Breaking The Chains: 31 Devotions in 31 Days eBook!

I finally can share with you a project that the Lord has been leading me on for months. My first devotional eBook!

Do you remember back in September when I started a devotional blog series called Breaking The Chains: 31 Devotions in 31 Days in this post? Then I went 8 days before pulling the plug? I have to confess, it pained me to do it. I wanted to keep writing the devotional on the blog and sharing what I was learning but God stopped me. I wasn't learning enough. Yes, He was showing me amazing things in His Word but I needed to step away from sharing everything before it could change my heart. Does that make sense?

Months later, I'm now able to release what the Lord has taught me about emotional bondage and how we can break free from the chains. I know you will love this book:

"Have you ever felt guilt, shame, fear, anger or low self-worth? Do you feel that way right now? Emotions were created for a purpose but we often don't know what that purpose is. In this devotional, we tackle unhealthy emotional strongholds head on.

For the next 31 days, we'll take a look at what the Bible says along such topics of expectations, justification, accountability and letting go. Each daily devotional is an easy one-page read, packed full of insight to help you break the chains of emotional bondage. Be renewed and refreshed as God works in the deepest parts of your heart to reveal the beautiful person He has called you to be."

I urge every woman, no matter what age or social status, to snag a copy of this devotional when it launches May 27th (the Tuesdays after Memorial Day.) It's not a casual, feel-good devotional. This is for people serious about getting serious with God and looking at bondage fearlessly.

You can buy a copy in the shop for only $6.99 between the launch date of May 27th through June 2nd! The timing is perfect if you want to start the devotions at the beginning of next month. After June 2nd, the book will be available at it's regular price of $9.99. You can also purchase it through the Kindle store, however, the discounted price only applies to book orders through the Hello Awesome shop.

My hearts desire is to spread the message of emotional purity to everyone who hears! God has called us to be pure inside and out. Not just physically but emotionally. Please help me pray for His name to be glorified through this devotion and hearts changed! Let us remember the beautiful words of Paul:

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.”

2 Corinthians 10:3-6

Dear David...{Love Never Fails: Letter 13}

Dear David...

Another week has gone by and you are surprising us every day. Lately, you've thrown mommy and daddy for a loop. That's right. A big ol' loop and we are spinning, confused and unsure how to handle things. You are starting the "terrible twos" and I have to admit, I thought that label was fake. Until now.

But no matter how angry, frustrated, annoyed, out-of-control you get: I love you. And for the record, no matter how angry, frustrated, annoyed, out-of-control mommy and daddy may be with one another: we love each other.

Because love is not a fuzzy feeling. It is an action. While lust will control your emotions and warm your heart, God's definition of love shows us there's more than that. When He manifested Himself as flesh to be the sacrifice for our sins, His love was showcased within that action (Ephesians 5:2/1 Timothy 3:16). Becoming a man was God's love in action. Sure, we warm His heart. Sure, we are the apple of His eye. But to God, love means doing something even if it means sacrificing life. Because through that sacrifice, through that action, love is fulfilled and therefore can never fail.

When you grow up, the definition of love is going to get twisted. The world will try to teach you that love means to "be in the moment", "go with the flow" or "it must be good if it feels good." Know this: that is lust, not love. That impulsive desire is not love. Love is not impulsive. Love is not last minute. Love is not "in the moment" but love is an action that leads to precious moments. I'm not going to act like a love expert. Not even close. But I am learning this daily and want to share with you what God is teaching me so that you may (hopefully) avert the path I went down. 

True love, the love defined by God, never fails. It is eternal. It does not puff up or act pridefully. It doesn't hinder. It doesn't withhold good things, hold grudges or spout bitter words.

"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away."

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

In those moments when you feel unlovable, remember that there is a Lord and Savior who made Himself known so that you can know true love. He died for you and sent His Spirit to comfort you.

Nothing hurts mommy's heart more than thinking about how much I love you. It hurts out of pure joy...and sorrow, that perhaps one day your heart may be broken. And you may question love. But son, never forget who defined Himself as love. For the love of Jesus can withstand any trial and tribulation and nothing you go through will ever change how much He loves you. 

Love,

Mom

Day 8: Justification {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

In the world today, we cannot come across one person who hasn't been hurt or is hurting. Many of us are bound by fear, guilt, anger, hatred, depression and so many other unpleasant emotions. The Lord Jesus Christ has given everyone opportunity to be delivered. Yet it is not enough to just recognize that we need Him...we must know Him. Through that knowledge, through that real faith, we then are able to see our sin clearly instead of pointing at other people. A new door opens up towards repentance and (hopefully) a complete healing process.

"For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse" Romans 1:20

This entire devotional series is about emotional bondage and is geared to deliver us from unhealthy, sinful emotions that keep us from fulfilling God's purpose in our lives. One thing remains clear when it comes to deliverance over bondage: we must first acknowledge that we are sinful and recognize those emotional sins in order to overcome them.

We can't spend our breath and time putting the blame on others. Even if someone else was in the wrong and we are emotionally paying for it, we are still responsible for how we handle the situation. Holding on to fear, guilt and pride is non-verbally justifying our sinful nature. When we choose to embrace our hurts instead of Christ, we are easily deceived.

Romans 3:20 says:
"Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."

To justify ourselves is to place us in the position of a righteous man. We paint ourselves as a victim, innocent and just when we are offended. Yet the scripture plainly states that by the law is the knowledge of sin and the deeds of that law no one should be justified in his own eyes. We are all sinners! Even if we are heavy with emotional pain, it is not right for us to grip onto them and hold them over people's heads.

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" Romans 3:23-24

It is a very hard concept to wrap our minds around. That even those who are broken, crying alone at night due to some unfortunate circumstance in their life, are still sinful. We want to believe that the wounded are just but the Bible says that every single one of us come short of the glory of God because of our sin. The Lord is the only just one.

But there is hope. God's glory was justified freely by His grace through the cross! When the Lord manifested Himself as a man and gave His life, that redemption was made available to wash away all sin. We no longer have to carnally justify our emotional pain but we can boldly approach God and receive deliverance!

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16

"So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." Hebrews 13:6

Reflections:
Have you ever said: "I know I shouldn't be mad at her, but she shouldn't have done that" or "My heart is hurting too much, Lord, for me to forgive them." These phrases show a person justifying why they should stay in their emotional bondage. Think about the offenses and relationships in your life. Think about the people who have wounded you the most. Are you still living in a justification mindset?

Action:
It is time to take those to God! To boldly approach the throne, not just asking forgiveness for how you feel but asking that the Lord place compassion upon your heart towards others. Pray that you can move past your emotional turmoil and into grace! Grace towards them and for yourself. Then go to them and declare that forgiveness and mercy (Matthew 5:24)

Prayer:
Lord, we are so thankful for Your grace and love! Thank You for Your sacrifice at Calvary, that each of us has the opportunity to be redeemed and washed of sin. Help us to believe in Your power more than our own, for we all come short of Your glory. You are Holy, Righteous and Just. Show us the reality within our justification so that we are moved towards forgiveness and then eventually repentance. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Are you holding your emotions hostage against someone?

Is that person God?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Repentance
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

 

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Day 7: Selfishness {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

Wow, it has been a full week of the Breaking the Chains devotionals! It has truly been inspiring and life changing, at least for me. In fact, last night I received confirmation through my pastor's evening message that I am on the right track! Don't you just love when that happens? He actually spoke about the exact same thing we talked about in yesterday's devotion topic, "Playing Victim". God is good!!

Today, it's all about me. Okay, and you. Isn't that was selfishness is? Putting the spotlight on ourselves and being consumed by it. When we think about emotional bondage, many times we experience depression, anxiety, loneliness and so on because of past or current circumstances. These unhealthy emotions may not have been triggered by our selfish desires but holding onto them instead of giving them to the Lord borderlines on selfishness.

"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." 1 Peter 2:24

As Christians, we are suppose to be like Christ. We are suppose to be selfless. As our Lord and Saviour graciously became the sacrifice for us, His mind was on what would benefit His children. His mind was on love. As humans, we tend to hold onto the emotions that we are suppose to let go because we have not learned to love right. Or trust right. When we love the way God loves and we trust in Him, we are able to let go of our selfishness and embrace freedom.

"Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness." Psalm 29:2

Selfishness is usually wrapped up like a pretty present but when opened, only destruction lies. It looks appealing and feels good. When we take, hoard, keep instead of give, purge and bless. Being selfish in our ways actually steals the glory away from God! How can He be glorified in your life if you are in the spotlight? How can we be free from unhealthy emotional bondage if we only look at ourselves and not the One who truly delivers?

"I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images." Isaiah 42:8

No matter how hard we try, we cannot change God's mind. He has stated in His Word that He will not give His glory to another. Yet, we in turn are so self-consumed, that spiritually we steal the show and expect Him to perform for us. We are looking inwardly to benefit our desires and justify our emotional bondage, that we are blind to an outward God who provides all the benefits we shall ever need!

Reflection:
Think about your daily priorities. Do you put what you want to do in front of what God wants you to do? Have you asked Him what we wants? Think about your relationships. Are you constantly being offended? Are you always dissatisfied? Many times selfishness comes in the form of pain. If we've been wounded, we automatically play the blame game instead of analyzing our motives and actions. Maybe it was our selfishness that triggered the offense.

Action:
We must ask the Lord to reveal our selfish motives and desires. Ask Him to change your thoughts and your hearts. Think about how you feel when someone asks you to do something. Do you feel happy to help or sulk and pout? Pray for God to be glorified through all that you say and do, so that it may bless others and free you from selfish tendencies.

Prayer:
Lord, we are so thankful that You gave Your life unselfishly at Calvary. Our minds cannot begin to understand the level of love You have shown. Help us to walk with You, so that we may be changed and can act more Christ-like. I pray that we will move to bless others first before ourselves and do it with joy. That we will let go of unhealthy emotions and trust in You, so that Your name is glorified in our lives. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Have you ever hurt someone else because you were so focused on how you felt?

When was the last time you blessed someone happily?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Justification
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Day 6: Playing Victim {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." 
1 Corinthians 15:55-58

One of the most difficult things I encountered when the Lord first showed me that my emotions were impure was admitting that I wasn't a victim. The problem was that I has allowed other people to control my emotions. I was on a rollercoaster, going up and down on a daily basis, and instead of being accountable for allowing myself to be on the ride, I was blaming the operator.

The truth is, playing victim is selfishness justified. Although we may be honest about our situation and the other person was in the wrong, painting ourselves as the innocent soul being bullied is not always accurate. For example, let's say someone lied to you and you found out. Our initial reaction would be anger and feeling hurt. This is not playing victim but you are reacting naturally to what happened. Now, what are you going to do with it? If you approach the Lord, asking Him for clarity and peace in the matter, that is mature and right. You will soon realize that those emotions shouldn't hold you and you move unto the next stage, which is forgiveness.

However, if you dismiss seeking God's help and instead retaliate by sulking, wallowing or complaining, this is playing victim. You are robbing both parties from forgiveness, peace and joy. Most importantly, you've allowed yourself to be so consumed with yourself and your feelings, that you no longer can see the goodness of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
Matthew 6:14-15

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
John 16:33

Playing victim puts us on a road of self-pity. We start thinking we have been victimized and lose sight of being victorious in Christ! We forget that we can overcome because He overcame. Victimizing ourselves prolongs healing and strains our relationships. We become easily offended instead of easily forgiving. We hold onto expectations and forget who God revealed Himself to be. Our suffering becomes more important than Christ's suffering on Calvary.

The definition of "victimize" is:

1. To subject to swindle or fraud.

2. To make a victim of.

Reflection:

Giving into our emotions when we've been hurt by someone only hurts us more. It blinds us from having the victory that the Lord wants us to have and giving forgiveness that the Lord wants us to give. Wallowing in self-pity justifies our selfish carnality, swindling us from overcoming the bondage that hold us down.

Action:

The first thing we must do is when the offense comes, we must recognize that we have a choice. Then we must ask the Lord for a clear view, unaltered by our victimizing ways. This will help us make the right choice and move us closer to healing, forgiveness and overcoming emotional bondage. 

Prayer:

Oh Lord, You are so Awesome and Magnificent. Great are Your ways! I'm so thankful Your thoughts are above mine, that You see what is true and good. Thank You for overcoming the world through the cross, that we have a chance to overcome as well! When offenses come, please show me what is true in the situation. Help me to let go of any unhealthy emotions, so that I may learn to be accountable and forgive. Thank You for being our Provider and Healer. I pray that we will trust in Your power more than the power of those around us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Do you often "play victim" when you've been wounded?

Have you ever victimized someone?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Selfishness
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Day 5: Our Expectations {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

When we think about the negative emotions that bind us on a daily basis, we have to wonder how did they get there. Often times depression, anxiety, loneliness etc. stem from childhood experiences, a broken past or troubling situation that still leaves a mark. The majority of us, however, become so wrapped up in expectations within our relationships that guilt sets in if these expectations are not met.

I firmly believe that if we can direct our expectations properly, then our emotions will be properly filtered as well. Have you ever felt like you were not enough or you didn't do enough? Have you ever felt disappointed in someone because you expected them to act a certain way or to say a certain thing? Have you had relationships falter and fade because one or both of you expected a different outcome than what the reality was?

"For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us."
2 Corinthians 4:6-7

It is in these expectations that our insecurities swell and become burdens. Having the wrong expectations can birth wrong ideas, wrong mindsets and (you guessed it) wrong emotions. Yesterday we talked about how God defined love by becoming a man and dying at Calvary. All we ever need is in the Lord Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.

In fact, Psalm 62 verses 5 & 6 says:
"My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved."

When we know who the Lord really is, our expectations can be satisfied because we know and understand what He is capable of. We no longer are bound by the expectations among creation but can rest our expectation firmly on Christ!

Jesus proclaims:
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30

Reflection:
When was the last time you felt rest from your expectations? The Lord wants you to rest by coming to Him with your heavy heart and mind. Having wrong expectations robs you of the joy and peace that God wants you to have! Do you expect more from creation than God?

Action:
Honestly look at your relationships. Pray and ask the Lord to show you what expectations you have and how to lay them to rest with Him. Work towards being a blessing to other people instead of expecting people to bless you. 

Prayer:
Lord, thank you so much for being all that we need! We can rest our expectations and hope in You without fear of disappointment. We are so thankful that You can provide all satisfaction. Show us how to trust that You will never steer us wrong. Help us to put all expectations on You, so that we may experience the most out of our earthly relationships and our divine relationship with You. We are thankful for Your Word and promises. In Jesus' Name, Amen! 

What sort of expectations do you have when in a relationship?

What do you expect from God?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Playing Victim
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Day 4: Defining Love {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

"Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:39

Many of the negative emotions we are bound to usually stem from a desire. This desire is either to be loved to or to show love. It could be a young adolescent daydreaming about prince charming, a housewife secretly wanting her marriage to go emotionally deeper or a mother's heart aching as she raises her children. While none of these situations are wrong, often times they provoke the wrong emotions. These can be guilt, shame, lust, depression, anxiety and so on. These are the emotions we are trying to cut ties from. These are the emotions that we are seeking deliverance from. These emotions that haunt our nights and consume our days...stealing our joy and happiness. That's what this challenge is trying to accomplish. To break the chains and set us free, for good.

When the word "love" comes up, it can spark many different definitions for different people. Memories and thoughts will flood our minds, which in turn showcases what we think love is and what love is not. In order to find the proper definition, we must go to the One who has defined love: The Lord Jesus Christ. For it is His demonstration of love that defines what it is in the greatest measure and who He is in the greatest depth.

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

1 Timothy 3:16

When we are in a relationship, the most important thing is knowing that person's name. It is second nature for us to call the names of our friends and family who we see often or have an association with. We don't have to think twice. It is engrained into our minds and when we see that person, that name will come into our thoughts. It is the greatest identification system ever created.

However, when we think of God, there is confusion as to what to call Him. What is God's name? When we hear of God, we usually hear of three main titles but we rarely hear of God having an actual name. These titles are the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost (or Spirit).

"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all."

Ephesians 4:4-6

The Bible tells us that God is one, not three separate beings. Though God is the Father, and He is the Son and He is the Holy Ghost, He still needs to have One name. And that name is Jesus Christ!

Think of it like this. As a lady, you are someone's daughter. You may also be someone's sister and someone else's cousin. Those are three different titles: daughter, sister and cousin. Does that mean you are three different people? Absolutely not!

Those are your titles but they are under one name: yours! Your name may be Mary, for example, but you can be Mary the daughter, Mary the sister or Mary the cousin, depending on what you are doing and where you are. 

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." John 1:1

"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." John 1:14

Our great big God made Himself known to His creation by becoming a man and sacrificing His blood for us at Calvary. Our Father loves us so much, that He was willing to put limitations on Himself in order to be the pure Lamb, so that we have an opportunity to be cleansed of sin. How amazing is that?! God is the source of true love because He IS love! Love was defined at Calvary and can still be found when we humble ourselves and submit to Him. 

"Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God."

Isaiah 43:10-12

"Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God: Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. 

Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am."

John 8:54-58

"And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? 

And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you."

Exodus 3:13-14

"Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 

And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ."

1 Corinthians 10:1-4

The Lord Jesus Christ is the Great I AM! He was that spiritual Rock in Moses' day and He is still that spiritual Rock for us. His love knows no boundaries, no time frames, no limitations. Even though God took on physical limitations as a man, it never changed His Identity, Character or Person. He was always One and His Name was always the same. He was and is the Deity who thoroughly loves His children.

"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8

Reflection:
This world has truly perverted and distorted the real definition of love. Love is not wrapped in a hot night of passion. Love is not googly eyes from across the room. That is lust and human emotion. True love is defined at Calvary, where the Lord Jesus Christ died to cleanse you and I from sin, which includes unhealthy emotional bondage. Love is action and God demonstrated that in the highest form.

Action:
Now is the time to put aside our own thoughts, mindsets and desires to better understand the love of God. In order for us to love others, we must first love God and to do that, we must know Him. It will be through this knowledge that His truth will spring forth and consume the darkness that it holding us. The Bible says in Him is no darkness at all and that whom He sets free, will be free indeed!

Prayer:
Father, You are truly magnificent. Your power is infinite and Your abilities are astounding. I'm thankful for Your Plan and that it included salvation for us. We desire to know true love, in You. Lord Jesus, please show us who You really are, that we may understand the depth of Calvary. So that we may be washed clean from false teaching and idolatry. That we can receive a real revelation and be transformed. Thank You for becoming a man, for humbling Yourself and being obedient to the cross. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Who do you love in your life (besides God)?

If love is action, how do you show it?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Our Expectations
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Day 3: Real Faith {31 Devotions in 31 Days}

As the third day of Breaking the Chains is upon us, I can't help but feel a difference within myself. How about you? Day 1, we spoke about the power of the Word. Day 2 complimented that with praying through and how it is vital to our deliverance to keep an open communication with God. After all, He seeks after a relationship not our traditions. 

Today, we are going to talk about real faith. What do I mean by "real faith"? New age Christianity has become comfortable in mixing the words "faith" and "hope". Many of us have found ourselves praying with a hopeful heart more than a faithful heart. Hope is a beautiful thing. When we have hope, we are given a positive mindset to go on through our trials. However, in order to have a real deliverance from emotional impurity, we have to have faith and lots of it.

My pastor blesses us with each sermon because of his faith; his knowledge of who the Lord Jesus Christ is. He is a biblical scholar and teacher, using every opportunity he is given to help us go deeper into the Word. I encourage you to listen to our church's podcast right here. One of my favorite quotes from my pastor is "Faith is not a hope-so. It's a know-so." Real faith is real knowledge about the God we claim to love and serve. It is not hoping we understand but it is having the right information about Him so that we may be able to please Him.
This is the definition of faith courtesy of my pastor:

Faith is the personal intimate knowledge of the Person, Identity and Plan of God that enables you to discern what He intends to do, so that you can work in harmony with Him.

When we tell one another to "have faith" what do we mean? Most of the time, we are implying to be hopeful. This is not the same as faithful. When we have real faith, we have true knowledge of who God is and therefore can make the right choices in our life. Through making the right choices, we become faithful to God.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear."
Hebrews 11:1-3

Faith is the substance! That substance is knowledge that is obtained through studying the Word of God and communicating with Him through prayer. With that faith, that knowledge, we then are able to understand and see things is a spiritual light. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says "For we walk by faith, not by sight", which means we should be walking by our knowledge and not by our carnality.

"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." Ephesians 4:4-6

Faith is powered by love. It is because of the Lord's love that we are able to have knowledge of Him. Our relationship with Him rests upon our faith. Without the right knowledge, we cannot have the right relationship. Therefore, our hearts will remain unclean.

Reflection:
Faith is not a hope. Faith is not acknowledgement. Faith IS knowledge! The truth exercised in our mind. Think about your faith. How well do you know God? How deep is your faith? To break the chains around depression, fear and anxiety it is going to take more than a hope. It's going to take real faith!

Action:
Take some time today to ask the Lord to reveal who He is to you. Pray for a real revelation. Ask that your mind and thoughts be changed and directed to new territory. Ask the Lord to reveal any false knowledge that you may have of Him and to guide you towards having real faith. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and resist feeling prideful or shameful. We want to build on what He has already done in your life, not take it away.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
We are truly blessed to have a God who cares about our hearts and minds. Thank You for loving us so much, that You have provided the knowledge we need to not only understand who You are but Your plan for our lives. We ask, Lord, for a renewed revelation. Please break down any false mindsets we may have built up. Help us to gain real faith by Your Word and prayer. Help us with our desires, that our relationship with You may reach a deeper level. Thank You for Your love. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Have you ever been in a situation where you had to rest upon your knowledge of God (your faith) in order to get through?

Tomorrow's Devotion Topic: Defining Love
For a full list of daily devotional topics & more information about 31 Devotion in 31 Days: Breaking The Chains, go here to read the original post.

UPDATE!! GET THE "BREAKING THE CHAINS" DEVOTIONAL EBOOK >>

Desire to Inspire: To The Ugly Girl...

I'm sharing with you today something I had written for a while. It's only been a few days without blogging but I felt led to publish this post. Maybe it was just for me or maybe it's for you...I pray that you will hear the voice of the Lord as you read this. Not because I am anything special but merrily a vessel in the hand of a glorious King...and He has a message for any girl who feels ugly:

To the ugly girl looking in the mirror. Do you see what I see? If you saw how you looked through my eyes, you wouldn't be crying. Your face wouldn't be flushed like a rose and your head wouldn't hang low like a broken branch. In my eyes, you are magnificent. You are stunning. Your beauty can move mountains all on its own. But the heart that trembles for true love, the heart that oozes passion, the heart that is tangled in a mess of emotions, that bounces throughout the walls of your being, is searching. And you feel lost as it travels and comes up empty. And do you know why? Because it should be searching for me.

To the ugly girl by herself at the lunch table, let it go. Give yourself the gift of peace by forgiving those who don't understand you because frankly it is only hurting yourself. You don't need to impress anyone. You don't have to prove anything. Your identity doesn't come from how others define you...your identity comes from me. Hide in me and I will protect you from the blows and the darts that shoot from their eyes. I will be your strong tower when the venom from their lips drips upon your head. You want to scream. You want to fight. Instead of grabbing a weapon, get ahold of me. For I am all-powerful.

To the ugly girl lost in a sea of Lego's and messy dishes. Whose home feels more like a prison than a castle. You are my princess and have a royal inheritance. Weary and tired, rest in me. Dazed and confused, abide in me. You may feel all alone but I am here. Remember these days will pass away, so cherish every soft hand you touch, every whisper from those little lips, even every sticky lollypop kiss. For one day, they may resist and your heart will crave them. You are not a victim, you are blessed. Lay your head on my shoulder, for you will always be my daughter.

To the ugly girl at the gas station.
To the ugly girl buried in a book.
To the ugly girl teased in youth group.
To the ugly girl embarrassed by her spouse.
To the ugly girl without a home.
To the ugly girl faced with temptation.
To the ugly girl wrapped in lust-filled sheets.
To the ugly girl who wants to give up...

Don't. There is nothing ugly about you.

Value and worth does not come from this world. It comes from Calvary. I have shed my blood for you. It washes you clean, if you accept it. My love flows from the cross, into your life, if you will only let it. Though I am the Almighty, though I am your Father, I will never impose my will because that is not love. That is control. And that is not what I am about.

So, come, my child. I became a man to give my life so that you would know true love...in me. I formed you to be different because I have a special plan for you. The riches of this life cannot even compare to what is awaiting you. The enemy of this world has blinded the eyes and hearts but you...you can make a choice. Please, beautiful...choose me. 

Linking up to:

Dear David...{Imperfection is Okay: Letter 12}

Dear David,

Today I'm writing this letter to you via the sofa. That's right my boy, mommy is choosing to relax today. The weekend was pretty eventful. You are peacefully napping and I usually take this moment to catch up on my to-do list. Yes, toys are on the floor. Yes, laundry is waiting downstairs. Yes, dishes need to be clean. But you know what? It's okay to be tired and rest. Do you know why? Because most days are not like this. It's okay that not everything is perfect. I want to talk to you a bit about that.

You see, son, mommy always felt like she had to be the best at everything. Sometimes I still feel that way but thankfully the Lord is working on my heart. Growing up, I always felt this pressure to be perfect. It consumed me, more than I really knew. If something went wrong, I felt like I couldn't cry. Perfect people were not suppose to cry. At least, that's what I thought. And though I hardly used the word "perfect", it became a mind-consuming habit. You know, to be "the best."

I craved attention and even more, I thrived on the fact that I was better. The more someone else proved they were better at something or ranked higher, the more angry I became. Which caused unhealthy competition and an unhealthy image of myself. I want to tell you that it is okay to want to be better at something. But it is also okay if you are not the best at it. As long as you are trying.

Hear me, David: you will want to be perfect. We all fall into that trap. Especially as a Christian, we know (or should know) the value behind transformation in Christ. Did you catch that part? IN CHRIST! He is the only One who is perfect and someday we will be like that, when we are called home. But on this earth, we are dust and flesh, striving to get by day by day. And though I am not suggesting that we need to accept the sin in our lives or to justify our evil ways, I am suggesting that if you are not the best, it's okay! As long as you are doing your best...in Him!

I can think of all of the mom's who are working away right now, cleaning, cooking, sewing, balancing two child while changing the bed sheets...but what is that doing to my spirit? It devalues all of the hard work that I do accomplish on a daily basis. Comparing yourself to someone else is never fair because we do not know their entire story. We may look at someone as being the "perfect" role model but every one has a battle to fight...and you may be victorious in a battle that constantly has them swept under the waves.

I don't tell you this to be prideful, my boy. I just want you to see that no one is perfect and that's OKAY! Imperfection is okay. But...

Calling someone names to make you feel better is not okay.
Wanting what your neighbor has is not okay.
Comparing yourself to other people is not okay.
Thinking of yourself as better than other people is not okay.
Striving for a position or title for attention is not okay. 
Putting things before your family is not okay.
Trying to be the best without Christ is not okay.  

As you walk this life, please do me a favor and remember that there is no such thing as perfect down here. When you want to be good at something, do it with integrity and passion, not selfish pride. When you want to be a better person, seek after the Lord for direction and not your vain thoughts. One day you will feel the pressure to be perfect, but know that this life is meant to perfect us...meaning, help us achieve a greater level of development. We should be growing, learning, reading, striving to be like the Lord Jesus Christ...and someday, we will be like Him. But that will not be today or any day down here. And that's okay. Because one day we will be who we need to be and "perfect" cannot even begin to describe it.

Love,
Mom

When There's Too Much Pain...and You Can't See Him {Devotion}

It only took a moment. An instant and your world came crashing down on top of your head like the sky was falling. That very sky you look up to every day, talking to the Maker. That sky you stared into, dreamed into, and your heart constantly was mesmerized by. Now instead of sunshine and laughter, you are consumed by the deepest pain and the heaviest tears. What just happened? Why is it happening? What did I do, Lord? Why me?

I've had too many of these moments. Moments where it seems like no one else can understand you. Moments where your friends become enemies, lovers become betrayers and family become strangers. There's too much pain. So much, you can't even think straight. You can't even piece together a single, logical thought because your heart is oozing from the blow. You feel like you're drowning on land. Your vision is blurry. And you can't see Him anymore.

When the tide of life rolls in and washes you to the shore of sorrow, your entire soul is in a state of shock. You start to question events, decisions, choices. You look around the deserted island with sand in your hair and in your mind. What lead up to that point of catastrophe and how did you contribute to this disaster? We reap what we sow but sometimes we end up in the middle of someone else's crossfire. Sometimes it's not what we did or didn't do. Sometimes we are just innocent characters in someone else's sin story. Like the woman who finds out she married an adulterer. She didn't do anything. But she has to suffer because of someone else's sin. Like the teenager battling with divorce. He didn't do anything. But he is now in the middle of his parents pain. And is being inflicted with pain as well.

You just have to be alive and pain will find you. Overwhelming, knocking you over so your gaze is no longer on God, but on the ground where you lay. There's too much pain, you don't want to get up. There's too much pain, you don't want to go on. There's too much pain that you can't see the Healer. You can't see that He is rocking you in His arms as you cry at night. You can't see how He is putting the puzzle back together in a better way. You can't see the heart inside of you being sewn back up and made new. You can't see what He is doing to the other party involved. You can't see Him because you're blinded.

We become blinded by our pain to where we become selfish. We want to hide, retract, hold onto our last bit of dignity. We don't realize that pain is a tool. Pain shows weaknesses where He can be strong. Pain is honest. Pain is truthful. Pain is an opportunity. For our eyes to refocus. For our brain cells to regroup. For our hope to rest solely upon the Almighty. For our healing to actually BE a healing and not some temporary cover up. 

It may be hard to see Him through your pain, but He can see you perfectly! God's vision never blurs. He sees every bit of you and He already knows how to heal you. Don't look at pain through fearful eyes...look at pain through faithful eyes. Realize that our Father is holding His heart broken child, whispering:

"I am here. You may not see me. You may not feel me. But I am here. I have died for you. My blood was shed for you. But the grave did not hold me. I overcame the world so that you may overcome the pain. You don't need all the answers for I know them. Trust in me. Speak to me. Love me. For you are the apple of my eye. And nothing is going to keep me away from you."

Recommended Scriptures:

Psalm18:2
Psalm 73:26
Psalm 105:4
Isaiah 40:31
Romans 5:6
II Corinthians 12:9-10
Revelations 3:8

Recommended Song:

The Dark Before The Morning {Devotion}

Lately, I've been feeling spiritually dry with only spurts of mist here and there. Sunday, there's a spritz. Then dry land until the next service...but even then, being as a Christian mother in church is not about quenching your thirst. It's about giving. And giving. And even more giving.

You can feel drained when the well is already empty. You can feel worn, torn, like God has abandoned you in a pit filled with laundry and dirty dishes. You can feel confused and bruised, unsure of how to teach a little one how to be a great person when you suddenly realize how awful you really are. You begin to see more flaws then you thought existed and begin to lose sight of the river. How can you drink if your vision is blocked by tears of uncertainty?

God showed up for me. Not because He wasn't there the entire time. Oh, He was. It was when I stopped wallowing and started following. When I stopped looking at the water and started remembering the clouds. Without the clouds, without the storm, there is no rain to replenish the soul.  If we want the rainbow blessings, we have to put up with the tragic rainstorms, the lightning and even the thunder of our carnal thoughts.

This life is not easy. It's even harder for any mother, Christian or not. Shoot, it's hard for any person, male or female! You need to hold on with every ounce of faith. Hear me. You will not see the fruits of your labor, of your struggle, of your pain until later. Much much later. You will not see the results of your hard work or the impact of your influence right away. That doesn't mean that nothing is going on. Do you believe that?

Something is working! Something is steering! In the midst of your battle, in the midst of your heartfelt prayers and tear-soaked pillow sessions. The promise with happen. The deliverance will occur. God WILL show up because He is already doing something. When we are at the very end of our rope, God is still holding it. When we feel our fingers lifting off of the edge, He is at the bottom with a large net. When we look around and cannot find a single person who relates or who cares, Jesus does and is with you. But first you must be with Him.

You have to step out of that boat and meet Him. You have to climb through the dirt, out of your personal grave and crawl into His lap. You have to bury those burdens, expectation and sorrows...and pick up His Word while you pick up your cross. You cannot do this by your own power. I can't be a good wife and raise a child without first being the daughter of the One true King! How can I expect myself to have any answers when I never ask the One who made it possible to have questions?

Jesus gave me a mouth to bless His Name. To praise and worship Him no matter what. Not to complain and speak venom. Jesus gave me hands to help and to serve. Not to be harsh and violent. Jesus gave me emotions to connect and have compassion. Not to have self-pity and manipulate my relationships.

The darkness is only but for a moment. It will not be night forever. The morning has to come sometime and that is where you need to find hope. Forget what the darkness is doing to you right now but imagine how much greater impact the light will have! Light consumes darkness. It eats it for breakfast. Darkness has to flee when the light is near. Remember that. Remember the Light.

Recommended scripture verses:
Genesis 1:4
Isaiah 45:7
Luke 11:35
John 1:9
John 12:35
John 12:46
Romans 13:12
2 Corinthians 4:6
1 John 2:8

I want to leave you with some musical inspiration. I rarely add videos/music to these devotions but the Lord led me to them and I was blessed. Take a moment to listen and be blessed as well. xoxo

Kerry Roberts/ No Matter What

Josh Wilson / Before The Morning

Britt Nicole / Walk on the Water

Linking up to:

Devotion: Don't Be The Nail

Guilt is a universal feeling. 

Often times I wonder if other people can see my guilt robed like a dirty garment.
I want to take it off but it feels so permanent.

This morning as I came to an end of my devotion, I skimmed through an old message I wrote about six years ago. I was new in the Lord at that time. One thing that is great about being a new believer is the child-like quality that comes with seeing things for the first time.
Jesus opened my eyes to this thing called guilt. Have you heard of it?

It can be a strong and personal battle within ourselves. Sometimes the guilt within us keeps us from doing God's plan and His work. It becomes a hindrance and a stumbling block.

Our Bible defines guilt in Romans 3:19:
"Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God."

Our dictionary defines guilt as:
"The deserving of punishment because of the violation of a law or a breach of conduct."

When we feel guilty, we tend to wish punishment on ourselves. It's okay to feel bad when you do something wrong...but it is not okay to continually wallow in guilt, robbing yourself of deliverance and joy.

Forgiving ourselves can be much harder than the forgiveness our Lord sheds. We are walking in a society where we are taught on every side that we have no value. Even as the media and the government paint false pictures of liberation, deep down God is whispering to His people "The real love you seek is not with them but with me."

"Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. 
If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? 
But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. 
I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope."
Psalm 130:2-5

We are a stained nation. We are born already dirty.
But Jesus gives us a chance not to stay that way. He is the suds in our spirtual soap, the liquid washing away our grease filled hands.

Don't be the nail in your own crucifixion.
Because there are plenty of people in and out of your life who will be that nail.
They will break you down, beat you with words, strip away your true value and shout lies into your ears.
Stop taking their side! You have hope in Jesus and are not hopeless.

God doesn't want us to hold ourselves back from His hands.
Because the only thing between you and cleansing, is your own wall.

If anything, be the nail in your own wall.

No One Will Ever Love You {a devotional project}

As a young love-sick adolescent, I've often had the thought that no one would ever love me. Have you? Today I can say that my husband loves me, my son loves me and my family loves me. Not because of what I do but because of who I am. They can feel safe in my love and I in theirs. Yet bigger than our love on earth, there is a love that is incomparable...

My latest book project is a devotional about love. True Agape love! With this devotional, I want to break the chains that hold our hearts captive. With each word and each paragraph, I want every heart to understand the true meaning of love and who really adores them. In this world, love is used too often and not in the right way. What is actually lust is confused as love and hearts fall victim daily.

The truth is, no one will ever love you...the way Jesus does!

 the first cover concept

This devotional isn't formatted as a timeframe-type book, like "30 day challenge" or "21 days of love". It is divided into sections and mini-sections to help the mind and heart focus more on the content.

Your funding will help self-publish this devotional through Morris Publishing. This company is amazing and helped incredibly when I published my first book, The Palace Keepers, which was majorly successful and has sold over 110 copies since it's launch in April of last year. For this campaign, the money contributed will go towards an ISBN number, book editing, full color cover and the first book order.

This devotional is so important in a society that paints an untrue picture of what love is. Women everywhere, teenagers and adults alike, struggle every day as they fall into the lies of the enemy. Hope is fading fast and souls need this devotional to inspire them, uplift them, show them who The Lord Jesus Christ really is and what He thinks of them.

 

Help me by spreading the word about this project. Use the share tools attached to this campaign and join me as bonds are broken, hearts are set free and love (real Godly love) is sent into all the world.

Obedience + Submission = Wife Curse Words

"Oh no, she didn't?!" I can just hear that little voice in your mind right now. You know, the one that talks back to your husband even when your mouth stays shut. Or the one that criticizes your pastor after he preaches something you didn't like. Ouch, feel that? I did. It's a pretty big nerve too, I might add.

If you couldn't tell already, I'm not here to feed you fluff. I've struggled {am struggling} with these words daily. So why do I want to act like I got it all together? I don't and probably never will. However, today I had a turning point. I can't explain how, it was a spiritual shift. My focus had been on the wrong target for so long, that the false became truth and vise versa.

The truth is this: it's not about me. Or you. Sorry. Actually, no I'm not. It's about Jesus. It's about others. It's about His will and His kingdom. I'm not saying we are insignificant. I'm talking about order. And the Lord Jesus Christ is definitely all about order...{1 Corinthians 14:40}

These words are in place for a reason. For correction but mainly for protection. And I don't just mean from that red guy with the horns. Sad how you knew who I meant based on the world's image of him. I can bet he looks nothing like that. The point is, there is a battle. Good vs evil. Man vs nature. Men vs women. Uh, wait, that last one doesn't seem biblical. And yet we somehow think it is.

I'm not going to talk about the history of women's rights, equality, the liberation movement or anything like that. I'm going to talk Bible talk. It seems to me that is where understanding and knowledge {two very different things} make the best marriage. Oh, did I say marriage? Ha, we'll get to that...

Obedience and submission are very similar. To obey an order or a rule, you must submit. In order to submit, you must obey. They go hand in hand like candy and sunshine. Only we don't feel as warm inside. Or outside. Or anywhere, really. Why is that? Have we been programmed so much by society's definition of these words, that now as a Christian wife we seem to allow that definition to trump the Word of the Almighty? To be obedient, we must be submissive by complying with orders. This usually means denying how we feel and what we want. I mean, who wants to do that?!

Soldiers. Soldiers are obedient. Soldiers submit themselves everyday, doing things they don't want to do, fighting fights that aren't even theirs, never knowing more than their leaders. They are only told specific details attached to the job given. They must trust in their leader. Trust that they know what they are doing. Trust that they are plugged into the overseer of the entire operation.

Why? Their very lives depend on it. An order is given and they don't have time for questions. It's time for action because there is a battle and one hesitation can mean life or death. If they wait, it could be the last thing they ever do. If they rebel and disobey the orders, not only can they get hurt or worse, but the ones around them are in danger as well. Side note about orders: life revolves around them. Orders don't have to be looked at as negative. Orders bring, well, order.

As Christian wives, we are soldiers of the home. I'm not trying to feed you any 1950's tv commercial slogan.
Check out Titus 2:5 KJV:
"To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."

A few months ago I read a book called Pursuit of Proverbs 31 by Amy Bayliss. My brain has been spinning since then. When you read her words, you can't help but feel like they aren't really her words. She allowed the Holy Spirit to pen these truths:

"All are equal but one takes on more responsibility than the rest."

"If your country were being invaded by terrorists and a soldier knocked on your door and said, "Follow me" you wouldn't hesitate to go. You have a reverent fear and awe of those serving your country and know that they have your best interests in mind. He is reporting to his commanding officer who is ultimately  reporting to the highest of authority in your country. You trust those sent to protect you by this higher authority. God placed your husband there to protect you and keep your best interest in mind. He is your soldier. He is reporting to the highest of authority. You should have reverent fear and awe of him.

When you submit to your husband you are submitting to Christ. This submission is for your protection. It is not to strip you of who you are or your full potential. That is a lie from the pit of Hell."

Whoa, right? I urge you to get this book if you have not already, right here on Amazon. This isn't a paid sponsored post. I'm not getting paid to talk about this topic or her book. It has truly changed my life and I can say my marriage is better because I am better. There is still so much I am working on but I find peace knowing I'm breaking those lies; the mindsets that have taken root in my heart and are poisoning my soul. Because, honestly ladies...when the wife is dying, the entire house dies.

We are both soldiers, fighting in the same battle. There is a Divine order given that we both must follow. Just because you have someone leading you, doesn't mean you are not important. Having "reverent fear" is not being scared or terrified. It's having a deep respect for someone that you don't want to go against them or displease them. Soldiers need to remember who their battling. It should never be their fellow soldiers.

Here are some scriptures that I urge you to pray over and study on your own. Remember: don't make decisions by how you feel or what you see. Go by what you learn and what you know. That's what all soldiers do. If every soldier went by feelings, we'd have to surrender because no one would be on the battlefield.

It takes more strength to follow, obey and submit then it does to disobey and run away.

{The Lord}
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7

 {Marriage}
"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord." Ephesians 5:22

{Leadership/Pastor/Elder}
"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. "Hebrews 13:17

"Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5

It Is Not Your Destiny To Get Famous

Hey beauties! I'm stepping back for today and letting my beautiful friend Ashley step in. Have you heard of this amazing young lady of God? I felt it in my heart to have her share with you something I think we all need to hear. She speaks with great conviction and love. I urge you to follow her blog The Story Project . She can also be found on Facebook & Twitter.

Take it away girl, be a blessing! xoxo Jacy

Photos by Art By Jacy / Third Day 3-2-2013

Hi friends! My name is Ashley and I blog over at The Story Project. I am so excited to get to share with you in this space about something that has been on my heart.

It takes courage to truly be alive. 

It takes courage to take all these coping mechanisms and throw them at the feet of our King like a soldier returning from war laying down his every weapon. These things, these things we use to get through life, to make it through the day, to cope, to comfort the darkness we fight alone. The things we use to forget about pain, chase down our worries, escape and tend to our own hearts.

The things we use to survive. 

There are so many things that come at us. Voices that call for our attention. This crowd called 'they' that we find ourselves moulding our lives around. A culture that never sleeps and a media that climbs upon its soap box and defines our beauty and our worth and our purpose.

Can I just tell you? 

Your significance is not found in how many people follow you or friend you or know you or saw your clip on YouTube. The significance of a newborn infant and the significant of a celebrity standing on the platforms of success are the same. The same.

Your significance is found in that you are loved and nothing in all of the world could change how loved you are.

There is no arrival point. No moment of "Now I have truly made it!" For our generation, a generation that has grown up on American Idol and viral social media; we need to let this message deep inside of us like a song that never gives up.

Because I can guarantee you that even if you're not thinking about it on purpose, the power of fame has probably crept in and set up camp in your heart.

Your destiny is not to be famous. There I said it. It is not your job to get famous or to be discovered. 

It is like we are coping through life with a promise of fame. But I feel like we have been deceived. As if fame is the healing to our wounds. As it is the answer to our questions. As if it is the tower of refuge in our war.

It is not. It is not what you need. And the thing that we are really wondering and asking about is our identity.

It is a trap. Because if your heart is dwelling in insecurity, you are not going to believe that you're amazing even if people tell you every day, even if you you are famous, even if you are rich, even if you are chased down the street by throngs of paparazzi.

Because fame is not the answer to insecurity. Fame is not an identity and it will not fix your identity. 

I don't know today what you truly believe about yourself. That if you sat down and you were honest with yourself and wrote down what you actually thought about you; I am not sure what you would say.

Would those words be filled with life or would those words be filled with death?

You're loved as you are and there is nothing you can do that will make you more loved. Hope is for you simply because you're alive; you my friend are not the sum of your mistakes. You do not need to do something huge just to prove everything and everyone wrong, it is okay.

You can rest. You can discover. You can play. You can hope. You can laugh. You can just be.