Sunday, December 28, 2014

"The Lessons Learned, The Badges Earned"

Reflections4Life,  December 28th, 2014
“The Lessons Learned, the Badges Earned”
“Take a lesson from the fig tree. From the moment you notice its buds form, the merest hint of green, you know summer’s just around the corner. So it is with you: When you see all these things, you’ll know he’s at the door. Don’t take this lightly. I’m not just saying this for some future generation, but for all of you. This age continues until all these things take place. Sky and earth will wear out; my words won’t wear out.” Matthew 24:32-35 (MSG)
Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 34; Proverbs 6; Mark 13; Hebrews 8; James 5…
I can barely believe this is the last Sunday of the year! Wow! As I look over the year and the many things that have happened—good, bad, ugly, wonderful—I know it all has served as lessons. And for many of us, we have definitely earned some badges of honor along the way.
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 reflect upon this year, and all the lessons and tests, and trials and triumphs; let your heart be filled with joy, and the knowledge that God not only brought you through it all, but He was right there with you, and continues to be with you right now.
Every test, trial, hardship; even our triumphs and accolades have served as life lessons that we can bring into the New Year. Whether they taught us what to do, what not to do, who to listen to, who not to listen to, what we truly desire, and what we should move on from; it was all valuable lessons that can help us to navigate a New Year, not with resolutions, but decrees and declarations. Declare and decree what God says of you. Declare the will of God shall be done, and decree that you will walk in wisdom, doing and living your best life.
This wasn't an easy year for most. We saw many changes and causes, and people coming together, as well as be divided, but that's to be expected with changes. The world is constantly changing, and so are we. Hopefully and prayerfully we can take the changes and become better human beings that are less moved by emotions, but more inclined to action by our spirit.
Many of us will look back and wonder how we made it! There were some sketchy days, weeks and months when we did not know how we would make it to tomorrow, let alone next week, next month or a next year. Yet here we are. In the land of the living by the grace of God.
Yes. We have been hurt this past year. We have experienced disappointments. We have been let down, lied to, manipulated. We’ve lost loved ones, been separated from those we love, been rejected, and let down by those we call family and friends. But we’re still here. In the land of the living. We may be hurting, but we’re alive to feel it. And as long as we have breath in our body, the blood flowing through our veins; we have an opportunity to see that joy comes in the morning.
Every hurt, disappointment, loss, heartache and betrayal can serve as life lessons in our journey. Every relationship we have whether it worked out or not, taught us something. Every day we are upon this earth, we are being given life lessons. Lessons that we can learn from to help cultivate and propel our lives in the direction that God has ordained.
What a sad predicament to live a life where lessons are never learned. Where, we perpetually live the same situations over and over again; have the same kind of relationships over and over again, and wake with the same disappointments all because we didn’t take heed to the lessons that our life has been teaching us all along.
Until we learn the lessons well, we will never pass the tests to get to the next level of life that awaits us. The problem for most is that we run from life—from its lessons. We deny what’s in front of us and live in a world made up of lies we’ve created to get from one day to the next. It’s like that movie, Groundhog Day, where the main character relives the same day over and over again until he begins to learn the lessons that he was ignoring all of his life. The lessons of life, love, selflessness, and respect for himself and others.
This year has presented us with lessons that we can learn and glean from. We can take these lessons and walk into the New Year fully armed and prepared to live life differently and according to what God has ordained. Too many of us, however, will repeat the trials and tests of this past year because we deny what’s right in front of us. We deny the problems and situations that have been compounding for years and years.
We have a choice, Beloved. We have a grand opportunity to face the truth, take the lessons (even the most painful ones) and learn from them. Learn who we are. Learn who God truly is. And then begin to live the life that God has ordained for us all along. Sure, we may have to let some people go from our lives. We may have to walk away from some situations and people. We may have to sever some ties professionally and financially. We may have to move away. If you want to be free in the New Year; if you truly want what God has ordained—then there are some hard decisions that will have to be made. Just know, however, that God is there with you. He is right there with you through it all. Trust Him.
Thank you for spending this year with me. I have truly enjoyed your company and the pleasure of connecting with some very wonderful and beautiful souls. My prayer for you is that your New Year will be filled with answered prayers, safety, ingenuity, integrity, joy, peace, success, and an abundance of sincere Love! Blessings to you and yours!
I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Take the lessons you learned this year to help you be free in the New Year. Wear your badges of triumph well. You earned them! Don’t dismiss the lessons of this year, or deny your experiences. You cannot have a “clean slate” in the New Year with debris from the past causing lumps under the rug, so to speak. Confront it. Confess it. Deal with it. Take its lessons and move on from it. God will be with you through it all. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, December 21, 2014

"There's Room For You"

Reflections4Life December 21, 2014
There's Room For You.”
So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:6-7 NKJV
Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 23; Matthew 1; Luke 1-2; John 1...


I take pleasure in knowing that Jesus is the reason for this season. I have joy in knowing that because He was born, my place at the Father's table became possible. I thank God for His precious gift, that made it possible for there to be room for me in my Father's house.

I wish each and everyone a very blessed Christmas! Certainly this year has moved along quite quickly. I can hardly believe that, here we are, celebrating Christmas this week when it feels like we were just in the month of July. But as the world waxes colder, the days grow shorter, and Christ is soon to return; I pray that we will remember the Word and promises of God; to keep them hidden in our hearts and live them day by day, cherishing the gift that God gave us that ensured our place at His eternal table.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a source of continued encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Give God the glory—in the good times, the bad times, the uncertain times. Do not allow your current situation or circumstance determine your prayer or praise to the Father. Remember the goodness of God in your life. Meditate in the word of God. Study it. Pray it. Recite it to the atmosphere. And allow the heavenly Father to remind you of your place at His eternal table, where Christ secured a spot just for you.

For many people, their lives have consisted of them trying to fit in. Trying to be accepted and become a part of something. Whether it's family, a clique, a sorority, a fraternity, a club, the cool kids, etcetera. There is a desire in everyone to be wanted, desired and accepted. There is no one on this earth that likes or wants to be rejected; especially from one's family.

During my time in college, that was the first time I really noticed that not everyone had a family like mine. They didn't share that closeness, the family gatherings, the looking out for one another. I also realized about myself, that I never tried or desired to be accepted or fit into one certain group. Don't get me wrong; there were times of rejection in my life. But I moved on, because as it turns out, I attract friends rather easily; friends that would become like family. Friendships that I cherish to this day.

Yet, whether you're like me or like many others who have experienced rejection often, or fight to try and fit in, there is always a part of you—myself included—that wonders where do you fit in? Where do you belong? And will you be accepted for who you are? It crosses my mind each time I write an article or begin a new story, or write a reflection. With all the information, books, articles out there; will mine be able to stand out? Will it even make a difference? Where does my voice fit in with so many voices already out there?

God answered that right away: There's room for you. There's a place for your voice, for your gift, for your talent. There is a place for you in this world and at My table. Jesus secured a place just for me, and He secured a place just for you.

The Father also helped me to understand that where there is no room, or seems to be no way—then you make a way. You create a door. Create a new path. You be the first to tread that new pathway. You create a legacy; a business; an opportunity. You put yourself out there and become the very thing you were looking for in others.

I think of Joseph and Mary going from inn to inn being told that there was no room. No room for the Son of God to be born. No room for a woman heavy with pregnancy to give birth. So they made room—in a manger. Where Christ our Lord was born. 

Jesus was rejected over and over again. He was not accepted by most of His family. When He tried to preach and teach and give in His own home city of Nazareth, He was rejected. Here it is, the Son of God and He is doing great things for other cities and nations. But amongst His own...nothing. Because they did not believe and they rejected who He was. They could not see Him as anything but the carpenter's son.

That is how it is for many of us today. Many people; especially family and people you grew up with, will never see you for who you truly are. They will not see the changes. They will not see the growth or accomplishments because they are blinded by your start. But as we move forth in the Lord, we come to understand that it is not about how we start, but how we finish that counts.

There is room for you in this world. There is room for your voice, your ideas, your gifts and your talents. Yet, most importantly, there is room for you at the Father's table. There is a spot that has been reserved just for you; secured the moment Jesus entered this earth realm.

Many will judge us by our past. They will never be able to see past our beginning. We will be rejected countless of times. Told no too many times to count. However, one YES from God trumps all of that! As long as God has said yes, there will always be room. Room to grow, to learn, to build, to create, to be just who God ordained us to be. Don't allow rejection to stop you or hinder you any longer. You're in great company...Jesus was rejected also, but He did it God's way. And because He did, we can also.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Be strong. Be courageous. Stand firm in your faith. There is room for you, because God has already secured it. Remember the reason for this season. Remember: one yes from God trumps every and all no's you have ever heard. Have a blessed Christmas! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.



Sunday, December 14, 2014

"Shake It Off!"

Reflections4Life December 14th, 2014
“Shake It Off!”
“Whoever does not receive you, nor heed your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet.” Matthew 10:14
Scripture Contemplation: Judges 16:20; Nehemiah 5:13; Psalm 109:23; Isaiah 43;
2 Thessalonians 2; Hebrews 12…
Life is a journey that has many ups and downs, twists and turns. Things can happen unexpectedly and affect our lives in ways we never thought. We've often been told to "Let go and Let God". We do. But what happens when the memory of the thing we let go of pops up and takes us for a heart-wrenching ride? Those are the times when we must learn to shake it off.
I declare and decree that this week's Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. As you let go and let God, let the Father fill you and renew your mind. Think on the great and wonderful things of God and His promises. So when the shadows of the past come, you can shake it off.
We can be living our lives, all is going well, when something will happen, or someone will say something and we are suddenly encumbered by the thoughts and shadows of our past. It can throw us for a loop, disrupting our lives and may even stagnate us for a time.
Letting go was great. But we need to learn how to shake it off; shake off the remnants of our past before it pulls us down and keeps us from moving forward and living God's best. Our past can be a chokehold on our future if we don't learn how to shake off the reminders that the enemy strategically hits us with; trying to stop our future. Which he can't. He's just hoping we're gullible enough to fall for his continued lies and game of smoke and mirrors.
Isaiah 43:18-19a “Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. “Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it?”
Beloveds, we can let go of the past but still be haunted by its memories. The enemy is wonderful at using our past against us and whispering our unworthiness of the goodness of God’s blessings. The Father desires to do a new thing. And as we let go, it does not mean that we are not affected by the memories, however we can move forward with the knowledge that our past holds no power when God has already forgiven us. It’s just that memories can be powerful tools of the enemy to come and cripple us. And they always seem to surface as we are fully prepared to move ahead.
It’s. Just. A. Test. Trust me when I tell you. God is allowing the enemy to try, but once God has already declared you the winner; that’s what it is. The enemy just wants US to think that he has some kind of power, so he tries to intimidate us into submission by dredging up old memories.
The Father tells us to not call to mind the former things or to think on them. He already warns us that it has the ability to steal our attention and make us miss the new thing He is doing. Before you know it, we are repeating the past, and have picked up what we long ago let go. Don’t do it, Beloveds. Shake it off. Shake off the memories, the regrets, and the past, and receive what God has ordained for you today.
Here’s what I know for certain: There are many things that give us pause in our lives. Things we should and have let go of. Sometimes I find that letting go is the easy part. It’s the memories that seem to have a hold on your soul. At unexpected times, memories can bombard you, causing you to feel overwhelmed. These are the times when we must learn to shake it off. Shake off those memories. Shake off the dust of past mistakes, failures, rejection, and disappointment. Shake it all off. We let go, but there seems to be some residue in our mind we're not aware of; like a sheet or layer of dust that can't be seen until the sun or light hits it. When you let go, don't pick it up again. When the light exposes the residue, shake it off. Do not entertain thoughts and memories that steal your joy and claim your peace. When they come...shake it off and keep it moving! There is too much good that God has ahead of you.
I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Before you is a road that God has designed just for you. It is not an easy road, but a rewarding road, that is filled with the love and promises of God. In order to move forward on this road we will have to let go of our past. Just know, however, that on this road there are those on the sideline that will look and sound familiar and try to get you off your path. Don’t stop. Whatever you, keep moving. Keep your focus on God, shake off the remnants of the past and keep walking into the promises of God for your life. Just as there are reminders of your past; there will be reminders of your future. Don’t forfeit the gift of today and the blessings of tomorrow, for the memories of a past that God has already forgiven you for. You are stronger than you believe. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, December 07, 2014

"Fall Into The Arms of God"

Reflections4Life December 6, 2014
“Fall into the Arms of God”
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91:1
Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 2; Psalm 5; Palm 31; Psalm 91; Philippians 3; 2 Timothy 4; 1 Peter 5…
In our lifetime, we fall for so many things: people, words, things, etcetera. We fall into diverse situations, sometimes not even knowing how we got there. Other times knowing exactly how, but to ashamed to confess it, so we stay in that situation while our soul and heart become harden. It's time for us to fall into the arms of God. To, fall in love with God.
I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May you allow the Heavenly Father to pour into you. To, give you what you have been searching for all along but did not know how to find.
There is nothing in this earth that can outdo the protective and healing arms of God. There is no condemnation. There is no pain. There is no looking over your shoulder. There are no lies. Though there is truth that may sting and hurt a bit; there is no harm.
In the arms of God there is healing and unconditional love. Many of us cannot see this or understand this, because we have listened too long to the lies and whispers of the enemy. For so long, so many have been searching to fill a void, an emptiness in their hearts with temporal things. At first, they feel full, satiated, and complete. Then after a while, a feeling of emptiness and longing starts to stir up again. They’re soon looking to someone or something else to fill that emptiness, only to repeat the painful cycle.
The whole time, while seeking and searching high and low to fill that void, to appease that ache, God is there. He is there waiting to receive us into the shelter of His arms. He calls to us. He reaches for us. However, all too often, we reject God. We reject His hands and His love. But the enemy will have us to believe that God has rejected us.
Allow me to say this to your soul and spirit before continuing forth. Just because you may not have received an answer to your prayer in the way in which you were expecting, does not mean that God has rejected you. Just because you have prayed for something and it did not come to pass does not mean that God has rejected you. Just because you received a no for now, does not mean that God has rejected you. God has not rejected or abandoned you. And no right now, does not mean it will always be a no.
Beloveds, allow this to ruminate in your heart and mind: Sometimes God has something far greater than you could ever imagine for yourself, and He does things in His way and His time, but it is always for your good. God cannot lie. He will keep His promise to you, and give you that expected end that is filled with grace, mercy, love and joy.
There are many of that have placed our trust and belief in others and things and have been sorely disappointed over and over again. It has, for many, jaded them when it comes to believing in someone. It has also cause some to place God on that same level as man.
God is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent. (Numbers 21:19) Rest assure; whatever God has spoken and promised to you, it will come to pass in due season. We just have to make sure we are ready, and have lived our life accordingly. Otherwise, we can find ourselves out of position to receive the manifestations of the blessings.
Beloveds, we have listened to the wrong people for far too long. We have put our trust and faith into people and things that have no idea who we are and what God has ordained for us. We have fallen for the lies of the enemy and believed what he has spoken concerning us and God. It's time to change the station and hear what God is saying to you today. Fall into the shelter and love of God's arms. Let Him love on you and restore you and strengthen you. What do you have to lose? Nothing but your past hurt and shame. But, you have so much to gain.
I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Fall into the arms of God where there is always room for you. Fall into the shelter and safety of the arms that have been open for you since you entered this realm of time. Receive freely what Jesus has already paid for in full. Receive the comfort and peace that can only come from a Father who loves you, accepts you, and sees you just as you truly are. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, November 30, 2014

"Stop Lying to Yourself"

Reflections4Life Sunday, November 30th, 2014

“Stop Lying to Yourself”

“Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, And in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.” Psalm 51:6

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 24:14; Psalm 15:2; Proverbs 12:22; John 8:32; Acts 5; Ephesians 4…
We can tell ourselves everything is all right. We can tell others everything is well. We can even attempt to tell God that we are fine. Even though we know God already knows. Yet we say these things when we are lying to ourselves. Lying about how we feel, about our troubles, about who we are and what we want. If you want to sincerely be free; to be healed and delivered; then you must come to the conclusion that you must stop lying to yourself.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow Holy Spirit into those secret places that you have even hidden from yourself. Let the light of God shine bright on those areas that need to be exposed, and healed, so that you may truly begin to live the life that God has ordained for you.

Sure, we can lie to everyone around us, and even convince them that we are well and happy with our lives. We can even convince ourselves that all is well, but that won't last long when God loves us way too much to leave us in a state of denial and lying to ourselves.

God has so many ways He desires to bless us, that He will not allow "us" to not face the truth, but ensure we stop lying to ourselves, and begin living the life He's ordained for us. Yes. There are things that have happened in our lives than have hurt us deeply. Situations and circumstances have arose to shake us to the core. Yet, we can no longer run from the truth or lie to ourselves if we expect to really move forward. We have to face the truth about who we are and what has been happening in our lives. There is healing that comes once we finally stop running, and start dealing with what is right in front of us.

The truth of the matter is, what we don't confront will continually show up in our lives. We will never be able to outrun a lie, when truth is always present demanding payment in full. If we say we are in a relationship with God, and we say we desire to live the life that God has ordained for us, then we must understand that everything about us must be lined up with who God is, and the path He has designed for us to walk.

Truth and lies cannot abide in the same place. Light and dark cannot occupy the same space. One will block out the other. When we continually lie to ourselves, and are not honest about what is in our hearts; it makes it fairly easy for others to lie to us also.

I don’t know about you, Beloved, but I don’t like being lied to. I have always maintained that I’d rather be hurt from the truth, than to be damaged by a lie. With the truth—though it may hurt and sting—it’s still the truth and will bring healing. But with a lie, it will cause havoc and pain that have yet to be seen. It will breed mistrust, doubt, and fear. Tell the truth. Let it be known from the beginning.

I don’t like lying. It is something that bothers me to the core; especially because I do not want to be lied to. We do reap what we sow. There was a time, however, when I lied to myself. I lied about what I wanted in life. I lied to myself about being happy. I was going through the motions of life, and doing what was expected of me. But I was not living my truth. I was not being authentic to who I am and who God ordained and called me to be. The end result was chaos, heartache, and sickness.

For a long time, my past held me in bondage. Things had occurred in my life that I never told anyone for a very long time. I carried those things, those memories for such a long time, that it was like a noose around my neck; a heavy weight in my heart. And in all honesty, it was quite painful and frightening to face.

In my mind, all I could think about was the pain and hurt I endured. And to think about it, only brought the memories of those feelings right back to the surface. Something that I did not want to feel or face. But, when you desire to move forward; when you truly desire in your heart of hearts to have what God has promised you; then at some point you’re going to have to be honest, stop hiding, stop lying to yourself, and face your truth.

It is part of the healing and deliverance process. To confront the things that we have buried and have evaded for far too long. To be able to look in the mirror, and speak the truth to ourselves. To say without censure what it is that we feel about our lives; about the people in our lives; about the things we have experienced, suffered, fought through, and even escaped.

When we stop lying to ourselves, and admit that we need help; that we need deliverance; that we are not happy, or that we have been lying about who we are—then and only then can we truly begin to live our truth. To live our authentic selves without fear of rejection. Because once you face your truth, and stop the lying; then it will no longer matter to you what anyone else thinks or says of you. The truth is liberating on all levels. And there is nothing the enemy can hold over your head or use against you, when you have bared your all to the Father, and accepted your own truth.

Be free today, Beloveds. Don’t give the enemy one more moment of your time or space in your head or heart. It is time to evict him, and for you to take back the keys of your life that Jesus gave to you when He defeated hell and death. You have an inheritance with the Father. But you must be walking in truth; your truth to fully appreciate it and receive the full benefits.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. There is nothing more liberating than living your authentic life. To walk in the truth of who you are. To have confronted your past, its hurts, disappointments, and have Holy Spirit pour into you his comfort and love. You are worthy of all that God has ordained for you. Receive it with an open and truthful heart. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.


Sunday, November 23, 2014

"Thankful"

Reflections4Life November 23rd, 2014
“Thankful”
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations. Psalm 100:4-5 NKJV
Scripture Contemplation: 2 Samuel 7:18; Psalm 100; Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 1; Colossians 3:15…
There is so much gratitude in my heart today that it feels as though it will soon burst forth in a million tears. There are times that we take for granted the blessing and miracle of waking up to a new day. Instead of saying "Thank You", we're complaining. What does a spirit of complaining and wining accomplish? Absolutely nothing! Yet, a grateful heart, filled with thanksgiving, despite what may be transpiring, opens the windows and doors to the manifestations of the blessings that God has ordained for you all along! I thank God for one more day of life, and another chance to be my best.
I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will continue to serve as encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the presence of God room in your life to shine a light on the many blessings that we can often overlook because of the trials we so often face. Let the mind and heart of Christ rest in you.
A lot can be accomplished with two little words: Thank You. However, there are many of us walking around that have barely uttered those words in a very long time, because they have fallen into the trap of constantly complaining, and immediately acknowledging what’s wrong instead seeing and being thankful for what is right.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, I wonder how many of us will be filled with hearts of gratitude? How many of us will be able to stop counting and listing what is wrong, and be grateful for what is right; even if it’s one thing? I find it is far much easier to complain than it is to say thank you. But that’s the way the world is wired: to see the negative first. Yet, with Christ, though things may not always go as we hoped or planned, and be to our liking; it is a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving that ushers in the blessings of the Father—in spite of anything we may be going through.
We must learn to train our thoughts and our mouths to being able to acknowledge and recognize the good instead of concentrating on the bad. And an excellent way to do this is to practice with a grateful heart. To, practice being thankful and saying thank you.
Of course there are many negative things around us. Of course some of our lives feel as though we have nothing to be thankful for. Of course there are days when you feel anything but grateful. However, this is the reason we must learn to choose at least one thing at the end of the day that we can honestly say and be thankful for.
How about I help you out with one? It’s kind of quite obvious—LIFE. Be thankful for waking up to a brand new day. A day filled with possibilities and promises and opportunities. Another day to get things right. Another day in the land of the living, with the chance to make long lasting changes in your life.
I know for myself that I can and have taken for granted the gift of waking up in the morning. Life is a major miracle! Yet, many of us look at life with dread, instead of gratitude. I can recall waking up, and instead of be grateful for life, I immediately complained. I complained about what wasn’t right, what I didn’t like, what I hated. Nowhere in my diatribe did I stop to say: Thank you God for the gift of life. Thank you for the breath in my body and the life in my blood. Thank You for giving me another opportunity to receive your blessings.
Nope! None of that was said. I was too preoccupied with the things I didn’t have; the way things hadn’t gone; with the imperfections of my life, that I had completely overlooked the love and care that the Father had bestowed up me. I didn’t acknowledge His gift if life and second chances. I hadn’t acknowledge the fact that here I was, alive and with the ability to think and do for myself, when so many others have lost their lives. When, there were so many others who didn’t have a bed to sleep in or clothes to wear, or food to fill their bellies.
Don’t get it twisted! Yes, there are times when we will acknowledge the less than favorable things in our lives. But it should never be to the exclusion of recognizing the precious gift that God has given…life. Nor should we become so preoccupied with what’s wrong that we never utter the words Thank You for all the many things that are right.
These past three weeks, I have seen and heard of so many deaths; some that I knew personally. It served as a reminder of the precious gift that life is, that we all too often take for granted. It reminded me also of all the many things I have to be thankful for in my life, and that it all outweighs and trumps the things I can find to complain and be unhappy about.
Develop your heart of gratitude. Start with thanking God every time he wakes you in the morning. Life is too short to have nothing but regrets and a heart that cannot find at least one thing to be thankful for.
I thank God for life. For another opportunity to live it to its fullest. To, learn to concentrate on His goodness and promises, and not yield to easy route of complaining. I also am thankful for YOU. For your continued support and fellowship. I pray that God’s goodness and mercy will be continue to cover you! Praying you and yours have a very thankful Thanksgiving!
I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Give thanks with a grateful heart. When you find yourself going to complain first, think on at least one thing, and begin to thank God. When your praises go up the blessings come down. A thankful heart opens up doors and makes a path for the gifts of the Spirit to flow freely in your life. Happy Thanksgiving! You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!
©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.



Sunday, November 16, 2014

"Watch Your Mouth"

Reflections4Life November 16th, 2014
Watch Your Mouth”
Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 1; 6; Psalm 19:14; Matthew 4:4; 15:18; James 3; Titus 1; Jude 1...

How often do we pay close attention to the words that are coming from out of our mouths? How many of us dare to put a watch over mouths, so that we bring no harm to others or ourselves? The words that we speak can bring comfort or pain. It can bring forth healing and even death. It is time for us to listen carefully and to watch our mouths.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and enlightenment for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow your time spent with the Lord this week to be filled with reflection. Reflection upon the things that come from your mouth. Allow Holy Spirit to guide your tongue, and to make you hyper-aware of the things you say during a normal course of the day. It can be the difference between life and death...literally.

Growing up, I always heard my Grams and my Nana, as well as my Mom say: watch your mouth. As children, we can try our parents sometimes and say something that is sassy or even disrespectful. The first warning was always watched your mouth. There really wasn't a second warning; just a pop in the mouth and punishment.

I believe today many of us need a spiritual pop in the mouth to remind of us the things that we are saying. It is not just the harm and hurt that we are bringing to others; but the harm we do to ourselves that many of us are not even aware of. So many times we have prayed and asked God for something, and in the next breath we totally wipe out our prayers, because our mouths defeat us. Instead of speaking the word of God and blessings over our lives, we speak negativity and curses. Instead of life, there is death.

Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

How many times have we heard this passage of scripture, only to forget it in the light of a days activity? How many times have we spoken things that are filled with negativity and the exact opposite of what we are believing God for? If we want what God has for us, we're going to have to start speaking like our Father. We are going to have to put a watch over our mouths, and speak what God speaks concerning us.

We also have the power to effect the lives of others. When I think of this specifically, I often think about what we say to our children. What are you speaking over the lives of your children? Do you inspire them? Encourage them? Speak positive affirmations? Do you declare and decree what God has spoken? Do you bless them or do you curse them?

My parents always told me what I could be; encouraging my endeavors even when I, myself, was filled with uncertainty and doubt. My father was bold and told me what I WOULD be, and WOULD accomplish in this life. He spoke a life of blessings over my life. He spoke the father's blessing over his children, just as Jacob did to his children.

The words that we speak into the atmosphere have the power to bring life or death. And can bring healing or destruction. Many words have caused strife and the life of people. I never understood that old saying I heard growing up: Sticks and stones may break your bones but names will never hurt you.

What a load of crap! The words we speak can cause irreparable damage. Words can kill. Its evidence in the number of cases of bullying and the continuing increase of suicide amongst our young children. Words do hurt. They can do so much harm and destroy many lives. Words spoken in a lie can change lives forever. It can cost lives, as well.

So yes, words do hurt and can can bring devastating harm. We must learn to guard our mouths and train our tongues to speak words that are edifying, and truth that is not destructive, but healing. To say what needs to be said in a manner in which a person's life is not torn down or destroyed.

If we desire the life that God has ordained for us, then we must also learn to0 watch our mouths concerning the things that we speak and declare of ourselves. Do not speak the opposite of what God has spoken. Edify yourself with the word of God. Speak God's truth. Watch what you allow to pass through your lips and into the atmosphere. You have the power to prophesy over your life. To speak life—abundant life—to your situation and circumstances.

Beloved, speak what God says about you. Let those words fill your heart and the atmosphere. Practice speaking what God says. Train your tongue to edify and not destroy. A word spoken in kindness can change someone's life forever. A comforting word can save a life. A word of wisdom can bring clarity. A word of encouragement can bring joy and happiness.

I declare and decree that the the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Watch your mouth, Beloved. Be aware of your conversations and the words you speak. They can be the difference between life and death. Life or death to dreams, hopes, and visions. The difference between life and death for a soul; for someone's life. Think on the things of the Lord, allowing it to fill your heart, so that it will begin to flow from your lips. How can we praise God with the same mouth that curses and bring destruction? The choice is always ours. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!


©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, November 09, 2014

"Good Sense, Common Sense, and God Sense"

Reflections4Life November 9th, 2014
“Good Sense, Common Sense, God Sense”
“Even the stork in the sky knows her seasons; and the turtledove and the swift and the thrush Observe the time of their migration; but My people do not know The ordinance of the Lord.” Jeremiah 8:7 (NASB)
Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 1; Psalm 104:19; Ecclesiastes 3; Daniel 2:21; Matthew 21:41
Our lives consists of seasons. And in those seasons we are learning and growing and gaining knowledge not only to take into each new season of our lives, but to knowledge and wisdom to share with others. The things we learn may come from personal experience or the experiences of others. We will have teachers in every season, and in some seasons, we will become the teachers.
Within the seasons of our lives we will always be faced with making choices. There are decisions that must be made in order for us to move forward. When it’s time to make those choices? We will either draw upon good sense, common sense, or God sense. God sense being the best sense of the three.
I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will continued to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Develop your intimate relationship with the Heavenly Father. God has so much to pour into you and to prepare you for. It’s only with God that we can gain an understanding of the seasons of lives. And learn how to navigate accordingly.
Growing up I heard many of parent and grandparents begin a sentence with: "Don't you have the good sense to..." I've also heard many people, including myself use the term: "Its common sense…" when explaining an action or planned action. Yet, it wasn't until I matured and truly appreciated my intimate relationship with God, that I understood "God Sense" and its difference from just good and common sense.
Good sense requires us to make a decision based upon reasonable thinking and knowing the difference between good and bad. Common sense refers to that which is a commonality amongst many. A choice that is dictated by what seems to be the natural order of things. Then there's God sense; making a decision based upon the wisdom of God gained through a personal relationship with Him.
There's nothing wrong with good or common sense. But neither is on the level of God sense. Why? Because there are times when we will be presented with a situation that our good and common sense dictates is all good to move forward with. Everything seemingly lines up and is in order. However, with God sense, though everything seems good and IS good, God Sense will let you know if the timing is right. If it is the right season, and if it's for you.
I have learned that everything good may not be good for me. Or, certain things are just not right for this season of my life. It is wonderful to use good and common sense. But it's even better to develop your God Sense. And that can only be accomplished through an intimate relationship with the Father Himself.
How many decisions have you made in your life that you can say you used God sense? How many times in your life have you used good or common sense, only to be disappointed by the outcome? As I said, there is nothing wrong with good or common sense. I pray that we all would be endowed with good and common sense. Face it: there are way too many people that choose NOT to use good or common sense, and the results are evident in the many lives that are lost, destroyed, and changed forever by the poor/bad choices made by another.
Yet, it is God sense that is layered over our good and common sense that allows us to know, understand which season of our lives we are in. In the book of Ecclesiastes, the writer tells us that there is a season for all things under the sun. A time to mourn, a time to laugh, a time sow, a time to reap. There is a season for all things. And when we are in an intimate relationship with the Heavenly Father, we develop our God sense, and come to learn and understand the seasons of our life. Whether it is time for us to plant or to harvest. Whether it is time for us to move or to be still. Whether or not an opportunity that seems good is good for the season that we are in.
It is vitally important that we learn to move in the realms of God’s timing. That, we are not leaning to our own understanding, but are walking in the wisdom of God. There will be times in our lives when situations and opportunities will arise. They will be good opportunities. Everything in your good and common sense sees nothing wrong or bad. However, it is your God sense that will let you know if that good thing is the in alignment with the season you are in.
There are sometimes in our lives when we are not ready, or incapable of handling the responsibility that comes with certain situations and opportunities in life. Sometimes we can become overwhelmed with a good thing. And sometimes, we want something so bad, that we move ahead of God and we become out of sync with the move and guidance of Holy Spirit.
Beloveds, there is a life before us that God has ordained for each and every one of us; specific to who we are, and who He called us to be. In our life we will enter many different seasons; seasons in which we are learning, growing, teaching, doing or waiting. It is through our intimacy with God that we learn how to recognize the seasons we are in. It is through our relationship with the Father that our God sense is activated, and we begin to operate in the knowledge and wisdom of God concerning our lives, and we never miss the seasons that we are in.
I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Trust, Beloveds, that God only and will always have the best in store for you. Though we may not fully understand the wait, we can come to understand the whys. Allow God sense to be the covering over your good and common sense. Allow God the space on the throne of your heart and in the depths of your mind that leads you in the paths of His righteousness, and the path of His ordained plan for your life. Let God lead—and you will never get lost or be disappointed! You are blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, November 02, 2014

"Grace & Mercy"

Reflections4Life November 2nd, 2014
“Grace & Mercy”
“Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16
Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 84; Isaiah 55; 63; Ephesians 2; 1Timothy 2; Hebrews 4…
There are some of us that have been running for a very long time. Running from our past, our mistakes and failures, from the unfair judgments of others. It’s time to stop running away and run into the arms of God where grace and mercy wait to embrace 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. Yes, we all make mistakes and fail at one time or another. God wants you to know that no matter what you did or have done, His grace and mercy are extended to you. Receive what God is freely giving to you. There’s nothing you can do, no place you can you go where God’s grace and mercy are not present.
It is both wonderful and humbling to know how deep God's love is for us. No matter how many times we screw up; how many times we deliberately go the wrong way, God still accepts us. Not because of anything we did or didn't do; but by His grace and mercy. His grace paves a way for us to return to Him, while mercy covers us, and keeps us from being destroyed by our less than favorable actions.
Romans 8:1-4 “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3 For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
The mercy of God ensures that we don't receive the just punishment our actions warrant. Yet...most of us are still running away from God; convinced by the enemy that God doesn't love us or want anything to do with us. The enemy is a liar! God will always love us; even in our lowest state. For His grace and mercy are evidence of that fact.
Beloved, whatever you do in this lifetime, God is right there with you. Yes. We screw up royally at times. We make mistakes that seem so severe that there is no returning. However, the grace and mercy of God is there for us. Not to take advantage of, but to ensure us that we have a way out; even when the path before us seems impossible and so dark.
There will be times when we feel as though God has abandon us. That, He has left us to the hands of the enemy to destroy us as punishment for our actions or a consequence for something we may have done that we may not even be aware of.
That is not God. That is not our Heavenly Father who sent His only Son to die for us. Those thoughts, that feeling, are straight from the enemy. And he will try to use it against you to stop you from going forward, and seeing the hand of God which is extended with grace and mercy.
Romans 8:37-39 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
NOTHING can separate you from the love of God. You cannot fall too far that God cannot reach you. You can never go too out the way that God does not have a plan and purpose for you to return to His fold. God loves you too much to just let you give up and abandon the path that He has ordained for your life.
God’s grace is sufficient enough for you if you believe. His mercy is evident in the fact that you are still here with an opportunity to get things right, when you know that the things you have done warrant a far more just punishment than you have received.
Wherever you are right now in your life, I implore you to trust God. Allow His grace and mercy to wash over you, and lead you onto the path that He has ordained just for you. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Yes. I said it! Do not allow that spirit of self-pity blind you to lessons that God wants you to learn in this season of your life. You are still here; in the land of the living, effecting the lives of people directly or indirectly. YOU do make a difference; even when you feel under pressure, against the wall, and abandon by God, and can’t see the road before you.
Know this: God is right there with you. He will never leave you or turn His back on you. He will always hold that door open for you to walk through, with boldness and confidence. Though things may currently be at a stand-still, or feel as though the walls are closing in on you; HOLD ON! God is there and His grace and mercy will not only cover you, but bring you through!
I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Beloved, though you may feel like you’re at the end of your ropes, and that you have lost all hope, and your heart is breaking; know that the Father has not abandon you, but has extended His grace and mercy towards you; to help you make it to the other side of the road that seems impossibly dark and impossible to conquer. However, you got this, because God got you! No matter what! You are indeed Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!
©2014. Ruthe Mcdonald. All Rights Reserved.



Sunday, October 26, 2014

"Special Gifts"

Reflections4Life October 26th, 2014
Special Gifts”
If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:11
Scripture Contemplation:Daniel 2; Luke 11; Luke 21; Romans 12; Hebrews 2...
Along our journey of life, we will find roads that take us to various destinations. We choose the path/road we take. Some of us seek God's wisdom and direction. Some of us don't. Yet, the most humbling and beautiful thing is, that no matter what road we choose, God is still right there. It is at these moments when we feel lost, alone, and perhaps even fearful, that God will send a special gift in our lives. A gift to remind us of our purpose, our importance in this earth, our humanity as well as spirit, and to remind us of His unconditional love and His promise to never leave us or forsake 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. There is nothing more reassuring than knowing how much our Heavenly Father loves us and is there for us. May you know this week just how deep and how profound the Father's love is for you. Let your heart and mind be open to receive and recognize the special gifts of God.
This journey that we are on called life can hot us with some serious roadblocks and bumps in the road. There are times when even the right path seems like the wrong path, and will have us questioning ourselves if we made the right choice.
It is in these moments of strife, confusion, and exasperation that the enemy likes to goad us, and play with our minds; speaking all kinds of lies. The three biggest lies that he will whisper at this time?—That God has forgotten about us, we're no good, and that we will never make it. Lies! All of them!
God has not forgotten us! No matter how rough this journey gets; no matter how many times we fall' even if we chose the wrong road—God is right there with us always. He will never abandon us; even when it seems He is silent, He is there, watching and protecting us; sending us reminders of just how strong we really are.
Psalm 37:25 I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendants begging bread.
Psalm 139:8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
The mere fact that God has created us in His image gives us an advantage. We were made to make it. We were created with greatness already in our DNA. If no one else in the world believes in you; know with all certainty that God believes in you!
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Hebrews 10:35 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.
When we take on the mind of Christ, and believe what God has spoken of us, our journey becomes less encumbered. Though we get attacked, and we sometimes stumble and fall, we do not give up. We stand up, shake the dust off, and start again. We keep moving. Because the Father says we can. As long as we have God on our side, there is no way we will not make it. As long as we continue to believe, and follow the instructions of God—though the storms will rise, we may be betrayed by loved one, the enemy will rear his ugly head—it is still no match for the promise and word of God, that He will be with us through it all.
Isaiah 40:30-31 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall. But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
God assures us that we can and will win this race. That, we will make it through this journey of life if we continue to look to Him. If we would keep our eyes and heart on Him. And while on this journey, the Father has given us special gifts to aid us. And He wills end additional gifts along the way to help us, and encourage us, and to walk along beside us.
Know for certain and in your heart, that God already sees us as victorious. He understands how rough this journey we are on can get. He knows how strong the storms can be. This is the reason He has given us access to the greatest Helper of all: Himself.
The foremost special gift that God has given us is Christ. Because of Him, all things are possible. He has given us the special gift of His Word to light our path, to direct us, and navigate us through the sometimes choppy waters. He has given us the special gift of His promise. He promise to never leave us nor forsake us. He has given us the special gifts in way of mentors, teachers, students, family, friends, children. Along this journey God will grant us with special people in our lives that will not only walk with us and beside us, but also remind us of who we are, and the love that God has for us. We just need to keep our heart and eyes opened, and not become distant, jaded, and closed because of the bumps and roadblocks we will face in this journey called life.
Psalm 121 I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper;The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.
I have many special gifts in my life that remind me of God's love and promises along this road. Each time I have a difficult day and feel like the road I chose was wrong, I think of those gifts and what it means in my life.
I decree the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Though your road may seem filled with regret and troubles, remember that God is indeed with you. And He has sent some special gifts to aid you in your journey. Be open to the Spirit of God. He has not abandoned you. He is right beside you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights. Reserved.

Sunday, October 19, 2014

"You Can't Fake It Forever"


Reflections4Life  October 19th, 2014

“You Can’t Fake it Forever”

“As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.” 1 Chronicles 28:9

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 24:14; 1 Samuel 12:24; Isaiah 1; Mark 12:30; John 8…

If were to be totally honest with ourselves, we would more than likely confess that there are many areas in our lives that we are faking. Many are in relationships right now that they truly do not desire to be in. And for whatever their reasons, they are faking it.

Many of us have entered into a relationship with God on false pretenses. We want what God can give us, but we do not desire the change He desires to bring to our hearts and minds. There are many things that we can fake in our lifetime, and probably get away with. However, when it comes to relationships and a relationship with the Almighty God—you can’t fake it forever.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for heart, mind, and soul. God desires the truth in our inward parts. He wants us to walk in truth and sincerity. Allow Holy Spirit to expose the truth of your heart so that you can really start to live the blessed life that God has ordained for you.

Yes. We fake it. We fake relationships. We fake credentials. We fake what we know, who we are, where we’ve been, and who we love. The proof of all the fakeness is evident in the many broken relationships that we are either a party to or a witness of.

At what point in ourselves do we decide to lie? Some not only lie, but determine in their heart and mind that being false is the only way to get what they want. It is sad state of affairs when you cannot be yourself; when you cannot accept people for who they are and accept yourself for who you truly are.

What is even worse, is our vain attempts to fake a relationship with God. Yes. There are many whose heart are not with God. But on the outside, they appear godly and righteous. They have the appearance of a true believer, full of grace and faith, but it is only for appearances sake, so that they may get whatever it is they are coveting.

Make no mistake: There is no fooling God. He sees you for who you are. Though it may appear that you are getting away with a heart of deceit; you only fool yourself because God knows all things.

Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.”

Many of us enter into relationships with our heart and mind already made up. We're either going to be honest or false. We're going to give our all or fake it until we get what we want. With God, there is no faking it. There is no gray area. It's yes or no. Cold or hot. Black or white. Either you believe God or you don't. God desires all of us. Our heart, mind, soul and body. There is no faking when it comes to a relationship with God.

Yet, the heart of a person can be so calculating and deceitful. Why would anyone want to use the kindness and the love of another with no intentions of reciprocating that which was freely give? We do this to God each and every day we profess to love Him and worship Him, but live our lives as though we never met Him.

Jeremiah 17:9-10 “The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be.”

What’s that famous Abraham Lincoln quote? — "You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time." I’d like to add that you cannot fool God at any time.

God knows us through and through. He knows the intentions of our heart. And though many may believe they are getting away with their deceit, sooner or later the truth will be revealed. I am of the belief that God gives people the opportunity to get things right. I believe He gives each person the ample chance to repent and humble themselves, and to do the right thing. He gives a warning in secret; speaking to the heart and mind. Then He sends a messenger with a word of knowledge. Lastly, exposure for all to see takes place.

Many want the benefits of knowing God, but do not want the intimate relationship or test and trials that come with the promises of God. Many may be able to fake a relationship for an undetermined amount of time. But sooner or later you will bear fruit that will tell the truth of who you really are.

Luke 6:43-44a “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit.”

No matter who you are. No matter how good your game is. No matter how many times you thought you got away with being false—you cannot fake it forever. The simple truth is; God. Already. Knows. He knows who you are. He knows your heart. And He knows the day you will be exposed. It’s just a matter of time. And for certain, we all reap what we have sown.

So—what are you going to do? Who are you going to be in this life? Are you going to real, honest, and sincere? Or, are you going to fake your way through relationships just to get what you want? Sooner or later the truth will be learned, and in the end, there will be only one loser: you. Get real. Get right. Get Christ…for real.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. There is no faking with God. He already knows the truth. He knows the heart and the mind. We do not have to fake who we are, when all we have to do is accept Christ and walk in the truth of who He has created us to be. There is nothing that anyone has or will ever have that can compete with the wholeness that comes from knowing and being in a sincere relationship with our intimate God. He accepts you just as you are: faults, flaws, and all. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.