Reflections4Life: " A Transformed Life"

Reflections4Life December 29^th, 2013

“A Transformed Life”

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 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.” Romans 12:1-2 NKJV

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 28; Psalm 51; John 14; Romans 12; Colossians 3; James 1...

Wow! The last Sunday of 2013. Can you believe it? So many things have happened this past year. So many changes. Good things, bad things, horrific things, life changing things. What will you take from 2013? What lessons have you learned? More importantly; what have you learned about yourself, and about the grace of God?

On Friday, I heard someone say that this was the last Friday of the year. From that statement, God shared with me the following: Do not let it be the only "last". Let 2013 be the last time you doubt yourself. Let it be the last time you procrastinate. Let it be the last time you believe the lies of the enemy and his minions. Let it be the last time you say you're going to do something then don't follow through. Let it be the last time you doubt God and His promises for your life. And finally, let it be the last time you put yourself last. How can you possibly be any good to anyone else, if you are not good to yourself, and got yourself together? 2014...it's on!!!! And there's no looking back!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. As you embark upon a brand New Year, leave behind the burdens of this year, while embracing the lessons learned. Allow the set-backs and adversity of this past year to catapult you into a transformed life for this coming new season. There is more that God has for you. Expect it.

Many of us have already resolved what we were going to do in the New Year. What we plan to leave behind us. That's all well and good. However, it is what you determine to do for God that will bring about change in your life. It is obedience and the willingness to sacrifice that will bring about a transformed life. And the truth is: it begins within our minds.

If there was any lesson that I have learned most this past year, it was about the power of our minds. It is no wonder the enemy tries so hard to mess with our minds. It is often said that the mind is a battlefield and the devil's playground. I believe that whatever we think upon will most certainly manifest. And if our thoughts are not on the things and promises of God, then chances are that we have brought to pass in our lives some very harsh realities. I do know for certain, that our perception determines our reality. Whatever we perceive to be true or real, will most certainly manifest in our lives.

If you have experienced a year of great adversity, and you can say to yourself: I knew this would happen, then the chances are great that you have been operating in a negative mindset. Whatever we believe, beloved, we draw unto ourselves. We are a magnet. Whatever we are, whatever we think, we will most certainly attract to us. Be it situations, circumstances, or people. Our experiences become a reflection of our perceptions and how we think.

Romans 12:1-2 (The Message Bible) “1-2 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.”

Philippians 4:8-9 “Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.” (THE MSG)

In order for us to have a transformed life in this New Year, we must renewed in our mind and our thoughts. You can say to yourselves that you are going to do things differently in this new year. However, unless you have a made up and determined mind; a mind that is renewed daily; a mind that is set upon the things of God; a mind that seeks after the will of God; the chances are great that you will repeat the same things of the past.

Yes. Our mind is a battlefield. And on that battlefield the enemy has shown up, seeking to kill, steal, and destroy. Yet, on the battlefront of that battlefield is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. Declaring you the victor, with the promise of abundant life, a renewed mind, a transformed life. Declaring His love for you, lifting up the blood-stain banner of His sacrifice for you, that guarantees you a blessed and abundant life—should you believe, and begin to see through His eyes, the glorious, transformed being that you are.

Take the lessons of this past year, beloved, and all the hurts and wounds, and lay them all at the altar. Plead the blood of Jesus over your thoughts and mind. Commit yourself to Lord and to the reading of the word daily. Spend more time in the presence of God. Think on those things that are of God. Renew your mind daily, and be confident in the fact that greater is He that is in you, than he that is in this world. Though things may appear one way, determine in your heart that you will believe the report of the Lord.

Remember: the enemy is a master illusionist. Making false evidence appear real, which is just FEAR. But God has given us a spirit of love, power, and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7) And when we think on the things of God, and we are in constant fellowship with our Father, our lives will begin to reflect that. We will have a renewed mind, and a transformed life.

As I am writing this, it really just dawned upon me that this is the last Reflection of this year. Wow! We have had a full year of fellowship. So many things have taken place in each of our lives. We have shared many things with one another. Thank you for your fellowship. Thank you for your time. Your kind words. Your emails. I am declaring and decreeing that this New Year will be the best yet for you and your loved ones. That, 2014 will be the year of answered prayers and manifested promises! I love you. God Bless.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Walk in the promises of God by keeping your mind renewed daily. Take the lessons and adversity of this past year, and allow them to propel you forward in the will of God. You were made in the image of God. And that means that there is greatness within you. Whatever you believe; whatever you think upon; whatever you perceive will become your reality. So think on the things of God. Believe in His promises to you. Stand on the word, and do not waver. God is doing just what He said. Believe it. Expect it. Receive it. You are Blessed. Now go...and continue being a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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The Most Precious Gift of All

Reflections4Life December 22^nd, 2013

“The Most Precious Gift of All”

“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11 NKJV

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 1; Luke 1, 2; John 1:1; 3:16-17...

I take this moment to wish each and everyone of you a very blessed and Merry Christmas. It is without hesitation that I acknowledge the gift of your friendship, as well as fellowship. Christ indeed is the reason for this advent season; the reason that I write these Reflections each Sunday. I know for certain, without Him I would not be, and could not do what it is He has called of me to do. May this season bring you and your family answers to your prayers. I believe wholeheartedly, more than any other time, that this is a season for miracles. Perhaps it is because so many of us are in one accord, with feelings of hope and belief. Whatever the case may be, I am believing God for both you and me.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Never forget the reason for this season, and the fact that God has given us the most precious gift of all—the gift of Christ, that continues to give all year long, 24/7. You just have to believe.

I enjoy this time of the year. I really do. However, I have learned over the years and through my fellowship with the Father, that everyday can be like Christmas when you walk obediently in the Lord. I am not referring to the gifts or the celebrations or fanfare that takes place. I am speaking of the Spirit. The Spirit of Christmas. That spirit of wonderment, joy, miracles, faith, goodwill, unconditional love.

With each day we are granted the breath of life, it is an opportunity to embrace the will of God for our lives, and walk in His ways, following His instructions, and receive what He has ordained for us. Yet, more often than not, we have become preoccupied with life. We allow ourselves to become overwhelmed with the day to day of living, and forget that we are more than flesh; we are spirit also.

As time moves forward, we forget about the precious gift that the Father has given us in Jesus Christ. Our relationship with Christ begins to wane. It suffers from the day to day routines we accustom ourselves to. Like those many Christmas gifts that our children receive on Christmas morning; they are played with, with such enthusiasm. After awhile, the gift loses its charm and appeal. As weeks and months pass, the gift is forgotten, and when Christmas comes around again, they look for new toys and new things that have been deemed the best gift for that year.

Such is our relationship with Christ. This precious gift of God that we receive into our lives, at a time when we did not know if we would make it. When we were not sure if anyone cared. When we come to the knowledge of who God is and His desires for our life. That moment we receive Christ into our hearts, and we are transformed. Everything is new. Everything looks different, feels different. Then, life happens. Circumstances arise. Things get difficult. We forget to keep our mind stayed on Jesus, and began to focus on the problems and circumstances.

We become distracted by the difficulties in life. Soon we forget what it felt like the first time Christ entered our hearts. Oftentimes it is subtle. We start to spend more time on those things which grab our attention, and less time with the Father, until we are overwhelmed.

God has given us the most precious gift of all, the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. All we have to do is receive and believe that God truly has loved us this much to give us such a gift that continues to give, even when we are not sure. Even when we are distracted and overwhelmed with life and circumstances.

Christ is here for you always. No matter what you stand in need of, Christ can only make things better if you allow Him to. There is nothing more precious than the gift of Christ in our lives. And He is definitely the gift that continues to give, even when we have nothing left to give of ourselves.

Don't allow your current circumstances or situation deprive you of what God has for you in your life. Do not allow the enemy to rob you of time spent with your Father, by deceiving you to believe that you must handle things on your own, or go it all alone.

Spend time with the Father. Get intimate with Christ on a daily basis. Christ is an everyday gift that gives continually and never runs out. He has more than enough strength and power to see us through and take us where we need to be. Believe in the Father. Believe in Christ. Believe that Christ came just for you. He is the best Christmas gift you can ever give to yourself or another.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity will find permanent rest in your lives, spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and financially. The most precious gift of all is yours to receive and embrace. You don't have to be good or bad, all you have to do is believe and receive, and the Gift will take care of the rest. You are loved. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing.

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "It Doesn't Make Any Sense"

Reflections4Life    December 15th, 2013

“It Doesn't Make Any Sense”

“30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” Luke 1:30-34 (NKJV)

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 17;18; Exodus 16; Esther 8; Matthew 1; Luke 1...

Has there been a time in your life when God has told you something but it did not make any sense to you? Your human senses just couldn't comprehend it? You immediately began thinking: how, what, why, where, when? I have been there. God has spoken some things to me; He has shown me some wonderful and miraculous things. In the past, it wouldn't register with my human mind. It didn't make any sense; didn't even seem possible. I asked a lot of how's that going to happen? How's that possible? I just couldn't wrap my brain around the awesomeness of it all. Yet, my spirit believed with no question. I've since learned; it doesn't have to make any sense to my human senses, just as long as my heart knows and believes God never lies.

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 very words of God to penetrate your heart. Walk in the mind of Christ, believing that whatever God has spoken and shown to you, it will surely come to pass. God cannot lie. And though things may seem impossible to your physical senses, allow the sincerity and wondrous works of Holy Spirit to take you higher, filling your heart and mind  until your spirit believes all that God has spoken concerning you and you stand complete in faith.

Can you put yourself in Mary's shoes for a moment? Here you are a young girl, engaged and never knew a man intimately. One day an angel of God comes to you telling you, one: you are favored of God, and two: you are going to conceive and give birth to the Son of God. That is a lot of information to take in and comprehend. Yet, as the angel of God continued to speak to her, and tell her of this wondrous event, Mary's heart grew, and her faith in God and the knowledge she had of the Almighty allowed her to see and receive this blessing. And so she answers, fully convinced: “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) Hence, once of the reasons I believe God chose her.

There are many things we have no answer for. There are many things we just can't seem to find a plausible reason for; things that just make no sense to our human mind; things that seem impossible. Yet, God desires for us to go beyond our human mind and reasoning, and just believe. Believe in that which He has spoken to our hearts, what He has shown us. Simply: Have Faith.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. NKJV

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. (MSG)

It took great faith for Mary to believe in what the angel had spoken to her; faith to believe that God had truly chosen her, and trust that everything was going to work out. That, Joseph, once he learned of her pregnancy, would believe also and not put her away.

Joseph himself had to be visited by an angel, for he was ready to walk away from Mary (Matthew 1). Joseph had to have faith, believing what the angel of God was saying unto him. He had to have faith and trust that all would work out knowing he would have to face the gossip and suspicion in the town. Though it made no sense to his natural senses, Joseph had to trust God. And I know he trusted God, because he followed the instructions that God gave him that kept Mary and Jesus safe.(Matthew 2)

I am certain it didn't make any sense to Abraham when God told him that he was going to become a father in his old age. It definitely didn't make any sense to Sarah. She laughed at the promise because it did not make sense to her human understanding. Her doubt led her to give her husband her maid to sleep with, resulting in Ishmael. And to this very day, because of one woman's doubt in the spoken word of God, we have two nations forever fighting; Ishmael vs Isaac. 

We must learn to see through our spiritual eyes. There are many things that God has to share with us that will not make any sense to our human mind or way of thinking. We must come up higher, and see through our spiritual eyes. We must walk in faith and trust in that which God speaks concerning our lives. God specializes in the impossible.

There are things that are impossible for man; even impossible for man to understand. Yet, for those who would dare to have faith, to walk in faith and trust in what God has spoken, their life will see the impossible take place. Their lives will be filled with the unexpected; with the constant blessings of God working on their behalf.

We are charged to walk by faith and not by sight. All that God has ordained for us will not make any sense to our senses, but it will bear witness with our soul and spirit if we have developed and nurtured our intimate relationship with our heavenly Father.

The Father desires to bless you beyond what you can see with your natural eyes. He wants to take you to another level of faith. That, though you waited a long while for answers, for what God has spoken to you to come to pass, that you will believe no matter what. That, it no longer has to make any sense to your senses or to those around you, as long as it God has spoken it, that settles it and that's what it shall be. Faith; immovable, unshaken, solid, and unbreakable.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity shall find permanent rest in your lives spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Get out of your senses and into your spirit. Let your faith lead you where God has promised you. God is no respecter of persons; what He has done for others He can and surely will do for you. Believe with your heart, and not with your eyes. God cannot lie. His promises are sure enough coming to pass in your life. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "The Lies We Tell"

Reflections4Life December 8^th, 2013

“The Lies We Tell”

“...and nothing unclean, and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” Revelation 26:27

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 31; 120; Proverbs 6; 12; Isaiah 59; 1 Timothy 2...

I know for certain that God desires us to live a life of truth. To live our lives in such a manner, that it is above reproach. But how many of us live our lives in truth when it came to others, yet we have lied to ourselves? For many, we may not practice lying to others, but we have been lying to ourselves.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflection will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the light of God to shine upon those places in your heart that you have tucked away. Let the truth come forth so that you may be free, and live the life that God has ordained for you.

Psalm 51:6 “Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being, and in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.”

It is sometimes hard to accept the truth when it comes to our own faults, and flaws, or something that may have happened to us. The truth can sometimes be quite painful, and we will do almost anything to avoid that pain. We will even lie to ourselves and convince ourselves that all is well, when in fact, we are nothing but broken pieces of clay, patched and held together by the lies we tell ourselves, and the false portrait we paint for others, suggesting that all is well in our lives. Inside we are crumbling, too afraid to allow the truth to come forth and bring healing, for fear that exposing our truth or dealing with our truth is far too much for us to bare.

Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”

For far too long, we have been holding on to issues that have stagnated our lives. Our walk in Christ has been limited by our refusal to face the truth and be honest with ourselves and what we have gone through or are currently facing. Too many of us are hiding from the truth. We evade certain issues, we close our hearts off to those who get too close to finding out the truth. We hide from ourselves and who we really are, afraid that not only will others reject us, but we will not like what we see or find when we truly search our hearts and face our personal truths.

We lie to ourselves on a daily basis. We tell ourselves and others that everything is fine. That, all is well. That, our lives are great and that we have everything together. When the truth of the matter is: we have been lying to ourselves. Lying so long, that we don't even recognize the truth about ourselves. We have bought into our own fallacies concerning our lives and how we feel about ourselves and see ourselves.

Enough is enough! It is time to stop lying to ourselves and tell the truth! It is time to free ourselves from our past, our mistakes, our abusers, and confront that which has been holding us emotionally hostage. We cannot possibly enjoy or receive all that God has ordained for us when in our hearts we do not feel worthy or have not allowed God to heal us from that which has badly hurt us.

I do not know what your situation or circumstance might be today, but I implore you to lay everything at the altar and allow God to mend your broken pieces. There is nothing hidden from God. There is nothing that will surprise God. There is nothing that our God cannot handle. You just have to have the courage to tell your truth. Have the courage and strength to no longer lie to yourself, and give it all to God, and allow healing and deliverance to come forth.

We cannot be healed or delivered from that which we refuse to acknowledge or confront. In order to be free from that which keeps us bound and broken, we must be willing to confront that which has hurt and harmed us. We have to be willing to come barely before the Lord and release all that we have tucked away from our own minds.

At some point, we must ask ourselves what are the lies we tell ourselves giving to us? What do we get from lying to ourselves? What purpose does it serve to live a lie and not confront that which has hurt us so deeply?

For many it is fear. Fear of finally confronting and facing what has happened to you. Fear of remembering. Fear of being rejected. Fear of someone else finding out. Fear of never being able to move on or have the life that you so desperately yearn for. And it is that spirit of fear that keeps us crippled and bound to our past and any lies that have manipulated who we truly are and held us bound from receiving all that God has for our lives.

2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

The Father wants us free. Free from our pasts. Free from those things which have hurt us and have disturbed the course of our lives. And in order for us to be free, we must be willing, to be honest with ourselves. We must be willing to stop lying to ourselves, face the truth, and do the work that is required to receive the healing and deliverance that is necessary to live the lives that God has ordained for us.

Stop lying to yourself. Allow Holy Spirit into those secret places and to touch those wounds that you have been covering up. Let the anointing power of our Lord cleanse your soul, and bind up every hurt and wound that you have encountered in your life. Place your life in the Father's hands, and allow Him to turn your broken pieces into a beautiful masterpiece. Tell the truth and free yourself. Receive and walk fully in the blessings of God for your life.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Let the power of God cleanse you, heal you, release you, and deliver you. Do not be afraid to confront your past, and face your truth. With God, you can do all things. Know that the Father is with you always, and desires nothing but His best for you. Be free. Be healed. Be made whole. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Nelson Mandela...A Man For The Ages - African American Culture

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Reflections4Life: "Thank You Lord"

Reflections4Life December 1^st, 2013

“Thank You Lord”

“You are my God, and I give thanks to You; You are my God, I extol You.” Psalm 118:28

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 118; Psalm 138; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 3; 1 Thessalonians 5:18

This will probably be one of the shortest Reflections I have written to date. Not because I do not have much to share, but the simple fact that I just want to remind you to give God some praise. To take the time out and say, Thank You Lord.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflection will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May your heart and mouth be filled with thanksgiving to the Lord for all that He has done. May your spirit be filled with continuous praise, that would bubble up and come forth from your spirit.

Yes, I already know. Sometimes you feel as though you have nothing to be thankful for. What? Are you suppose to be thankful for some bills that keep piling up? You can thank God for His provision, making a way for you to take care of those bills. What? Are you suppose to be thankful for being sick? You can thank Jesus, for by His stripes you are healed. What? Are you suppose to be thankful for poverty? You can thank God that He shall supply all your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus. You can thank Him that He's never seen His righteous forsaken, nor their seed begging bread. You can thank the Lord that whatever He has spoken concerning you, His word will not return to Him void, but will accomplish what He sent it to accomplish.

Still not so sure what you have to thank the Lord for? You're alive. You're reading this, or hearing this. You have breath in your body, another opportunity to repent. Another chance to come to God. Another opportunity to get things right in your life and perhaps make amends or repair broken relationships. You decide. But you cannot tell me you don't have at LEAST one thing to thank the Lord for this day.

I am the first to admit that I have been guilty at looking at what I do not have as opposed to what I do have. I have overlooked the blessings that were already manifested, because I was too preoccupied with what I did not have or wanted at the time. I have learned that when you are thankful for what you have right now; when you give the Lord thanks for the blessing that He is in your life; when you open your mouth and praise Him in the midst of hard times, or when something horrific takes place—praise certainly does make a world of difference.

No matter what you are facing today, no matter your circumstances, give God the praise. Thank the Lord today. Give Him the glory of and not just because of. There is power in your praise. There is power when you thank the Lord. Your thanksgiving opens up doors. It releases the blessings of heaven in your life. It breaks the chains and gives power to the angels that God has assigned over your life. What do you have to lose, but heartache and pain? Let your chains be loosed today by opening your mouth and giving the Lord some praise! Be the catalyst for someone else life to be changed.

Acts 16:25-30 “25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; 26 and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. 27 When the jailer awoke and saw the prison doors opened, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here!” 29 And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 and after he brought them out, he said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

You want your life to change? Give God the praise. You want the life of your loved ones to change for the better? Give God the praise. You want your community, family, friends to change? Then let them witness you giving God the praise even whilst in the midst of hardship and pain. Go on, and thank the Lord today!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your life spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Open your mouth and give God praise. Let the Lord know that you love Him. That, you are thankful. Let your praise be the catalyst for change in another person's life. No matter what you are facing, don't allow the enemy to shut your mouth. You give God the praise, no matter the situation, and watch what praise will do for you! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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With A Thankful Heart

Reflections4life November 24^th, 2013

“With a Thankful Heart”

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name.” Psalm 100:4

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 100; Psalm 118; Isaiah 12; Jeremiah 30:18-20; Philippians 4:6...

There is so much that we have to be thankful for; even if we do not see it or feel it. The fact of the matter is, our perception will determine our reality. What we perceive daily to be the truth; what we take into our hearts—will be become our experiences. It is a thankful heart that will see the open doors that the Father 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. Let your hearts be filled with thanksgiving, in spite of anything you may be facing at this moment. Find at least one thing to thank God for, and praise Him for it each and every day, and see what changes will soon take place.

Dear Father,

It is my sincerest prayer today, that Your will be done in the lives of those that You have chosen and called. Let Your will be done in every person that reads this Reflection. May their hearts be filled with encouragement today.

Lord, I thank You for Your grace and mercy, I thank You for love, life, family, and friendship. Father, I pray that each person under this prayer, will receive all that You have ordained for them. Let there be no lack in their lives. I pray that You would meet their every need. That, You would expand their hearts, and fill it with Your joy and peace.

Father, I am thankful for their fellowship and their friendship. It has been like water for my soul. I have been blessed with the opportunity to meet some beautiful people. And I pray that You would bless them a hundredfold for all that they have blessed my life with. Thank You for meeting their needs, and for answering their prayers. Thank You for keeping them and their families safe and healthy. I ask that You would continue to do a good work in them, and that they would see You in every area of their lives. May their hearts be filled each day with thanksgiving, as You continue to pour Yourself into their expectant cups.

In Jesus' name.

Amen

You know what I've learned? Complaining is a sure way to block your blessings from manifesting. It is so easy to complain. And we can find ourselves with a complaining spirit rather quickly, if we are not careful. When we complain, it blocks us from seeing the good that is in our lives. We have a choice: we can either be thankful, regardless to whom or what life is throwing at us. Or, we can complain until we no longer see the good in anything.

A complaining spirit is very subtle in nature, and can easily lead to self-pity. We find ourselves in a whoa-is-me frame of mind. Once that mindset settles in, it can be difficult to release ourselves from. Complaining is far removed from who God is. We must have a spirit of thankfulness.

Sure, that's easier said than done—many might say. But is it? It is not hard to find something to be thankful for, and to replace the desire to complain with a word of thank you, to God. It is all how you perceive things.

If your daily perception is about how much things are wrong in your life, in this world, in your circumstances, then the greater your reality is that of pessimism. But, if you can perceive something good; even if it is only one thing, and you begin to thank God continually for that one thing, then soon, your reality is that of optimism.

It is easy to get into a spirit of complaining when you feel as though you have been hit on every side, and have experienced nothing but attacks and tests. However, you have survived those tests and attacks. Hopefully you have gained some knowledge and wisdom through your experiences, and you are still in the land of the living to give God some praise for bringing you through.

No one is saying you don't have a right to complain. But why complain, when you can give God praise, and see Him change your circumstances? God often waits on us to make up in our hearts and minds to praise Him in spite of our circumstance and situation. There is more sweetness to be had in the praising of God, than in complaining of those things we do not like.

When we constantly complain, we hinder our view of what God has for us. We cannot see the blessings before us, because our mind becomes clouded and jaded. It's time to switch it up. It's time to bring forth praise and thanksgiving in every situation. Yes, it may be difficult at first. But with consistency and with fellowship with the Father, you can praise God in the midst of the storms and see your circumstances change.

The choice is ours: thank God or complain. We cannot do both. I say, give thanks to the Father. Let the heavens hear your affirmations of gratitude. Create an atmosphere of praise, so that you can draw to you that which is good and pleasing of God. Whatever you project, you reflect, and you ultimately receive. Let thankfulness be projected, so you can reflect the goodness of God, and receive the manifestations of your blessings.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and financially. Give God praise. Thank Him for life. Thank Him for the fact that you are here right now. All may not be the way you desire, but you can rest assure that there is someone, somewhere, praying they were in your shoes. Just say thank You. It will make all the difference between today and tomorrow. You are Blessed. More than you know. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "An Overflowing Cup"

Reflections4Life November 17^th, 2013

“An Overflowing Cup”

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and loving-kindness shall follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.”Psalm 23:5,6 (ASV)

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 17; Genesis 48; Psalm 23; John 14; Galatians 5; 1 Peter 2...

How full is your cup today? Or maybe I should ask, what is in your cup? Is it filled with kindness? Love? Compassion? Or is it filled with hate? Bitterness? Regrets? Or, is your cup empty? Have you become so numb from the situations you have faced, and the trials you have contended with, that you feel empty inside; like you have nothing left to give or to feel? God desires to fill your cup to it's overflowing. He wants to anoint you daily from an overflowing cup of blessings.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and enlightenment for your heart, mind, and soul. Let your heart be filled with joy this week, knowing that God, our Father, loves you and has made a way for you. Allow Him to anoint you today, from His overflowing cup.

We must continually fellowship with the Father to ensure that not only are our cups full, but also running over. For, it is in the overflow that we find answers. It is in the overflow that we can bless others and not become depleted ourselves. It is in the overflow that we see Jesus. It is in the overflow that we are anointed for each new day the Father grants us. It is in the overflow that we see who we are, and gain the strength to tell the truth about ourselves and receive deliverance.

The overflow is the anointing of God upon our lives. The anointing that transforms our lives and the lives of those we have influence over. Our cup is our heart, mind, and spirit. The cup in which God desires to pour Himself into, and become an overflow until it reaches and changes other people's lives, as well as our own.

Beloved, we are not here upon this earth just for ourselves. We are not here to partake in the cup of blessings just for self. We are here to serve one another, to love one another, to help one another, to inspire and encourage one another. We are here to be a walking example of God's love in the earth. We are less than what we think we are by the human mind's interpretation, and more of who we know not, by the mind of Christ.

1 Peter 2:9-10(MSG) But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.

Why do so many of us hide our testimony, and act as though we have loved and served the Lord all of our lives? Or, have never fallen, made mistakes, have sinned? We all have fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Yet, God loves us.

We don't have to pretend with God. We don't have to pretend for others. Why should we hide what God has done for us? Our testimony can mean salvation and deliverance to someone else. It can be the difference between life and death for another soul. Tell the truth to yourself, and tell it to others. Do not stifle the anointing of God. Do not stop the flow of the blessings of God in your life and the ability to bless others, because you don't want anyone to know what God has done for you. Don't be ashamed. And do not feel condemned. There is power and deliverance in your testimony. Allow the power of your testimony flow from your cup.

The Father calls us unto Him, and desires us to know that it is not about how good we are, how straight and narrow we can walk. It's not about perfection, or how well versed we are in scripture. It's not about appearances. It's not even about what we can do, or how much we love God. It is simply about how much God loves us. How much He desires to fill us and be a constant source of love, strength, mercy, and grace in our lives.

There are many walking around with empty cups, or cups half full. There is many living a lie. We lie to ourselves, we lie to others. And we even try to lie to God. We try to justify our sinful actions. We try to cover up what we have done. We are walking around filled with guilt, shame and sorrow, when all we have to do is confess, repent, and allow God to move in our lives the way He desires.

Do you not know that God desires to bless you forever? Do you not know that the Father desires to reside within you, and pour Himself into your very being; anointing you until it spills out of your life and into the lives of others? He wants your cup(heart) to not only be filled, but overflowing(anointing of God), so that you will have a continued source that never runs out.

The anointing changes everything. The anointing breaks every yoke, lifts every burden, restores broken hearts, restores the soul, brings healing and deliverance, gives power to weak, understanding to the heart, vision to the blind, hearing to the deaf, speech to the dumb, movement to the lame, hope to the hopeless, victory in the battle, stability in the mind. The anointing is the presence of God in your life each and every day; enabling you to walk the walk and not just talk it. Enabling you to live a life that is full, complete, and life changing each and every day.

How's your cup today? Is it full? Is it empty? Is it overflowing? Beloved, it is not about how good you are, or how well you act like a believer, or how many scriptures you have memorized, or how pleasant and nice you can be, or about how much you love God. It is about none of those things. It is about how much God loves you. His love for you is never ending; even when you rejected Him. Even when you turned and walked in sin. Even while you were yet in sin. Even before you entered into this realm of time; it has always been about how much He loves you. And how much He desires to bless you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity found permanent rest in your lives spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Allow God to fill your cup until it's overflowing. Allow Him to pour all of Him into you, until it is an overflow, touching and changing the lives of others. Let the Father love on you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Let Them Eat Cake...And Pie, Too! - African American Culture

Let Them Eat Cake...And Pie, Too! - African American Culture:

'via Blog this'

A Soulful Thanksgiving - African American Culture

A Soulful Thanksgiving - African American Culture:

'via Blog this'

Reflections4Life: "The Anointing of Wisdom"

Reflections4Life November 10^th, 2013

“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 overload. We become uncertain in 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 declare and 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 Holy Spirit. His instructions which 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. That, the anointing of wisdom that is present in our lives is not just to know 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 into truth, each and everyday, all that would yield to Him, and fellowship with Him. Our relationship 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 in us. Holy Spirit must fill us. We must be connected to the source of life to have 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 apart 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 are one in 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 on 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 for 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 overwhelmed with copious amounts of information, when inside of is Wisdom, waiting to reveal to you the path God has ordained just for you, and how to walk in it 24/7. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Break The Crutches"

Reflections4Life November 3^rd, 2013

“Break The Crutches”

“Jesus said, “If you were really blind, you would be blameless, but since you claim to see everything so well, you’re accountable for every fault and failure.” John 9:41

Scripture Contemplation: Exodus 32; 1 Samuel 3;4; 1 Chronicles 7; Acts 5...

I was reminded of an important truth the other day. A truth that many of us may not see; especially when you love someone. When you love so deeply as a spouse, a parent, a child, a sibling. There are times when we allow our love for another to hinder a move of God from happening in our loved one's life. Unwittingly, we have become a tool in the enemy's plan to destroy our loved one, by not following what God said and yielding to the heart strings being pulled. Beloved, it is time to break the crutches. If we are to see our loved ones become who God has ordained them to be, then we must love them enough to no longer be their crutch.

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 yourself to lay it all on the altar—including your loved ones—and leave it/them there. Trust God to do what needs to be done in their lives. May you have the peace of God in heart concerning the ones you love; trusting them to the Father's capable hands.

It is not easy to see your loved one suffer. It can be heart-wrenching to see those you care about go through anything at all. And, it is in some of our natures to be a nurturer and caregiver; always being there in the time of someone's need. Yet, there is a time when we must step back and learn to allow our loved ones to walk their path. To fall sometimes and to allow God be the One to pick them up.

Far too often we get in the way of what God wants to do in the lives of those we love and care for. Our help can eventually turn into a hindrance. Hindering the move of God in that person's life. Think about this: what if you constantly carried your child around. What if you carried them everywhere, for fear that they were going to hurt themselves? How would they learn to walk? How would they know that they could get back up and start again? How would they come to the understanding that sometimes you can get bruised, but in time, healing will come forth?

You would be crippling your child for the rest of their lives if you always carried them. You would be depriving them of learning their own strengths and weaknesses, and learning how to take care of themselves when the time came. They would never develop strong legs, or a tough bottom if all you ever did was carry them. They must learn to walk on their own. And in the process gain strength in their legs, learn that they can get back up, and learn that they can walk on their own.

Exodus 32:5-8 (MSG) 5 Aaron, taking in the situation, built an altar before the calf. Aaron then announced, “Tomorrow is a feast day to God!” 6 Early the next morning, the people got up and offered Whole-Burnt-Offerings and brought Peace-Offerings. The people sat down to eat and drink and then began to party. It turned into a wild party! 7-8 God spoke to Moses, “Go! Get down there! Your people whom you brought up from the land of Egypt have fallen to pieces. In no time at all they’ve turned away from the way I commanded them: They made a molten calf and worshiped it. They’ve sacrificed to it and said, ‘These are the gods, O Israel, that brought you up from the land of Egypt!’”

There are times in our life when we know what is right, but we do not always do what is right. We yield to the voice of the people. Instead of standing up for what God has said, we give in. And because we give in, we cause destruction to take place. We become the crutch of allowance. Instead of standing up for what is right and holy, we follow the crowd. To appease the masses, we deviate from what is right.

If we know the truth and do not abide by that truth; live and walk in that truth, we are just as guilty by going along with those who are sinning against God. By not standing up for truth and speaking out against what we know to be wrong, we are a crutch to those who will do wrong. Our silence or allowance for such behaviors make us part of the sin, and liable for the consequences that follow.

Samuel 3:11-14 (MSG) 11-14 God said to Samuel, “Listen carefully. I’m getting ready to do something in Israel that is going to shake everyone up and get their attention. The time has come for me to bring down on Eli’s family everything I warned him of, every last word of it. I’m letting him know that the time’s up. I’m bringing judgment on his family for good. He knew what was going on, that his sons were desecrating God’s name and God’s place, and he did nothing to stop them. This is my sentence on the family of Eli: The evil of Eli’s family can never be wiped out by sacrifice or offering.”

God does not fault us for loving our children or wanting what is best for them. But we cannot be the kind of parent that does not give correction or discipline, or hold our children accountable for their actions. There are times when we can become a crutch for those that we love by always bailing them out, and never allowing them to face the consequences of their actions. How can our loved ones come to learn accountability and responsibility if we continue to provide a license for them to do what they want to do, whenever they want to do it without any repercussions for their actions? We become just as guilty as they.

Why do we conspire to cover up lies and believe that we can outwit God? Or, act as though we know better than God? God knows our hearts. He knows all that we do and say. He knows our thoughts before we think them. Yet, many of us have knowingly lied and covered up sins and wrong doings for those that we love, believing that we are only being loyal. What? Loyal to sin? Loyal to cover up a life that is not pleasing to God? Helping those to continue to live a life of lies, and acting as though everything will be all right?

It is time to break the crutches. God is holding us accountable for our actions and inaction. God is not idly sitting upon His throne and watching us, winking at our iniquities. He is not moved by our devotion to our loved one's sinful behavior. He is not pleased by the excuses we make for them. Yet, He is holding us accountable, and their blood is on our hands. How can we know the truth and not live it or teach the truth? How can we say we love God and love our family, and not allow God to do what needs to be done in their lives? We cannot continue to make excuses, or become an excuse, or continue to bail out our loved ones and expect them to become who God has ordained for them to be.

If we love those the way we say we love them, then we must be willing to let them fall and get back up on their own. We must be willing to let them walk their walk on their own. To learn and to grow and to come to God for themselves. There is only one Savior, and His name is Jesus Christ. Tough love is often allowing those we love and care for to come to the realization that only God can deliver them and save them from the course their life has taken. Not mother, not father, not wife, not husband, not a child, sibling or friend. Do not be the crutch that eventually brings death—spiritually and physically—to the ones that you say you love. Let God be God. Let them fall and allow God to pick them up.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives, spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Trust your loved ones to God. Place them on the altar and allow God do for them, what He has done for you. Let Jesus become their Savior and Deliverer. Move out of God's way, and see what the Father will do when you have complete faith in Him. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing, by allowing God to be God!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "God Cannot Lie"

Reflections4Life October 27^th, 2013

“God Cannot Lie”

“God is not a man, that he should lie, Neither the son of man, that he should repent: Hath he said, and will he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and will he not make it good?” Numbers 23:19

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 1; Numbers 23; Job 5; Jeremiah 29; Ephesians 3; Philippians 1...

Do you trust God? Do you believe what God has spoken concerning your life? Do you believe He is able to do just what He said? Are you confident in God? Do you walk in confidence and faith? Or, are you bound by fear and unbelief? Know this truth, beloved. Hold it in your heart and remind your self daily: God cannot lie.

I decree and agree with Jesus, that this week's Reflections will be a continued and constant source of inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. That you will believe with all your heart, that this is your season. Your season to believe and walk in the promises of God. That, you will know in your heart, believe with all your soul, that whatever God has promised you; He is making good on them.

I understand clearly those times when you feel all that you have been waiting for is not going to happen. I understand and clearly identify with the thought, that maybe God has forgotten you. Perhaps what He has promised is not going to happen. I know what it is like to wait and wait, and as you wait, to feel your faith get a little shaky; to the point that you almost stop believing. I have been there, beloved. But I held on. I held on by speaking the word of God. By meditating on His word. By praying and fasting and surrounding myself with like-minded people.

In this world we are surrounded daily with people and things that are contrary to our walk in God. We are faced with wickedness and fear, and doubt and unbelief. We often walk a fine line while navigating this narrow path each and every day. Yet, we must continue to believe in our God. We must continue to walk in confidence and in faith, knowing that God has us covered. That, what we are waiting upon is coming to pass. But in the meantime, we have many obstacles to contend with. Many battles we will fight. However, through it all we can overcome and see the promises of God fulfilled in our life, if we follow God's instructions.

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

Ephesians 3:12-13 ...in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him. 13 Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory.

Hebrews 12:2-3 looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against himself, that ye wax not weary, fainting in your souls.

Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the wicked, Nor standeth in the way of sinners, Nor sitteth in the seat of scoffers: 2 But his delight is in the law of Jehovah; And on his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the streams of water, That bringeth forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also doth not wither; And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Yes. Times will get hard sometimes. Our path will get a little bumpy. Things will happen in our life that will look nothing like the blessings of God. In fact, it may even look like we don't serve God or that there is a God. Yet, God tells us that this is a faith walk. That, we cannot walk this walk, or run this race by what we see. We must believe and walk by faith. We must must endure the hard times and have courage, believing that God will see us through each and every time.

Grant it, it can feel as though we are constantly getting hit on all sides at all times. That, just when we get over one hurdle and one test, and come through one difficult time, there is another one right behind it. Making you feel as though you are constantly under attack and cannot catch a break. And the fact of the matter is, it causes you to feel as though God is far removed from you, as though He has abandoned you.

These are those times beloved, when God is conditioning our heart. These are the times when our faith is being developed. When God is preparing us for what lies ahead. These are the times when you are so close to the manifestations of God's promises in your life coming to pass, that the enemy is hell bent on causing you to lose focus and give up. To walk away from your miracle, from your blessings and promises.

Don't you let that happen! Don't you dare come this far and give up on God, when God has not given up on you! God has equipped us with everything we need to make it through this race. He has already assured us the victory. Jesus made us that assurance when He went to Cross and defeated hell and death.

Everything the enemy is doing is designed to get you to forfeit your promises. He is strategic in his war against you. You must be strategic in your prayers and faith. Do not grow weary while doing the will of God. Though those times of weariness will come, shake it off by remembering the promises of God. Don't just read the word, pray the word. Stand firm in what God has told you. Now is not the time to get quiet. You must declare and decree what God has spoken concerning you. Declare His word to the atmosphere.

Surround yourself with those who can encourage you and not commiserate with you. Remember all that God has already done for you. We often forget past victories because of the severity of the current circumstances. People change, circumstances change, but God does not change. He will keep His promises to you. He will complete in your life that which He has started.

Do not allow the spirit of fear to block you. Fear is a tormenting spirit that will blind you and keep you from receiving all that God has ordained. It is subtle in nature, and can blossom into doubt, then unbelief. God has blessed us with power, love, and a sound mind. His power that works in us. His love that lives in us. And the mind of Christ that rests in us.

I don't care what it appears to be; what it looks like at the moment; you can believe with every fiber of your being, that God is not a liar. He cannot lie. And He will do just what He said. We must believe. We must have courage. We must have faith. And we must learn to pull down the strongholds and evil imaginations that the enemy uses against us. Greater is God in us that he that is in this world. If God was not so great, and your life was not so precious and valuable, and destined for greatness, as well, the enemy wouldn't take another look at you. But I’ve a feeling that just as Job, God has been bragging on His children again. And if God believes we can past these tests, and be all He called us to be; then it's about time we start believing it, and believing in Him with all our heart and soul.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Whatever you take from today, remember this: God cannot lie. He has already worked things out for you. His promises will come to pass. Stay in with a heart of faith. Believe in Him with all your heart. Trust Him where you cannot trace Him. Continue in prayer and meditation. And leave the enemy to God. He knows just what to do. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Confidence, Boldness and Assurance"

Reflections4Life October 20^th, 2013

“Confidence, Boldness and Assurance”

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Scripture Contemplation: Job 13; Psalm 23; 51; 1 Corinthians 2; Hebrews 4; Hebrews 10...

Wherever you may be in your life right now; know that God is in control. The Father has always been in control. We, however, must maintain confidence in our Lord. Walk with boldness, and the assurance that everything that God has spoken concerning our lives is come to pass.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a constant source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Let it serve as a reminder of the goodness of God in your life; even when you cannot see it. Be assured that whatever God has promised you, He will certainly see it through. You must remain in a posture of prayer, confidence, boldness, faith, and focus. Focus on the things of God. Focus on His word. And know in your heart, that God is in control.

There are times when the enemy will come hot and heavy like a steamroller in our lives. Pushing, shoving, antagonizing, constantly whispering lies; words of deception to get us to give up and walk away from the Father. Sometimes, it may even appear that what he is saying is true. That's because the enemy is good at using partial truths and twisting them. And if we are not in a position of faith, and prayer, and pulling down those strongholds, and casting down those evil imaginations; we will succumb to the enemy's treachery.

We must remain fully armed. Armed with the armor of God (Ephesians 6), so that we may stand triumphant in the midst of the battles. And part of our weaponry is to walk in confidence, to be bold in our conviction when we come before the Lord in prayer, and to always have a heart of assurance that all God has spoken concerning us has come to pass.

Many might say that the correct statement would be: it's coming to pass. However, the truth of the matter is, that all that He has ordained for our lives has already come to pass. It is done. Complete. Finished. God has already declared and decreed the blessings over our lives. He has already done what He has promised in our lives. WE must learn to walk in that assurance and guarantee, and knowledge that it has already been done. We must believe, walk and live accordingly.

Beloved, once Jesus went to the Cross and died for all of our sins, and sickness, and disease; once the sacrifice was made, and He defeated hell and death, and He rose again—everything that God ordained for His children was restored. And if we truly believe in our hearts on the Lord Jesus, accept Him as our Savior, and that God surely raised Him from the dead; we are saved and receive the full benefits of salvation. Part of that benefit package is knowing that God has already spoke a word over our lives and assured its manifestation. It is up to us to believe it, receive it, and walk in it.

Many of us wrestle with ourselves and battle in our minds concerning the promises of God. We try in vain to figure out how God is going to do something. We wrestle with the flesh that continues to undermine the spirit, and continually suggests that is impossible for God to do what He said. The flesh surveys the situation and determines that, like man, God cannot possibly change the situation we are in; especially overnight!—that's just going too far! Yet, that is who God is—specializing in the impossible. Our finite minds cannot comprehend the infinite ways of our heavenly Father. Because of this, we often become filled with fear, doubt, and unbelief.

I find it prudent to share with you a passage of scripture that will hopefully help you to walk in confidence, boldness and assurance. Not of self, but of God. Because you take on the mind of Christ and walk in the wisdom of Holy Spirit.

There are many things in this world that we will encounter and may not understand. There are things in this life that we search for answers for and find none. Things happen to us and we do not understand why. Yet, for those of us who would believe and enter into an intimate relationship with the Father, we will find—through constant fellowship, worship, meditation, and praise—that what God has spoken concerning our lives will manifest. God is keeper of His word. And when we yield ourselves to Him and to His ways, He reveals to us all that we need to know. All that we need to understand about this journey we are in called life.

If we desire to walk in the fullness of God and the blessings He has ordained for our lives, we have to learn to let go of what we think we know, for all that God does know. We must be willing to see through the eyes of our Father. To walk faithfully and diligently, and in obeisance to His word. We must yield ourselves—even those hidden and hurtful parts—all over to Him. For when we give God our all; everything that we are, and everything we hope to be—He unlocks the door to all that He has already given, that has been waiting for us to claim.

Our life must be one of confidence, boldness, and assurance. Our confidence in who God is, and who we are in Him. Walking in boldness and courage. Knowing that we can come to God for anything. That, we are not limited or hindered; but encouraged to bring it all before the King, knowing that He understands us and will give us just what we need. And having the assurance that God will do just what He said. That, He is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent, and that whatever He has spoken concerning our lives, He is faithful to do just what He said.

1 Corinthians 2:9-16 (The Message Bible)

That’s why we have this Scripture text: No one’s ever seen or heard anything like this, Never so much as imagined anything quite like it—What God has arranged for those who love him. But you’ve seen and heard it because God by his Spirit has brought it all out into the open before you. 10-13 The Spirit, not content to flit around on the surface, dives into the depths of God, and brings out what God planned all along. Who ever knows what you’re thinking and planning except you yourself? The same with God—except that he not only knows what he’s thinking, but he lets us in on it. God offers a full report on the gifts of life and salvation that he is giving us. We don’t have to rely on the world’s guesses and opinions. We didn’t learn this by reading books or going to school; we learned it from God, who taught us person-to-person through Jesus, and we’re passing it on to you in the same firsthand, personal way. 14-16 The unspiritual self, just as it is by nature, can’t receive the gifts of God’s Spirit. There’s no capacity for them. They seem like so much silliness. Spirit can be known only by spirit—God’s Spirit and our spirits in open communion. Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God’s Spirit is doing, and can’t be judged by unspiritual critics. Isaiah’s question, “Is there anyone around who knows God’s Spirit, anyone who knows what he is doing?” has been answered: Christ knows, and we have Christ’s Spirit.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Yield to Holy Spirit. Do not govern your lives by what you can only see through your natural eyes or hear through your natural ears. See through spiritual eyes. Hear through spiritual ears. We walk by faith and not by sight. Though things may seem impossible, or that things have even gotten worse; believe in the Lord God. That, He is in control, and if you allow Him, He will speak to you and show you things you never knew. Things that the flesh cannot comprehend; only a heart and soul that has yielded, and walks in confidence, boldness, and assurance. You are Blessed. More than you know. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.