The Battle Has Intensified

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Fear, hatred, division, and selfishness, abound in our very own communities spreading throughout the world like a wild fire. There’s only one origin of this evil doing—satan. His sole purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy. He will stop at no end to accomplish this goal.

Christians have a choice to make. We can fall into his traps, be deceived, and forfeit our God given position of victory, or we can come out of hiding and fight as the victorious warriors we were created to be.

I for one am tired of watching Christians hide behind their faith as a badge of honor, rather than using it as the weapon for which it was designed. Christianity was never intended to be a religious label on display to make us feel righteous. It is, and has always been, a symbol of great strength and impact. It’s time for followers of Jesus Christ to arise and take our rightful position in the army of God.

We are created to be strong warriors, equipped for battle, yet we sit back and allow the enemy to destroy our families, communities, and the beautiful world around us. Now is the time to join forces, under the mighty banner of love, empowered by our God-given authority, and take back what the enemy has stolen.

Victory is attainable, not in our own strength, not by our own devices, but by the Spirit of God. We must fight according to God’s strategic plan. We have listened to the voices of the governing authorities of this world and allowed them to dictate how we should live, while discounting the voice of truth. In doing so, we have caved to the pressure to stay under cover, nestled cozily behind the four walls of our church buildings, all the while losing valuable territory to the forces of evil.

We have allowed the church at large to become a storage house of unused weaponry. Consequently, we are reaping the benefits of that poor choice. The world in which we travel daily has become a war zone dominated by the enemy, as we sit idle having the ammunition to wage a battle he cannot withstand.  It’s time to forcefully take our positions on the battlefield.

Do not be deceived, the invisible enemy is not Covid-19, racism, or politics–the voice of truth has identified him as satan. To disregard this fact is to remain in ignorance and a victim of circumstance—enough is enough.

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Your Lens May Be Defective

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While praying this morning, I was reminded that God is always at work whether we see it or not—God is making a way.

When my focus is on all that has changed, I often cannot see clearly the path set before me. Perhaps you are there today. Perhaps you have lost your desire to pray, hope, or dream for a better tomorrow. Are you ready to throw in the towel?

Social distancing is not how humans were created; it goes against God’s innate design for us. We were designed to be in community‑first and foremost with God, then with each other.

Perhaps you are sick and in need of healing. We were created to be healthy and strong.

Don’t give up—you were created for greatness!

Faith is the pathway to our future. It is the roadmap for our tomorrow. Faith, when activated is a powerful weapon against the forces of evil that raise their ugly heads in an attempt to steal, kill and destroy.

It’s easy to feel weary and deflated as we press through yet another day of quarantine and limited access to a life outside of our homes. Yet, God is still on His throne; He is not unemployed due to Covid-19. He is the CEO of the universe. He never slumbers or sleeps. He is alive and on the job today‑making a way for YOU!

I was reminded of this truth while in my prayer time today; “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” (Isaiah 43:18-19).

Knowing that truth . . . I can change my perspective—and so can you.

For a moment, set distractions aside. Take out your camera. Aim it off in the distance. What came into focus? Did you see chaos, despair, and ruin?

If so, you are looking through the wrong lens! Now put down your natural lens. Close your eyes. Turn your heart towards God, and pick up your faith lens. The view is always different when filtered through faith.

Faith is alive and active only if we choose to pick it up and capture every moment of every day through its all-powerful lens.

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Everyday Life Has Been Hacked

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I have lost count of how many days have gone by since the Coronavirus hit the world with its fury. What I do know is that I am navigating a new normal. I woke up in my own home, in the city where I live; in the country I call my homeland, yet nothing is familiar. Everyday life has been hacked. My normal routine doesn’t exist anymore and I am navigating on uncharted territory. I know I am not alone; I am not in a bad dream, although I wish I could wake up and it would all be normal again, but the world is facing unprecedented times.

I wish I could take a drive up the coast to see mom and dad; stop along the way at my favorite rest stops, grab a bite to eat and my favorite drink— diet Dr. Pepper. (Don’t judge my choice of drink.) I wish I could hop on a plane and give my newly born grandson a hug and sing to him, look into his precious eyes and hold him close. I wish I could fly cross-country and see my daughter and spend time with her on the beach. I wish my hubby and I could plan a golf day, go to the beach, or just take a walk together around the neighborhood. I wish I could find toilet paper at the store, and meat to grill out. I wish I could worship at church with my friends. I wish I could travel to celebrate my birthday. I wish …

Wow, so much has changed, yet nothing has changed.

I sit today in my small corner of my house that is my quiet place to meet with God. He is still here; He is still speaking to me— comforting me. He is still on His throne. He is not worried. He is not rattled. He still has a plan, and He still has the power to make all things new in the blink of an eye. So what has really changed?

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Be Proactive Against the Coronavirus—Calm over Chaos

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The global epidemic of the Coronavirus has the world around us in chaos. This, however, does not mean your soul has to be. Yes . . . we are living in a world that is perpetuating fear at every turn. Our sense of normalcy has been attacked and most people are screaming out for answers.

There is no need reiterating the obvious, the media is doing a great job of that without my help. I, however, would like to offer some practical steps that you can take right now, to make a shift in your heart and impact your own corner of the world.

After spending over thirty two years researching and studying Biblical truths, I am confident the advice I am passing on to you will sustain you in the midst of the turmoil we all are finding ourselves in, if you take heed to it.

  • Be still and know God is still on His throne: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-7).

Often in times of stress our mind can wander off into dangerous territories picking up fear and anxiety along its travels. It’s in these moments when taking time (even a few minutes) to be still and remind yourself God is near, and He loves you, will bring calm to your soul. Ever recall being a young child and you were afraid and your mom or dad, or someone you trusted wrapped you in their arms and everything immediately felt better? God desires to wrap you in His loving arms and calm your weary soul.

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Making Christmas Memorable

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manger

Christmas day will be here in a week and for many this means a week full of stress. Panic is beginning to set in. Gifts to buy, parties to prepare, cookies to bake, tree to trim, family and friends to visit. Time is running out to get it all done.

Stop.

For a moment simply stop and take a deep breath. (Read the next few lines then follow the instructions). Close your eyes and breathe deeply. As you exhale, with your eyes still closed, envision yourself back in time. Way back in time, over 2000 years ago. You are standing outside a manger, the smell of animals fills the air, the stars overhead are lighting up the night sky, and you are waiting for a sound, not any sound, but the sound of a newborn baby crying. Not just any baby. You are waiting for a young girl to give birth to her first child—she will call him Jesus, Go ahead … take a moment and do this now. Imagine you are actually there when Jesus is born.

What did you feel, what was going through your mind?

I will share with you what my experience was as I did this very thing. I sensed excitement and anticipation filling my soul. A sense of wonder—when will I hear the cry?

Then I heard it, I really did. Then a sigh of relief was expressed as I exhaled. I hadn’t realized I was holding my breath waiting for the birth cry. What a joyful moment that was. I smiled. I cried. I was thankful. I couldn’t wait to see the precious little baby. I wanted to hold him close, to be near to him. I didn’t want to leave. The peace in my heart was tangible.

Wow. For a moment all time stood still. I wasn’t thinking about anything but the baby,and the joy that filled my heart. Then I opened my eyes and instantly everything changed. I sensed the reality of today. A week before Christmas and so much is yet to be done. If only I could have stayed in that moment.

Why can’t I? Why can’t you? Why can’t we simply focus on Jesus this Christmas? When did it become so complicated? It was never intended to be so stressful.

Traditions are wonderful if they can be embraced with the joy in which they were designed. Maybe this week, before yet another Christmas passes, things can be different. What if we shifted our focus from our traditional forms of celebrating and intentionally became mindful of the reason for the gatherings, gifts, and the food? Could we possibly feel peace, joy, and wonderment? Could we experience the true sense of Christmas in every way? I want that for myself and those I love, including you.

God intended to free us from the bondages stealing our joy and peace. “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

Stop and take another deep breath. Hopefully this little exercise helped you to remember the true meaning of Christmas. In this last week before Christmas, share the joy, and peace of Jesus with those around you.

Perhaps this is the reminder you needed to hear today. I know even as I write, I am speaking to myself. Life often has a way of distracting us from what is true and beautiful and in its place we get a false sense of joy. Let’s be intentional about making Christmas memorable this year for all the right reasons.

For those who are still feeling as though this week is a race on steroids to make it to the Christmas day finish line, here are a few tips to slow the pace down and enjoy the moment. Continue Reading

Silence is a Season of Preparation

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Photo by Ezra Jeffrey-Comeau women hiker pic.blog

Have you ever felt as though God was being silent? You pray and nothing? You look at your circumstances and it appears to be the same-old, same-old, day after day? Be assured, God is always at work on your behalf. He never slumbers or sleeps, and He is always with you (Psalm 121:3-4 NIV). Faith is a knowing; God is who He says He is, and will do what He says He will do. What about other people? Do people seem to be up front and personal and before you know it they are silent?

There can be any number of reasons why people go silent in your life. Sometimes it can be a good thing, other times it can be frustrating. I am writing today to bridge the gap of my silence. I know it has been several months since you’ve heard from me. Let me assure you … my stillness has not meant you have been far in thought or prayer. Actually, I have been thinking about you and working on your behalf. Let me explain.

Last November I shared with you that I was embarking on a new adventure—writing my first book. https://www.lucyanncq.com/hiking-the-next-step  Little did I know, this hiking trip would take me along a steep and narrow road of isolation. The ground beneath my feet, and the presence of God with me, were my saving grace. Seeing the finishing line would be nearly twelve months away. Yes, I said twelve months.

When I began, I was totally unaware of the depth of valleys, and the tough terrain of the mountains, I was about to endure.  I estimated this hiking adventure to last eight months or so. I was wrong! But that’s okay. Life’s pathways usually do not take us where we imagined they would. This assignment has pushed me harder than any other and required me to stand strong in the face of the mighty winds of doubt and fear. It has demanded that I keep walking even when I wanted to lay down and cry for rescue.

Why am I sharing this with you now? I want you to know that my silence has not meant inactivity. Actually, it has been the total opposite. During the hours and hours of isolation along this adventure, God has been very vocal. How many know this is a good thing?

There were many times when I wanted to write another blog, but God said no, not now. I petitioned why, He was silent—so I obeyed.

I now know why.Continue Reading

Strength In The Battle

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raging sea picEveryone who has ever been in battle knows how overwhelming and real fatigue can be. God has always arranged for armor bearers to come alongside the warrior to aid in holding up their arms. They come in all shapes, and sizes, they are seen and unseen, and their mission is always the same … to help the weary soldier maintain ground until the victory is won.

Life today is a battlefield. We are bombarded by the enemy at every turn, he is relentless in his pursuit to steal, kill and destroy. He, however, is a defeated foe. The bible tells us he prowls around like a lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:6-8). The key to remember-he pretends to look like a vicious lion. The reality is; he is powerless against our weapon of faith.

Faith is the ammunition we need to endure the fight until the end. No weapon formed against us shall prosper. God is for us not against us. We will gain the victory if we do not give up. We must fight this battle in the spirit. The war isn’t against people, it is against the evil one who desires to destroy the passion deep within our souls. We are in a spiritual war, which manifest itself in the natural; it is imperative that we fight with all the purview of heaven.

Fear, doubt and anxiety have no place on the battlefield. We must rid all such from our minds and replace those thoughts with faith filled explosives, straight from God’s word.

Your words mixed with faith, act as bombshells decimating anything attacking you. Be sure your heart and mind are filled with the proper ammo. You are more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens you.Refuse to succumb to the pressures which appear to be closing in around you. Regardless of what your situation looks like right now, God will bring the victory.Continue Reading

Just Say Yes

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worldEveryday, no matter where we live in the world, we have choices to make. Our schedules are jammed pack with commitments. Just think about the number of things you say ‘yes ’ to in a day; many times, without giving much thought to your response. How does responding ‘yes’  push you over the edge on your already overloaded schedule? Learning when to say ‘yes’  and when to say ‘no’ is a valuable lesson, especially while attempting to keep the important things a priority in our lives. Although this topic warrants a deeper dive, today, I want to focus on the one thing that should be a definite ‘yes’ in our everyday life; Surrendering our will to the will of God. This  is a definite ‘yes’ everyday.

Often, as Christians, we take for granted God’s commitment to us, while we give little to no credence to our end of the deal. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are saying ‘yes’ to surrendering our hearts to Him. Our hearts, in the hands of God, will bring transformation in every area of our lives; Mainly, our will. Let me explain. God has ensured we know what his will is, He has given us His word and His Spirit. In order for us to submit to God’s way of doing things we need to know what is in His word, and be sensitive to the voice of His Spirit.

Saying ‘yes’ to reading God’s word is not an option for the Christian. The world is a war zone, and without the proper battle gear we will be worn down and taken out at every turn. Our battles are fought in the spirit realm (Ephesians 6:12), with the word of God as our sword. The problem arises when we do not know what God’s word says, therefore, we are fighting unequipped. Continue Reading

Faith Is A Guide

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penblog.Journaling has always been one of my favorite things to do. I began this art practice years ago. It has become a way to clear my head. A freeing transaction takes place within my soul when my thoughts are released from my mind onto paper. It is as though I am decluttering my mind to make room for more reflection. Not only does my mind become free, it also provides a way to record my story, a process of documenting the accounts of life in real time. By the way; everyone has a story!

Over the past few weeks I have been gathering research for a project I am working on, in doing so, I searched through a storage box of old journals. This particular box was full of writings; I mean top to bottom-jammed packed. I took each notebook out, one by one, and  began to thumb through the pages; what I discovered was quite amazing.

Embedded deep within the words on each page, I was able to get a glimpse, a snapshot back in time. What I saw was a life journey which was ever evolving, riding on the waves of change, similar to the natural changing of seasons. I sensed the warmth Summer brings as joy echoed through the words, I could feel the long Winter nights of sorrow, while the cool days of Spring and Fall were woven in between. One after the other, the sentences on each page, painted a picture of a spiritual growth journey. In hindsight, I can see how God was answering my prayers, comforting me, and guiding my every step, even though it was not clear to me at the time.

As I took this road trip down memory lane, I uncovered a recognizable constant thread existed. Entwined in the moments of abandonment, and circumstances gone bad, there stood evidence of unwavering faith. It was apparent with every passing day, my faith was growing stronger, gaining momentum, as I stood amidst the winds of challenge and victory. It was this faith, which gave me sight when the path ahead seemed dark.Continue Reading

Ultimate New Year’s Resolution

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new year picHere we are once again, approaching the last day of the year. 2018 is one day away from being in the History books. Many may look back and say it was an amazing year, others may be excited to see this year come to a close; either way 2019 is about to begin. I am always intrigued as I listen to people talk about the approaching new year. Their speech is marked with an attitude… as if to say, by the flip of the calendar page, life will be different in the morning. Can things really be that easy?

If you are reading this today, I am sure you have many years ( at least 18), of life experience behind you. Enough to know the life you had when the clock hits midnight on December 31st, barring any miracle, will be the same life you wake up to in the morning. Perhaps with a different perspective, nonetheless, life continues on.

There is only one way I know that can clear the slate completely, and actually wake up as a new person, with a new vision and purpose in life. Before the clock strikes midnight on New Years Eve, purpose in your heart to surrender your life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. This is the best News Years resolution you could possibly make for yourself and your loved ones.

Living a life grounded in your true identity as a child of God, gives you reason to celebrate everyday. A life in Christ is a new birth. The old has passed away and a new life has been given to you. The scriptures clearly express this in many ways. The most profound is in the book of 2 Corinthians 5:17; “ Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here”. God comes to live within your heart, making all things new.

God promises to forgive all your sins, and remember them no more. You actually have a clean slate. No matter what you have done, what you have said, if you ask for forgiveness, call upon the name of the Lord, God will hear you, and respond in His love.

His love is unconditional. No matter how far off you may feel from even knowing God at this very moment, He is near. He is calling your name right now. Will you respond? Stop reading this right now, take a moment and ask Jesus to come into your heart. You will never be the same again! The old you will die, and you will be given a new life in God. The life you were always destined to live. God loves you and is calling you home. Continue Reading

Talking About Jesus

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talking.As I write this post today, we sit just one week away from celebrating Christmas. Over the past few weeks I have been bringing you an encouraging challenge to help keep your hearts focused on Jesus throughout the Christmas Holiday season. I hope you have taken time out of your busy schedule to reflect on the miracle in the manager; the precious Gift of Jesus, born in Bethlehem, and wrapped in love just for you.

This past week I was engaged in an interesting conversation with an older women. We were both waiting to be seen by our Chiropractor, and we began to chat with one another in the waiting room. We were talking about Christmas. It wasn’t long before she openly expressed that she was not sure many people even know what Christmas is all about. This seemed to me,  to be a strange statement coming from someone living in America.

I proceeded to engage her in a deeper conversation about the thought she had just shared with me.  She went on to explain;  she recalled as a  child,  “religion” had been “crammed down her throat”, so she was reluctant to do the same when she was raising her son.  She went on to say she now realizes that her son, who is now a dad himself, hasn’t taught his son who Jesus is.

I was so saddened to hear that there was a young boy, living in my community, who had no exposure to Jesus. I asked her if they celebrate Christmas, and she said “oh sure, only there is no mention of Jesus”. My heart cried as I listened to her speak.  I could tell she was heartbroken as well.Continue Reading

The True Light Of Christmas

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xmas lightsEach year during the Christmas season, more and more houses are outlined with Christmas lights. I was curious to know how this tradition began, so I did a bit of research, and I have a few  fun facts to share with you.

The first official outdoor Christmas display was created In 1880 by Thomas Edison. He displayed lights outside of his laboratory compound, which happened to be near a railway where many people could see the lights each night.

The first string of Christmas lights was created a few years after Edison’s outdoor display, by a man who worked alongside Mr. Edison. His name was Edward Johnson. The light string was made out of 80 small electric light bulbs.

In 1890, these strings of lights were mass-produced and department stores began using them as part of their Christmas displays decorations. Public displays of Christmas lights in retail stores and government buildings became more popular in the U.S. at the turn of the 20th century and gave way to outdoor displays on homes a few decades later when the electric lights became more affordable.

Comparatively, the Christmas lights we see displayed today, have come a long way since the1880’s. Since the late 20th century, we see increasingly elaborate outdoor light displays.  For many, a familiar pastime during the holiday season is to drive or walk by neighborhoods to look at the many different lights on display. Many neighborhoods have incredibly ornate displays which require weeks to construct.

Most interesting fact I uncovered; back in the 17th century, European Christians used to display a burning candle in the windows of their house that was visible from the outside. The candles in the window indicated to other Christians that the house was a Christian house and that other Christians were welcome to come worship with the residents. Continue Reading

What Matters Most

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manger sceneDecember has arrived, and the Christmas season is upon us. The pressures of the holiday season began building months ago. Before Thanksgiving, store shelves where stacked with Christmas paraphernalia. I know I am not alone, when I share my concerns that Christmas has become over-commercialized. First Santa, now the Elf on the shelf, presents, and parties. Oh, I love the Christmas season as much as the next person, however, it’s important to keep what matters most a top priority.

For the next several weeks I will be posting gentle reminders to help us stay focused on the real meaning of Christmas. The celebration of the greatest gift to mankind, the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Let’s be intentional this Christmas season to keep our hearts fixed on this truth.

A gentle reminder; take notice of the lyrics of the songs being played during this season. I can vividly remember, the first Christmas after I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior, the Christmas songs that I heard my entire life, took on a whole new meaning as I intently embraced the words. They became more than just  familiar melodies, but rather a true worship of the Savior’s birth. I never before considered Christmas songs a form of worship. All too often, the world’s musical influence overshadows the focus of Jesus’ birth, with songs about everything from a talking, walking, and dancing snowman, to flying reindeer. Fun as they may be, when this is all that is heard, we become distracted and enticed away from focusing on Jesus. Continue Reading

Hiking The Next Step

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peter-conlan-687333-unsplashI am an avid hiker, I absolutely love the challenges of the journey. When I walk step by step into unknown territory there is something exciting about the new discoveries which await me. Whether I am hiking the cliffs along the beach in California, the huge colorful rocks of Utah, or the flatlands of the desert in Arizona, I look forward to uncovering the the surprises I find along the way. Some trails are easy while others require strenuous effort to conqueror. Both, are exhilarating in their own right. On the easy pathways I can breathe softly while taking in the beauty of the scenery. The harder trails force me to dig deep within, pulling on all my strength and discipline to complete the hike. Both bring joy to my soul and a workout for my body.

I am inviting you now, through this post, to take an adventure with me. No, I am not organizing an adventure through the vast wilderness although, that would be fun. I have personally embarked on a new exploration, one that would be marked  “difficult” at the starting point of the trailhead. I have not traveled a path of this magnitude before, however, I already know the views are going to be breathtakingly beautiful.

Usually, I take day hikes, and return home to a hot shower and cozy bed. This exploration will be several months long. I am planning a six month journey. Hold on, before you think I have gone off the deep path, I am not really hiking … at least not the trailblazing one does on foot. This trail will be a collaborative effort utilizing all the skills, and disciplines I have acquired over the years. I will be traveling down the trail of writing my first book! Yes, the time has come. I have secured a writing coach and publisher. My book, God willing, is scheduled to be completed late Spring, or early Summer 2019.

I have prayerfully considered this endeavor, I am both excited, and terrified at the task at hand. Have you ever reached that fork in the road, that place in life when you must decide which way to turn? Left, right, or head back? Decisions. Decisions. I was at that very place a month ago when I had to make the decision to jump in and commit to writing this book, or make excuses as to why I should not.

I am inviting you to step onto this hidden trail with me, intending for it to be an encouragement to you. I hope to stir your heart to take the next step towards the dream that has been lying dormant within you. I do not know what that is for you, as for me, this book idea has  been brewing on the back burner for years. God’s timing is always perfect, so I am moving forward confidently in His ability to lead me through the unknown terrain ahead. He will do the same for you. Just ask Him. Continue Reading

A Broken Heart

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capital building

Politically, here in the United States, over the past few months, we have been engaged in an outrageous controversy on the heels of the confirmation of a Supreme Court Justice.  As I listen to the news, read reports, and have conversations with other citizens, my heart is broken.

In the United States we have a policy of innocent until proven guilty. This policy is in place under the banner of justice. Yet, the very members of our government, and many citizens of our great country have put aside this fundamental principle, and rushed forward to make judgements without validating evidence through due process. My heart is broken over this very issue.

How did our country fall so far from our fundamental principles which were put in place to protect the citizens of this great Nation? An even greater concern for me, is to hear and be a witness to the horrendous display of hate and judgement being passed around without concern for the greater good of individuals or our Nation. My heart is broken over the selfishness such behavior represents.

In reflection, I could not help but examine my own heart. I ask you today, to do the same. Have you made up your mind on guilt or innocence on the behalf of Judge Kavanaugh? Have you made up your mind on the credibility of Dr. Ford? Both these questions warrant self reflection. In my humble opinion, both of these individuals have been caught in the tornado of politics. My heart breaks for them both.

Everything within me wants to scream… WHERE is the due process?  Here in America, if someone accuses another of a crime, there is a process set forth in which such allegations can legally be investigated and tried. It is outrageous to witness what happened on Capitol Hill today. It was a mockery of our judicial system. Not to mention, a blatant misuse of power and public resources.  My heart breaks for our country.

After listening to Dr. Ford’s testimony,  it is apparent to me that she is being used as a pawn in a political game which she never intended to participate in. How is this being allowed to occur in our Nation? The treatment of Judge Kavanaugh can be summed up as ‘bullying’ at the highest level possible.  My heart breaks for the outright disregard for the laws of our country, by the very people who were elected to uphold them.Continue Reading

Change Yields Beauty

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butterflyWOW… Summer has already come and gone. Labor Day, marking the last weekend in summer, has passed. How did summertime slip by so quickly? Kids are now back to school and daylight will begin to get shorter and shorter. Depending upon location, beaches will be closing,  and homeowners will be winterizing their backyard pools. While still others will be relieved to see their neighborhood streets void of tourist traffic.

Embracing the changing seasons is part of life. Most people have their ‘favorite’ season, my happens to be summer, yet we all accept the fact, nature will submit to its innate force, changing and evolving in alignment with its design. Every town, city, or village, with no exception, will experience transition as the seasons change. Some will experience greater variances of weather, hence the intensity of the adjustments will be more severe, nonetheless, change will occur.

To embrace the changing seasons seems, well…natural. Yet many struggle with adapting to change when it occurs in their daily lives. Some would say, they have no control over the weather, therefore, they take each day as it comes. To that response, I ask: “ how much control do you actually have over the circumstances of your life”?

The reality is, no one can say with certainty what tomorrow will bring. (James 4:14) (Psalms 27:1).

There is much which is out of our control yet directly impacts our lives.  Everyday brings new experiences to which we must adhere. Sometimes the changing seasons of life can feel like the warm breeze of summer, the fresh air of fall, the chill of winter, or the newness of Springtime.  The only thing for certain, is that change will happen. Continue Reading

Reality Check

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brick wallLife at times, has a way of  tumbling us into the brick wall called REALITY! This wall is always hit straight on, and at full speed because you never see it coming. If you have ever hit this wall you can easily relate. This past weekend I was hurtled into such a wall. The crash left me in shock and my entire body feeling numb. The aftermath screamed  REALITY CHECK!

It was late Friday evening, I was driving home with my husband from a gathering at a friends house when suddenly, I felt an unction within to check my email. I NEVER look at my email in the evenings (as this is part of my self-care routine), yet I know myself well enough to respect that nudge I was sensing.  I picked up my phone, and just as I was opening my email a new post came through (I mean literally, just as I opened my mail). The subject line read: “Immediate prayer needed tragic news”.

As I clicked to open the email and began reading… I figuratively hit the brick wall!  Everything in my being cried out, “please don’t let this be true”. The email explained… A precious family I know had gone missing while on a camping trip in the country of Georgia where they live. A rescue team found the women’s body in a ravine, while the husband and young toddler were still missing.

How could this be?… Was one of the many questions racing through my mind.  Hence a long weekend of facing the unknown began. Data filing in at a slow pace along with sketchy facts, complicated the ‘waiting process’. With a broken heart and a soul filled with questions I began to  pray.

After days of reading reports, emails and text messages, the totality of the situation was revealed. The unthinkable happened… all members of this family were found dead.

Reality Check! Continue Reading

No More Excuses

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no more excusesYou are reading this post today because I have been praying for you. I have been praying for God to awaken His people to the truth of their value. Let me remind you from the start…YOU ARE IRREPLACEABLE and you are alive for such a time as this! News all around us today reeks of doom and gloom. Fear of terrorism and mass shootings is on the rise. The fight for political power is at an all time high, the economy is in desperate need of an overhaul, and the very foundation of our communities, the family, is under direct attack. That is why YOU are being summoned today to take action! No More Excuses!

It’s time for life as usual to be disrupted, not by the likes of hatred and evil, but by the indisputable power of God!

People are desperate for positive change, and we, those who belong to the family of God,  have the answers. When we look to the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross for US, we have NO excuses.  Staying in our comfortable cocoons while the world around us is crying out for help is to disregard the work of the cross!

We have the power of God living within us to break every chain of the evil one. (John 14:12). What are we doing with the wisdom and power of God that is available to us?

If you are reading this, two things are certain; you already believe God’s power is real and accessible, or God is calling you into that understanding RIGHT NOW.

God is going to unleash an anointing upon you as you continue to read these words. An anointing to be bold and powerful. To take your rightful place in His army equipped to impact, and influence. Continue Reading

A Love Revolution

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Valentine’s day is almost here and ‘LOVE ‘ is in the air… Or is it?  What exactly is this thing called ‘love’ that  has everyone in hot pursuit? The world has distorted and commercialized love to such a degree it is almost unrecognizable. We need A Love Revolution!

Love can’t be bought. It doesn’t come wrapped in a box, or eloquently spoken through words on a card.  It isn’t found in magazine pictures, or on the big movie screens, and love doesn’t need to be earned! Authentic love is a gift, a gift that merely needs to be received.

We can ALL experience a love which is pure, honest and unconditional. A love which operates on a system far beyond earthly understanding. It’s a love that can never be destroyed, it will never abandon, it will never reject.  It’s a love that will outshine any other form of love you have ever imagined or experienced.

This trustworthy love will rock your world! A love that will keep you longing for more of its splendor.

A love that holds you close in the toughest hours and delights with you in glorious moments. A love that expels loneliness, shame, guilt, fear, and unworthiness. It is a love that shines in any darkness; its light can not be diminished.

This love is ever present, it flows with power that is impossible to stop. It is timeless, even death cannot separate you from this love. It is all satisfying, and will right every wrong. It stands strong in the face of adversity.  Continue Reading

Rest In The Storm

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Happy New Year 2018! WOW…the new year has blown in with a fury! In my home town of Chesapeake VA, we welcomed in the  new year with a blizzard. The storm dropped a foot of snow on a vulnerable city, literally shutting things down for days, and leaving it’s people, (including me) snowed in. The city was unprepared for the turmoil 15 hours of snow would leave in its aftermath.  There was snow EVERYWHERE!  SNOW, SNOW and more SNOW. As the snow piled up outside,  my soul flooded with unrest.

I had a difficult time understanding why the city was okay with letting mother nature be our snow removal plan. REALLY? I also was having a difficult time comprehending why I was so upset about this. I found myself in a state of unrest. Can anyone relate?I was struggling with the fact that everything which was once familiar to me had suddenly changed.

I am not only talking about the weather. Storms of life can hit unexpectedly and suddenly. Soon you find yourself  navigating a world that looks, sounds, and feels different than anything you previously knew.

How do we respond  when the storms of life unleashes its fierce power upon us, and we find ourselves  snowed in with the aftermath?  Trying to figure out how to navigate the new terrain can be a challenging process. Continue Reading