"Get Out of Your Own Way"

 Reflections4Life™️ July 18, 2021

“Get Out of Your Own Way!”

“But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you: to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all His ways, and to keep His commandments, and to cleave unto Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Joshua 22:5

Scripture Contemplation: Deuteronomy 11; Joshua 1; Matthew 22; Romans 15; 1 Thessalonians 1…

There is indeed something greater that God has for each one of our lives; greater than we could ever imagine. Many do not see it or reach it, because they do not believe it. Too much, according to them, has taken place in their lives for them to believe in anything great ever happening. However, the truth is, if we would get out of our own way and take God at His word, believe what the word of GOD tells us in Ephesians 3:21, we will see the manifestations of His promises for our lives.

I pray today’s Reflections will bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration.  Let this word bring peace and revelation to your heart, mind, and soul. Do something this week that you rarely allow yourself to do: Take God at His word and leave every worry behind. Give God full access to every part of your life—leaving nothing untouched by His hand of love and mercies. 

I will not lie to you; sometimes it is difficult to get through the things we are faced with and still have hope and joy in our lives concerning the promises of God. Yet, that is exactly what God is asking of us to do. To maintain hope and joy in the midst of the chaos, heartache, and craziness of this world we are in. To love Him with all our heart, mind, and soul; even when things do not seem to be going well. Especially then.

Is this an easy task? No. Not at all. However, at some point we are going to have to make up in our hearts and minds to get out of our own way and stop blocking the blessings that God has declared and decreed for our lives before we even entered this realm of time.  Far too many get things twisted. God does not have to catch up with the times. He doesn’t have to show up when WE say to show up. He doesn’t have to do anything more than what He already has done in our lives, because He has done far more for us than most of us will ever realize or be thankful for. We just can't see or understand it. Or comprehend God’s ways.

Far too often we block our own blessings. We get in the way of God moving in our lives because we are stuck in a position and point in time. Do you not understand, Beloved, that God works outside the realm of time? That, He is in fact already done everything He said He was going to do? That, it is us—we ourselves that must make the next move if we want to see the promises of God revealed in our lives?

Now is not the time to give up or give in to the enemy, Beloved. There is too much on the line. Your life, the life of those God called us to minister to, our families, children, co-workers; even strangers on the street; are waiting for us to get this right, and stop hindering ourselves with our inner dialogues of mistrust, doubt, fear, and unbelief. The harvest is ready but the laborers are few because most of us have talked ourselves out of doing things God way. We have allowed the circumstances, trials. and tests to dictate our next move and what we choose to believe.

Aren’t you tired? Aren’t you tired of not walking in the fullness of God and placing your burdens at His feet; at the foot of the throne and really leaving them there, because you truly and honestly, with your entire being, believe what God says concerning you and yours?

It is time, Beloved. Time to get out of your own way. Time to remember the promises that God has made for your life. Promises concerning you and your relationships and your loved ones. It’s time to remember what God says about your gifts, and how they will make room for you. It is time to remember to read and study your word. How can you possibly prepare and be ready for the abundance God has promised you, if you have not spent any time in His presence to know the 411? To know what is in the heart of God? To know and understand what God expects from you?

We block the manifestations of our blessings when we cease to get out of our own way and receive all that God has promised—no matter what the circumstances or situations look like. Beloveds, do not allow your mind [The devil’s playground] trick you into believing that nothing is happening and you need to give up. The devil is a lie! Get out of your way and allow God to have His way,

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Do you not know and understand yet, just how precious you are to God? Just how much of a threat are you to the enemy’s kingdom? Well! You are! Do not complain one more second. Do not doubt the power, love, and hand of God moving in your life and already working things out. If there is one thing you may confidently say, it is that God has your back, 100.  Whatever you put into this life; whatever seeds you have sown; God has equipped you and prepared you for the fight that may lie before you while you await your harvest. Never doubt His word. He created you, didn’t He? You are blessed. Now go, and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Freedom"

 Reflections4Life™ July 4, 2021

“Freedom”

“You are free, but still, you are God’s servants, and you must not use your freedom as an excuse for doing wrong…They promise freedom to everyone. But they are merely slaves of filthy living because people are slaves of whatever controls them.” 2 Peter 2:16, 19 CEV

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 119:40-45; Isaiah 61:1; Zechariah 1; John 8:36; Galatians 5…

Today and each day that follows, may you be surrounded by those you love and those who love you, having a joyous time, filled with much laughter. Remember: our independence came when Christ died for us and took the keys of life back from Satan and hell—a true reflection of our freedom.

I pray today’s Reflections will bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Take full advantage of your freedom to serve God openly, without fear or trepidation that someone will take your life for uttering the name of Christ. Let this week be a reminder of the kind of freedom we have that many have given their lives to just have a taste of. Don’t just be free in the physical, but free in your mind and spirit. Allow God to lead you, as the Holy Spirit teaches you.

Freedom

I am not free unless you are free, too.

I am not free if I am tethered to a life

that seeks to strip others of theirs.

I am not free if I cannot walk away from 

every earthly gain.

I am not free if I seek to hold you

down only so that I can rise above you.

I am not free if in my heart I can not

see the invisible ties that bound you and me.

I am not free if I have yet to believe that

God has set all of humanity free.

Freedom...when I see as God sees.

©Ruthe McDonald.

I truly believe we take our freedom for granted. Not in the manner that we forget, we have freedom, but that we do not fully exercise our gratitude by living a life that is reflective of that freedom, while others are still fighting just to have a tenth of the kind of freedom we take for granted every day. Freedom is more than just the ability to do what you want when you want. It is the ability to move freely, also, in our minds and spirits. Doing things that will not only edify the God we serve but seeks to ensure freedom for all those still in bondage. Whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual bondage. I can’t fully enjoy my freedom if I know that my brother and sister are still bound in chains, while I have the power and freedom (of mind and physical) to make a difference.

Freedom comes with a huge price tag. Though the cost of freedom has been paid, we are still charged with living our lives that will not only exemplify God but help to set other captives free. Be it physical captivity, or captivity of the mind and spirit.

If you know the truth; the kind of truth that could make a world of difference in someone’s life, would you share it? Would you make that truth heard, whether someone wanted you to speak it or not? The price of our freedom was paid when Christ gave His life for us. Yet, we are still charged with spreading the Good News. Of letting those who are still in chains know that they have the key in their possession that will set them free.

Luke 4:18 “The Lord’s Spirit has come to me because he has chosen me to tell the good news to the poor. The Lord has sent me to announce freedom for prisoners, to give sight to the blind, to free everyone who suffers…”

There are so many areas in our lives that God desires us to be free in. Free in our thoughts and our heart. Free to be who we choose to be. The biggest gift of freedom that God gave us is the freedom to choose. The gift of choice has enabled us to live as we desire to live. Yet, so many of us use it as an excuse to do what we want, while oppressing the freedom of those around us.

Freedom does not give us the liberty to live in just any kind of way. The freedom we have comes with responsibility. And whatever ways we determine to exercise our freedom, we must be willing to accept the consequences and take responsibility for our actions.

Be free in your hearts and minds, Beloveds. Stop holding onto grudges, and things that bring unrest to your heart and soul. Walk, in your freedom totally, not partially. Don’t take for granted the gift you have been given. Embrace it by becoming the best version of yourself that you can attain on this earth.

When we come to God, He makes us free in every area of our lives. He grants us freedom in our minds, as well as actions. The Father does not want us to exchange one set of chains for another. He desires for us to live a life of abundance and with a heart of gratitude that not only seeks to see those around us free, as well, but to actually do something about it.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. You have been given a gift. A precious gift to be free from things that would bind you, and strip you of your choice to live the life that God has ordained for you. Take advantage of it by living life to the fullest, and sharing the love of God with others. It is no fun being free all by yourself, after all. Embrace your freedom by seeking to free others also. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Stay Awake!"

 Reflections4Life™ June 27, 2021

“Stay Awake”

“Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack.”  1 Peter 5:8

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 17; Isaiah 50; Jeremiah 50; Mark 14; 1 Thessalonians 5; Revelation 16…

There is no doubt in my mind that we are living in precarious times. For far too long, we have taken for granted that we will have the opportunity to wake up tomorrow. That we will have another day to get things right. Another day to right our wrongs, repent and start living right. I charge you to stay awake. Look at the signs around you. Signs telling you not only of the evil around us but signs that warn us of the enemy’s attack. And signs reminding us of Christ’s soon returning.

I pray today’s Reflections will bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Be sure to put on your armor, being prepared for whatever may come your way. Be alert and awake to the Father’s voice by staying intimate with Him. Your life is on the line.

As we look at the tragedies that have befallen the world of late, it should be no surprise that the enemy is moving rampant, seeking not only to kill, but to destroy families, people, and nations in the wake of the devastations taken place. He will not stop until he has claimed as many lives as he can. Preying upon those who remain asleep to his evil ways and attacks, and unyielding to the voice and warning of God.

Stay awake. Be alert to the signs of the times. Be aware of the plans of the enemy by staying connected to the heavenly Father. When you maintain a daily, intimate relationship with God, He will reveal to you, warn you of things on the horizon. The Holy Spirit will teach you the things you need to know. The signs to be alert for. How to recognize the spirit of the enemy at work in any given situation.

We must keep our spiritual armor on, prepared at all times for whatever the enemy may be up to. But more importantly, prepared to do whatever God tells us to do. And to move whenever He tells us to move.

Far too long, the Church has been slipping into sleep. Suffering a kind of sleep apnea, that has left the body of Christ lethargic, non-alert, tired, and a step behind the attacks of the enemy. We are unprepared and exposed to the attacks of the enemy. Not just impairing some, but taking the lives of many.

Paul admonishes us in the book of Ephesians how we should be behaving, living our lives as believers. Staying awake requires us to continue to walk and live in the path of righteousness:

Ephesians 5:11-18 “don't take part in doing those worthless things that are done in the dark. Instead, show how wrong they are. ¹² It is disgusting even to talk about what is done in the dark. ¹³ But the light will show what these things are really like. ¹⁴ Light shows up everything, just as the Scriptures say, ‘Wake up from your sleep
and rise from death. Then Christ will shine on you.’ ¹⁵ Act like people with good sense and not like fools. ¹⁶ These are evil times, so make every minute count. ¹⁷ Don’t be stupid. Instead, find out what the Lord wants you to do. ¹⁸ Don’t destroy yourself by getting drunk but let the Spirit fill your life.

He also admonishes keeping our spiritual armor on. That we are fighting not against flesh, but a spiritual war (Satan):

Ephesians 6:10-18 ¹⁰Finally, let the mighty strength of the Lord make you strong. ¹¹ Put on all the armor that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil’s tricks. ¹² We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world. ¹³ So put on all the armor that God gives. Then when that evil day comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Be ready! Let the truth be like a belt around your waist, and let God’s justice protect you like armor. ¹⁵ Your desire to tell the good news about peace should be like shoes on your feet. ¹⁶ Let your faith be like a shield, and you will be able to stop all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Let God’s saving power be like a helmet, and for a sword use God’s message that comes from the Spirit. ¹⁸ Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God’s people.

Stay awake! Be alert! Do not forsake an intimate relationship with the Father. It is your lifeline. A relationship with our Creator is like caffeine for our souls. Keeping us ready and alert. Prepared for any given situation that the enemy tries to attack us with. And if the enemy should win a battle, we will know what to do, and not give up. Remembering that we may have lost a battle, but we have already won the war. But we can only walk in that victory, if we stay awake and in the presence of God, following His lead.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Let God lead you where you cannot trace Him. Stay awake and keep your guard up; especially when you see all the signs around you. God never allows the enemy to take us unaware. If we are awake and fellowshipping with Him, we will see and hear the warnings that He gives us. Stay awake and intimate with God, and with your spiritual armor on, always. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Through Our Father's Eyes"

 Reflections4Life™ June 20, 2021

“Through Our Father's Eyes”

“You are the one who put me together inside my mother’s body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous!
  Of this, I have no doubt.” Psalm 139:13-14

Scripture Contemplation: Psalms 139; Malachi 1:6; Luke 11; Ephesians 6; Hebrews 12…

I take this time to extend my gratitude to each and every father that has held up the banner of fatherhood by doing their best. Though you are not perfect, and mistakes have been and will be made—it is your heart, so filled with love that encourages and inspires me. I salute you and pray God’s continued blessings upon your life. Happy Father’s Day!

I pray today’s Reflections to bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. It is my fervent prayer that you will begin to see yourself through the eyes of God. May any blinders be removed this week, as you seek the face of God and His divine will for your life. See what God sees and embrace what He already ordained for your life.

I am of the belief that if we could all see ourselves through the eyes of our Father, we would not only understand how much God truly loves us but how strong and capable we truly are. That, there is not one thing we cannot handle with not only the knowledge that God is on our side but with His perception of who we are.

I don’t believe most of us even know—let alone believe—how the Lord God sees us. We have a bad habit of attributing our thoughts and ways to that of God. We—perhaps unintentionally—place God on the level of man when it comes to relationships and how He sees and treats His creation. We could not be further from the truth.

Oh, Beloved. If we would only believe even a millimeter of how God sees us; our lives would be changed forever. There would be no stopping us. Each day would be a barrier-breaking day. A day in which we truly stepped into the realm of the Holy Spirit and fully recognized our power, and that we certainly and indeed can do all things through Him who strengthens us.

Perhaps you do not know the love that our Lord hoards towards you. Maybe you have become lax in your senses and are blocked from seeing or even believing what God says of you. That you are wonderfully and fearfully made in His image. That He loved you so much He gave His only Son for our lives. That He created in you a new thing and will guide you through the completion of what He has placed in your heart. That He has an expected end for you. To see you prosperous and whole in every area of your life.

The Father loves you, Beloved. He does not see you as you are—undone, with many faults and flaws and idiosyncrasies. No. He sees you as righteous, whole, complete, and shining the light of His perfect glory residing within you and over you.

My father believed in me. He told me I would do and accomplish great things. That I would be successful in every area of my life. I didn’t question him. It was my father, after all. The love of my life. (And yes; I am unequivocally and shamelessly a Daddy’s girl! J)  I never questioned his love and belief in me. So, how much more should I take God’s word concerning me? God, the Father, the Creator, the One who shaped and formed me and breathed His breath into my body and gave me life. The One who sacrificed His Son just so I may have life eternally. The One who sees what I cannot see; Who operates outside the realm of time. The One who says be, and it is?

Beloved, God makes no mistakes. He sees you in a way that defies our human logic. He sees us as complete work. He does not see us as we are, but who were are to be: whole and complete in Him. Oh, if we could look through the eyes of our Father more often, and believe what He sees, we would be free from so much unnecessary heartache and tension; worrying about nothing. We would be free to soar like eagles and walk in the realm of blessings that are manifested each and every day. Don’t you want that? Don’t you want to be free and walk with the knowledge that God has of you?

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Spend quality, intimate time in the presence of God. Allow Him to reveal to you what He says concerning you. Learn His ways and allow His perception and truth of you, become the vision you hold onto as you navigate your life’s journey. See yourself, once and for all, through the eyes of our Father. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"It's Time To Live Again"

 Reflections4Life™ June 13, 2021

“It’s Time to Live Again!”

“He then told me to say: Dry bones, listen to what the Lord is saying to you, ‘I, the Lord God, will put breath in you, and once again you will live. I will wrap you with muscles and skin and breathe life into you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’” Ezekiel 37:4-6 CEV

Scripture Contemplation: Job 22; Psalm 19; Psalm 51; Ezekiel 37; Joel 2…

How long will you mourn the past and missed opportunities? How long will you regret the mistakes and failures? How long will you allow the things said and done to you to hold you hostage? How long will you remain bound to the death that resides in the past? How long, Beloveds? It’s time to live again!

I pray today’s Reflections will bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. God has something mighty special for you, Beloved. He has much to give to you today and each day that follows if you will allow Him to. Let this week be a week of revelation to your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the breath of God to breathe into every area of your life you have given up on, and thought was dead.

I had the opportunity to read a wonderful word of prophecy using the Scripture on, “Dry Bones”, in the book of Ezekiel. It resonated so deeply with my soul that I should have recognized it was preparing me for something to come. That, it was also a reminder of what God wanted me to do.

I cannot lie—I have experienced disappointment after disappointment, which I am certain many of you have, as well. So much pain, hurt, loss, strife. I know it has only been by the grace of God that I am still here. That I am alive. But that’s the blessing and the curse: to be alive but not living. Oh, Beloved, you cannot possibly begin to fathom how much that hurts me to say. But I cannot and will never lie to you. I will never write you something that I have not or am not dealing with, or God has not ordained for me to share. Ezekiel 37 was burning in my heart and soul. I could not sleep because my mind was overcome and heavy from things that not only that day but a culmination of years.

Everything came crashing down on me, heavy upon my heart and mind. I literally felt its weight in my chest and on my shoulders. Like a boulder was on top of me, trapping me, pinning me to the bed while my heartache increased and the tears began to flow and I cried out to God like I have not done in a very long while. Yes. I pray. Everyday. Every night. I pray for others. Yet, I openly admit the prayers for myself have been lack. More on a repeat button that could be recited in my sleep. That’s not God. Nor is that what He wants for us. He doesn’t want us to just be alive, living day to day like a program we are completing. To be alive but not present. Harboring and holding onto hurts from the past. Stuck in a place where no matter how much you work or achieve something, there is no joy. The Father doesn’t just want us alive, He wants us to live. Living life to the fullest. Living our purpose, fulfilling our dreams and visions.

God is well aware of our trials and tests. He is well acquainted with our griefs and our scars that seem to hold us hostage. He is well aware of our valley of dry bones where our dreams and visions and spirit of hope lie dormant. They’re not dead. They lie dormant waiting for us to speak the word of God over them. Waiting for us to speak life into them once again. Waiting for us to remember them, seek them, see them, believe in them once again.

Oh, Beloveds, there is a valley full of our hopes and dreams, our plans and visions that we have subconsciously given up on. That, we have allowed—for whatever reason—to dry up and not be vital any longer. The reasons really no longer matter. It is the past now. All of it can be behind us if we let it. We have right now, Beloved. Today. The gift of the present. Though God has plans for our future. Though we may see the future; all we really have is right here and right now. And what we do and believe about today will profoundly affect what occurs or does not occur tomorrow.

It is time to live again. It is time to be present and actively living. If you want to be healed, to be made whole, to give and receive the best, to walk in the sure promises of God, then we are going to have to live again, and not just be alive. And be willing to be vulnerable with a teachable spirit, with God guarding your heart.

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You, for another day of life. Not just to be alive, but to be living, on purpose with purpose. Father God, there are many of us that have suffered so much heartache and pain recently. We have suffered so much that we have allowed our hopes and dreams and visions to fall asleep. To lay dormant amongst the valley of dry bones. Today, Lord, I humbly come before you and ask for your breath of life. For you to breathe into those dry and dead places in our lives that we thought were gone. Yes, Lord, we gave up. Some of us gave up and didn’t recognize it. We have just been alive but not living. We have allowed our past, people, things, and hurts and disappointments to stop us from reaching, believing, and living the life you have ordained for us. No more, Father. No more lack will we accept in our lives. No more will we be satisfied with just being alive. No, Father. We desire to live. We desire to be made whole, spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. Lord, we speak to the dry bones in our lives. We speak to our forgotten dreams and visions. We speak to our bodies, our minds, and souls, and we command them to live, in Jesus’ name. We thank You, Lord, for breathing life into our dry bones. We thank You, for Your hand upon us, as You fulfill our promises in our lives. We are here, Lord. We give our heart and soul to You. We place our trust in You; even when we can’t trace you. In Jesus’ name, we pray and stand in agreement with. Amen. Amen. Amen.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. It’s time to speak to our dry bones. It’s time to tell them to live once again, so we can be alive and living in our purposes and blessings. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021
. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Impactful Lasting Impressions"

 Reflections4Life™ June 6, 2021

“Impactful Lasting  Impressions”

“The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.” Proverbs 20:7

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 20; 1 Kings 9; Job 2; 9; Psalm 7; 25; 26; Proverbs 11; 19…

If your last breath were taken today, what kind of a lasting impression would you leave behind? What would be your legacy? What would people say about you? What would you be remembered for? Whether we know it or not—positive or negative—we leave an impact upon the people we come across each day, having a lasting impression.

I decree today’s Reflections will bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I pray it is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. May your intimate time with our Creator bring revelation, encouragement, and inspiration to your heart and soul. Allow God’s impact on your life to filter into your relationships; leaving dynamic and long-lasting impressions of grace, mercy, and love.

We leave lasting impressions wherever we go; intentional or not. Some leave a lot to be desired. Some leave forgettable impressions. While others are unforgettable, leaving long-lasting impressions that have a continuous impact on the lives of others. Some for the better. Some for the worse.

What will your impact be? What kind of impression will you leave behind? Will it be an impactful one that brings about fond memories and lessons that are still inspiring others long after you are gone? Or, will it be one of caution—lessons on how NOT to be?

I desire to leave a legacy that will continue to impact lives for generations to come. I am not just living for today. I am living for eternity. I want those who hear my name, see and read my work long after I am gone, to be so impacted that their lives are changed forever, for the good. That, they are encouraged and inspired to be and do their very best; encouraged to go on and give their best, even when they feel discouraged. To know and understand they are in this world not just for self, but to serve one another. To love each other.

How many people in your life have had that kind of a lasting impression on your life? What kind of impact have they made in the way in which you live your life? I have a few people who have had that kind of impact on my life. My Grams was one of those persons.

Yesterday would have been my Grams's 89^th birthday. It is still hard for me to believe that she has been gone from this earth for nineteen years. It still sometimes feels like yesterday. Yet, she still remains to have a profound influence over my life; over the decisions that I make; an impact on how I see things and interact with certain people. Her impact on my family’s life stretches far and wide. I can honestly say that she left an unforgettable legacy. A legacy that continues to impact the lives of not only my immediate family, but those we come in contact with, have relationships with, and those my Gram herself mentored and mothered.

If I only have a tenth of the kind of impact she has had on the lives of so many—then I will be satisfied with the life that I have lived. My Grams left a legacy rich in love, kindness, forgiveness, and generosity. If you were to ask me what the greatest lesson she ever taught was; I’d have to say it was how to give. To give unconditionally, unselfishly, and unbegrudgingly. Whether it was advice, food, clothes, time, her listening ear, advice, a haircut, or her unconditional love—your life was never the same afterward. Her legacy lives on in her children and her grandchildren, and even her great-grandchildren. We are an extension of her. Who she was, what she believed, and what she loved lives on through us. That is the kind of impactful, lasting impression that I aspire to in my life.  

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. What will your legacy be? What kind of a lasting impression are you making while walking this earth? What will people say of you? What will they remember? Aspire to be the kind of person that leaves people yearning for your presence, basking in the light of your memory, and gleaning from your legacy. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Bound"

 Refelections4Life™ May 30, 2021

“Bound”

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound…” Isaiah 61:1

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 39; 40; Psalm 68; Isaiah 61; Mark 5; Luke 13; Romans 8…

I know you want to be free. I know in my heart of hearts that you do not want to continue in a cycle of pain, hurt, anger, and disappointment. I know this because God tells me so. I know this because of your actions. I know this because of the words you have spoken, and the heartache I hear in your voice, along with the hurt I see in your eyes. You have been bound long enough, Beloved. It is time to be free. And it is up to you—to not free yourself—but to accept your freedom.

I decree, today’s Reflections, will bring comfort and peace to your heart, mind, and soul. I pray it is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Let this be the week that all doubts are eradicated, and your faith stirred up, as you stand upon the word of God and His promises to you, and you accept and walk in your freedom; letting every bondage be broken once and for all.

Far too many of us are bound by our past. Bound by the words that someone else has spoken over our lives. We are bound by our sins and the sins of our fathers and mothers. It is like a perpetual curse that leaps from generation to generation seeking to destroy the very seed of a family until we have utterly given up on God and never knew that we once had a relationship with Him.

We are bound by the things that have happened to us. The thoughtlessness and unconcern that others have shown toward us in our lives. The pain and heartache inflicted upon us by those who said they loved us, and those that were supposed to love us. It has caused us to be bound to a time, place, and situation; not really knowing how to become free. How to move forward and walk in the life that God has ordained and promise us.

It is not easy to let go of a past. Especially when that particular past is all you have ever known. How do we recognize and know genuine love? How do we know that the love of God is sincere and true and everlasting? The truth is, we really do not know until we are in the midst of it. It takes faith and it takes time. It takes for us to be vulnerable at least one more time.

Beloved, there is nothing more that God desires than to see you happy, flourishing, and basking in His love for you each and every day. But it’s going to take a leap of faith on your part after being hurt and disappointed so many times. But I can promise you this—from my own experience—when you allow God into those secret places; the places in your heart and soul that you have not allowed anyone else into—sometimes not even yourself—God will come in and rescue you. He will soothe you, heal you, and give you hope for each and every day moving forward.

Is it easy? Nope. Not at all. Trust never is. But God loves you more than you will ever know. He has already sent His Son to die on our behalf. He has already opened up doors that are just waiting for us to walk through. Yet, to partake in this; to receive the full benefits of what God is offering—we are going to need to have a little bit of faith. All that is needed to see a change in our lives is faith the size of a mustard seed. To believe; even if it’s just that small.

I know it is scary. I know that you have been hurt and disappointed many times. But I know that God has what you need. I promise you: God knows your heart and knows exactly how to take care of you. Take this leap of faith, and be free from the shackles that have tied your hands and your life. There is nothing too hard for God.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. You do not have to fight to free yourself. God did it for you. You just have to claim your victory. Walk-in your freedom and the promises that God has made for your life. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Child-like Faith"

 Reflections4Life™ May 23, 2021

“Child-like Faith”

“And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:2, 3

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 6; 8; 18; John 20; Acts 6; 1 Thessalonians 3; Hebrews 11…

In all honesty, there is nothing more exciting and endearing to my heart than a child that is filled with hope and belief. In the beginning, a child will believe whatever you tell them as fact. They won’t question why, but take your word that what you say is true. They believe in their parents. They look to them to take care of them in every way.  For a child under seven, it takes a whole lot to believe contrary to what has been spoken to them as truth. They have faith in those they love. Blind faith. And that is the kind of faith that God desires from us.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. In your quiet time this week with our Creator, let God reveal to you the truth about what is hidden in your heart. Allow Him to purge all doubt, fear, and unbelief, and grant you the gift of faith.

There is nothing you could have ever told me as a little girl that would have me doubt anything my parents told me; especially my father. And yes, I was emphatically, unequivocally, without a shadow of a doubt, a Daddy’s girl! LOL Whatever my father said, I believed him. In my eyes, the Sun rose and set at my father’s behest. Though flawed, he was perfect in my eyes, and I believed everything he ever spoke to me. I had complete faith and trust in him. I was totally devoted.

How many of us can say that about any relationship we may be in at this time? Do we have that kind of trust and faith in our loved ones? Do we have that kind of faith in God and His word spoken to us? When you think of your relationship with the heavenly Father, what stands out the most? Do you have faith in Him? Do you have that child-like faith, that regardless of whom or what, you will continue to believe in the word and promises of God?

Beloved. This is the kind of faith that God desires from us: child-like faith. There is no wrong in asking God questions; asking Him, why. There is, however, a problem when we cannot have faith in Him. When we cannot have that complete trust in Him. Though it may hurt the heart of God, we are the ones to suffer from not believing. How can we possibly receive what God has ordained for us if we do not believe in what He has spoken to us?

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Yes. There have been many delays, setbacks, and heavy things that have shaken our faith. But never lose faith. Never stop hoping. Hope is the very substance that faith is made of. Be tenacious, like a child who is relentless is asking their parent for that thing they want so much. Do not give up on the promises of God. Be like that child, and have faith that your Father will do just what He said. And Beloved? He is. Just wait and see! You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"We All Have a Past"

 Reflections4Life™  May 16, 2021

“We All Have a Past”

“Remember ye, not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?” Isaiah 43:18-19a

Scripture Contemplation: Ecclesiastes 1; Isaiah 41; 43; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelation 24:1…

There is not one of us; one adult person walking this earth that does not have a past. Whether it was a good one, a bad one, an exciting one, or a boring one is of no consequence. The fact remains that we all have a past, and no matter what people believe, we must all one day—whether here on earth or in heaven—bow down and confess that Jesus is Lord. But still make no mistake; we all have a past; a past that affects how we live, interact, and communicate with others today.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. While you are working towards building a great life for yourself, do not be ashamed of where you come from or what you went through. Allow God to turn your life into a testimony for His glory, and teach you how to let the sometimes hurtful words of others roll right off your back, as you walk with your head held high.

We all a have a past, Beloved. Every adult walking this earth has a past. Whether they are proud of it, ashamed of it, scarred and fearful of it—every one of us has a past. Some of us would like to forget our past and act like it never happened. We make up stories to help us to forget; to cover the hurt, pain, and even the shame it may have caused.

Regardless to whom or what, our past has truly created a foundation for who we are today. It has shaped our beliefs, influenced our desires, and even dictates who we are in a relationship with. There is no one who can say that their past has not had an impact on their today.

So, no matter how many times someone comes after you, judging you for your past, and you conduct your life now; it stands to reason that something in their past has also created them to be the hazmat they are currently being.

Romans 14:13 “Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.”

Here is the wonderful and awesome news, Beloved: our past may shape us, but it does not define us. Our past is a part of us, but it is not who we are. We decide who and what we are. We determine our path in life. We define who we are once we come to a place of recognition and understand who and whose we are.

There is a precious gift before us that goes hand and hand with the awesome gift of life we receive each time we are granted breath into our bodies. This precious gift is called “Today”. The heavenly Father has gifted us the present. To walk in a new light. To become whomever we decide to become. To surround ourselves with like-minded people. To reach for the stars and actually grab a hold of them. The possibilities are endless.

We do not have to be held hostage to our past or its chains of restriction, hurt, pain, and emptiness. Not when God has forgiven us, blessed us, freed us, and placed opportunities before us. We cannot allow anyone—no matter who it may be—to deter us or keep us from receiving everything God has ordained for us today.

Sometimes we have to forget our past (remember the lessons!) in order to see and embrace our future. And sometimes this requires us to leave some people, places, and things behind. In order for some of us to truly let go, and embrace a fresh start, we have to remove ourselves and possibly start all over. But aren’t you worth it, Beloved? Are not you worth the greatness and the love that God has waiting just for you?

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Don’t allow anyone to rob you of what God has ordained for you. We all have a past; even our accusers and judges. Pray for them and move on. Move on in the knowledge that even though you have the past, God has already granted you a future. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"God's Reflection"

 Reflections4Life™  May 9, 2021

“God’s Reflection”

“And I will bless her and also give you a son by her; then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.” Genesis 17:16

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 3; 17; Psalm 22; 139; Proverbs 31; John 19; Ephesians 6…

I want to take the time to wish each and every woman a Happy Mother's Day. Whether they are your children biologically, through marriage, adoption, foster care, that special auntie, or through mentoring; We celebrate you.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. There is no greater love than the love that God has for His creation. Allow God to show you how to love. How to be love. How to walk in love. If there were any two things this world needs, it would be the sincere love of a parent and the anointing love of God.

I couldn't share any roses with my Mom today or fix her a breakfast fit for a Queen. I couldn’t do the things I normally would do today. But I can recall the love of my Mom. The love that bursts through the core of her very being, spilling into the lives of every person she touched. She mothered way more than her biological children and was called mother by many. I don't have biological children...yet. I can only pray that I would walk in my mother’s path and be God’s reflection upon this earth.

There is something so precious and awe-inspiring about how God created a woman. How He wrapped her in strength, grace, beauty, and love. If you want to know what the love of God looks like, then look at a mother who fiercely loves her children. I believe with all my heart that a mother's love is a reflection of God's love for us. Never underestimate how far a mother would go to protect her child.

Life can be difficult at times, but it is nothing that a mother cannot handle and make it seem like it's just another day. There is life in a mother. The kind of life that gives life restores life and sustains life. There is a purpose in every action. There is indeed power in this kind of love.

Motherhood comes in different shades and forms. It is an on-the-job training kind of deal. No matter how many books you read or how much advice you seek, nothing prepares you for love and life like motherhood.

Motherhood is boot camp for life. Every mother worth her weight should be deemed a superhero. God indeed blessed women with the gift of motherhood to remind them of their place in Eden. To remind her daily of the infinite and unyielding love of God for His creation.

 My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Relish in this not just today but every day. Celebrate the mothers in your life. And just know; if you ever question how much God loves you? Then just look at a mother who loves and fights for her child. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Do Not Allow Yesterday Destroy Today"

 Reflections4Life™ May 2, 2021

“Do Not Allow Yesterday Destroy Today”

“Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19

Scripture Contemplation: Job 11; Psalm 90; Isaiah 43; 48; 2 Corinthians 5; Revelation 21…

It is a brand new day with brand new opportunities. And if you are reading this, it means you are alive and well enough to know and understand just how blessed and fortunate you are.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Allow God the opportunity to mend your heart and wash away the remnants of the past that try to hold you hostage. Instead, look at the goodness of God and how He brought you through.

Certainly, we all may not be experiencing the same thing. Some may have more trouble than others; more heartaches and trials. But you are here, in the land of the living with an opportunity to change things for the better. Even if it's just changing your mind. That is a huge step.

So many of us have been through hell and back. Our "yesterdays" probably read like either, a horror or tragic life story. But here you are in "today" with the opportunity to begin again; to start over.

Do not, Beloved, allow the heartache, disappointments, and hurts of yesterday to destroy your today. Do not dwell so much on the past that you are blinded to today. Do not let the lies and heartbreak of previous relationships destroy the growth and love and new possibilities of new relationships. Don't judge those in today solely upon what someone did yesterday. And most importantly: Don't allow yourself to linger on what you could have or should have done. No. Shake it off. Learn the lessons needed. Grow from it and move forward in your present. God has far too much greatness waiting for you to walk in and experience for you to allow a yesterday you cannot change to destroy a today that holds nothing but promise. You are blessed. Walk-in it.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Know this: You cannot fully embrace what God has for you today when you have a firm grip on what hurt and nearly destroyed you yesterday. Release it all. Let it all go and allow God to replenish your heart, mind, and soul. You deserve all that God has ordained for you, and not one thing less. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"When God Approves"

 Reflections4Life™ April 25, 2021

“When God Approves”

“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 17; Exodus 3; 1 Samuel 16; Jonah 1; Luke 6; John 3…

There is a way in which God sees each and every one of us. A way that no man can ever. When we enter into an intimate relationship with our Creator, we will understand His approval, where man has consistently denied and rejected.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Truly spend some quality, intimate time with the Father. There are things He desires to share with you. Things that He has specifically chosen for the one He approves of.

There are many of us that spend a lot of time seeking the approval of those around us. We turn ourselves inside out just to be accepted. We seek their permission to walk in the dreams and visions that God has given us. We seek their advice and approval even though God has already spoken yes.

What is it? What is it that has us dismissive of what God has spoken, only to be crushed and suffer the sting of rejection from those we sought approval from? What is it that causes so many to see only the surface of things and not the heart?

Grant it; it feels great when you get the approval of those that you love and care about. It is a wonderful feeling to know that those who you love and care about have your back, and can see the vision you have. But what is not wonderful, is when we place a higher value on their approval and acceptance than we do for the word of God.

Are we that scared of rejection that we would forfeit the blessings of God just for the approval of those who say they love us or have the best for us? Yes. Some of us are scared. Scared to be rejected. Scared to be left alone and or abandoned. And there are those who can only see the surface of things; what things appear to be. Things in the physical and present sense only.

We fail to realize is that we have given away our power, our happiness, our peace of mind to those who either do not understand us, love us, or can see what God sees about us. And there are those of us who are consistently blind to what is important to God by only focusing on the physicality and the here and now.

At the end of the day, when all is said and done, all we need is the approval of God. And should we gain the support and approval of those we love, then it's all gravy. But make no mistake; even those we love can be blind to who we are and what God has called for our lives.

When we receive God's approval, there will be opposition from others. From those we love, work with, live with, etcetera. That's when we need to ask ourselves: Whose opinion is most important? Whose approval will dictate our next move? Who have we truly been listening to?

I don't know about you, but I do know that God has a proven track record. If we truly desire to walk in the assurances of the Highest, we need to continually lay it all on the line and trust God to teach us what we need to do and lead us where we need to go. And most of all: Listen and Follow. Listen and follow to what God has spoken in spite of what those around us may think or believe. Have courage and stay the course even if we’re the only one on it.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. When God approves, that is all that needed. All else will fall into line. Do not judge and see only with the natural eyes, but see through God’s lenses. His vision is crystal clear. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.