"Special Gifts"

Reflections4Life^tm October 27, 2019

“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...

 

©Ruthe McDonald.

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 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 hit 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 will 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 promises to never leave us nor forsake us. He has given us 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.

My Beloveds, I decree that 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!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights. Reserved.

"Faith and Trust"

Reflections4Life September 22, 2019

“Faith & Trust”

“And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen.” Matthew 21:21

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 22; Matthew 6; 17; Hebrews 11; James 1…

There are times in life when we are thrown a fast ball—where circumstances in life will hit us quickly and unexpectedly, taking us off guard. And sometimes knocking us off course. Some of us will lose faith, and many of us will lose trust. It doesn’t take great faith for us to begin to believe again. But it takes much more for us to develop trust. Have the courage to step out on faith, and allow God to build your trust.

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Though you may have been taken off guard in the past, and though you may have lost faith and trust—incline your ear to the Lord and follow His lead. Let the Father heal you, and give you what you need so you can get to the place where your heart is abundant in faith and trust.

Faith has always been key in my life. It has been faith that allowed me to tread places where others would probably never go. It has been because of my faith that I dare to do and believe for things that seem impossible to the human mind, but very possible to our loving God. It is no doubt in my heart and mind that God has blessed me with the gift of faith. It is far beyond just having faith the size of a mustard seed…it is the kind of faith that will believe and hold on even after everyone has let go and gone. It’s the kind of faith that will trust wholeheartedly in the word of my God, and see the dead be resurrected without of hint of hesitation or doubt.

At twelve years old, I had an encounter with faith. You’re probably wondering: how does one have an encounter with faith? Well, let’s just say it was my “road of Damascus” moment, in which God blessed me with the gift of faith and changed my life forever.

The prominent wall in the living room was painted black. I was sitting in a chair opposite that particular wall when I noticed something in the top left corner. At first, I thought it was a glare from the light in the hallway. However, when I turned the light off it was still there. Written in bold block letters, about three feet wide and two feet high was the word: FAITH. I rubbed my eyes, it was still there. I touched the wall, it was still there. But what really pushed me over was the fact that no one else in the house could see it. Only me.

Why on earth was I seeing this? What did it possibly mean? It meant everything. I wasn’t scared, but I was definitely shaken. Then I was in wonderment and awe. Then I started crying. I was saved when I was seven years old. Yet, I had a relationship with God way before that. Seeing faith written on the wall took me to another level. That day changed my life forever. From my bedroom I could see the wall and faith staring back at me. It was still there until I closed my eyes well past midnight. In the morning I was gone, but had become etched on the walls of my heart and embedded in my soul and spirit.

That one day changed my life forever. Faith has been an integral part of all that I do. Have there been times when I wanted to give up, not believe, and have had some doubts? Most certainly. But it has always been faith that wins out. I just cannot let go—no matter what things look like—of faith. Even if it is mustard sized, I can’t let go. Because faith has carried me and kept me. My faith in God. My belief that He will do just what He said, regardless to whom or what.

It has been my faith that has led me to trust. I don’t trust many people, but I do trust God. And even in trusting God, I can admit to faltering at times. Because in order to trust God with all your heart, you have to learn to let go completely. You have to be able to have faith in what He says and leap into the unknown, believing that God will not fail you.

Faith has paved my way for trust in God. Where I have faith in God doing just what He said; I had to learn to trust Him where I couldn’t trace Him. To, trust Him without knowing the plan. To have complete trust in Him by letting go and letting Him.

It’s a hard thing when trust has been broken. Because once trust is broken, it is the hardest thing to repair. You don’t know who you can truly count on. And everyone’s word becomes suspect. But, when you place your trust in God, and take your hands off a situation; He will let you know who you can trust. And the awesome thing is: God doesn’t require you to put trust in man, but to put your trust in Him. And to be confident in your faith.

Let me say this—and maybe it will help you to understand clearly the connection between faith and trust—Abraham had complete faith in the promises of God. He believed the father when He told him he would be a father of many nations. Even when God told him to sacrifice Isaac—he had faith. But his faith made room for him to trust God. For certain, Abraham didn’t know the course that God was taking. Did not understand this turn of events. It didn’t make sense to his human mind and reasoning. However, his years of faith in God, made room for his trust in God. To do exactly what Jehovah asked of him; trusting God when he did not know His complete plan.

I love the movie Man of Steel. There’s a scene where Clark Kent is talking to a minister, and he says he doubts he can trust the people not to turn on him. The minister says to him as he’s walking away: “Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith first. The trust part comes later.” How true is that? We must first have faith, then trust will come later. Faith is the substance that builds the bridge to trust. Have faith in God, and trust Him to do just what He said.

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Sometimes it is the hardest thing to see past the moment, the day, or the situation. It is our act of faith that will lead us to a heart of trust. How can you not trust a God who loved His creation to enough to redeem us from ourselves? To give us the ultimate gift of Christ, knowing that He would be rejected, but knowing His Blood would save us? Only our God. Trust Him where you can’t trace Him. Let your faith speak for you. You are blessed. Now go…be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Do Not Stay Too Long"

Reflections4Life™ April 23, 2017

“Do Not Stay Too Long”

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1

Scripture Contemplation: Hosea 14:4; John 8; Romans 5; 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 7:21…

© Author Ruthe McDonald

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. There is so much that the Father has ordained for our lives; so much that He desires us to see and experience. Yield to Holy Spirit. Give God your all this week and follow His instructions, with the knowledge that are indeed free from anything that would hold you back.

I am convinced that at times we stay too long in situations that God has long freed us from. We have prayed and prayed but we are not listening to Holy Spirit. The answers have come for many of us, but sometimes our hearts want what our heart wants and we do not hear the subtle voice of God telling us to move on or to let go. Or, what His instructions on how to begin to fix what may be wrong.

There are times when we look back over our lives and get stuck in the past. We stay too long reminiscing only to be stuck as time passes us by. Instead of living in today, we are reliving our past and unable to move forward.

Many times, we hear what we want to hear and see what we want to see, based upon the strong desires in our hearts and what we desire God to do for us. Then, when things do not work out the way we want, or we suffer and heartbroken—we get angry with God and ask why He allowed going through these things. Yet, it was not God but our choices and unwillingness to move forward, let go, move on, and see what God has before us.

Sometimes we just stay too long because we are afraid of the unknown and too familiar where we are at. We are afraid of what may lie ahead of us, that thing we cannot see. Yet, God has been admonishing many of us to move on into what He has declared for our lives. What He has waiting for us.

Beloveds, there is no growth and no surpassing our full potential when we are stuck in a place of familiarity because of fear, comfort, easiness, and even love; a love that would blind us to what is best for us. Let me ask you this: What if your child, who you have never been separated from, had a severe drug problem and God had opened a door for them to receive professional help but it meant they’d have to leave for a year with no physical contact with you for six months, would you do it? Would you think that was the answer or would you keep praying because your child has never been out of your reach physically? More than likely, I am gauging that your answer would be yes. That is your child and you would do anything to get them the help they needed.

So, then why is it so hard to do the same thing for ourselves? Why do so many of us find it difficult to do what is best for us and let go and let God? Why do we stay too long in situations that bring harm to our heart, mind, and soul? Why do we get stuck in what was and turn a blind eye to what is, when God has so much He wants to establish and manifest in our lives?

We have prayed but our prayers are not for God's will to be done. They are prayers that ours will be done. That God will adhere to what we want based upon what we believe we want at the time. However, here is the rub with all of that; God sees what we cannot see. He knows what we do not know. Yet, if we yield to Him and listen to His instructions, we will be in a far better place than we are right now.

There is so much that God has for us but we are staying too long in situations that are slowly killing us; killing us spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and yes, even physically. Some of us are in desperate situations where we have prayed and prayed, and God has already given us the answers but because it was not in alignment with how we want things to go, we eschew it. Then there are those of us stuck in the past; staying too long in our memories of what once was that we are blinded to the glorious present or bright future God has ordained for us.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Do not stay too long lingering in the past how things used to be. You may forfeit what is right in front of you for the memories of things long gone. Do not stay too long in situations because your heart doesn’t know how to let go or because you are afraid of the unknown that awaits you. Obedience to God is far better than what you are afraid to sacrifice. When God tells you to release all things into His hands, let go of what you are holding so tightly, knowing it’s time to go. You are blessed. No go…and be a blessing.

©2017. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"A Reflection of Self"

Reflections4Life™ April 2, 2017

“A Reflection of Self”

"He is despised and rejected by men, A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted." Isaiah 53:3, 4

Scripture Contemplation: 1 Samuel 17; Isaiah 11; Isaiah 53; Matthew 9; John 5;6; 1 Peter 2:6-7

It is difficult for some to see their own reflection; the truth of who they are staring back at them. Not the person they have adorned and made up so others would like love, and accept. No. But who they truly are without the masks, who they see themselves to be. Sometimes the truth hurts. What hurts the most for many; is the truth of who they are; the person that they have hidden from everyone else.

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Open your heart and ears to God, so that you will receive all that the Father has ordained for you. Many times the truth hurts, yet the healing that comes forth overshadows any pain that experienced. The word of God is a healing balm to our wounds. Allow God to soothe your hurts as He reveals the truth of who you truly are.

Bible Study This Week

During one of my Bible studies, I received a revelation. I was enlightened to something that I had not seen before. It was amazing the insight God poured into my soul and spirit. It made me look at myself in a different light. It also answered some questions I had, while shining the light on a few other revelations. We can read a Bible many different times and receive a new word each every time. I thank God for His teaching, and for the revelations that the Holy Spirit brings to my heart and mind.

The Bible says that Jesus was not a man that stood out attractively. He was not one that anyone would look upon and think handsome or desirable by his physical traits alone. It even suggests that people turned away from him. Though "Hollywood" has glamorized what they believe Jesus to look like and to make sense of why so many would follow him (other than the message of salvation.) He was none of those things. He, in fact, turned many off.

Revelatory Moment

Here's why: When they saw Jesus, they saw a reflection of their sins. Jesus was a mirror; a walking reflection of what many tried to hide. What turned many away was not His unattractiveness but instead, the reflection of their own ugliness that sin had created in them.

Imagine, if you will, being in front of a mirror that hid nothing but exposed every flaw, every sin committed, every ugly thought; how would that make you feel? Most of us would avoid that mirror; begin to despise it and definitely try to destroy it.

Jesus was a reflection of the ugliness that resided in the souls of man. A reflection and reminder of their sin. When they looked at Jesus, they saw the truth. The truth of their hearts. The truth about the secrets that were hidden from others but never hidden from God. For those who could stand to look at Him, they saw more. They saw redemption, hope, love, and forgiveness and was able to see Jesus for who He truly was—the Savior. That is what made Him so beautiful. That is what drew them and kept them. Unconditional love looks very good. Forgiveness looks grand. When Jesus did not judge like so many others, they saw hope and grabbed onto it.

Today’s Application

Many of us make the same mistakes today when we look at someone. We reject them because of what they appear to be or accept them for the same reason. We look at people and some of us see our own weaknesses and sins staring back at us. We see our mistakes and failures. This causes us to judge, ridicule, and push people away. Others may feel insecurity. A spirit of comparison comes and we found ourselves coming up short in our own eyes. This often causes people to hate and despise others. What has happened is that comparison has led to a spirit of covetousness and jealousy. We hate people for the reflection we see of ourselves, or for the failures and shortcomings, we feel about ourselves.

We also reject God because we fear He will reject us as man does, or judge as we judge ourselves. We are afraid to come to the Father and be truthful because, with God, He will not allow you to hide from the truth but will have you admit to it, confess it, confront it, and deal with it that let it go. But the first step is admitting it. That is often where most of us fall short because we do not want to admit to being broken of falling short. Yet, without this step, we continue to deny what we see and known as truth in our hearts and miss out on the blessings that God has for us.

Finally

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Allow Jesus to be the reflection that you see in your actions. Take responsibility for actions. Be accountable in moving forward. Confess, repent, and allow God to show you how He sees you. You are who God says you are, not what your natural eyes reflect. For we are more than flesh and bones, we are also spirit, made in the image of God. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2017. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Walking Away"

Reflections4Life July 27^th, 2014

“Walking Away”

“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us...” Hebrews 12:1 NASB

Scripture Contemplation:Genesis 15;31; Proverbs 3; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Hebrews 2;12...

How many times have you promised that the next time would be different? Or, how many times have you told yourself that, if you had to, you would just walk away. That, you would have no problems letting go and doing what needs to be done. Sometimes it is far easier said than done. Yet, if we place our confidence in God and yield to Holy Spirit, though it may be hard, we will be able to do what is necessary to walk in the path that God has ordained.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and enlightenment for your heart, mind, and soul. May you yield completely to Holy Spirit as He continues to guide you on the path of righteousness, leading you to your expected blessings. Walking away may not be easy, but it may be the difference between living and dying.

Beloveds, allow me to take a moment and thank you today for your continued support and fellowship. Today, I celebrate seven years of writing Reflections. It has been a joy to minister and share and teach; to encourage and inspire...to be the vessel that God chooses to use. It has blessed my soul and enriched my life to have met so many loving people over the years. To, have connected with phenomenal and beautiful souls that have inspired me, encouraged me, and who pray for me. You have become my family. I don't know how long this particular assignment will last. But I do know that I will continue to write and encourage for as long as God leads.

Each Sunday I ask God what He desires for me to share. For the past seven years, 364 Sundays (to be exact) God has given me a word to share; fresh Manna from Heaven. Many, if not most, have been from my own personal experiences and walk with God. But most certainly, all have come from the inspiration of God. I don't know where we are heading, Beloveds. I don't exactly know how far the road will go with Reflections. But I do know: wherever the road goes, I will follow as long as God is leading. And I hope that you will continue to join me on this journey, as we grow and receive from the Lord. I pray God's continued blessings in your life. And that you will see the desires of your heart come to pass! I love you!

Sometimes the hardest thing to do is walk away. Whether it's from a relationship, a job, a habit, or a thing....walking away isn't easy but necessary; especially when God is telling you to walk away. There are times when we may find ourselves in a situation that is so toxic that, if we don't walk away, we may be destroyed. Though it may not be easy, it would be much harder to stay as your soul and spirit slowly die and there is no longer a you; just a shell of who you once were.

Why do we stick with things that are not good for us? Why do we continue to try and change a situation by doing what we did before, knowing it did not work? What's the saying—insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting a different result? Yes. Not going to happen. In order for change to happen, we have to be obedient and do something different. Sometimes doing that which is most difficult.

It doesn't matter if the thing God desires us to walk away from is a relationship, a job, or a situation or place; obedience to God will not only stave you from sacrificing the blessings that God has waiting for you. It will stave you from heartache, pain, and even death. Walking away can very well save your life.

Many are in toxic relationships that the Father has told them to walk away from. Even family and friends have told them to walk away. And yet, they stay. Some stay until there is no more life in them; every hope, dream, aspiration...gone! They are no longer living, just existing. Why? Why would anyone stay in such toxicity? Perhaps because they have been systematically stripped of who they are, until they believe the lies of the enemy instead the truth of what God says.

It is very hard to believe the truth when you have been conditioned so long to believe a lie. Yet, with God, all things are possible. And when there is a sliver of hope, and people praying, there remains a chance for that person to still walk away and get the help they need before it's too late. Never give up on someone who may be in a toxic relationship. Though they may be operating out of fear; be there and make certain they know you will not abandon them.

Perhaps you are holding onto a job that God has told you to walk away from. Rest assure, if God is telling you to walk away, it is because He has something far greater for you. Many times we get comfortable in our lives, and become complacent. But what if your job no longer existed? What if the company shuts its doors? What would you do? You placed your security and trust in what you thought was stable, instead of placing your trust in God.

God does not tell us to give up something without having something far greater in store. So many of us miss out because we do not trust God completely. We haven't totally yielded to the Father and trust Him to lead us to where we need to be. When we truly let go and trust Him, that's when we will understand just how deep God's love flows for us.

Yes. Walking away is not the easiest thing to do. But it is necessary. It is vitally important to know when it is time to let go and walk away. We run the risk of forfeiting the security and the promises of God by hanging on long after God has said to let go.

Trust God to lead you; to catch you when you fall; to help pick you up; to guide you and lead you to a place He's ordained just for you. Walk away. The first steps are always hardest. However, think on what lies ahead—the promises and peace of God. With every step forward, you are that much closer to His promises.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your life. Whatever it is that God is telling you to walk away from...do it. Walk away and trust God to lead you to the place in which He has already prepared for you. Trust Him. Do not hold onto something or someone because of fear or obligation. You will only come to regret and despise it or them. Release yourself, and walk away with the confidence that God has you covered. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Taking a Second Look"

Reflections4Life  April 27^th, 2014

“Taking a Second Look”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

It Doesn't Make Any Sense

Reflections4Life March 9, 2014

“It Doesn't Make Any Sense”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5,6

Scripture Contemplation: Job 34; Psalm 128; Proverbs 16; Jeremiah 29:11; 1 Corinthians 2:8-10; Hebrews 4:12...

I don't know. It doesn't make any sense. How could this happen? Why do these things keep happening? Is God even there? Is He even listening to me? Is this journey in vain? Is there even any purpose to holding on and having faith? What is going on!? I trusted and believed, and still!

Those are just a few of the things that crossed my mind and my lips this past week after yet another devastating blow happened in my life. Have you been there? Are you there now? How are you faring in your faith? There are many things that will happen in our life that will not make any sense at all. Yet, the Father wants us to hold on. To maintain our faith. Seems like a lot to ask for; especially when you have been holding on for so long.

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 it is very easy to give up and let go, I ask that you would do the harder thing: hold on. Do not let go of the promises of God; regardless of what it looks like or how long you have been waiting; keep holding on. It takes a lot more to keep holding on. But if you continue to trust God, He will see you through.

I cannot even begin to tell you the heartache, the disappointment, the confusion that I experienced this past week. It was so heart-wrenching and emotionally debilitating. Even when you know you have done all that you could do; you have believed, trusted God, had faith; you still find yourself asking God why because it just doesn't make any sense.

My mind could not comprehend any reason for what took place. It didn't make any sense to me whatsoever. Yet, in the stillness of my heart, I can hear God say: I got you. However, I could hear a “but” on my part. But why God? But how God? Why did you let this happen? Wasn't my faith strong enough? Didn't I believe? So why? It doesn't make any sense. Please help me to understand.

We are going to experience things in this lifetime that we are just not going to understand. It will not make any sense to us at all, and God will ask us to have faith; to keep believing Him and trusting that He is working all things out. The Father understands clearly what He is asking of us, and how hard it may be when it just doesn't make any sense to us.

The Father also understands that many of us will falter in our faith. We will waver in our belief in Him and what He has spoken concerning our lives. Yet, He still admonishes us to hold on, have faith, and keep believing. But how? How do we keep believing and holding on when it seems as though we have waited so long for the manifestations of the promises? When, we have held onto faith and believed, as everything around us has launched a full-scale attack upon us? How can God possibly expect us to keep believing when it doesn't make any sense?

Because God knows what He has declared and decreed over our lives. He knows that if we continue to trust Him where we cannot trace Him; if we continue to have faith in the midst of adversity; if we continue to praise Him in the midst of heartache; if we continue to believe in spite of the hurt and disappointments; we will receive the full manifestations of what we have been waiting and pray for.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

I know how hard it can get sometimes. I know how devastating it can be to have waited so long, and be disappointed to the point that you want to just give up; give up on life, give up on faith; give up on God. I implore you to not give up. To keep holding on and exercising your faith.

Many times we look at the clock and we get overwhelmed by the time as we see it ticking past, and as we grow older. Our focus is no longer on what God has spoken and decreed in our lives, but it is focused on the time that is passing and how long we have waited.

God is always on time. And whatever He has promised it shall come to pass if we continue to believe and have faith, and do not let go or grow weary in our waiting. Yes; easier said than done. But just as any other muscle in our body, our faith is a muscle that needs to be worked out daily. It needs to be exercised on a daily basis, so that it may become strong and immovable.

The Father works in seasons. He is outside of time. And whatever God has spoken concerning your life, it will come to pass in dues season. Our focus must not be on time but on God. It must remain on the Father and not the circumstances. I am most certain Job felt the same; that he was doing everything right in his life; pleasing to God. Even he learned some things about his life. Yet God still blessed him double for what was taken.

I look at the Hebrew boys in the furnace. They were stolen from their homes. Stripped of their names and culture. But they held onto their faith. They believed God. Trusted God even as they were being thrown into the fire. Their faith remained so strong, that they understood that even death would still bring them the ultimate pleasure of being in the presence of God.

Consider Daniel. It would have been far easier to bow, but he refused to change or compromise his faith in God. It didn't make any sense; he'd represented God. Stayed true to his faith and worship, and his reward was to be thrown into the lion's den? He believed. Had faith in God to do just what He said.

How many of us can say the same? Especially in the times when things just don't make any sense? Will you remain faithful? Will you continue to believe and trust God? Will you keep the faith, and recognize that you have already won and that God will not make you ashamed?

Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you shall have double honor, And instead of confusion, they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land, they shall possess double; Everlasting joy shall be theirs.”

I implore you to hold on. Even when it doesn't make any sense. Even when what you are experiencing seems counterproductive to the faith you have been exercising. Trust God. No matter what it looks like. Keep believing and speaking the word of God. We are declared the winners, regardless of what it may appear to be right now.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Though it may not make any sense the things you are faced with; have faith in God to see you through. Believe that God has a plan and purpose for your life and that even these setbacks and disappointments are all a part of making you ready for the manifestations of His blessings in your life. Have faith. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "What Are You Saying?"

Reflections4Life January 26^th, 2014

“What Are You Saying?”

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.” Luke 21:33-35

Scripture Contemplation: Proverbs 4; Lamentations 2; Matthew 6:25; Romans 6; 8; Ephesians 4...

We are only on the 26^th day of the new year, and I can aptly say that it has been one revelation after another; along with tests, trials, and attacks from the enemy. Yet, the revelations and the goodness of my God outweigh the bad each and every time.

Through every attack, every trial and hardship, one thing has ringed the most in my soul: “What is my life saying about God?” What am I saying (my actions, my deeds) when I am going through a battle? Is my speech of defeat? Is it negative? Does it speak of faith? Is my life reflecting who I say God is?

There will always be trials in our lives. However, when those trials come, what are you saying? What is your life, your walk, speaking of you?

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May you be cognizant of the what your life is saying to you and your relationship with God. May you continue to walk in the goodness and promises of God, no matter what comes your way. May you stand strong in the Father, who enables you to withstand all matter of storms.

My beautiful friend went home to be with the Lord on yesterday morning. Her transition has me thinking, going over my own life. I suppose we do that when someone we love passes. We look at our own life and our own mortality. Yet, for those of us in Christ, we know that death from this earth is not the end; just the beginning.

I thought about how my dear friend lived her life. What an example of Christ she portrayed. Her life touched many people. Her love extended far and wide. To me, her life spoke of kindness, love, forgiveness, hope, faith, and laughter, even in the midst of excruciating pain. She leaves a legacy of greatness for those who loved and knew her. But more importantly, she lived it. Every day; even through sickness and pain, she would reach forward and bring light and laughter to others.

This train of thought left me wondering—how many of us are aware of what we are saying? Do we pay attention to what our lives are speaking? Do our lives line up with what our mouths have been confessing? Do our lives exemplify the life we say we are living in Christ? Would anyone know by our actions alone, if we were believers and loved the Lord? Would our life lead another to Christ? Would they want to partake in the goodness of God just by what our lives have been speaking?

I believe that actions are truly louder than words. People will hear what we say, but they look at what we do. There are many that have shunned a relationship with God because we, believers, have not exemplified a life that would draw others unto Christ. Perhaps it is because we have not fully believed ourselves. Maybe we have not totally sold out our heart and soul to Christ.

This is what I know for certain; God has many things He desires to do for us upon this earth. Many prayers He desires to bring to fruition. Many blessings He desires to manifest in our lives. Yet, for many of us who call ourselves believers, we have fallen short in our faith. We have suffered some setbacks, and have yet to fully come back. We have fallen, and have given up trying to get back up. And in this state, we have developed a spirit of self-pity, self-doubt, unbelief in God, and no trust in what God has spoken concerning our lives.

Sure; we will go to church, and say the right words, but our hearts are speaking loud and clear. Our hearts are affecting our actions. And the message we are portraying is not one of faith, love, trust, and belief. But one of doubt, fear, regrets, and unbelief.

When are we going to let go and really let God have His way? When are we going to honestly trust in God and give Him all of us? When will we go through a test or trial, and maintain our position in the Lord, and not back down, but continue to hold onto faith and God's unchanging hands?

It's been three weeks now since my body has been attacked by the flu. I have never had the flu before. And let me tell you; it kicked my behind! Yet, I continued to pray and believe God for my complete healing to manifest. This past Friday, I had to go to the hospital. I was having trouble breathing, my chest was tight, this cough would not leave, my voice is still not back. I just prayed they wouldn't keep me since I do not have a fondness for hospitals.

Six hours in that ER. As I was hooked up to an IV (I was severely dehydrated), taking a breathing treatment, blood tests, urine tests, x-rays, and all that good stuff; I just kept saying I wanted to go home. I sat in that room for two hours by myself. During those two hours before the nurse came back, I heard different people coming in. When I first arrived, there really was no one there. But by the time I was ready to leave, it was packed. I sat there, and I heard God say: pray. I admit I felt myself feeling sorry for myself. But I knew what many others don't know: that prayer works and that my God is a healer. So I got out of myself and began to pray for those around me. I prayed for their healing. I thought of my dear friend, wondering how she was doing and prayed for her comfort.

During this time of sickness and recovery, I have learned so many things about people and myself and reminded of the goodness of my God. I know that it is very easy to give up and be negative when your body is wracked with pain. But, it takes much more strength and faith to keep praising God through the affliction. I learned that if you don't ask for help, or reach out to others in your time of need, then how can you receive what it is you need? God places us here for one another. We cannot do everything alone. Also, this is a great time to find out who people really are, and what lies within their hearts. God is awesome. He will use ANY situation to show you His grace, and the truth about yourself and others.

I want my life to speak well of Christ. I desire to be that walking epistle that draws others into a relationship with the Heavenly Father. I desire to not only leave a legacy, but leave a legacy of greatness by totally surrendering to God, and allowing Him to use me; even in my most testing and trying times.

What are you saying? What is your life speaking of you? What is your legacy? Do people see the love of God when they encounter you? Or, are they turned off by your attitude? Do your actions line up with your confession? Has life overwhelmed you so that you have given up? Well, I have good news for you; if you are able to read this or hear this, then you are alive, and that means you still have the opportunity to let God turn it all around. Your past does not matter to God. Your past, any mistakes, does not define who you are. What God says about you, defines who you are. You are not your past. You are who God says you are and has ordained you from the beginning. So, let God change your dialogue. It's time.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Your life has been speaking for you a long time. Let God reboot you, and give your life a new sound and a new word. You are more than your past and your experiences. You are who God says you are. It is time to let your life start speaking the truth. The truth of who you are, and who God is. Tests and trials will come. Not to destroy you, but to break you and shape you into the vessel that God calls His masterpiece. Let your life speak well of you and God, and draw others to the saving grace of Christ. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. 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.

Reflections4Life: Who Do You Love?

Reflections4Life September 15^th, 2013

“Who Do You Love?”

“We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” 1 John 4:16

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 22; Genesis 29; Proverbs 3; Matthew 5; John 3; 1 Corinthians 13...

Who do you love? You really don't have to answer that. Your actions will speak for you. Your actions will tell the story of what and who resides in your heart. Some people can hide the truth for a while; but eventually all light stands out from darkness, and the truth about how you really feel will come to light.

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 the love of God fill you and penetrate every part of your soul, so that you may know how to love the way the Father loves. And know how to receive love, as well.

Many use the word love frivolously. I love this. I love that. I love movies. I love dessert. I love. I love. I love. Yet, our actions are speaking volumes concerning who we really love. Love is more than just an emotion. It is a force. It is power. It is the embodiment of God here in this earth. And when we really understand how precious and powerful love is; we'd be less likely to be frivolous in its use. And we would honor love by showing and giving love as God has commanded.

People are making choices every single day based upon how they feel at any given moment. They are saying with their mouths how much they love. How much they love their families, their spouse, their children, their career. Yet, the actions they are putting forth does not speak of love. Their actions are not reflecting the love they say they have in their hearts. Instead, what is being reflected is a spirit of selfishness, low self-esteem, resentfulness, animosity, sorrow, shame, and sometimes hate.

Matthew 6:20-22 “20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

We are making life choices based upon what is residing in our hearts. What we treasure the most will be found in the core of our hearts. And that is what will occupy our time, energy and efforts. What do you treasure today? What is it that has a hold of your heart, that you will be willing to lay down your life if it came to that?

Many can walk around and speak words that sound lovely and correct. They may even be able to fool some people for some time. But you can never fool God. The Father knows our hearts. He knows where our treasure lies. He knows what is on our priority list. He knows how weak or how strong our love is. And He reaches towards us each and every day. Every day when we arise, it is a gift from God, and Him reaching toward us, so that He may fill us with Himself.

But we have rejected the Father. Our actions have dismissed the hand of God. Many have assumed that they can walk in this earth and do what they like, and no one would be the wiser of who they really are and what they really believe. Not true. Because the actions we take today have consequences for others tomorrow. Whether we see it or not, or acknowledge it.

Who do you love? Do you love God? Do you love your family? Do you love your friends? Do you love yourself? The truth is, many of us cannot give love or receive love or reciprocate love, because we do not love ourselves. How can you love anyone else when you have no love for yourself? How can receive or accept love, and believe in love, when you have trouble loving who you are? And that, my Beloveds, is at the core of so many who profess to love, but actions speak otherwise. This is why so many people can hurt their loved ones, and make poor decisions, because they lack self love. And without self love, you do not have the ability to recognize what is best or good for self. You make poor decisions that can have devastating consequences for those we you say you do love.

1 John 4:15-16 “Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.”

Beloved, if we confess that we believe in God, and that God is in us, then we must know that love is within us. And if God, who is love, resides in us, then how can we not love ourselves? God has poured His love in us. He has poured into us who and everything that He is. And because of this love; regardless to what life we have lived before accepting Christ, that love, God love, is residing within us. And if we open ourselves to that redemptive and healing love, then we will be able to not only love who we are, but love others the way God desires us to love.

Who do you love? Love is powerful. Love is healing. Love is delivering. Love is consuming. Love can change things in a moments time. Love is long-suffering. Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is selfless. Love is forgiving.

1 Corinthians 13:1-2 “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”

Let the love of God fill you today. Let God fill you. Let Him pour Himself into every part of you; restoring your heart and soul. Healing the wounds of your past. Bringing deliverance to those areas you have never spoken about or shared with anyone. Let the Father into your secret place of pain and shame, so that He may bless you with beauty for your ashes, and double anointing for your shame. Let love in today so that you may be free to love the way God has ordained you to love. And that you may love yourself and God that is in you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Let God in. Let Him pour Himself into your heart and soul, and fill you with that love that consumes and restores and redeems, so that you may love yourself, and others unhindered and completely, just as God loves. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Labor of Love"

Reflections4Life September 1^st, 2013

“Labor of Love”

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1

Scripture Contemplation: Luke 6; Romans 5; 1 Corinthians 13; Jude...

What keeps you going? What inspires you each and everyday to keep moving forward; even when things are difficult? Why do you do the things you do and say things you say? What is your purpose for doing the things you do?

I have learned that unless what I am doing is coming from a place of love, or for love, it holds no value or substance. And soon, I find myself tiring and wanting to move on. I have also found myself complaining about a situation or task, if in my heart the motive has not come from a place of love. What I've come to understand, is that love must be the foundation for all that I do. Every task, whether big or small, must be a labor of love.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Walk in the goodness and love of Christ. Let love guide you, teach you, and comfort you. Let your every motive be birthed from love.

This walk, this Christian walk must be a labor of love. That is the only way to walk this walk of salvation—in love. Any other way, and we are just a walking bag of bones, making loud noise and fruitless efforts that make no difference in the lives of those we come in contact with.

There are many reasons that we can come up with to excuse ourselves from acting from a place of love. Trust me; I know. For example: People are hard to love. These people are hateful. Why should I show love when they have disrespected me, talked about me, rejected me, hated me? They are unlovable. They will never believe. They call themselves Christians (uh-huh!) They aren't acting like believers. They don't treat me well. The hate God. What difference would it make; they're never going to change? They don't love me.

Here's what I know for certain, beloved: It is not about them or their actions. It is about you and your relationship with God. The Father is calling us to walk and act in love; even when it hurts to do so. And the best way I have learned to do this, is to do it as though I am doing it unto God. We have to learn to love, and to act from a place of love based upon our love for the Father. Act in such a way that you know God would find it acceptable and pleasing to Him; even if you are still rejected, despised, and talked about. Hey—it happened to Jesus, and we are not exempt.

This walk we are in with Christ is about love. It was always about love, and will always be about love. And if we cannot understand that, and operate from a place of that godly love; then we will view the tasks ahead of us more like a laborious chore. Much like a young student views the loads of homework they get in school, until they come to the realization that the homework they are given is only to prepare them for what comes next in their young lives.

I sometimes wonder what if Christ had the attitude that we sometimes have. How doomed we would be! It was a labor of love that brought Jesus here. It was love that had Him give His life. It was love that He went to the Cross. It was love that He bore those stripes upon His body. It was love that He withstood the rejection. It was love that He poured out everything He had to ensure we had a place in the Kingdom.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

It was a definite labor of love for Jesus to leave His home in glory, to come to an earth that must have been a stench to His nostrils with its foul odor of sin assaulting His nostrils every time He took a breath in. But for the love; the love of the lost who despised and rejected Him, He came to be that final sacrifice that would seal our fate to His for all eternity, for everyone that would believe in Him and receive. That's love.

There are times in my life that I feel overwhelmed. I feel as though I have nothing left to give, or the energy to push forward. But then I think on Jesus. I think of all He has done for me, and my love for Him pushes me forward. It corrects me when I get out of line. It chastises me when my motives are wrong. It reminds me of the Who and why I do what I do, and that it must come from that place of His unfailing and unconditional love.

This walk that we are in is a labor of love. We will not always feel like we can give our best. We will sometimes feel unappreciated. We will sometimes experience rejection and hate. However, it does not give us permission to act out of any other place than that of love.

We can give. We can do. We spend. We can buy. We can act like we care. We can have a form of godliness, and dress the part. But unless we come from a place of love; unconditional, God love. Then it is all in vain, and we really have done a disservice to those we come in contact with.

Only the love of God can change lives. Only what we do in love will last and make a difference. Even in our own personal walk, and our lives. All that we do must come from a place of love. If you do not love what you do, you will get tired eventually. If you do not carry out your daily tasks in love; sooner or later you will tire and become dissatisfied with your life.

Life, my beloveds, is a labor of love unto itself. If we do not love our life, we will be constantly seeking, searching for fulfillment in many places. When you learn to love the very life you have, you will see the road before you shift, and doors open to you that you never even knew existed. Give your best to where you are right now. Live and love to its fullest. Give God praise for the precious gift of breath. Walk in love, His love. And watch God move on your behalf.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Let the love of God rule in your hearts. Walk in love. Let everything you do come from a place of love. Let your life be a labor of love. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.