Reflections4Life: "Be Free"

Reflections4Life June 29^th, 2014

“Be Free”

“Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.” Galatians 5:1 (MSG)

Scripture Contemplation: 2 Samuel 12:7-12; Isaiah 8:11-15; Isaiah 58; 1 Corinthians 7:32-35; James 1:25; 2:12-13...

In as much as we experience in this life, we may often find ourselves feeling bound, trapped, overwhelmed, and seeking a way of escape. Yet, many of the things that bind us begins with the choices that we make. God desires for us to be free. Be free from every hindrance. Free from the heartaches. Free from every chain and yoke that keeps us from living the life He has ordained for us.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Be free from those things that have taken hold of your life. Let go of the things that God has been long telling you to release. May this be the week that you heed the voice of the Lord and let go; experiencing a freedom like never before.

Why do we hold onto things? Why do we hold on to grudges? Unforgiveness? Bitterness? Anger? Why do we allow ourselves to be bound with the cares of this world and not relish in the freedom that God has granted us to live in each and every day? I gather, old habits die hard.

It's time for you to live a life that is free. The Father wants you to be free; to walk in the freedom that He has already granted you. Free from the pain and hurt of your past. Free from past mistakes and failure. He desires for you to live a life that is full of love and peace, with a renewed mind and strengthened heart. There is no joy or peace in continually looking backwards. Only heartache, pain, and regrets. In order to move forward we must learn to let go.

Isaiah 61:2-4 (MSG) “...He sent me to preach good news to the poor, heal the heartbroken, Announce freedom to all captives, pardon all prisoners. God sent me to announce the year of his grace— a celebration of God’s destruction of our enemies— and to comfort all who mourn, To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion, give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes, Messages of joy instead of news of doom, a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.”

So many of us have been fighting ourselves. We have been fighting the goodness of God in our lives because we are having a difficult time forgiving ourselves for the mistakes we have made; for the sometime poor choices we make, and the failures. We have not allowed ourselves to move forward in our lives because we are too busy condemning ourselves where God has already forgiven us and made a way of escape.

We cannot see the way of escape or walk in forgiveness, because we have and are spending too much time visiting the past, beating up on ourselves, and allowing the enemy to run rip-shod through our lives and our mental. We have allowed the enemy a place within our thoughts, our minds, without bothering to kick him out and denounce his lies. Instead, we have meditated on what he has said; allowed him to use our past and failures against us, until our mind is befuddled, and our hearts grieved, and we are unable to see the plan of God or accept what He says is ours. It is time to put the enemy in his place. To use the authority that God has give us.

God says...

Luke 10:19 “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you”

Roman 12:2 “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

2 Corinthians 10:3-6 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

We are free, Beloveds. Free in Jesus, with every power and authority given to us by the Father to live a life that is free from those things in our past. To, live a life that does not have to be overwhelmed by our daily activities and commitments. We can be free in every area of our lives when we put the Father first, and seek His counsel in all that we do. What's the saying so many have adopted? No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. It is that simple.

Use what the Father has given you to remind the enemy that he has already been defeated. That, he lost a long time ago when Christ was victorious on the Cross and rose again, and ascended. Renew your mind daily. Think on the things of Christ. Pull down every stronghold, and cast out every evil thought and imagination. Walk in your authority. Speak what God says of you. Declare and decree what God has already declared and decreed concerning you! And if the enemy still wants to mess with you, throwing your past and mistakes at you, just remind him of his definite future...

Revelation 20:10 “The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”

Be free beloved. Be free in the love and grace of God. Cast all your cares upon Him, and let Him be Lord over your every day. Yield to Him, and walk in His anointing and freedom.

I'M FREE, PRAISE THE LO-RD,

I'M FREE

NO LONGER BOUND,

NO MORE CHAINS HOLDING ME

MY SOUL IS RESTING

IT'S SUCH A BLESSING

PRAISE THE LORD

HALLELUJAH, I'M FREE

(Milton Brunson)

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in every area of your lives. Be free. Walk in the freedom that the blood of Jesus has afforded you. Walk in the truth of God that He has spoken concerning you. Do not allow your past, any mistakes or failures to hold you back from walking in the life that God says is yours. And when the enemy comes knocking at your door (and he will!) Remember to let Jesus answer it, as you speak the word of God into your life and the atmosphere, while pulling down every stronghold that would try and keep you bound. You are the one with the power, not the enemy. He's already been defeated; remember? You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Unspeakable Pain"

Reflections4Life June 22^nd, 2014

“Unspeakable Pain”

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 5:4; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 18:2, 28; Psalm 27:4-5; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Lamentations 3:31-33;1 Peter 1:3-9; John 14:1-4; Revelation 21:4...

There are times when our hearts just hurt so bad, we do not know if or how we will ever recover. The pain coursing through our soul can feel restricting; binding us up in heartache and pain until it feels like we will crumble and perhaps even perish under the weight of it all.

It is unspeakable pain. The kind of pain that you have no words for. The kind of pain that cannot ever be properly describe, because the hurt and pain is so deep and jarring, that it not only leaves you speechless, it renders you incapable of thinking of most anything else. What do you do with this kind of pain? This kind of grief? You give it to God. Sounds to easy. Yet, the answer will always be to give it to Jesus. Because, He, better than any other knows exactly what you need to make it through.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Though the pain you may be experiencing at this current moment seems unbearable; though it may seem like it will never go away; trust God to be the arms you run to. Trust the Father to console you, and give your heart rest in the midst of the storm. He will never fail you. He knows just what you need.

Matthew 5:4 (MSG) “You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.”

Psalm 27:4-5 (NASB) One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek:That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to meditate in His temple. For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.

God is able too take you through all and everything that comes at you in this life. When the pain is so heavy and seems unbearable, do not count God out of the equation. He is able to bring you through. He is able to keep you and cover you. He is able to soothe you, and comfort you as no other. He knows you. He knows your heart. He knows what you need. Even when you feel what you need the most you have just lost, or are losing. God is able to take your pain and make sense of it. It may not be today, tomorrow, or a month or year from now. But you will receive understanding, and look back at this moment in your life, and know what it is you needed to learn and receive through the unspeakable pain.

Pain can be crippling, and it can also be liberating. Pain can propel us into action. It all depends upon how we deal with pain in our lives. There was a time when I used pain to propel me further in my life. I would take the pain, and use it as energy and determination to do what I needed to do. Yet, there was only one thing I was doing wrong. I wasn't dealing with the pain. Although the pain stirred me to action, I put the cause of the pain in the back of my mind and didn't confront the hurt. I did not bring it to the Father so that it could be addressed and dealt with. I was short changing myself from having healing and comfort through it all; causing myself to become emotionally crippled. Unable to express what it was I was feeling inside. Unable to articulate what emotion I was feeling and why.

There are those who withdraw from the world and life in general when they face unspeakable pain. It is too much to bear. Too much to think about. And the pain is so heavy they are unable to deal with anything else in their lives. The pain is not only unspeakable, but unbearable, so they find themselves cutting themselves off from life. I found myself in this situation, as well. As I got older, and suffered so much loss and pain; I was on emotional overload, and pain overdose. It was just too much. And I battled with depression. I withdrew from the things I loved doing. My prayer life even suffered. I felt out of sorts all the time. And I knew if one more thing happened, I would die. That is how excruciating the pain was.

Yet, God was there through it all. He remains my anchor. What I learned, and now know for certain is that, we can get through all things; all pain and adversity, when we take it to God. No. Things don't just become all sunny and rosy. But we can have confidence in knowing that God is right there with us. We can have joy in the midst of sorrow if our focus shifts from the pain, to the Healer of the pain.

Allow the pain to propel you forward by, placing it all in God's hands and dealing with the source of the pain. Withdraw into the arms of God, but not from life. Yield to the Father, and allow Him to navigate the torrent of emotions and crippling pain that you may be currently facing, with the knowledge and understanding that God will see you through. That, He will not allow you to walk through this minefield of pain without being your Buffer, and your Soother; your Counselor in the times of trouble, bringing comfort and understanding to your soul. You just have to trust Him. Trust God to do what He does best: Love on you.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (MSG) “All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.”

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. No matter how deep the hurt. How unspeakable the pain. God will and can bring you through if you would trust Him to do so. Though it may seem like this pain will swallow you whole; know that it will not. It will make you stronger, and give you the wisdom to be the anchor for someone that will experience what you are going through now. Let the pain propel you, teach you, and strengthen you, by yielding to the Father. Allowing Him to bring you through this storm; being your anchor and your Healer. No One loves you more than God, or knows just what you need. You are Blessed. Now Go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Our Father"

Reflections4Life June 15^th, 2014

“Our Father”

“The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, And he who sires a wise son will be glad in him.” Proverbs 23:24

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16-17; 1 Kings 8; John 1;6:45-47; Romans 1:6-8; 2 Corinthians 1:1-3...

Happy Father's Day! I give honor to each and every father this day and every day. Thank you for all that you do. Thank you for your leadership, your support, your provision. May our heavenly Father bless the work of your hands to prosper and the dreams and visions in your heart to come to pass. Allow Him to lead you; especially in the most difficult of times. Believe in your heart that, God will never leave you but will lift you up and be your strength.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Let your heart be opened to Father God, as He desires to fill those empty places, and to bring you into to a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him.

It brings a certain kind of peace and calmness when you know and trusts that someone is protecting you. That, there is someone that is there to cover you, and to make sure that your needs are met, you are well provided for, is there for you to run to for shelter and safety. There is a peace in your soul and contentment in your heart when you know that you are not alone and that there is someone who will sacrifice all just to keep you safe. Who'd never give up on you or searching for you if you were ever lost.

Much like our earthly fathers, that is who our heavenly Father is, and so much more that cannot be put into words. We can take joy in the knowledge that God is our Father. Even if you've never had the kind of relationship with your earthly father, or you lost your father at a young age; God said, He is a Father to the fatherless. And He is there for you always. ALWAYS.

My earthly father did the best that he could do. His love was unconditional and never wavering. He encouraged me in so many ways. He was my first love and showed me what it means to be treated special and to be cherished. He was my first champion. He was the first one to believe in me and my dreams and told me I could and would achieve them because he knew I had it in me to do so. He was my best friend. And when he was taken away, I thought I'd die with him.

I didn't though. I lived. And I thrived because in addition to the love that my father showered me in; although he had his faults, his love propelled me forward, along with the love and care of my heavenly Father. My Savior. My Lord. My King. My Deity, now truly became my Father. My reflection of Him upon this earth was robbed from me, but He gave me Himself and along the way father figures upon this earth, who could physically embrace me and guide me. God never leaves us fatherless.

God wants to father us. To love us. To dote on us. To be there for all things concerning us. And yes...even to discipline us. Because, a good father knows that without discipline, there is destruction. Without discipline, we could never fully receive, or comprehend, or handle the bountifulness of the astounding awesomeness of the blessings of God!

A father should prepare you; lead, guide and instruct you in the ways of truth that will give you an expected end. Whether you had a father present in your life or not; regardless if you had a father that was good or bad; God says, He desires to be YOUR Father. To teach you and guide you, and prepare you for the inheritance that has been waiting for you.

The Bible tells us that a good father leaves an inheritance for their children. And it is not just speaking in terms of a monetary inheritance. He leaves an inheritance of integrity, of sound character, of love, of joy, of peace and of hope and faith.

Beloved, God wants to be our Father. He wants to bring us to an intimate place in Him, so that He may reveal to us the mysteries of His word, the joys of being in His presence, the abundance that comes from being showered in His love, the grace and peace that comes from His covering, the peace of knowing that He is always there and will never leave or forsake you. And that whatever you ask in Jesus' name, you can have if you believe.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. God our Father waits for you to yield to His touch; to answer His call and the knocking on the doors of your heart. Open up and let Him in. Let Him fill those empty places. Restore any damage, heal all the pain. Come to Him with all your heart so that He can fill you and love you the way only a Father could. You are so Blessed! Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "I Must Tell Jesus"

Reflections4Life June 8^th, 2014

“I Must Tell Jesus”

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

Scripture Contemplation: Exodus 6:5-8; Isaiah 58:6; Habakkuk 3:19; Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 15:1-3; Galatians 6:1-3...

There is so much that is going on in our lives today. So many burdens we are carrying that, God just wants us to release. Often, we are telling the wrong people our problems. We are looking to man when God is the only one who can help, and lead us in the right direction.

There is nothing wrong with seeking help from others. Nothing wrong with sharing your burdens with the ones you love. However, God desires to be first. The less we take it to Jesus and lay at His feet, the heavier our burden gets, the tighter the yoke feels, because though our loved ones may care, and have good suggestions and intentions, it will always be the Father that knows best.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Release your fears. Release your burdens. Cast them upon the Father. He knows just what to do. Let God be your first go to, and allow Him to lead you where you need to go. God cares for you. He loves you best.

I can't count the times my mouth has stayed shut because of the hurt that my heart has felt. I am not one to tell my burdens and my problems to anyone. I am not the one to get on a phone or email what hardships or heartaches I may be experiencing at the time. I am a hoarder of my emotions. Very seldom do I let that dam break, allowing my emotions and heartache to flow. Usually I will write the pain out. But, when I find my pen still, and my mouth remains closed; I know that I have shut down emotionally, and haven't even taken it to Jesus. And that, my beloveds, is not good. It is the worst thing that I could do.

Many times, pain and hurt will cause you to lash out or withdraw. I seldom lash out, but I will withdraw very quickly. Hiding myself, my emotions. And if I am not careful, limiting my time in the presence of God. And that is exactly what the enemy wants: to separate us from God. For us to keep our mouths and hearts closed to the Father; concentrating on the hurt and pain until we are locked in a perpetual state of hurt, becoming acclimated to the pain; diving headlong into a spirit of self-pity and angst, until we can no longer hear the voice of God, recognize who we are, and become so depressed that we stop living and stop believing; stop having faith in God.

There is only one solution to this: We must tell Jesus. Sure, it may sound so simple; so easy. And the truth of it is: It really is just that easy as telling Jesus what's going on. Casting all your cares and concerns at His feet. The hard part will be to leave it there. To trust Him to take care of it. But, it is very easy to open our mouths. Because no matter what you may think, believe, or have heard; God is always there. He is always present to hear our requests, to take upon Himself our burdens. To, lead in the direction we should go. To, lead us to the right people that can assist us in our times of need.

Here's what I know for certain: When my heart is overwhelmed, and I feel the walls closing in on me, my first instinct is to shut down—emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually. Every part of me desires to be numb; to not “feel” anything. But not feeling is not living. It is a false state of being. Going numb only prolongs what it is that we need to face and deal with. Problems do not go away or get solved by shutting down our emotions or our mind. They grow, until it consumes us, and every thing we do, every single moment of our lives. But when I released it to Jesus. Told Him all of it. Confessed to Him everything; every hurt, pain, disappointment, heartache; I felt a lightness in my chest. I felt warm in my soul once again. No. Things did not get better immediately, but over time. And with each moment spent in the presence of God, my burden became lighter. The chains wrapped around my heart and spirit, lifted. When I dared to praise God, though my flesh said it couldn't; the blessings of peace and calmness surely did come down.

I implore you to tell Jesus all of it. Pour out your heart and soul. Lay it at His feet. He is there to carry your burdens. To take away that yoke of pain and heaviness. We hold onto things, and carry things that we do not have to. We take on the problems of this world, and hold and nurture them as though they were our babies. Well, they're not. And it's time to let it all go. Tell it all to Jesus, and let Him take over.

I must tell Jesus all of my trials,

I cannot bear these burdens alone;

In my distress He kindly will help me,

He ever loves and cares for His own.

Refrain:

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

I cannot bear my burdens alone;

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.

I must tell Jesus all of my troubles,

He is a kind, compassionate Friend;

If I but ask Him He will deliver,

Make of my troubles quickly an end.

Tempted and tried I need a great Savior,

One who can help my burdens to bear;

I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus:

He all my cares and sorrows will share.

What must I do when worldliness calls me?

What must I do when tempted to sin?

I must tell Jesus, and He will help me

Over the world the vict’ry to win.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Tell it to Jesus. Lay it all on the line. Do not hold onto all that pain and hurt. Release those burdens into the Father's capable hands. Do not allow yourself to become so overwhelmed, that you cannot see or take the hand of God that He has stretched forth towards you. He loves you more than you know. And there is nothing to difficult for the Father to take on. Not when it comes to you! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "So Much More Than You Thought"

Reflections4Life  June 1^st, 2014

“So Much More Than You Thought”

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 33; Isaiah 55; Jeremiah 23; 29; Micah 4:12; Romans 11:33…

Every situation in our life brings another revelation of who God is, and who we truly are. Our trials and tests are not meant to destroy us, but shape us into the children and friends of God. To bring us to that expected end.

Our thoughts about God have been shaped more by what we have been shown or taught, whether than what we have learned through a personal relationship with the Heavenly Father. God is so much more than we thought. We can only come to know this, if we are first willing to get to know the Father for ourselves, rather than just rely upon what another person has stated or taught us.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May you be inspired to seek a more personal and intimate relationship with the Father, allowing Him to reveal Himself to you in a whole new light. May you encounter a personal revelation of our true God for yourself.

I would often tell my husband that, one could tell you about Jesus. They could teach you about the Word and about being a believer. They could even share their personal testimony. However, there is nothing more powerful than a personal encounter with God. Nothing more solid and confirming as revelation received on a personal level. Because, when God gives you something personal, between you and Him; when He reveals Himself, no one can take that from you. You will know for self the majesty of the Holy God. And no one will be able to easily persuade you from your firsthand account.

Many of us are lacking a firsthand account in relation to God. We have relied upon what others have told us. We have been living vicariously through the testimony of others. Some of us have been satisfied with the relationship that our parents and grandparents have had with the Father, and assume that because they pray for us, and believe God so strongly, that by some divine osmosis, that is good enough for us to make it into heaven also.

It doesn’t work that way. Though the effective and fervent prayers of the righteous avails much; it does not make us saved or guarantee our eternity with the Father. Only a personal relationship with the Father gives us that guarantee. Believing in Christ and accepting Him as our Savior will usher us into an eternity with the Father.

I heard a couple of things this week that had me chuckling at first, then growing sad, then a bit angry. Yes. I went through the gambit of emotions; especially when I realized how many believe such crap concerning not just Christianity, but any religion. But more precisely, the notion of what a personal relationship with Christ entails. In the end, sadness remained as the anger dissipated.

It is a widespread thought, and belief, amongst many (not just young people either) that a relationship with the Father is boring. That, you have to give up so much for God and have to live such an uneventful and rigid life. That, there is no fun in Christ. I’m shaking my head right now. How far from the mark so many are when it comes to the knowledge of who God is, and what a relationship with the Father is truly like.

It is sad that so many do not see how liberating and exciting a relationship with the Father sincerely is. But, as I thought of the misperception, I couldn’t help but to lay part of the blame at the feet of those who call themselves a Christian and have been such poor examples of the love of Christ and what a relationship with God looks like.

Then I thought about it some more. They themselves do not know. For many of them are only living a life that they were taught to live. For many, a relationship with Christ is symbolic and fraught with much tradition and ritualism. There is nothing personal or liberating about their relationship with the Father. And if that was the only example that I had about what a relationship with God was, I’d probably think and be the same way. How utterly sad.

On the other end of the spectrum, you have those who have poorly represented Christ by living a life that is carnal. There is no difference between their saved and unsaved lives. Leaders who have been caught in lascivious actions, under shepherds fleecing the flock, those claiming to believe living a duplicitous life; having questionable behaviors. All of this leads to the misconception of who God is.

God is so much more than we than we think. He is much less complicated than the world has painted Him to be. Less judging than the church has warned. Yet, He is more loving, caring, and merciful than most would know unless they get to know Him for self. Yes. He is not a pushover. Yes. He is a God of discipline and order. Yes. He will hold us in judgment (making us accountable for our actions). Yes. He requires us to live a life of righteousness and holiness. But, we can only know what is meant for us, and how we can live a personal life pleasing to God if we are in a personal, intimate relationship with the Father for ourselves. Just as we all have our own DNA, so does our relationship with the Father. We cannot just rely on someone else’s relationship or experience with God. We can be inspired and encouraged, but we must have our own personal relationship with the Father.

There will be times when it will seem as though God is not with you but against you. You will be stretched and pulled and buffeted, along with accused, persecuted and exposed. However, you will also be loved, adored, protected, covered, strengthened, and encouraged. In the end, you will come to know the Father in a way you cannot verbalize, but your life will exemplify. It is all a part of getting to know who God truly is, and who He has ordained you to be.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Now is the time to yield to the Father, and get to know Him for yourself. Your desire to know yourself and want more in this life begins with a personal and intimate relationship with the Father. Another person’s story cannot be your story, nor your legacy. It’s time for you to have your own, and to stand in the revelation of who God is to you. Get to know Him for yourself. There is much He has to give and reveal to you, which is just for you and no one else. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Reflections4Life: "Broken and Abused, But Still of Great Value"

Reflections4Life May 25^th, 2014

“Broken and Abused, But Still of Great Value”

“There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.” Philippians 1:6 (MSG)

Scripture Contemplation: Job 28; Proverbs 3; Isaiah 61; Jeremiah 29:11; Matthew 10...

Oh yes! Our lives can be like a Lifetime movie. The things we have endured. The pain and betrayals. The disappointments and hurt. Many of us have been abused, mistreated, broken, and deemed of no value. But God's love says otherwise. No matter what you have faced, gone through, or are facing at this moment; though you are broken and abused, you are still of great value.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the redemptive work of Calvary cover you today. Allow the healing to begin, so that you may receive all that God has ordained for you. And let no one tell you that you are worth the blessings and time of God.

When we go through something so heavy, we are left totally spent. The things we encounter in this life can leave us broken, and feeling as though there is no use for our lives. But this is so far from the truth. No matter what you have experienced in your life's journey, you can and will make it if you determine in your heart to keep moving forward.

No. Life is not always fair. Because people are not always fair. And not every person is good to us or for us. And there are times that our experiences in life will lead us down a path that is filled with heartache and ruin. Yet, no matter how far down we fall, or how low we get, or how far away from God we seem; as long as you can call upon the name of Jesus, you can be set free, and redemption can take place.

There is a primal urge within each of us to survive. To, fight and claw our way out of situation. However, sometimes the trials of this life can become so overwhelming that it dulls our senses to that instinct within us that tells us to fight. Many have given up because they feel as though their life no longer has any value. That, they are far too broken, have been abused so long, that there is no use for their lives. The devil is a lie! As long as God grants you the gift of life each day, you have an opportunity for things to get better. For God to show you, and for you to see and believe your true value.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Matthew 10:30-31 “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not, therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

No matter what this life's journey brings our way, we are worthy of the love and plans of God for our lives. We are of high value. We are precious in the sight of God. It doesn't matter what man says or does, it cannot change what God has spoken and decreed over our lives. And the only way we do not walk into the promises of God, is if we give up, stop believing, and shun what the Father has spoken concerning our lives.

Yes. When you are broken, have suffered abused, have been mistreated for almost your entire life, it is very hard to shake that mindset that you are of great value. That, God can use someone just like you. The truth of the matter is: You are exactly who God will use. Your value is immeasurable. Your heartaches, trials, tests, and tribulations are only to strengthen you for what God has for you. Here you are. Still living and holding on. You are here, not giving in to the enemy to end it all. Yes. I know he's been whispering. I know he has been planting seed of doubt, and trying to make you take your life. Beloved, you are stronger than that.

Though things may seem bleak at the moment, if you hold on, you will see the manifestations of the blessings of God in your life. You will get through. These hardships will pass. But you have to believe on the Father. You have to seek Him, and call unto Him, and keep fighting and speaking what God says of you.

Romans 8:28; 38-39 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose... For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Though the pain may still be there. Though the brokenness and abuse has left wounds so great; do not despair. Give it to God, and allow Him to lead you through this maze of life. Let His healing cover you. But in order for that to happen, you are going to have to confront what's in your heart. Stop hiding from the pain and your past. Bring it all forth and lay it at the alter. Not talking about it, doesn't make things better, it just exacerbates the problems and pain you have. Love yourself enough to take a chance; to take a leap of faith into God's hands.

I charge you with the task of fighting Beloved. I dare you to bear down, stand on the word of God, and believe what God says of you. Do not go by what it looks like. Do not look at your life's circumstances at the moment and make a determination of what tomorrow will be. See through the eyes of God. Believe what God says concerning you. You are of great value. Your life, no matter what you have gone through, is worth the very blood that Jesus Christ shed for you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity have found permanent rest in your lives. No matter what this life has thrown at you, it is still no match for the love and plans that God has for you. As long as there is breath in your body, you have the opportunity to see the plans of God for your life come to fruition. Your life experiences do not determine your value. God has already done that. And your value was set in stone the moment Christ paid the price and shed His blood for you so long ago. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Stagnated"

Reflections4Life  May 18, 2014

“Stagnated”

“And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9

Scripture Contemplation: Job 3; Psalm 69; Isaiah 40; Hebrew 6; Hebrew 12…

We work towards our goals. We continue to pray and believe God for His promises. We serve Him and others. We have a desire to do and be all that God has said of us. Then something happens. Time. Time passes by and you may not have seen the manifestations of your blessings. Time passes, and your prayers seem to hang in the air. Time goes on, and you find yourself stagnating. Stuck in a place that you don’t want to be in, but have become comfortable in.

Many have become stagnated in life. They’re not moving forward in their lives. Nothing is changing. And in the process of the stagnation, the heart is becoming hardened, and the soul is drowning. A decision must be made: stay stagnated or believe God again, and become liberated.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration to heart, mind, and soul. Though life seems to be at a standstill, look through the eyes of the Father. Take on the mind of Christ, and think on the things of God. Continue to do what God has called you to do. Even through the hard times, choose to praise Him, seek Him, and believe Him.

There are times that I have felt trapped. I have felt as though my life has come to a complete stop. And nothing that God had promised me was coming to pass. I’m doing what He asks me to do. I am believing, and having faith, but yet, everything seems to have come to a standstill, and I feel stuck. And when I felt that way, a spirit of weariness was not too far behind.

In thinking back, I had to question myself. Question my motives. Why was I doing all that I was doing? Was I doing it because I loved the Lord? Or, was I doing it just to get from God what I wanted? Did I serve God and others just to get recognized? Did I do it to puff myself up? Or did I do it sincerely from my heart just because I Love the Lord?

It is good to examine your motives; the reasons you do what you do. To do a heart check, and ask the Father to reveal to you your heart. Acclamations from others can become addictive. And if you are not in the presence of God and maintaining humility, it is very easy to become a people pleaser instead of a God pleaser and dream chaser.

My stagnation didn’t come from the need to please others or seeking recognition. No. It came when something I desired and has been promised did not come to pass when I thought it should. It came as a result of a broken heart. When those I love most, hurt me the deepest. I became depressed. And in my depression, I was on remote control status. Other parts of my life were going well. But my heart was not faring too great. The pain and disappointment together became impalpable, and I shut down emotionally. I took on more to occupy my mind so I couldn’t concentrate on the hurt and pain. I avoided the thoughts and inner dialogue and threw myself into work and evasion. Serving God but not hearing God. Hurting but not allowing Christ to heal me.

It is fairly easy to get caught up in the doings of God’s work and everyday tasks; to escape in it, allowing our personal, intimate time with the Father lapse, as we avoid what is hurting us. We continue to go until things in our lives become a ritual. We do it by remote. And the reasons we do what we do get lost in translation.

Before you realize it, you are in a stagnated place, wallowing in grief, sorrow, and unfilled dreams and promises. Not because God did not come through, but because somewhere along the path of your life’s journey, you were disappointed and hurt, and you gave up. You stopped believing.

This is what I’ve come to learn and know for certain: People can encourage you. Be it family, friends, Pastors, Ministers. But until you learn to encourage yourself, and discipline yourself in the ways and word of God, you will be on a repeat cycle. Yes. Disappointments happen. Yes. Life is not fair. But God is just and His favor is fair. Yes. You may experience a broken heart along the way (maybe a few times), but God will always be right there to mend it if you let Him. Yes. It will appear at times as though God is far away, and that your prayers are not being heard or answered. But in your heart you know it’s not true. You are going through a test, and the answers are already inside of you, and the Teacher is always quiet during a test. Yes. This may not be the first or last time you experience these feelings, this kind of hurt. But at the end of the test, you will have passed and be stronger, wiser, and prepared for your next level, if you do not give up.

Stagnation comes when we allow a part of us to give up. We get stuck in a place physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. Learn to encourage yourself each day. Spend that time in the presence of God. Meditate. Meditate in the word. Think of the promises of God and thank Him. Stop looking at the time. God is greater than time. He is outside of time. And whatever God has promised you, it will happen should you continue to believe and expect it.

Change your mind, change your life. Change your attitude, change your altitude. Sure; it may sound cliché or corny for some. But the simplicity of it all is true. What we think can and will eventually become what we believe in our hearts if we are not allowing God to guard our hearts, on to take on the mind of Christ and renewing our mind daily.

Make up in your mind today to be and do all that God has ordained for you, regardless of the journey it takes. It’s pretty hard to sway a made up mind. And if you are living with the mind of Christ, thinking on the things of God, believing in His word, seeking Him daily—your life will become a reflection of those things. Don’t go by what it looks like, but by what God has spoken.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Being stuck/stagnated is no longer an option when you realize and believe in your heart just how much God loves you and has for your life. Want Him more than anything, and God will give you more than what you asked for. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "One of God's Greatest Wonders"

Reflections4Life May 11^th, 2014

“One of God's Greatest Wonders”

“Therefore it came to pass, when the time had come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bore a son and called his name Samuel [that is, Asked of God], saying, “Because I have asked him of the Lord.” 1 Samuel 1:20

Scripture Contemplation: 1 Samuel 1;2; Lamentations 2; Mark 10; 1 Timothy 5...

Happy Mother's Day to each and every woman that has nurtured, loved, cared for, attended to children whether they were theirs biologically or not. I honor you this day and pray the blessings of God continue to manifest in your life. May your children rise up and call you blessed.

I sincerely believe that one of God's greatest wonders is not only the entire gestation process of pregnancy. (It fascinates me how a woman's womb can hold and sustain life with her body.) Birth is definitely a miracle, as is the mother's strength to endure labor. But also the heart and strength of a mother.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will continue to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Be encouraged in the word and promises of God. No matter where your life has taken you; what journey you started on; it will be God's strength and love that will see you through. You are a gift of God. Your presence on this earth is not an accident. It is a divine purpose.

If there is one thing that I long for most in this earth, it is to be a mother. To give birth. I can identify with Hannah. The ache and need in your heart and spirit so strong, that when you pray and cry out to the Lord, no words can come forth, because they're all being said from the deepest core of your spirit. Yes. I have mothered many children. I have loved and cherished each and everyone with no regrets. But like Hannah, I will believe in the promises of God, knowing that my blessings will soon manifest.

It is God-thing to see the heart and strength of a mother in action. That love that exudes forth from her soul for her children. There are some women who have given birth and are not mothers. They are far removed from what God intended. But so it is in the world. Thank God for the women that can step in and fill those gaps and tend to the wounds and broken spirits and hearts of those children that have been abandoned and abused.

There is nothing greater than a mother's love (other than that of our heavenly Father.) A mother's love can bring healing, comfort, strength, direction, correction, discipline, and inspiration. Lives are changed when a woman dares to love with such strength and abandonment. When, she loves from a place deep in her soul, and looks pass situations, circumstances, and parentage.

The moment you give your time and love to a child; whether or not they came from you—as a mother you are changing a life forever. You may never know the impact you have on the lives of a child that was under your influence. Sometimes, they grow up, move on, and live their lives. But rest assured, God knows. And He has taken account of every act of love you poured from your heart.

I had the fortunate opportunity of having women in my life that let me know just how powerful a mother's love could be. It shaped who I am, and who I desire to be as a mother. My mother and I have had our shares of ups and downs (as mothers and daughters often do!) But I knew from the beginning how strong my mother's love was for me and my brothers. Even as a foster mother and adoptive mother, she never held back. She is blessed, and I honor her for all she has done and is doing for me, even as a grown woman. (You never get too old to need your Mom!)

Proverbs 31:28-29 28 Her children rise up, and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praiseth her, saying:29 Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

I think of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how much strength she had to have to watch her son be crucified. Although she understood His deity, she was still a mother. A mother that carried him in her womb. That, nursed him, bathed him, watched him grow and become the Savior that God had called Him to be. What strength and fortitude it must have taken for her to know this was the reason he came, and that although He became her Savior, he was still her baby boy.

John 19:26 When Jesus, therefore, saw his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

And Jesus, loving her not just as God loves us, but as a son loves his mother. Touched with her every heartache, just as He is touched with our every infirmity; He looks to her and presents her to John, and John to her, to carry on that mother and son relationship. For it was just as important for Mary to have that relationship, as it was for John to have it too.

There is no way to truly explain what happens to your heart when you become a mother. And there really are no words to explain when you lose your mother or a mother loses a child. But, it is the love that will always be present. The strength of that love that keeps one going. For everyone that may have lost their mother, I extend my prayers and thoughts to you. Celebrate your Mom. For as long as you are on this earth, she will be present. Mothers who may have lost a child, you don't stop being a mother—your heart is too big and filled with love for that. I pray for your heart and speak life into you. And pray that you will be able to share that love with others who could benefit from a mother's love.

For My Mom

We didn’t always get along. Perhaps because, secretly, we

Are so much alike. You had hopes and dreams for yourself,

And then you had them for your children. You did the best you could

With all you had; and in my eyes, that was the best.

I always knew that I was loved, no matter what

The season was. You had regrets, many you might say,

But I look at God, and remember what He says:

The race is not given to the swift or strong;

but to those that endure to the end.

Endurance. That’s a word for you.

You taught me how to endure.

I know without a doubt, the love you hold for me.

Now I want the world

To know, the love I hold for you.

I love you with all I am, and I thank God for who I am.

Because He chose you to be my Mom.

And we all know, God knows all

And His mistakes are none.

Happy Mother’s Day Mom!

I love you!

One more day and going strong!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in every area of your life. May the grace of God continue to fill you and your hearts be filled with joy and laughter. There is something mighty special about the heart of a woman who can give and receive love. Whether a child is biological or not, it is one of God's greatest gift, to see a Mother's love in action. Happy Mother's Day! You are Blessed. Now Go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "God Sees You...But Can You See Him"

Reflections4Life May 4^th, 2014

“God Sees You...But Can You See Him?”

“She answered God by name, praying to the God who spoke to her, “You’re the God who sees me!“Yes! He saw me, and then I saw him!”Genesis 16:13 (MSG)

Scripture Contemplation: Deuteronomy 10; Psalm 34;40; Jeremiah 23; Luke 18; John 2; 1 John 3...

How many times have you cried out to the Lord, wondering if He sees what you are going through? How many times have you wondered if God even hears your prayers? It's quite hard to think rationally when you are in pain. It's is difficult to remember or even believe when your heart is hurting so bad. Because pain can be all consuming and debilitating. Hurt and pain can shut us down emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Yet, even in your pain; even amongst your hurt and questioning, always remember and hold onto the fact that God sees you. He not only sees and hears you but has answered. The question now is: can you see Him? Can you see Him in the midst of the hurt and pain? Because rest assure; God is there.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration to your heart, mind, and soul. Take rest in the fact that God sees you and has already answered. Let your heart and ears be open to the Lord, that you may see Him in the midst of your trials.

Psalm 34:17-19 (AMP)17 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their distress and troubles.18 The Lord is close to those who are of a broken heart and saves such as are crushed with sorrow for sin and are humbly and thoroughly penitent. 19 Many evils confront the [consistently] righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.

While going through our trials, it is quite easy to forget the love and magnificence of the Heavenly Father. Through pain and hurt and disappointments, it is easy to find ourselves questioning our faith, and who God is. And it definitely easy for our sight to obscured from seeing God right before us. To see God in the midst of our chaos. To, see God in the midst of the pain and suffering we may be experiencing.

God sees us. He hears us. And He has prepared a way for us. Everything you go through. Every trial, every heartache, every painful situation; God is right there. And not only is He there, He is delivering us out of it all. We just have to believe. We have to know in our hearts, see in our spirit, the promises and word of God.

This is why it is imperative to have the word of God hidden deep within your heart. So that, whenever you are going through something; whenever a situation arises that is so crushing that you don't even want to pick up the Bible; your heart, your spirit can draw from the well of the word that is hidden in your heart. Bringing you comfort and sight. A sight to see God in the midst of your darkest hours.

Psalm37:24-26 4 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholdeth him with His hand.25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging for bread. 26 He is ever merciful and lendeth, and his seed is blessed.

How many times have we come through something, and we see that God was there all along, only to forget that experience when another trial comes our way? It is so easy to forget past triumphs and victories in battle when you are in the midst of a new one. It is hard to remember the grace of the past when your heart is in the vice grips of pain so deep, that you feel as though your life is slipping from you.

But even in those times, we must remember God. We must remember who we are in Him and His promises. And we must diligently seek Him. See God in the midst of the storms. See Him in the midst of the trials. See Him amongst the grime and dirt and horrendous conditions. God is there, beloved, waiting for you to acknowledge Him. Waiting for you to open your heart to Him, and hold onto Him as He brings you through.

Being able to see God in the middle of chaos and filth takes discipline. Disciplining our ears and hearts to the voice and ways of God. And the only way to get this kind of discipline is to be in an intimate relationship with the Father.

Often times in our relationships, we talk too much and do not listen enough. We miss the subtly of what the other person is trying to say to us. With the Father, we do not need to talk as much as we need to listen. Be quiet in the presence of God. Hear Him. Learn His ways; His voice; His touch. Learn to recognize Him in the middle of all hell breaking loose.

Yes. You are going through it. The pain is excruciating. You don't know if you're going to make it. The pain is so severe that you can hardly catch your breath, let alone remember the past things the Father has brought you through. The pain is obscuring your vision, and blurring your memory of what God has already done. You don't know if you can make it. But guess what? You can and you will.

Keep your eyes on God. Praise Him in everything. Praise Him through the pain. Thank Him for a new day. Thank Him for being alive. Take comfort in the fact that God sees you and hears you, and worked it all out before you even asked.

Is it easy to do? No. It's not. There are some days you won't remember there is a God. There are some days you will cringe to hear someone say that God has it. You will question your faith. You will wonder if God is really real. And it is in these moments that you will have to draw upon the well of the word hidden in your heart. It is in these moments that you will have to lift your hands and heart to the Lord and simply say: “Lord I can't. But You are God and You Can.” And that will be enough. And there will be days when only one word will suffice. One name. Be it spoken verbally or in your heart: “Jesus.” And His name is more than enough.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity have found permanent rest in every area of your lives. In the midst of your heartache, pain, and hurt, know that God has not abandoned you. He sees you and has worked things out for your good. Seek Him. See His hand moving on your behalf. Even in the rubble, flowers can grow. In a desert, there will be blooms. And in your darkest hour, and most painful times, God's light will shine and mark your path to deliverance, just as He has done in times before. Remember those times, and take comfort that, though weeping may endure for a night, joy comes in the morning. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Taking a Second Look"

Reflections4Life  April 27^th, 2014

“Taking a Second Look”

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me.² You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar.³ You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.⁴ Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all.” Psalm 139:1-4 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 139, Jeremiah 29, Zechariah 9, 2 Corinthians 10…

Have you ever looked at your life and wondered why some things continue to happen over and over again? Why the constant struggles? Why the same mistakes? Why any of this when you have repented, confessed, and asked for forgiveness and moved on?

It sometimes feels as though you are in a constant cycle. Everything starts to get better, then at some point the past is repeating itself, and you seem to be right back where you started or worse. Perhaps it’s time to take a second look. A second look at your heart, at yourself, at the things you speak and believe of yourself.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the love of God to fill your heart and open your eyes to that which you may have hidden within your soul, allowing it to cleanse you and free you from all negative strongholds and evil imaginations.

Did you ever stop to think about your inner dialogue? What is it that we are saying to ourselves on a daily basis? So many of us are not even conscious of the fact that we are continually speaking negative things to ourselves. We have accepted the lies and whispers of the enemy, and those he uses, to become our truth.

Sometimes it can be subtle. A thought here, a whisper there. But we didn’t denounce the negative thought. We didn’t pull it down or reject it. Instead, most of us cataloged it; storing it somewhere in our mental, where it has taken root and begins to sprout bad fruit. And the bad fruit is the way we see ourselves, the things we get into, the habits we cannot let go of, the opinions we have of ourselves, and the garbage we and abuse we accept from others.

Yet, I have to say, that many of us are not even aware of this. We do not realize this about ourselves, especially when things may be going well for a while. It isn’t until we find ourselves in a familiar crisis that we question what is going on.

Our mindset, inner dialogue, and held baggage have much to do with our current situation and experiences. There are things in our lives that we have yet to confront. There are also things that we may not even be aware of that are lingering in hearts and are a hindrance to the move of God in our lives. We must take a second look and search ourselves; search our hearts and be completely honest with ourselves. We must be willing to see and hear the truth and be ready to get rid of those negative strongholds.

I have learned throughout my life journey with the Lord that, what we do not willingly confront will continue to show up in different ways in our lives. It will continue to be a thorn, a stronghold until we face the truth, confront it, deal with it, and allow God to truly deliver us.

We cannot allow the opinions and thoughts of others to rule us. We cannot allow the hurt and pain caused by others to dictate our lives. We cannot allow resentment and un-forgiveness to reside within our hearts. These things obstruct our path. They muddy the road of righteousness. They keep us from breaking through the painful cycles that we often find ourselves in.

These negative things have become strongholds. They have a grip on our lives. And one of the saddest things I have witnessed and come to learn about many is that they have become comfortable with the cycle. They have become attached and acclimated to the dysfunction, hurt, pain, and abuse. Worse, they believe the lies of the enemy over the truth of God.

Beloveds, the world goes by what is seen. The way of the world is far removed from God. And if you are going to overcome, declare and stand in your victory, then you must fight the way God says to fight. There is no self-medicating here. There is no easy way out of a messy mind or destructive pattern.

It is a process. When you come to God and believe in Him, He has worked all things out concerning you. He has forgiven you and given you a clean slate. But deliverance is a process. A process by which we are becoming who God says we are, as we let go of the lies and the pain of what others have said concerning us, and our own mistakes.

In order for you to break this cycle; to rid your mind and heart of the residue of afflictions by which God has already forgiven you of, you have to do things God’s way. You must confess daily what the Father says about you. You must change your dialogue about yourself. You must search your hearts daily and become mindful of your thoughts and attitude. You must be willing to let go of some people, places, and things. One of the hardest things will be confronting your truth. It will be like looking into a mirror, bare before the Lord, and seeing every weakness, flaw, imperfection, and giving it all to God, and then seeing you through His eyes.

This is a fight that must be fought in the strength and wisdom of God. We must use spiritual weapons and know that whatever God has spoken concerning you, it is the truth.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in every area of your life. There is nothing too hard or difficult for God our Father. God will do just what He said. But you must be willing to do what He has called you. There are no shortcuts to your deliverance. It is a process that requires you to see the truth, accept the truth, and become the truth. In God, you will find your healing, deliverance, freedom, peace, and love everlasting. It’s time to break the cycle, pull down those negative strongholds, and let the mind of Christ dwell in you richly! You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Because He Lives"

Reflections4Life April 20^th, 2014

“Because He Lives”

“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 NKJV

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 28; John 21; Acts 1, 2; 1 Corinthians 15...

Happy Resurrection Sunday! May the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ be present in your lives today and each day that follows. May you know and believe in the love that He has for you. May you come to the knowledge and understanding of just how much power there is in believing and surrendering your all to God. And may you know in your hearts that because He lives, there is no day or tomorrow that you cannot face and not be triumphant in. For the Father has already declared us the winner because of His Son!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May the glorious love of our Father continue to blossom in your heart, and you come into the understanding of just how much God has ordained for your life and made it possible through the death and resurrection of Christ.

Because Christ lives, we live. Because He lives, we have access to all that is the Fathers. Because He lives, there are a wealth of hidden treasures to be found within our own souls. Because He lives, the enemy has and will always be defeated. Because He lives, we are declared the victors. Because He lives, our future is guaranteed if we should believe.

I don't know if I can truly do justice to what it is that I am feeling in my heart at this moment. I do not believe that I have the proper words to convey what it is that my heart is bursting with over the fact that Jesus lives, and because He lives, every promise that God has made is a definite guarantee. That, all that I have ever been waiting for will come to pass if I just continue to be obedient and believe.

Have you ever waited so long for something and thought it was never going to happen. In fact, it seems as though the opposite has happened, and everything you believed went the opposite way? You know that feeling? That, unexplainable choke-hold on your heart? I suppose that was the same thing the disciples and followers of Christ felt when He was crucified.

Imagine walking with the One you believed to be the Son of God; the Savior of your people—witnessing the miracles and receiving the teachings, and learning of the promises of God, only to have the one you believe in captured by the enemy and put to death. But in your heart, you continue to hear His words playing over and over. You hear His lessons and His promises, and you see the miracles taking place over and over again; playing in your mind until sleep invades you? Then, you find yourself questioning what you believe; what was spoken. Surely, if He truly was the Son of God; the Savior; couldn't He just defeat the army of the enemy? Couldn't He prevent Himself from being killed?

They wrestled with what was in their heart versus what they were seeing and experiencing with their natural eyes. Yet, within their heart—even through the fear and doubts—there was hope. There were the words of Jesus, His promises coursing through their minds, and they believed that there had to be more. That, it could not be over. And they were right. For on that third day, the Son of God rose from the dead. And with His resurrection sealed our fate for all eternity! Hallelujah! The devil got him but kicked once and for all! And there's nothing He could do about it. And because Christ lives, we can claim the same victory should we believe and accept Christ as our Savior!

Oh, Beloveds! To have been there that day to see with our own eyes the promises of God being fulfilled. To witness the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. To understand that all that He had spoken and promises were made real and guaranteed on that day. So, come to the understanding that no matter what life throws at you; no matter what lies the enemy tries to spew; no matter what hindrances come our way; if we can just hold onto the fact that He lives; then we know for certain we win!

Allow me to speak into your lives today, Beloveds. I want you to be encouraged, as I am encouraging myself today. Whatever you have been waiting on the Lord for. Whatever you have been believing God for. Whatever the Father has promised you; Because He lives, you can take that as a guarantee that it is coming to pass!

Do not let go of the promises. Do not let go of what God has spoken to you. Do not go by what it looks like. Go by what God has spoken. Continue to walk by faith. I don't care HOW LONG THE WAIT!!! YOU KEEP TRUSTING GOD!!! For His promises to you are coming to pass. Don't get so close, and allow the enemy to fool you and have you give up and you walk out of position! I have been there! And I refuse to let it happen again!

The followers of Christ thought it was over. They thought the devil won. Heck! The devil thought he won, too! (I really laugh hard at that fact!) Imagine the celebration the enemy was throwing himself? Imagine all the plans he was issuing his minions so that he could take over. Then, he calls in death and asks for the soul of Jesus. And then death doesn't answer. He calls again. No answer. Then he goes to look and finds death bound up, the Keys of Life gone, the souls locked in bondage free, and not a trace of Jesus our Lord and King! Yes!!!! Oh man! The trembling that went on probably felt like an earthquake!

1 Corinthians 15:51-57 51-57 But let me tell you something wonderful, a mystery I’ll probably never fully understand. We’re not all going to die—but we are all going to be changed. You hear a blast to end all blasts from a trumpet, and in the time that you look up and blink your eyes—it’s over. On a signal from that trumpet from heaven, the dead will be up and out of their graves, beyond the reach of death, never to die again. At the same moment and in the same way, we’ll all be changed. In the resurrection scheme of things, this has to happen: everything perishable taken off the shelves and replaced by the imperishable, this mortal replaced by the immortal. Then the saying will come true: Death swallowed by triumphant Life! Who got the last word, oh, Death? Oh, Death, who’s afraid of you now? It was sin that made death so frightening and law-code guilt that gave sin its leverage, its destructive power. But now in a single victorious stroke of Life, all three—sin, guilt, death—are gone, the gift of our Master, Jesus Christ. Thank God! (MSG)

Be encouraged! Do not let go of the promises of God concerning your life. Be patient and fervent in your prayers. Believe what God has told you and shown you. Think of it daily. Prepare for it! For this is the season it comes to pass! Because He lives, you can face each day with boldness, faith, and expectancy. Though it may seem hard, don't look at the time. For God works outside of time and has the power to restore any time loss. Believe in Him.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Let this Resurrection Sunday remind you of just how powerful and loving our Father is. Let it encourage you and inspire you to hold on, and spark hope in your heart and resurrect those dreams and visions that may have died over the years of waiting. As long as God said it, that settles it! It shall be done if you continue to believe and faint not. Death, Satan, and the grave couldn't hold Christ. And that means they can't hold you or your dreams and promises from God. How do I know? Because every dream, vision, and promises God ever made to us was in Christ and was resurrected with Christ, and they cannot be killed, only left behind when we determine to not believe. So keep believing. No matter what! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.