"The Anointing of Wisdom"

Reflections4Life™ August 20, 2023

“The Anointing of Wisdom”

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10

Scripture Contemplation: Exodus 32; 1 Kings 4; Job 28; Proverbs 8; 1 Corinthians 1; James 1:5…

We live in such a technological and information-driven world. Information is all around us. The only problem is, not all of the information is accurate. Not everything we hear and learn is the truth. With the advancement of technology, came the onslaught of so-called experts; making it difficult to decipher between that which is true and false.

We sometimes get information overloaded. We become uncertain about who or what to believe. However, when we choose God, and we receive Christ as our Savior, we receive wisdom. We receive the gift of discernment. As we yield ourselves to Christ, surrendering all that we are unto Him; we begin to walk in the anointing of wisdom.

I decree that this week's Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. When you are walking in Christ, you receive the full benefits package, which includes everything that Jesus is. His anointing now resides in you. And it is up to you to nurture and walk in that anointing.

What a powerful week I have experienced. Not because of anything I have done or witnessed. But because of the revelations of the Holy Spirit. His instructions lead you to life and understanding. The truth of the matter is, I have had one hectic week, filled with all kinds of ups and downs and ins and outs. I have experienced emotional highs and lows, and have grappled with emotional and physical pain, as well as mental tiredness.

Sometimes things get a bit overwhelming in our lives, and we can quickly forget the power we have in Christ. The anointing of wisdom that is present in our lives is not just to know what we have access to, but to actually embrace it and walk in it. To embody it, and have our lives changed because of it.

God is such an awesome God. He is majestic in all His ways. He leads us into truth, each and every day, all that would yield to Him, and fellowship with Him. Our intimacy with the Father needs to be nurtured every day. We must spend time in the Father's presence. To truly know who we are, and our purpose upon this earth, we must be intimate with the Father. Jesus must reside within us. Holy Spirit must fill us. We must be connected to the source of life to have an understanding of life.

In my quiet time and Bible study, I have been reading Psalms and Proverbs, again. Proverbs, as we know, is considered the book of wisdom by many. As I was reading, God opened my eyes, yet again, to another revelation: Jesus is Wisdom. Jesus just does not embody wisdom, or have wisdom. He is wisdom.

Maybe you knew this, already. But I did not see it this way. My previous understanding before this week's revelation was that when we receive Christ as our Savior, we gain wisdom and understanding, as in who God is, and the mysteries of His word. That, Jesus would impart into us His wisdom of the Father; His knowledge and understanding. That, His wisdom is what we gain over time, as we yield to a life in Christ. However, it never occurred to me that Jesus and Wisdom are synonymous with one another, just as God and Love are synonymous.

Talk about mind-blowing! I must have read Proverbs 8 a few times, as the understanding blossomed and the anointing took hold of my heart and mind. Then it occurred to me, that when we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we receive wisdom. Wisdom becomes a part of us. The anointing is residing in us, and to walk in wisdom, all we have to do is yield to Christ. Christ is the wisdom we seek. Christ is wisdom operating in us if we believe and allow Him to be the King upon the throne of our hearts.

Proverbs 8:22-31“The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, Before His works of old. 23 I have been established from everlasting, From the beginning, before there was ever an earth. 24 When there were no depths I was brought forth When there were no fountains abounding with water. 25 Before the mountains were settled, Before the hills, I was brought forth; 26 While as yet He had not made the earth or the fields, Or the primal dust of the world. 27 When He prepared the heavens, I was there, When He drew a circle on the face of the deep, 28 When He established the clouds above, When He strengthened the fountains of the deep, 29 When He assigned to the sea its limit, So that the waters would not transgress His command When He marked out the foundations of the earth, 30 Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman; And I was daily His delight, Rejoicing always before Him, 31 Rejoicing in His inhabited world, And my delight was with the sons of men.

Amazing! To know that wisdom and Christ is one and the same. That, when we receive Christ, and we are in fellowship with Him; we have wisdom. Wisdom living and breathing within us. Wisdom guiding and leading us, and Holy Spirit giving understanding!

Do you understand what this means as a believer? All we have to do is listen to Christ within us. All we have to do is yield to His way and His teaching. All we have to do is put on the mind of Christ, and we will be filled and walking in wisdom. The anointing of wisdom is present with us each and every day we are yielded to Christ, and walking in salvation.

In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was God (John 1:1), and that Word is Wisdom, and that Wisdom resides in the hearts of those who have received and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. We have access 24/7. We can walk in our purpose, living fulfilled lives that have been saturated by the anointing of God, because we have yielded to Wisdom.

We don't have to search and search for the truth when the truth is already with us. We don't need to seek outward wisdom when wisdom is already within. All we have to do is yield! My God, what a revelation!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity find permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and financially. Yield to Wisdom. Let the anointing saturate your heart, mind, and soul. Get intimate with Christ, so that He may reveal to you all that has been stored up for you before you ever entered the realm of time. There's no need to be overwhelmed with copious amounts of information, when inside of us is Wisdom, waiting to reveal to us the path God has ordained just for us, and how to walk in it 24/7. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

Ⓒ 2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Gone"

 Reflections4Life™ August 13, 2023

“Gone”

“As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” 2 Samuel 22:31

Scripture Contemplation: Deuteronomy 28; 2 Kings 18; Proverbs 3; Matthew 27:43; 1 Timothy 

©Ruthe McDonald.

What would you do if everyone you loved, everything you had was gone? No warning. No time to prepare. Just gone? Many of us have been lulled by a sense of security; not because we trust in God, or believe that He can take care of us. We are lulled by comfort and security in the things we have and the people we know. But what if? What if you had none of those things, and you found yourself in the midst of a war every day of your life, not knowing if today was going to be your last day? What would you do? Who would you trust? And could you truly trust in God to take care of you, although everything is crumbling around you?

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart mind and soul. In a moment’s time everything we know, believe, and love can change. Everything can be gone. Learn to trust in God, allowing Him to anchor you. Receive His instructions on what it means to walk in total peace when all around you chaos ensues.

Suffering

Romans 5:3-5 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

All around us people are suffering. They are losing someone they love. Families are being torn apart. Children are dying. I could go on. Yet, many take for granted the peace and safety that we have, seldom thinking about the what if’s.

As part of my research, I watched several documentaries in addition to reading some articles, researching the effects of war and the effects of gun violence on our youth and families. Perhaps some may think that this is not something you would like to hear on a Sunday. Or something that you do not care to reflect upon at this time. Then when is a good time? When is a good time to hear what the Father has to say? When is it a good time to see what the Father wants us to see?

I know from experience how things can change within a twenty-four-hour period. In fact, a twelve-hour period. Death and tragedy know no time frame. They can come at any moment. Before you know it, everyone and everything you love can be gone. The world you know is gone. The peace you have is gone. And what you believe can be gone as well.

God is With Us

1 Timothy 4:10 “For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.”

If you believe in and have an intimate relationship with God, and you are reading your scripture daily, then you know that God has warned us that such things as this would happen in our lifetime. It is inevitable. However, He has given us His word that He would be with us always. That, He would never leave us or forsake us. That, although everything that we know is gone; all has changed; He will not change. And in Him, we can find and maintain a strong foundation, and a place to move forward in.

I particularly love The Message Bible’s translation of the above scripture:

“You’ve been raised on the Message of the faith and have followed sound teaching. Now pass on this counsel to the followers of Jesus there, and you’ll be a good servant of Jesus. Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers.”(vv. 6-10)

I look at the thousands of lives taken in communities due to gun violence. Children killing children; making a sport of taking the life of someone who may have looked at them the wrong way. Or, people are so heinous to take the life of a child just to make a parent suffer. Or, the ensuing danger that people of color find themselves in on a daily basis just because of the color of their skin, and the injustices that continue to plague our communities.

It can be hard to say to many that God is true to us when our child, husband, brother, sister, wife, or dear friend’s life has been taken without any repercussions to the assailants, whether they wear a badge or not.

What do we say to people left behind to deal with the loss? What, as believers can we offer? We can offer God. We can offer our prayers. We can offer our silence and just be there. Sometimes, just being there for someone will be the comfort that they need to begin to heal.

How Long Would You Fight?

Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.

Far too many of us sit in judgment; especially those of us who call ourselves believers. We are quick to pass judgment and cast someone off, rather than be who God called us to be: loving unconditionally, kind, understanding, faithful, concerned, non-judgmental, partial, fair, and not pompous. We use our religion as a weapon, creating toxic relationships and pushing people away.

My heart and prayers go out to the people who have lost everything. And those who have lost their entire families. I cannot fathom what their hearts and minds must be going through, with the thought of death a constant in the hearts and minds of not only adults but children, as well.

How long would you fight for what you believed in? Too many of us have given up on God quicker than it takes for paint to dry when something in our lives does not go as planned. Yes. Pain is real. Tragedies are real. Life is real. But guess what? God is real, too. And His word, His promises are real also. And when all is said and done, and everything and everyone is gone, God will remain.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Life will throw us curve balls that can take the wind out of us, causing us to fall to our knees. Allow God to pick you up and lead you. Things can and often will change without notice. In our lifetime, we will suffer loss but we do not have to do it alone. We can get through it when our trust is in God. He is the one constant that will always remain. Trust Him, and He will lead you in perfect peace. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Family First

 Reflections4Life™ August 6, 2023

“Family First”

“Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. He cried, “Make everyone go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.” Genesis 45:1 (CEV)

Scripture Contemplations: Genesis 15; 45; 2 Kings 25; Matthew 14; John 6; Romans 12:12-13

I

 recently had a conversation with a dear friend about ministry and those who work in ministry, such as pastors, prophets, ministers, teachers, etcetera. They raised some valid questions that I think many take for granted. In my heart and what I have always been taught, is that family comes first. The family is your first ministry. Ministry begins at home. But somewhere along the lines, many leaders have forgotten this. Far too many are putting the Church, the business of ministering to others over their own family. When it comes to ministry, the family must come first. If it does not, there will be a price to pay; one that is costly.

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart mind and soul. Let the word of God penetrate your heart and mind. Take some time this week to evaluate if you have been putting your family first, or if they come after everything else is done. Sometimes, a family is the hardest to minister to but what about your immediate home? Your nucleus? Your wife, husband, sons, daughters? How well are you listening and ministering to their needs? Let God lead you in the guidance of your home. Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is peace. Is there peace in your home?

First Things First

Matthew 7:12 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

Why is it so easy for some to speak, minister, listen to, or help others who are not related to them? How is it, that some find it easier to minister to other children than their own? Many leaders in the body of Christ are missing the mark when it comes to their families. There are parents who are missing the mark when it comes to their children. They have not developed a relationship with their children and have no idea what is going on in their lives.

If we, as leaders and parents, expect certain things or behaviors from our children, then we must ask ourselves what we have shown them. What have we given to them that they are now reciprocating? We reap what we sow; whatever seeds we are planting in the lives of our family members are indicative of the kind of fruit that will grow. You cannot plant apple seeds and expect oranges. You cannot plant seeds of distance and closed minds, expecting your children to come to you with their hearts open, ready to share with you what is going on with them.

The family must come first. Too many have their priorities turned around and wonder why their family is so far away from God. Did we even stop to listen to them, and what they want? Or do we expect so much from our families because we want to paint a certain picture to the world? Far too many are holding their families to a higher and impossible standard so that on the outside they look like better individuals. Are you seeking a loving and sharing family? Or, a bunch of obedient followers that lift you up?

Meeting Their Needs

Matthew 25:36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’

Matthew 25:43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’

Why is it so easy to meet the needs of strangers, than those who carry your blood in their veins? Why is it so easy to mentor and groom a child that is not yours but be harsh and unbending to your own child? How is it possible to spend hours preparing to minister to others, traveling to preach, and teach, and your own household is crying for attention, warmth, and unconditional love?

Matthew 25 is not just referring to strangers but also referring to those in our own homes. It boggles my mind how many ministers’ children that I have ministered to, counseled, and have become friends with have said the same things over and over again; How much they disliked their parents, despised the church, and did not want anything to do with the church and sometimes God.

They felt abandoned by their parents; abandoned and second place to the church. They also could not understand how their parents could show so much understanding and compassion for a bunch of strangers but have none for them. It hurt my heart to hear what they were saying with their mouths, and also hear their heart and understand.

Beloveds, we do a disservice to God and to ourselves when we neglect the ministry of home. If our homes are lacking, then how much of a positive impact are we actually having? The problem is not only with parents and children but also with spouses. Perhaps one spouse got saved and the other did not. Do you think you are going to win them over by always putting their needs and wants second? By always running to church and forgetting about taking care of their needs?

God is a God of decency and order. He does not come to separate families but to heal, restore, renew, and strengthen. When we have a healthy home, we can soar and help so many others, becoming that example of God’s love and balance.

Our first ministry begins in our homes. When we take care of the home first, then we can effectively be used outside of the home. Our family, our nucleus—our immediate family home— and their needs must be our first priority. How can we leave our children and spouses to the enemy? That is what we are doing when we do not put them first, ministering to the needs that are first coming from within.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. It may seem easier to minister to strangers; to be caught up in the accolades and feelings of awe when you are praised and adored. But at what price? At the price of your family, their souls, and spirits? No, Beloved. The family must come first. Your home is your first priority and ministry. When God is in charge there, He will be the one to enlarge your territory and make you effective everywhere else He calls you. Let God lead, as you lead your household into their greatness. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Have A Little Faith"

 Reflections4Life™ June 4, 2023

“Have a Little Faith”

“Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 9; 15; 37; Numbers 19:23; Jeremiah 32:17; Matthew 16; Hebrews 1;

©Ruthe McDonald.

There is not much that can compare to the wondrous feeling that fills our hearts when we receive an answered prayer. Something life-changing happens inside our beings when we have faith and realize that it was not all in vain. That, our believing God in spite of the circumstances and situations has its rewards and an undeniable feeling of gratitude and I would venture to say power.

I decree that this week’s Reflections are a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Remember all the promises of God. Write them down. Write down this week all that you desire for God to do in your life. Then pray. Communicate with the Heavenly Father. Pray, study, and meditate fervently, believing that God has heard you and has already answered. I challenge you this week to have a little faith…faith no bigger than a mustard seed. Ask God for one thing, just one thing, and then believe Him to do it. Have faith, just a little, and watch God move on your behalf.

There Will Be Tests…Hard Ones!

James 1:2-4 Let it be all joy to you, my brothers when you undergo tests of every sort; Because you have the knowledge that the testing of your faith gives you the power of going on in hope; But let this power have its full effect, so that you may be made complete, needing nothing.

You are right, absolutely right. About what? You are right about life being difficult at times, and it seems like there are tests one right after the other. So, how is it that James—a faithful servant of God—would tell us to count (tests of every sort) it all joy? Was he delusional? How could we possibly count all of these hardships, difficulties, trials, and upheavals in our lives as joy? There is no way! 

Ah! But James had come to understand that when our faith is tested, it is also being exercised, giving it and us an opportunity to grow stronger in our walk and belief in God. Faith, like a muscle, must be exercised in order for it to gain strength. Think of the saying: No pain no gain. When you want to increase the stability and strength of your muscles, you exercise. You push it beyond its comfort zone of a resting stage so that the more you use the muscle, the easier tasks get. Yet, at first, there may be pain and stiffness, a little soreness, until the muscle gains strength and the exercise becomes easier.

Our faith is a muscle that needs to be worked out. Sometimes the workout is difficult and painful, leaving us sore, and not sure if we can go on. Yet, the longer we put faith into use and believe in the promises of what we believe for, we gain strength and stamina, and power to keep hope. And when our faith is strong, doubt and unbelief will have no space. And we will know in our hearts with complete conviction, that no matter what we ask of God; no matter what things appear to be—we will have need for nothing. The strength of our faith eradicates doubts and fears and assures of that we have a need for nothing because God has answered before we even called.

Be Confident and Convinced

James 1:6-8 Let him make his request in faith, doubting nothing; for he who has doubt in his heart is like the waves of the sea, which are troubled by the driving of the wind. Let it not seem to such a man that he will get anything from the Lord; For there is a division in his mind, and he is uncertain in all his ways.

When you go before the Lord, ask in faith, believing that you have already received what you have asked for. When you ask, do not doubt, or change your mind. Be stable in all things. Have you ever gone to a restaurant or somewhere with someone who could not make up in their mind what they wanted? They want one thing and then quickly change their mind. Often times these same people ask the opinions of everyone before they make a decision, and quickly change their mind based upon what someone else has said until someone else comes along, and what they say sounds good also; now, they have a hard time deciding.

Indecisive people are often unstable in all of their ways, not sure of what they want or where they want to go and have a tendency to cause a lot of chaos and confusion. James admonishes us to have faith, having no doubt about what we want, and that God will answer when we submit our requests to God. We will not receive what we ask for from the Lord with a mind and heart that is constantly changing and straddling the fence between faith and doubt.

Have a Little Faith and Work it Out

Luke 17:6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.

Luke 17:19 And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Here is the deal, Beloved; it does not take much faith to make things happen. Literally, Jesus said that all it takes is faith the size of a mustard seed to move situations out of your way. It is about releasing what YOU cannot do or cannot see and trusting God to be who He is and do just what He said.

It is also not just about faith, but also about putting that faith into action; exercising faith; doing, and following the instructions of God. Faith is reactionary, as well as active. If we believe in what we have asked for then we should move accordingly in that faith and not treat it like fine china that never gets used but is pretty to look at.

As well, our faith requires work. How can we say we have faith but never put it into action? How can we say we are believers in God and have faith and see someone in need and send them on their way when we have the ability to meet those needs? This is clearly seen in the second chapter of James.

James 2:14-17 What use is it, my brothers, for a man to say that he has faith if he does nothing? will such faith give him salvation? If a brother or a sister is without clothing and in need of the day's food, And one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warm and full of food; but you do not give them the things of which their bodies have need, what profit is there in this? Even so, faith without works is dead.

I’m going to be even more transparent here with you today. It grieves my heart and angers me when I see people who are in need come to the house of God or to a person of God who professes to have faith, and they express their need for assistance. Instead of getting their physical needs met, they are told, “We’re praying for you. Just have faith and God will make a way for you.” This blows my mind! How can we teach anything about faith and the love of God, and lack in our works to bring others into the knowledge of who God truly is, if we ourselves, do not follow the very example of Christ, and attend to the physical needs of a person?

I don’t know about you, but I find it difficult to concentrate on anything when I am hungry and thirsty. I definitely would not be able to pay attention to a word that promises God will deliver and answer prayers when I cannot get past the physical hunger or the destitution I may be experiencing. We are to meet those physical needs. Often, we do not even have to mention what we believe when we are tending to the concerns of others because our actions will speak for us. It will tell the tale of what we believe.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Works and faith go hand in hand. All it takes is a small amount of faith to make a monumental difference in someone’s life; forever changing themselves and ourselves. One act of believing God can change a lifetime of events; ushering us into a continuous flow of manifest blessings and answered prayers…if we would believe and put action into what we are professing. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"A Royal Diadem"

 Reflections4Life™ May 21, 2023

“A Royal Diadem”

“You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” Isaiah 62:3

Scripture Contemplations: Zephaniah 3:8-10; Jeremiah 33:9; Zechariah 9:16-17; Philippians 2

©Ruthe McDonald.

A

s I watched a beloved preacher who recently transitioned preach a sermon about lessons learned and GOD'S unconditional love and being in control, I was reminded that when we accept Christ, it is no longer us in charge, but Him. The problem is, too many of us have not recognized or accepted the change. We do not recognize the change in titles and power. We are to no longer do things of our own volition or strength. But through Christ. In Christ. Allowing Christ in us to now make the decisions and carry them out, as we are now a part of the Royal Diadem. The family of the Kingdom of GOD.

When we come to the knowledge of God and who we are to Him and in Him, our lives are forever changed. When we accept Christ into our hearts we gain understanding and insight, and we now recognize ourselves as a Royal Diadem. We are a representation of God on this earth. We are precious and priceless in the hand of God, worthy of more than we give ourselves credit for. Not because of anything we did, but because of what Christ has given; what He has done. It is time for us to rise up and walk in the truth of the calling on our lives and in the truth of who God says we are. A representative of God’s love. A Royal Diadem.

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Walk in the confidence of who you are in God; a representation of the King who reigns on the throne of your heart. Meditate on the word this week. Get to know who God has called and blessed you to be through His word. Know that you are a royal diadem in the hand of God—precious, invaluable, chosen. The more you get to know God the more you will know yourself and your purpose. The more you understand that it in Reflections4Life™ May 21, 2023

“A Royal Diadem”

“You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” Isaiah 62:3

Scripture Contemplations: Zephaniah 3:8-10; Jeremiah 33:9; Zechariah 9:16-17; Philippians 2

©Ruthe McDonald.

A

s I watched the Royal wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle five years ago, I was moved by the beauty of the ceremony. A few things caught my attention; one of which was the tiara that was worn by the bride. An ornate crown that had not been seen nor worn since the 1950s. It was a powerful symbol that symbolized a change in the bride’s life. What she was no longer and who she now be moving forward. No longer a commoner. No matter the actions of her and Prince Harry. Their lives are still changed by their choices.

When we come to the knowledge of God and who we are to Him and in Him, our lives are forever changed. When we accept Christ into our hearts we gain understanding and insight, and we now recognize ourselves as a Royal Diadem. We are a representation of God on this earth. We are precious and priceless in the hand of God, worthy of more than we give ourselves credit for. Not because of anything, we did but because of what Christ has given; what He has done. It is time for us to rise up and walk in the truth of the calling on our lives and in the truth of who God says we are. A representative of God’s love. A Royal Diadem.

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Walk in the confidence of who you are in God; a representation of the King who reigns on the throne of your heart. Meditate on the word this week. Get to know who God has called and blessed you to be through His word. Know that you are a royal diadem in the hand of God—precious, invaluable, chosen. The more you get to know God the more you will know yourself and your purpose.

In the Hands of God

Zechariah 9:16-17 On that day the Lord their God will save them, as the flock of his people; for like the jewels of a crown they shall shine on his land.

diadem: (noun) A decorative band or wreath is worn about the head as a symbol of victory or honor, a declaration, a representation

In the hands of God, our lives are changed forever. We are no longer the same. His blood covers us. His spirit fills us. God has saved us and set us apart for a reason. When we seek His will and His heart, we will not only know who He is, but also we learn who we are, and we learn our purpose. Nothing ever stays the same in the hands of God.

Every day we seek His face and His will, we open our hearts to Him. He fine-tunes our ears to the frequency of His voice. We learn His way of doing things. He is our potter and we are His clay. This world is the His wheel—the Potter’s wheel. Sometimes in this world, we get chipped, broken, bruised, and even shatter. However, in the hands of God—the Potter—we are carefully and diligently remolded, built up again, and restored. Even having to go through the fire, He is burning off all impurities, refining us until we come out like fine gold, precious silver. He shapes stretches, molding us into vessels of purity and goodness. He smooths all of the rough edges until we are the symbol of His promise and declaration on this earth; a precious jewel, a crown, a royal diadem.

A Representation of the King

Sometimes we forget who we are and whose we are. We are a royal priesthood, a royal diadem of the Lord. We represent our heavenly Father on this earth. We are a symbol of God’s goodness, promises, and blessings. We are a representation of God’s presence on this earth. Yet far too many forget or do not know who we are and who God has called us to be. On the earth, in the presence of others who may or may not know who God is and the power that comes with that knowledge and understanding. We accept things in our lives we should never accept. We have allowed people to do and say things that would never fly or be accepted if we understood who we were and are worth.

When I watched the Royal wedding, someone struck my heart and resonated with my soul—the bride's mother. You could see the pride in her eyes for the daughter she raised. The love was evident. As a parent, she had done her job and done it well. A thought also occurred that her daughter is a reflection, a representation of her. Meghan reflected and represented the sacrifices, the hours of work, the sometimes hardships, ridicule, and even hate that she (mom) willingly endured for the love of her daughter. Who now, was not only declaring to the world her passion and commitment to a man but also, she was representing her mother…a reflection of who her mother is while at the same time, staying true to herself and what is important to her. Just as the crown/tiara she wore represented the Royals, she herself was the diadem of her mother’s life. A gem, a jewel in her mother’s crown.

This is who we are to God—His royal diadem; a representative of all His love and sacrifice, a symbol of His power and dedication. We become the example for the world to see what God desires to do for them once they believe, accept, and receive Christ into their lives.

Many of us, unfortunately, do not see ourselves as that diadem. Because of all we have endured—the tests, trials, and poor decisions made—we do not feel worthy, and often feel like we have to prove something or earn being the diadem of God. We cannot. It is God that holds us high, sets us apart, and declares, and decrees us as His diadem, our lives a testament to His glory and love for His creation. His redemption. We become brand new in His hands. Someone beautiful, precious, priceless, and highly esteemed. When people see us, they should see God; a representative of the love and goodness of our heavenly Father and His promises for eternity.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Carry yourselves accordingly, Beloved. Do not accept any attitudes, behaviors, and treatments from others that do not respect, honor, or recognize who you are. Remember who you are to God and that you are priceless and worthy of unconditional love. You are worthy of the best, of living a life of greatness. Do not compromise but stand for what you believe and let God be the one that elevates you and brags on you. You are his precious jewel; it’s time to walk like you know and believe this. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"The Power of Motherhood"

 Reflections4Life™ May 14, 2023

“The Power of Motherhood”

“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30

Scripture Contemplation: Exodus 20:12; Psalm 27:10; Proverbs 1:8; 6:20; John 19:25-27…

©Ruthe McDonald.

H

appy Mother’s Day to all of the mothers and mothers-to-be, and mother figures. May the Lord continue to bless you with His knowledge and wisdom to walk in the greatness that He has ordained for your life.

There is something innately powerful about motherhood. From carrying a child to birthing a child to adopting a child to rearing a child—it takes strength and character to be the kind of mother that God has ordained. Please understand, also, that carrying a child and giving birth does not make you a mother or give you power. However, it is what lies in the heart of a woman. A woman who has the care of, and influence over, a child or children in her care.

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow God to speak to your heart this week; to bring to your remembrance all of the lessons taught by your mother or the women that held that position in your heart. Reflect on the things you may not have realized as a child but when considered today, may have you look at your mother now, with understanding. Honor the mother(s) in your life today. If she is still on this earth, bless her today. And for all of us whose mothers have transitioned; honor them. Honor their memories and their legacies by living well and adding to her legacy.

What Love Has Shown Me

I have learned a lot about love through the years from the women in my life that have mothered me. Though I have not been blessed to birth children of my own yet, I have been blessed with children in my life that see me as a mother and seek my counsel, wisdom, and instructions. I do not take that lightly because I understand that it is not only what I say that has an impact on them, it is also what I show them through my actions; what my life is reflecting.

Love is an action word. Love, sincere love, is not contained, and it does not judge. It sees all things, forgives all, and holds no grudges. I have learned so much about love and the power of motherhood through the women in my life. Their steadfastness in love and dedication to their families through sometimes-tumultuous times has shown me the kind of woman I always strive to be.

I have a number of women that have shown me the power of motherhood. Women who have shown me what love looks like in action and how powerful a mother’s love can be. Today, I reflect on four of those women. Women who have transitioned but have helped to shape who I am. My Nana (great-grandmother), my Grams, my Aunt Sharon, and my Mother.

From my Nana—I learned dedication and discipline. She was a woman dedicated to her family and her service to God. From being an Usher in her church for over fifty years, starting the very first food basket program for the holidays, to the many other things she did to show the love in her heart and the love of God, it left an impression upon my heart. One that reminds me to be cognizant of the legacy that I will leave in my stead. Though she was not perfect, I still follow many of the lessons she gave our family.

From My Grams—I learned steadfastness, determination, how to run a successful business, and that it is never too late to go after your dreams and passions. My Grams was my best friend. She was the keeper of all her grandchildren’s secrets. She raised eight children and suffered the pain of seeing one of her sons murdered while he was protecting an older woman from being mugged. Yet through it all, she remained a constant source of unwavering love, faith, and steadfastness. She worked hard to support her children. She went back to college at a later age. She pursued her passion from childhood, eventually opening her own Hair Salon. Though she was older, she could outdo many of her younger counterparts. Sometimes she’d get to work at 8:00 am and wouldn’t finish until 2:00 am! In her sixties at that! Through her, I learned that love makes all things possible.

From My Auntie Sharon—I learned forgiveness, resilience, honesty, and seizing the moment. Her life taught me how you get back up no matter how many times you fall. Be honest with yourself and those you love. To forgive because life is way too short to harbor negative emotions and thoughts. I learned that just because things are one way does not mean they have to stay that way. And to seize every moment, every day, with a heart of gratitude because you never know when the one you love may be taken away. I loved her more than I have the words to adequately explain. Her life, love, and lessons live on in her children, and in all of her family.

From My Mother—The lessons of love are so many, I’d write a book and I will someday. My mother was not just my mother, she was my best friend, my counselor, my champion, my pastor, and my intercessor. I learned unconditional love, sacrifice, servanthood, how to truly serve God with your heart and soul, how to pray, how to believe in myself; and so much more. Seriously, there will be a book.

I will say this, my mother showed me how strong love is. How it takes a licking and keeps on ticking. She has shown me the power and strength of love and how it can heal, save, soothe, and correct. I learned the worth of prayer, prayer that comes from the heart. I also learned that the prayers of the righteous never fail or stop being answered because they leave this earth. Their prayers have no expiration date and God will answer their prayers, keeping His word to them. There is not a day that goes by that I do not hear her voice, am reminded of her love, and feel her presence all around me; especially in times of distress and heartache.

A mother’s love is indeed more powerful than the grave, and stronger than death.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Beloveds, honor the mothers in your life today. Give them their flowers and accolades now, while they are with you. God gave mothers a special gift. Those women, who use it, who understand it, will not only see doors open that only God could have ordained but also see the difference they can make in a world filled with motherless children just waiting for a mother’s love. There is power in motherhood; the closest thing to the heart of God. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"The Grace of God"

 Reflections4Life™ April 9, 2023

“The Grace of God”

“For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Scripture Contemplation: Esther 2:17; Psalm 45; Zechariah 10:12; John 1; Acts 4; Romans 3

©Ruthe McDonald.

Happy Resurrection Sunday! God's grace is sufficient and it is power— the power to transform us and to create us into who God has always ordained us to be. God accepts us just as we are, but it would be a travesty to stay the same under His anointing and in His grace. Even a flower must first experience death before it grows. Even a butterfly had to go through a transformation; dying of its old self. Come as you are, but allow the love of God to transform you. God never expected us to do it on our own! That is why we have His grace.

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart mind and soul. God’s grace is sufficient for every aspect of our lives. However, we must be willing to accept this gift from our Father. The enemy has duped many of us into believing that we are either not worthy of such love, or that we are fine just as we are because God says to come as we are. In order to know the truth and understand who God truly is, and all that He has ordained for you, you must spend time in His presence. Then you will understand the power and dispensation of His grace and all that waits for you. The entirety of what God has ordained for you. When you do, you will know and understand you could never remain the same—change must indeed take place.

What Would You Do?

I want to make you think today. Think about your relationship with God. To think about His grace and what it truly means to be transformed by the love and grace of God; by Jesus's death and resurrection. By the renewing of our minds.

If you received everything, you ever asked for; all that you wanted, and desired, was manifested right now, what would you do? Would you be content? Would you be happy? Would you continue to seek after God and His way of doing things? Would you want to know more about who God is and whom He called and ordained you to be? Would you be interested in the teaching and voice of the Holy Spirit? Would God be first; your relationship a priority? Would you be consumed with who God is and who He is in you? Or, would all you asked for have the place in your heart and mind that once belonged to God?

I ask these questions to get you to think. Think about your purpose. Think about your intent when you come to God. Is God just a source to receive what you want? A convenient means to an end? Or is God truly King on the throne of your heart and who You desire a sincere, real, and intimate relationship with, solely because He is God?

Is God First in Your Life?

Beloved, is God truly first in your lives? When you tell God that you love Him, what exactly does that mean? Do you love Him for what He can give you? Or do you love Him for who He is? Do you thirst and hunger after righteousness, and intimacy with God. To know who He is just because of who He is? Many claims that God is first in their lives but the moment things do not go their way, they seek another avenue to get what they want. They become angry with God and refuse to fellowship any longer.

How soon we forget the mercy and grace of God when we are faced with impossible situations and God does not move when we believe He should have. We get disjointed and disappointed, not understanding that God indeed has ways far beyond what we can comprehend. Yet, His grace will carry us through if what we truly desire is God Himself and not only what He can do for us.

Do You Even Know God?

God knows who we are. He knows everything about us, every hair, every tear, every thought, every doubt, every solitary thing concerning us. Yet, do we know who God really is, other than someone who can answer prayers? Have you taken time to know His heart, His soul? Or do you only seek Him for what you can gain from Him?

Father God is not a magician or some genie in a bottle. We do not make wishes, and then sit back and wait for Him to grant us our wishes then discard Him when we are through. He is not a Pimp, yet we prostitute ourselves seeking favors and trying to barter with God for services rendered. Telling God, since we have done this, and we have done that, then He should be doing this or that. It is the only reason we serve God.

Do you show God everything? Even though He knows you, have you offered yourself to Him? Have you poured out your heart and soul and sold yourself out to who He is? Not for what He can give you or pour into you; but for the sheer reason of Him being God, your Creator, your Savior, who loves you unconditionally and you want Him to be in every part of your life? Nothing hidden. Giving Him complete access to all of you.

That’s a scary thing, isn’t it? To allow God into those secret places of shame, pain, and confusion for fear of rejection. Because that’s all it is. We fear that God will not be who He says He is. Because some prayers have not seemed to be answered, or we have given up and let go of hope, then God cannot be who He says He is. We treat Him and look at Him, comparing Him to every other person we have had the misfortune of being let down by. He is not them, Beloved. God is not a man that He would lie to nor the son of man that He needs to repent. Even in all of that, God’s grace is extended toward us. His grace saves us from countless situations that we put ourselves in, and would never be able to get out of without Him.  

His Grace Changes Everything

God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense. That was the acronym I’d learned at a young age to explain the grace of God. That Christ had paid the price (the Cross) to cover the cost of the bill (Life) that came due before God. Jesus became the payment, the final sacrifice. When we accept Christ into our hearts and we pick up our cross and begin to walk the walk, it is God’s Grace, which strengthens us and brings transformation into our lives. God’s grace, His unmerited favor, ushers us into His presence and affords us the opportunity to not only be saved but to know God.

How much do you want to give to God, not for the sake of getting but for the sake of just knowing Him and being reconciled to Him? How can we partake in His grace and heaven, yet never be willing to risk anything or give up anything; sacrifice, and tell others about God and His love and how much He desires for us to be reconciled to Him in all ways. To be a recipient of His love, care, and concern, not being manipulated, and made to feel inferior, but instead loved, desired, understood, and forgiven. That is God’s grace.

My Beloveds, May the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Do your ways please God? What have you done in your life that has exemplified the love of Christ? We will all stand before the throne of judgment. Have the desire to know God for God and not for what He can do for you or give you. Accept His grace, knowing that Christ’s sacrifice made you worthy. Yes. Come to God as you are, because He accepts you just that way. However, be transformed by the renewing of your mind and the dispensation of God’s grace. The true travesty would be to be in the presence of God and never know who He truly is and who you truly are. Staying the same; stagnated. With access to all things new, but refusing to change because you have become comfortable with how things are and living outside of the knowledge of who God truly is. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2023. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.