing God from it. Satan is at work and tries to make us believe the lies he whispers in our ears. He understands that no matter how many times we use self-harm, it's not going to fulfill us like we need. He wants us to believe that we are alone in this struggle and that no one cares. 

I want you to understand that if you're fighting this struggle, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Take note at this. God is NOT mad at you for your actions. He sees the pain you're struggling with on a daily basis. God is deeply saddened by the fact that his child is in pain. He loves you and is patient with your struggles. He is there waiting for you to ask Him to help you. He wants to change your life and show you, true love. All you have to do is ask. 

Psalm 139: 13 & 14 says, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

This means that God knows everything about you. He knows your thoughts before you even think them. He knows your heart. He created you before you even came to be and he loves you. Just like any father, He cares and doesn't want to see you hurt. Therefore, all you have to do is ask Him for his help. 

I assure you, He can deliver you and He will!