Tis The Season: Navigating The Holiday Blues

The holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and reflection, but as life evolves, so do our experiences of the season. Loved ones pass on, children grow up, and the familiar traditions that once brought us comfort may shift or fade away. Even as believers who know that Jesus is the reason for the season, the human side of us can still feel the sting of change and loss. While gratitude remains in our hearts, it doesn’t always erase the pain we feel.

The good news is that God understands. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” It’s okay to grieve what has changed, but it’s also important to lean into His presence and the new things He is doing, even when they feel uncertain or unfamiliar.

Three Solutions for Finding Peace in Changing Seasons

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings in God’s Presence

Instead of pushing your emotions aside, bring them to God in prayer. He cares deeply about your sadness, your longing, and your uncertainties. Journaling or speaking aloud your feelings in prayer can help release the heaviness and make room for His comfort.

2. Create New Traditions

While you may miss old routines, consider starting new traditions that honor the past but embrace the present. Whether it’s volunteering, gathering with a different group of friends, or taking time for quiet reflection, new practices can bring meaning to the holidays in unexpected ways.

3. Focus on Eternity and His Promises

The holidays point us to the eternal hope we have in Christ. Shift your focus from earthly losses to the everlasting joy promised in Him. Revelations 21:4 says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Let this promise sustain you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being Emmanuel, God with us, especially in seasons of change. I trust Your word and Your promises, but my human heart feels the loss and transition deeply. Please comfort me and remind me of Your presence in every moment. Help me to find joy in what remains and courage to embrace the new. Lord, let Your peace fill my heart as I navigate the holidays, and help me to see Your hand at work in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Watch Your Mouth, Mind Your Words

Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. —Ephesians 4:29

“Sometimes it’s not what you say but how you say it.” Be mindful of how you speak to others. The old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” couldn’t be further from the truth. Words can pierce, cut, and break just as badly as any physical blow and sometimes, they take even longer to heal.

If you’ve been on the receiving end of harsh words, it’s easy to hold onto the pain they caused. However, don’t let those words take root in bitterness. Instead, take a step of faith and express your feelings honestly and calmly to the other person.

For those who find themselves speaking harshly, it’s vital to reflect. If you don’t recognize the pain your words cause, it’s time to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the impact of your speech. A lack of remorse for hurtful words indicates a deeper heart issue that needs God’s healing touch.

Mindful Moment of Reflection

Sometimes its not what you say, but how. When was the last time you acknowledged how your words deeply impacted someone—positively or negatively? How can you be more intentional with your speech today?

Prayer

Lord, help me to use my words wisely and with love. Teach me to speak in a way that uplifts and heals, not tears down. If I have hurt others with my words, convict my heart and guide me to seek forgiveness. For those who’ve been wounded by harsh words, bring healing and restoration. May my speech always reflect Your grace.

Amen.

Humility and Healing for the Land

Emotions are running high after the 2024 Presidential Election—some are celebrating, while others feel disappointed. Social media is filled with opinions and Bible verses, and it’s clear people are turning to faith in this uncertain time. The uncertainty of our democracy and how people are clearly turning to biblereminds me of the scripture, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14.  Maybe this is God nudging us back to Him, reminding us to rely on His power and grace. Healing begins with humility, prayer, and trusting that God is in control. Remember, our leaders and elected officials work for us, so let’s hold them accountable with respect, prayer, and a spirit of peace.

It is perfectly okay to feel upset or concerned, but let’s not allow these emotions to lead us astray. We don’t have to carry and hold on to burdens that God is willing to take.  Instead, let’s walk confidently in the authority He’s given us, trusting His guidance. Our hope rests in Christ alone. Leaders may come and go, but Jesus is King, steadfast and sovereign. So, let’s release our worries and put our faith in Him.  

Mindful Moment of Reflection:
How might releasing your concerns and uncertainties to God bring you peace and help you trust His guidance? Consider what it would look like to truly surrender your concerns to Him today and over the next four years.

Prayer:
Lord, help us to humble ourselves and place our faith in You. Remind us to seek Your wisdom in times of uncertainty and to trust in Your sovereignty. Heal our hearts and guide our nation toward peace. Amen

Silence the Noise: Staying Focused on Your Worth and Calling

Scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10

Life is full of noise. Distractions, self-doubt, procrastination—all these things can creep in, taking us off course. Sometimes, the loudest noise comes from within, when we start questioning ourselves, doubting our abilities, and wondering if we truly belong. Imposter syndrome has a sneaky way of showing up, making us feel like we’re not worthy of our calling. But God has placed each of us here for a reason, and He doesn’t make mistakes!

If you’ve ever felt the pressure of self-doubt, you’re not alone. The world can make us feel like we’re constantly falling short, that we’re not enough or don’t belong. But that’s just the noise talking. God says we’re fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and He wants us to know our worth. When we start listening to Him and silencing the distractions, we find the strength to push through and keep going.

When procrastination and distractions come, they aren’t just annoyances; they’re tactics to keep us from what God has planned for us. These distractions confuse us, delay our progress, and make us feel like giving up. But God tells us to “be still and know” that He is in control. That silence—when we choose to pause, pray, and reflect—gives us clarity and confidence to keep moving forward. Remember, we belong here because God put us here.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What “noise” is distracting you from God’s calling on your life? What is one step you can take today to push through self-doubt and move forward?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to silence the noise around me and within me. Remind me of my worth and the calling You’ve placed on my life. When distractions come, give me the strength to focus on You and push through with confidence. Thank you for placing me exactly where I am. Help me to walk forward, trusting that I belong here. Amen.

Making A Big Ask with Confidence

Have you ever noticed how when we really want something, we put in every effort to make it happen? Whether it's getting VIP tickets at an event, a job we’re chasing, a car or home we’re hoping to buy, or even just getting a table at a fully booked restaurant, we go out of our way to ask and make it happen. Why, then, do we sometimes hesitate when it comes to asking God for what we need? The Bible makes it clear: God wants us to go to Him boldly, to ask, to seek, and to knock.

Boldly Approaching the Throne

Hebrews 4:16 reminds us, "Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Imagine walking into a room where you know you’re welcome. You don’t just tiptoe or linger in the doorway; you walk right in. In the same way, God invites us to approach Him without fear or hesitation. He’s not looking for perfectly polished prayers or big elaborate words—He wants our hearts open, our spirits willing to reach out to Him.

Ask, Seek, Knock: Three Powerful Steps

In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus teaches us, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” Each of these steps is a call to action:

1. Ask: Make your request known to God. Whether it’s peace in a stressful season, guidance on a big decision, or strength to keep going, asking is our first step in trusting God with our lives.
2. Seek: This step requires a little extra effort. Seeking is more than just asking; it’s about earnestly looking for God’s will and being proactive in our faith. Think of it like searching for a lost set of keys—you’re not just casually glancing around; you’re digging deep because you need them.
3. Knock: When we knock, we’re showing a commitment to our request. We’re showing God that we trust Him enough to keep showing up. Knocking on God’s door is an act of faith that says, “I believe You hear me, and I know You’re there.”

First, Seek the Kingdom

Another essential piece of this process comes from Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” God wants our hearts to be aligned with His kingdom. When our intentions are pure, when we prioritize God’s will, He’s even more eager to bless us in ways that surpass our understanding.

Think of it like ordering a meal: if we go to God seeking only the “side dishes” of life—money, material success, or fleeting pleasure—we’re missing out on the main course. But when we seek the things that nourish our spirit, everything else falls into place.

God’s Will, God’s Timing

It’s essential to remember that God answers prayers according to His will and timing. We might think we need something immediately, but God has a bigger picture in mind. Sometimes, His “not yet” is actually His “yes, but let me prepare you first.” Or sometimes, what looks like a closed door is actually God redirecting us to something better.

Imagine asking your friend to help you with a task, only to find that they already made plans to surprise you with something even greater. That’s what God’s like. He sees the whole picture, and He’s already working things out for your good.

Trust the Process

So the next time you feel hesitant to ask, remember that God delights in hearing from us. He wants us to bring our requests, our dreams, and even our worries before Him. He’s ready and waiting for us to take those steps: ask, seek, and knock. And when we do, we can trust that He’ll answer in the way that is best for us, beyond anything we can imagine.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

Is there something you have been hesitant to ask God for, thinking it might be too big, small or unimportant? Imagine how much further along you could be if you simply asked, sought His will, and trusted His timing. What is holding you back?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting me to come boldly before Your throne. Help me to trust that You hear my prayers and that You care about every detail of my life. Teach me to seek Your kingdom first, to ask with a pure heart, and to trust in Your perfect timing. Give me the courage to knock persistently and not resist coming to you and help me to remember that You always respond in love. May Your will be done in my life. 

Amen.

Cast and Leave It

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

One of the most powerful gifts we have as believers is the ability to lay our burdens at the feet of Jesus. We are often weighed down by the stresses, worries, and anxieties of life. The responsibilities we carry can feel overwhelming, and it may seem as though there is no end in sight. But God’s Word offers us a comforting truth: we do not have to carry these burdens alone.

When we take our worries and anxieties to the Lord, He invites us to leave them there. It means believing that He is both willing and able to take care of the things that we cannot handle. Yet, how often do we find ourselves taking those very same burdens back, allowing them to dominate our thoughts and hearts over and over again?

When we pray and lay our concerns before Him, we are acknowledging His sovereignty and love. But true peace comes when we don’t pick those concerns back up but instead trust God’s timing and provision.

Just like the old hymn says, “Take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there.” This is a daily practice, a moment-by-moment decision to trust in His care for us.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What burdens are you carrying today that you need to leave at the feet of Jesus? Are you willing to fully trust Him with your concerns, or are you still holding on to them in your own strength?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for the invitation to bring my burdens to You. I confess that I often struggle to leave them in Your hands and instead try to take control of things that only You can handle. Help me to release my worries, fears, and stresses to You fully, trusting in Your goodness and provision. Fill me with Your peace as I choose to trust You. Teach me to rely on Your strength and not my own, knowing that You care for me deeply. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

May this devotion be a reminder that we can walk in peace when we take our burdens to the Lord—and leave them there.

The Closest Friend

No matter how close or strong your relationships may seem, there will inevitably come a time when someone you care about disappoints you. It could be unintentional—maybe your best friend, who’s always been there for you, is suddenly going through their own struggles and isn’t emotionally available when you need them the most. Or perhaps your spouse is overwhelmed with work or responsibilities, and even though they love you, they just don’t have the energy or focus to offer the support you need in that moment. These situations can leave you feeling hurt, frustrated, and maybe even a little isolated.

It's natural to feel let down when people close to you aren't able to meet your expectations. You might even start to question the strength of your relationships or wonder if you’re going through this alone. But take heart—there is One who never fails. Jesus, our ultimate friend and Savior, is closer than anyone on earth could ever be. He understands every burden you carry, every tear you shed, and every moment when you feel let down by others. In His love, there is no emotional distance, no lack of time, and no failure to show up.

Unlike human relationships, which can be imperfect and messy, Jesus’s love is constant. He is always near, ready to listen, comfort, and strengthen you in ways that no one else can. When others unintentionally fall short, Jesus steps in with open arms and an unfailing promise that He will never leave or forsake you. He is the one friend who is truly dependable, never too busy or distracted to care for your heart.

In those moments when you feel alone or disappointed, hold on to this truth. While human relationships have their limitations, God’s love knows no bounds. You can always trust that Jesus will be there, carrying you through the storm, filling the gaps that others cannot fill, and providing peace and comfort when you need it most.

So, when your friends or loved ones can’t be there for you, don’t lose hope. Lift your eyes to the One who never disappoints. Draw near to Him, and let His presence sustain you through the ups and downs of life. He is the friend who stays closer than a brother, a faithful refuge in times of trouble. You are never alone.

Mindful Moment of Reflection: 

When was the last time you felt disappointed by someone close to you? How did you handle that situation emotionally and spiritually? 

Do you find it easy or difficult to turn to Jesus in moments of disappointment? What are some ways you can invite Him into those difficult moments more intentionally?

Prayer: 

Lord, help me to trust in You above all. When others let me down or I feel alone, remind me of Your constant presence and faithfulness. Guide me in my relationships and give me the wisdom to discern who to trust and how to navigate emotional challenges with grace and integrity. Amen.

Wisdom in Reverence

A person who fears God is someone whose every decision is shaped by a deep reverence for His wisdom and authority. This kind of fear isn’t about being afraid, but about having a profound respect and trust in God’s power and promises. To fear God means to take Him at His word, believing wholeheartedly that He will fulfill everything He has promised. It’s trusting that His ways are higher than our own, and even when things don’t make sense to us, we choose to follow His guidance because we know His plans are perfect. The Bible gives us powerful promises for those who live with a reverent fear of God:

“Blessed is the one who fears the Lord.” (Psalm 112:1)

“Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth, honor, and life.” (Proverbs 22:4)

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” (Psalm 111:10)

Never forget that God is all-powerful, always present, and knows everything. When we live in awe of Him, honoring His authority, we find true peace and a deeper sense of purpose in life.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What would your life look like if you consistently made every decision with God in mind, knowing He sees and values your heart, not just your outward actions? Would you move differently? 

Prayer:

Lord, help me to live with a heart that seeks to honor You above all else. Guide my steps so that I may live with purpose, rooted in Your truth and love. Grant me the peace that comes from trusting in Your authority, knowing that You see all and work all things for good. 

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen.

When Favor Sparks Haters: Soar Anyway!

When God’s favor rests on you, it often comes with unexpected challenges. Not everyone will celebrate your success, and some may even resent it. This is because favor highlights the unique blessings and gifts that God has placed on your life, and for some, it becomes a source of jealousy or discomfort. People may question why you are thriving or why things seem to go well for you, without understanding the trials and sacrifices you’ve endured to get to where you are. They see the success but don’t know the struggles behind it. As Maya Angelou wisely stated, “When you make your mark, you will always attract haters.” Your accomplishments will naturally draw attention, both positive and negative.

However, it’s important to remember that no matter how many people oppose or misunderstand you, their opinions do not define your worth or purpose. God alone defines your purpose, and His favor on your life cannot be removed by human opinions or actions. As Romans 8:31 says, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” This truth serves as a reminder that with God on your side, no amount of opposition can derail your divine destiny.

In the midst of negativity, it is essential to stay confident and focused on God. Confidence in who you are and what you’ve been called to do will shield you from the distractions of resentment or jealousy. When you remain grounded in your identity in Christ, other people’s insecurities or negative behavior lose their power to affect you. Your purpose comes from God, and as long as you walk in alignment with His will, no one can take away the gifts and blessings He has bestowed on you.

Don’t let negativity distract you from your divine path. People may talk, gossip, or criticize, but none of that can alter the plan God has for your life. Your job is to keep moving forward, trusting that God’s favor will continue to guide you. Stay committed to your calling, and don’t waste time worrying about those who don’t support you. Instead, pray for them and keep your heart free from bitterness. Soar above the negativity like an eagle, knowing that God’s plan for you is greater than any opposition you may face.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

How can you trust God’s plan and stay focused on your purpose when faced with negativity or jealousy from others?

Prayer:

Lord, help me remain confident in Your plan for my life. When I encounter negativity, remind me of Your protection and guidance. Keep me focused on my purpose, trusting that You will reveal who is truly for me. Amen.

Speak The Truth In Love

In every relationship, whether with friends, family, spouse, or coworkers, communication is essential. The ability to speak openly and discuss issues, challenges, and concerns is crucial for maintaining a healthy and strong connection. Far too often, we withhold our true feelings or emotions, fearing that addressing them will lead to confrontation. But in our avoidance, we may allow misunderstandings or frustrations to grow. Sometimes, you must face your battles head-on and address the issues that weigh on your heart.

Honest communication requires vulnerability and courage. It’s not easy to speak about our fears, hurts, or frustrations, but God calls us to live in truth and love. Ephesians 4:15 says, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." When we speak with grace and honesty, we not only build stronger relationships, but we also grow in Christ-like maturity.

Mindful Moment of Reflection: 

Are there any areas in your relationships where you’ve been withholding your true feelings? How can you approach the situation with love and honesty to foster growth and healing?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to communicate with honesty, grace, and love. Give me the courage to address the challenges in my relationships and the wisdom to speak in a way that honors You. Guide me as I strive for deeper connections built on trust and understanding. 

Amen

These Thorns Keep Poking Me

If you've ever been pricked by a thorn from a rosebush, you know how uncomfortable it can be. It might cause redness, bleeding, or swelling, leaving you irritated. Ouch!

Just like the rosebush, no matter how beautiful, life comes with thorns that can poke and make things more challenging. These thorns might appear as difficult people, tough situations, or uncomfortable obstacles meant to distract you. As blessings flow, so do distractions. A songwriter once said, "These thorns in my flesh keep hindering me," begging God to remove the things that weigh them down.

However, thorns are not just distractions; they are opportunities for growth. Recognize them for what they are, and embrace how God can use them to deepen your trust in Him. So, what thorny challenges are you facing? Is it at home, at work, or in a relationship? Maybe a colleague is testing your patience or making life difficult.

Despite the discomfort, God uses these thorny moments to keep us humble and reliant on His strength. These thorns are blessings in disguise, even when they bring pain. Without them, we wouldn’t fully experience that God’s grace is enough and that His "power is made perfect in weakness."

Affirm this: "I welcome life's challenges with strength and faith, knowing that even in moments of difficulty, I am growing, and God's grace is always enough for me."

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What "thorns" in your life are challenging you right now, and how might God be using them to deepen your dependence on His grace and strength?

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the blessings and revelations You pour into my life. Like Paul, I know that the thorns I face are there to remind me of my need for You. Help me to see the challenges, discomforts, and struggles not as obstacles, but as opportunities to lean on Your grace. When I am weak, may I find strength in Your power, knowing that Your grace is sufficient and Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. Keep me humble, dependent on You, and always trusting in Your plan. 

In Jesus' name, Amen.

.

Co-Parenting from a Blended Perspective

Co-parenting in a blended family can feel like navigating a constant balancing act. You're not just managing schedules or responsibilities, but also working to build trust, understanding, and unity among different people who may have different histories, expectations, and sometimes even conflicting emotions. It can be challenging, and there will undoubtedly be days when it feels overwhelming.

But here’s the thing: God is present in the mess. He’s in the moments when you work together to make the best decisions for your children, even when it’s hard. He’s in the grace you extend to each other when things don’t go as planned, and He’s in the patience you learn to have even in the most frustrating times.

In this journey, your role isn’t to be perfect. It’s to be willing—willing to love, willing to compromise, and willing to model what grace and forgiveness look like in action. Just as Christ continually forgives us, we’re called to extend that same grace to those in our co-parenting circle, whether it’s the biological parent, the stepparent, or even the kids.

Remember, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. When things get tough, lean into God’s wisdom and His unending grace. He will give you the strength to do what you might not feel capable of, and He will guide you in your efforts to create a family dynamic that honors Him, even in its imperfection.

Co-parenting in a blended family isn’t easy, but it’s worth it—because when you step forward with faith and humility, you’re building something beautiful. You’re showing your children what it means to love despite differences, to put others first, and to trust that God is at work in every part of your family’s story. The more we acknowledge our limitations and weaknesses, the more we allow God’s strength to shine through us. When we face challenges, our children witness something even more powerful than our attempts at perfect parenting: they see us leaning into God’s grace. They learn that it’s okay to stumble, to apologize, and to grow. In those moments of vulnerability, God’s power becomes evident—not just in us but in the way we model grace and resilience to our kids and our relationships.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

Take a moment to reflect on your parenting journey. Where have you felt weak or inadequate recently? How might God’s grace be at work in those moments, teaching both you and your children something deeper?

Prayer:

Father, thank You for trusting me with the role of parent. I often feel overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility, and sometimes I worry that I'm not doing enough or that I'm messing up. Remind me that Your grace is sufficient in every moment. Help me to embrace my weaknesses, knowing that You are at work, and teach me how to model that same grace for my children and my spouse. Give me patience, wisdom, and a heart full of love. May my parenting reflect Your perfect love. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Trust Issues

Once trust has been broken, it's easy to develop trust issues in relationships. Whether the hurt comes from a romantic partner or a close friend, everyone has their limits.

When someone experiences repeated misuse or abuse, it’s understandable that they may decide to close the door on future connections. 

Pray and ask God to help you learn to trust again. The first step is seeking forgiveness and releasing those who have betrayed you.

Take a risk—give yourself another chance to build friendships or pursue new relationships.

When everything else feels uncertain, trust in God.

Mindful Moment of Reflection: 

What steps can you take today to begin rebuilding trust in your relationships?

Prayer: 

Dear Lord, 

Help me to release the hurt and forgive those who have let me down. Give me the strength to open my heart to new relationships and the wisdom to recognize those who are worthy of my trust. Guide me on this journey of healing, and remind me that I can always rely on You. 

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Pardon Me as I Heal Through Grief and Loss

Pardon Me as I heal

Navigating the journey of grief and mourning can be challenging. Many people find that certain feelings and emotions, or even the absence of them, can hit unexpectedly. One moment, someone may feel happy and laughing, while the next day they might feel... blah. This cycle often repeats itself.

It's important to recognize that each person experiences loss in their own way, shaped by unique circumstances and emotions. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and everyone deserves the space to feel and process their emotions as needed. So, it’s essential to be patient and meet each other where we are on this path.

For those looking to help, simply being present can make a significant difference. A simple text, a phone call, or sharing a quiet moment together can provide comfort. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, sharing a memory, or sitting in silence, support during this time is invaluable. Knowing that there are people who care makes a world of difference as individuals navigate the complex landscape of emotions that accompany grief. 

Mindful Minute of Reflection: How can you create space for yourself and others to process grief and emotions in a way that honors their unique journeys?

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father,
In moments of grief and uncertainty, help me to find comfort in Your presence. Grant me the strength to navigate my emotions and the wisdom to support others on their journeys. As I embrace the ebb and flow of my feelings, surround me with Your love and guide me to be a source of comfort for others. 

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Go Get It!

My nephew, a talented rap artist, wrote a song called "Count Ya Money." One of the lines goes, "My mama told me go get it, so I'm gonna go get it."

The truth is, if you want something in life, it won't just fall into your lap—you've got to work for it. Whether you're aiming for a new career, launching a new business or obtaining a degree, it requires effort. Stop waiting for a handout or for someone else to make it happen for you. Faith without action is dead; it has to be acted on. Great things happen when you don't just dream but take bold steps toward your goals. Even more extraordinary things can happen when you're willing to put in the work and invest in yourself.

Are you holding yourself back with excuses, saying, "I would, but..."? If so, it's time to step out on faith and remove those excuses. God equips those He calls, and you already have everything you need. I challenge you to pray, seek His will, and go after all that He has promised.

If your Heavenly Father told you to go get it—then GO GET IT!

Mindful Moment of Reflection:

What are you holding back on and why? What do you need to do to make things happen?

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father,
As I step out on faith, I trust in Your plan and purpose for my life. Calm my fears, steady my heart, and guide my steps as I walk into the unknown, believing that You go before me. Give me the courage to embrace Your will and the wisdom to discern Your voice. 

In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Light You Carry: Don’t Dim It!

We are placed in the world to shine brightly, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. There is so much evil and negativity in the world that if not careful, its easy to be pulled into situations and ways of thinking that could dim your light. Whether it's fear of judgment, the pressures of fitting in, or the weight of discouragement, we can sometimes be tempted to hide our faith or downplay our convictions.

A light that's covered loses its purpose. Have you ever been driving at night and forgotten to turn on your headlights? Other drivers may flash theirs to alert you, reminding you that you're putting yourself and others at risk. It's like being in a dark room, searching for something, but refusing to turn on the light. Or worse, having a lamp with a weak 40-watt bulb that’s just dim enough to be frustrating when you need to focus on a project or read. It works, but not well enough to be helpful.

Similarly, our own light, no matter how small it may seem, can make a significant difference in someone else's life—just as a well-placed light brightens a room. In a world that often feels dark, your light is needed. As fellow believers, we should speak up and be an accountability partner when we notice those around us losing their shine. Encourage others to "turn on the light," just as we would flash our headlights to help a driver who has forgotten theirs on a dark highway.

Don’t let the noise or challenges of the world snuff out what God has placed in you. Be so bright in those rooms that you have to give them a pair of sunglasses to be in your presence. You are called to shine, regardless of circumstances. When you stand firm in your faith and let your light shine, you point others to the hope, love, and truth found in Christ.

Mindful Moment of Reflection:
Is there an area in your life where you’ve been tempted to hide your light? How can you let it shine brighter today?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the light of Christ that lives within me. Help me to shine brightly for You, no matter what obstacles I face. Give me the courage to live boldly for You, knowing that my light reflects Your love and truth. May others see Your goodness through me and be drawn to You. 

In Jesus' name, Amen