"God's Reflection"

 Reflections4Life™  May 9, 2021

“God’s Reflection”

“And I will bless her and also give you a son by her; then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her.” Genesis 17:16

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 3; 17; Psalm 22; 139; Proverbs 31; John 19; Ephesians 6…

I want to take the time to wish each and every woman a Happy Mother's Day. Whether they are your children biologically, through marriage, adoption, foster care, that special auntie, or through mentoring; We celebrate you.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. There is no greater love than the love that God has for His creation. Allow God to show you how to love. How to be love. How to walk in love. If there were any two things this world needs, it would be the sincere love of a parent and the anointing love of God.

I couldn't share any roses with my Mom today or fix her a breakfast fit for a Queen. I couldn’t do the things I normally would do today. But I can recall the love of my Mom. The love that bursts through the core of her very being, spilling into the lives of every person she touched. She mothered way more than her biological children and was called mother by many. I don't have biological children...yet. I can only pray that I would walk in my mother’s path and be God’s reflection upon this earth.

There is something so precious and awe-inspiring about how God created a woman. How He wrapped her in strength, grace, beauty, and love. If you want to know what the love of God looks like, then look at a mother who fiercely loves her children. I believe with all my heart that a mother's love is a reflection of God's love for us. Never underestimate how far a mother would go to protect her child.

Life can be difficult at times, but it is nothing that a mother cannot handle and make it seem like it's just another day. There is life in a mother. The kind of life that gives life restores life and sustains life. There is a purpose in every action. There is indeed power in this kind of love.

Motherhood comes in different shades and forms. It is an on-the-job training kind of deal. No matter how many books you read or how much advice you seek, nothing prepares you for love and life like motherhood.

Motherhood is boot camp for life. Every mother worth her weight should be deemed a superhero. God indeed blessed women with the gift of motherhood to remind them of their place in Eden. To remind her daily of the infinite and unyielding love of God for His creation.

 My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Relish in this not just today but every day. Celebrate the mothers in your life. And just know; if you ever question how much God loves you? Then just look at a mother who loves and fights for her child. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"We've Already Won!"

 Refelctions4LifeTM February 21, 2021

“We’ve Already Won!”

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1Corinthians 15:57

Scripture Contemplation: Luke 10; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 John 1; Revelation 15…

Family

Most of us don't even know that the battle we are in, we've already won. We have been declared the winner way before the battle has even begun. Yet, many will be defeated because they were led to believe they could never win. So, instead of fighting and believing in themselves, they gave up before they even began to fight. Their thoughts defeated them.

I declare today’s Reflections bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Let your heart and mind be on Christ. Allow His words and thoughts to fill you and renew your mind daily, so you do not forget the promises and the victory that was already attained for you.

Beloved, let me let you in on something in case you did not know, or perhaps have forgotten: GOD HAS ALREADY DECLARED YOU THE WINNER! THE WAR WAS WON AND YOUR VICTORY SECURED WHEN CHRIST GAVE HIS LIFE ON THE CROSS; DEFEATING HELL AND DEATH.

It may certainly seem like we are on the losing team when we are faced with so many trials and heartaches.  It is easy to forget that we have won when the battles we are in feel like an all-out war. But that's how the enemy rolls. His very first strategic attack is to get in your mind. To make suggestions. To whisper in your ear until it seems like your own thoughts. To plant seeds of doubt's and water them by attacking you, and often using those closest to you as weapons to weaken your resolve and have you question where is God and if there is a God!

Another thing the enemy will try and use is to make you feel alone and isolated. He will try his best to convince that no one understands you, loves you, or cares about you. He will point out every bad thing about your family. Magnifying a lone incident until your entire family nonpersona non Grata. It's all lies.

As I was collecting photos this week for a slideshow for my Uncle's celebration of life services, I realized just how much my family enjoyed time together. In these crazy quarantine times and my personal trials and tests taking place, it was easy to forget how many times my family got together! I looked at all the pictures and was overwhelmed with so much joy and floods of memory. We truly were a family that gathered together every chance we could get. If that Sun was shining, we were gathering. If it rained or snowed, we were meeting at someone's house. 

The memories came flooding back thick and heavy, causing me to ache for what was, But also giving me hope for what's going to be. You see, we are all in a war right now; battling Covid, family issues, political issues, policy issues, human rights issues. But it all boils down to the same thing: We've Already Won! Satan can't keep us down. He can't stop a family that prays together from winning. Because we win! We will see healing. We will get together again! We will enjoy one another while thanking God for His Supernatural. However, we cannot allow the enemy to deceive us; making us give up and walk away when the restoration is here, and we've already been declared the winners.

I've said it before and I will say it again: Satan is the master illusionist. He is great at smoke and mirrors. But his greatest trick still doesn't trump God's greatest gift: His Son, Jesus, who gave His life so that we may live.

The enemy knows he has no power. The only power he has is the power we give him when we give up, doubt God, stop praying and turn away from God. The Father has not only secured our victory, but He has also given us authority and power over the enemy.

We've already won Beloved. You have already been declared victorious. But you have to believe it and walk in it. Do not be like Eve and enter into a conversation with the enemy. He will manipulate you every time. Instead, speak the word and declare it like Jesus did.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Say what God has already said and believe it. You are the winner! And you are strong enough to go through any battle that comes your way! You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"God Over Everything"

 Reflections4LifeTM  January 3, 2021

"God Over Everything"

 "You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:4

Scripture Contemplation: 1 John 4; Genesis 39:9; Exodus 18:11; Ezekiel 8:6; Matthew 12; Luke 11

HAPPY NEW YEAR, BELOVEDS! God is great! And He is great to be praised! Yes indeed! We have been blessed to witness another year, and for that, I am not only grateful but also excited! I am looking forward to the promises of God manifesting, and I hope you are, too! My mantra this year is LET'S GET IT DON IN 2021! The only way I see this happening is by making sure that God is over everything that I do and say! Put God first in everything and God will increase you to do get done what needs to be done.

I decree that this week's Reflections4Life will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. It's a brand new year with brand new opportunities and possibilities. Yes. Last year we had expectations that were dashed and overturned due to the devastating pandemic. Yet, God and His mercies towards us, has kept us and blessed us. We are alive! This means that we have been extended mercy and grace to complete the assignments God has placed on our lives. I dare you to put God over everything this week. Lay a strong foundation for the coming year, and see where God takes you.

When we look back over the year that we have had, it may be hard for some to move forward. So much loss and heartache came with 2020. This is all understandable. Yet, you are still here. Alive. In the land of the living, and hopefully believing. Believing that God is still God. That, He has heard and is answering your prayers. You have an opportunity to know God more intimately than at any other time in your life. This is the perfect time to get to know more of God, and in the process, get to know more about yourself.

I am not arrogant enough to believe that I know everything there is to know about God. Personally, I believe that if that were the case, I would not be on this earth, but in Heaven in His presence. I don't think that kind of knowledge and wisdom can be contained in the human vessel in the realm of earth. That kind of revelation—knowing everything of who God is—is too much power and awesomeness for our human mind to hold and comprehend. However, I believe we can get closer each day to knowing God and His ways, and when we yield to Him, He will impart in us more of Himself, and our lives will be irrevocably changed...for the better!

As difficult as 2020 was, we still have some valleys to travel through and some mountains to climb this year. We are not out of the woods and difficult times are still present. Yet, I do believe that with an increased knowledge of who God is, comes a piece of knowledge and wisdom about what to do, and how to navigate this new world in a way that is not only beneficial to self, but to those we love, and those around us.

God must come first in all things. Our relationships, our jobs, and even our worries. God over everything. If we can seek God every day with a sincere heart, wanting to know more about Him without the only motivation being what we can get in return; I believe God will open our minds and our spiritual eyes to see what has been right in front of us all along. The only requirement many of us have been missing was putting God first in our lives above everything else.

The relationship between God and us is not unlike a marriage. This is why I love the Song of Solomon. It is a definite picture of God, the Bridegroom, and the Church(us), His Bride. There is courtship, the first stirrings of love, the devotion, then the trials and tests, and then walking away, and reconciliation. Then the beautiful realization that love is stronger than death and the grave. God's love. And to truly understand this type of love and relationship, we need more of God, And to have more of God, we must learn to sacrifice other things and put God first where He has always desired to be in our hearts. There is no doubt, that if we put God first in all things, we will gain a piece of knowledge and wisdom that we thought we had but never experienced before.  Talk about mind-blowing!

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Put God over everything in this New Year. Determine to know more of El Shaddai, and see what the Father reveals to you and brings too past in your life. God has more for you than you could ever ask for. If you trust Him, He will show you many great things this year. Be confident and seek God wholeheartedly. You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald.All Rights Reserved. 

"Come Back Home"

 Reflections4Life^TM November 15, 2020

“Come Back Home”

“Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, Esau was coming, and four hundred men with him. So he divided the children among Leah and Rachel and the two maids.  ³ But he himself passed on ahead of them and bowed down to the ground seven times until he came near to his brother.” Genesis 33:1, 3

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 32; 33; Mark 6; Luke 15; 2 Corinthians 5…

Why do we run away when we make mistakes? Why do we run and hide from the truth instead of facing it? Many have left the comfort and safety of home because of various reasons. Whatever the reason may be, it doesn't matter when God says to come back home. Come back home to the shelter and safety of His loving arms.

I pray today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. There is no place safer than in the arms of God. Spend some intimate time with the Father this week. Allow Him access to your heart and soul; to bring healing and deliverance and peace of mind.

I was always intrigued by the story of Jacob and Esau. How Jacob deceived his father Isaac (with the help of his mother Rebecca) and used his brother’s weakness against him in order to steal Esau's birthright. I mean, really? How did you think that was going to turn out? Lying, deception, manipulation, stealing. Sounds no different than what is going on today.

Jacob ran from home. From his parents and family and hid from his brother. But as with all things in our lives, there will come a time when we must confront our past. We must confront our actions and the reasons we have done what we have done. There is truly no moving forward until we come to terms with our past. We will remain restless and fearful, such was the case with Jacob.

God had a plan for Jacob all along. Yet Jacob needed to confront his past. He needed to make amends; not only with Esau but also with himself. He was no longer that young man that tricked his father and stole from his brother. He was now a man with a family and position, yet still haunted by his past. God wanted Jacob free. Free to move forward. Free to become who He ordained him to be.

Perhaps we have done some things in our lives we are not proud of. We feel there is no coming back from the decisions that we have made. Yet, God stands with arms wide open telling us to run to Him and not from Him. Because in Him resides our healing, redemption, forgiveness, and deliverance.

I think about all the people who have left home. Not those who left to explore, or find their own paths. But those who left in anger; who ran away; were forced to go. It may feel as though they could never go home. Or possibly, there never was home at all. But with God, there is a place. A place that is home. A shelter from every storm. A place to regroup and become strong. It's in the shelter of His arms.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Come back home to the shelter of our Heavenly Father. Let Him love you. Protect you. Bring healing to your soul. With God, confront your past and allow Him to bring a resolution and healing. With God, there's no place like home in the shelter of His arms. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2020. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"A Celebration of God's Grace"

Reflections4Life™ July 27, 2017

“A Celebration of God’s Grace”

“Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty heavens. Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to [the abundance of] His greatness. Praise Him with trumpet sound; Praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flute.  Praise Him with resounding cymbals; Praise Him with loud cymbals. Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)” Psalm 150

Grace and Peace friends and family! I am overjoyed today because of the blessings of the Lord God Almighty. I am so grateful and my heart is bubbling over with joy!

Sometimes when you are facing so many things in life, and have been tested with life trials after trials, you tend to forget about the goodness and mercy of God. You may forget about what He has already done. You may forget those milestones and miss the victories and triumphs along the way because they may not seem that significant to you. However, they are! Every time you accomplish something, make it to a milestone, and you give God the glory is another black eye for and foot on the neck of the enemy!

We are celebrating TEN YEARS!—wow!—of Reflections4Life Blog and Ministry! Can someone help me give some praise to God! As I have said in a previous post, it almost passed my mind that this awesome milestone was happening. So much is going on in my life that a celebration really has been the last thing on my mind. However, God is just too great for me to not make the time and take a praise break for all of His kindness and blessings of His word that He has made possible over the past ten years! All of the phenomenal fellowship, powerful word, the precious friendships, answered prayers, and the powerful prayer circle! My goodness! I could go on and on! Seriously! But I won’t be before you long! I just want to share a bit of my heart with my Reflections4Life community and family! You guys totally rock!!!!

Ten years ago, I was in New York for the birth of my nephew. I was watching my other two nephews as their baby brother was being born. I sat in my brother’s living room with my laptop, filled with a grateful heart for life and God’s abundance. I figured I’d write in my journal. As I began to write the words, the more I felt encouraged. When I finished, God told me to share it with my current writing community. He said someone needed to be encouraged. To share, my testimony, and give Him the glory. That is how Reflections4Life came to be. It started as just, Reflections, then God said these are Reflections for daily life; thoughts that we can apply to our everyday living, and so it became, Reflections4Life.

I started writing Reflections4Life as a blog post. I did not see it as a ministry, just a way to share my heart, my experiences, and what I was reading and studying that week and how I was going to apply it to my own life. But when God has other plans, who am I to say no to God, when I know He has a proven track record? So, here I am ten years later, filled with a heart of gratitude overwhelmed with joy and wonder at what God has done in my life.

I want to thank you, my Reflectiosn4Life family and community. I want to thank you all for the fellowship and friendship over the past ten years, and look forward to much more for however long God chooses to use me in this capacity. I am open to His will and His way. I pray the blessings of God over your life. If there is anything that you stand in need of, I pray for you and stand in agreement with you that God is already taking care of it, in the name of Jesus! If there is any illness, by His stripes, you are healed and so we thank Him for the manifestations! Whatever you may be in need of, give it to God and believe for Him to open that door and to make a way for you in His Son’s mighty name! Amen!

As part of my gratitude today, and for all the gratitude in my heart towards you for the years of fellowship, I will be giving away three (3) paperback copies of my latest release, What Love Teaches Me, Volume 3 in my Reflections4Life Inspirational Series. The print version contains a special Reflections4Life Journal inside. I will also be giving away one (1) $25 Amazon e-gift card.

To be eligible, you have between today (July 27 2017) and Monday (July 31, 2017) by 8:00 PM EST to subscribe to my email list on my website at www.iamruthemcdonald.com Three names will be randomly chosen for the paperback copy, and one name will be chosen for the Amazon e-gift card. The contest is sponsored by Johnrue Publishing. All winners will be contacted by August 4^th, 2017. No purchase necessary to be entered into this giveaway.

The print version is available on Amazon. If you would like to purchase the eBook, please follow this link for a list of retailers: https://books.pronoun.com/what-love-teaches-me/

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. Thank you all once again for celebrating this day with me! You are appreciated and prayed for daily. Thank you for your continued friendship and fellowship. May the grace and peace of God be constant in your life. It is my prayer the coming years brings us closer, extending our family, and connecting us on greater and deeper levels. I love you and I pray for you always. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2017. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Lessons My Mama Taught Me"

Reflections4Life February 22, 2015

"Lessons My Mama Taught Me"

I am doing things a little different this Sunday. I pray that this week is filled with much joy and happiness for you. May you treasure the gift of love and take advantage of the presence of your parents. Because you never know when there will be no tomorrow.

I can only write today's #Reflections4Life because of what my mother has taught me. I cried for a very long time this morning. How can I write or even think of anything when my heart is so heavy? When, it hurts so bad I can't catch my breath? Then I remember what my Mama taught me. The lessons I have learned and gleaned from her. She was a very wise woman. I am still processing the fact that she is gone. It's still not real.

I chose this pic, taken nine years ago. It was one of my Mama's favorite, primarily because she took it!

I was sitting on the foot of her bed. She said she had some beautiful children. I wasn't feeling so beautiful at the time.

That day, she poured her love and into me as only a Mama could. She reminded me of true beauty, the beauty of the heart and its value. She told me how proud she was of me and the things I had accomplished and was venturing into. She reminded me of the importance of loving myself and having an intimate and solid relationship with God. That, our time with the Creator should always come first and from the heart, and not as a last resort. She taught me the importance of saying no. Not to allow people to monopolize and take advantage of my huge heart.

My mother taught me that when you walk with God, and have an intimate relationship, it eradicates negativity in your life, it strengthens you for the road ahead, it prepares you for the many ups and downs and the unexpected. It allows you to see through different eyes. 
What she taught me also, is that life goes on. And should she leave this earth before Christ's return, to know and remember: to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. That she has the better deal out of the two of us.  And that, I may grieve and mourn but life goes on. To do what I do, and do it well, because she will be watching from her new view from the heavens above.

How can I not move forward and be comforted with these kind of lessons?

"Don't Let Go of Love"

Reflections4Life January 4, 2015

“Don’t Let Go of Love”

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.” 1 John 4:18

Scripture Contemplation: Song of Solomon; 1 John 4; 1 John 5…

Happy New Year! Praise God for another year of life and opportunities. I pray that this year you will be filled with much joy and happiness. May you walk in health, peace and into the greatness that God has called you to. And whatever you do—don’t let go of love. Don’t let go of God.

I pray today’s Reflections bring comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Let the love of God fill your soul with every breath you take. Let the Father lead you where you cannot trace Him. Allow Him to fill the cup of your heart until it is overflowing with love.

I certainly pray that this year is one that brings you to a place of courage and strength and confidence when it comes to love; especially the love of God. This past week, a couple of friends of mine got engage. From the outside, many people would probably think it was typical. A typical New Year’s Eve thing that happens to many couples. However, if you knew my friend’s story, then you would know that there was far more to be celebrated than just an engagement.

Often times we can be living our lives and things seem to be going well. They appear to be going according to plans we have in our minds. Then life happens. Unpredictable, take you by surprise, crush your soul, take your breath, life happens. And everything you thought you knew is now questionable. Everything you once believed is now suspect. Yet, God remains the same through it all.

I shared a glimpse into my past and my friendships on yesterday that I very rarely share. I was inspired and compelled to open up about some things that I had experienced. But, in order to share that story, I had to have the blessing of my dear friend. Because it is just as much his story as mine. He gave me his full support.

Long story short; tragedy came and wreaked havoc in our lives. My friend lost a love so deep and so strong, he entered the darkest nights and years of his life; not knowing if he would ever come out of it. For him, there was no more trusting in love. There was to be no more love for him. His heart was shattered and there was no way it was going to be the same ever again. His relationship with God? Over. How could he believe in a God that would allow such heartache to him and his daughter? But now He understands that God was there all along. And that love—true, sincere, unconditional love was there; healing him, his heart and mind. And preparing him for a second chance at what he’d thought he’d lost forever.

His story is not necessarily unique. I am quite sure you have a similar story. I know I do. How can we not? Loss, grief, mourning—it’s all a part of life. Just as much as happiness, joy, and peace are.

How many times in our lives have we been hurt and disappointed, believing that we would never recover. That, the pain and ache would never go away? Too many times to count. Yet, through it all, it is love that keeps us. It is love that drives us and holds us and compels us to move forward and try again.

Love is powerful. Love is strong. Love is God. Whether we recognize it or not, love is all around us waiting to be embraced, acknowledged, and accepted. There are just many of us who cannot see past the pain and despair. We’d rather hold onto anger and bitterness and blame God for all of our wrongs. The truth of the matter is, God is the answer to the hole in our hearts; to the healing that needs to take place. It is God. He is love. And we must never let go of love. No matter what.

Life can be difficult. Hitting us with unexpected situations and heartaches that we may feel we will never recover from. But life is a journey meant to be lived, with opportunities for love—true, unconditional love to be recognized, accepted, felt, and experienced.

Tragedies and loss of loved ones will occur. Yet we must learn to embrace the love we had, the love we shared, and the love that waits for us. We can’t give up on life or love. Because the truth is, it’s the only thing that keeps us human and connected to spirit. It is our saving grace.

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree the love of God saturate every area of your lives, filling you until love is overflowing. May you be desperate for God; for His word, for His love, for His presence. Don’t let go of love. Don’t let go of God. You can and will make it through, for God is with you. You are so blessed. Believe it. Walk in it. And share it. Now go…be a blessing.

©2015. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"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.

Reflections4Life: Celebrating The Milestones

Reflections4Life July 28^th, 2013

“Celebrating The Milestones”

“After that, the Word of God came to me: “Zerubbabel started rebuilding this Temple and he will complete it. That will be your confirmation that God-of-the-Angel-Armies sent me to you. Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? They’ll change their tune when they see Zerubbabel setting the last stone in place...”” Zechariah 4:8-10 (MSG)

Scripture Contemplation: Zechariah 4; Habakkuk 2; Ecclesiastes 3; Hebrews 11...

More than anything, what is ringing in my soul is the importance of celebrating the milestones in our lives. Also, the importance of not despising small beginnings. For, it is those small beginnings that shape your foundation and lay the ground work for what is to come.

I want to give God the praise today for six years of Reflections! Woo-Hoo! What a beautiful milestone. I cannot begin to say how blessed and fortunate I am that the Father has blessed me each and every Sunday with fresh manna from Heaven. What a blessing these past six years have been to be able to fellowship, minister, teach, share, and connect with some awesome and beautiful souls! I am honored that God would use me. I am honored to be able to share the love of my Father with many! And I thank each and everyone who has been apart of this journey with me for your support, participation, prayers, love, and countless conversations. It has been a share joy in getting to meet and know so many beautiful souls. YOU have been a blessing, and I pray that God will bless you a hundredfold for all you have given to me these past six years of fellowship.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will continue to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May the blessings of God consume you and manifest in every area of your life. May every need that you have be met, and your heart open to the will and way of God that is best for you and yours.

Sometimes you do not know how a thing is going to turn out. There are times you don't know where God is taking you, but you just follow Him, and trust Him, because He's God! And of course, because you love Him. Even when you are not sure, or you cannot see where you are going, you can always count on God to have your back.

There are times when God will direct you to do a thing. You may not be certain, you may be scared; but you can rest in the knowledge that whatever God leads you to, He will not only provide for you, but be there with you.

Every dream, every goal, every vision has a beginning. Everything we do and accomplish starts with a beginning, and that beginning may be small. It is during these beginnings that we are laying a foundation that will hold the structure of our dreams and visions. And the foundation must be strong enough to hold the weight of the fulfillment our goals and dreams.

If you were building a house, you must be certain that the foundation of that house is laid properly. You must be certain that it is not only level, but strong enough to hold the weight and substance of a house, and sturdy enough to withstand any natural occurrences. The foundation must be strong enough and solid enough to withstand any destruction that may occur to the house, in the event that you may have to start all over.

Marriages must be built upon strong foundations. The foundation doesn't just begin when you get married; it is being laid and constructed well before you get married. The foundation of any relationship that will last, must be strong and solid, and sure. All relationships are tested. Marriages go through many seasons and changes. As we go from honeymoon stages, to living together, to having children, building a family, working, and providing, we must be certain that our foundations are solid and built to weather the storms that will arise.

Here's what I learned and know for certain: During the beginning of anything—a goal, a vision, a relationship, marriage, ministry, business—we must work diligently and show it the same love and respect as if it were already accomplished. Sometimes the work required seems laborious or not as necessary, and we take for granted the process, and may not like the time it takes, or the tasks that are necessary to ensure for a solid foundation. It is in those beginning stages that the tone is set for what is to come. If we cannot appreciate the beginning of a thing, and learn to celebrate the milestones along the way, then we will never really be able to appreciate the fulfillment of a goal or vision, or reach the point in a relationship or marriage where we can stand firm with one another, and love each other even after the storms have passed. For when the storms come, we will not be able to make it through because we didn't do what we should have done in the beginning, or appreciated what we had when we started out.

There is joy in celebrating the milestones. There is joy when you do not despise the process or humble/small beginnings. When we have a spirit of thankfulness and appreciation for our journeys in this life, we open ourselves to the Spirit of God to move in our life in unexpected and expected ways. A heart of gratefulness sets the stage for a life of blessings being manifested.

Each day the Father wakes us is a day to celebrate because we were given another day to get things right, to start over, to be thankful, to celebrate each victory that He has helped us to reach; to enjoy the fruits of our labor. God is awesome!

Beloved, wherever you may be in life at this present time, celebrate right where you are. Celebrate that God has blessed you with a new day of life. Celebrate that you are still here to see the promises of God fulfilled in your life. Do not despise where you are at right now. Learn from it. Grow from the process. And be certain that the foundation that you are building is built with the wisdom of God, the gratefulness of heart, the solidness of faith, so that it may withstand any and all storms that may arise. Let God be your Architect. Follow His instructions, and learn to enjoy this journey we call life.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Celebrate the milestones in your life. Be grateful for the process. Do not despise small beginnings. For, it is your foundation. Live, learn, and grow. You are Blessed so much more than you know. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "We Don't Always Understand"

Reflections July 14^th, 2013

“We Don't Always Understand”

“Who can measure the wealth and wisdom and knowledge of God? Who can understand his decisions or explain what he does?” Romans 11:33 (CEV)

Scripture Contemplation: Deuteronomy 28; Joshua 22:5; Micah 4; Romans 11...

There are things that occur in this world that we just don't understand. There are things that happen that make you ask: Why God? Why does God allow such things to occur? Why does He allow such atrocities to continue to take place? Why?

We don't always understand why things happen the way they do, but we can believe that God is still God on the throne, and that He has the final word in all that happens upon this earth. It's hard to sometimes see that, or to even believe that when you are the one constantly in the line of fire.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Hold on to the hands of God and never let them go. Though it may seem like evil continually wins; know that God is not sleep, and neither is He winking. For those of us that believe, we must continue to believe and walk in faith, and follow the instructions of our God. Listen; God is speaking.

Heart heavy. Mind filled with confusion. Thoughts unable to wrap around the continued miscarriage of justice. Where does one begin to understand what is going on? How can we say God cares and understands when we obviously keep getting the short end of the stick? We say God cares and understands because He does. Regardless to circumstances or situations, God certainly cares and understands, and has made away for each and everyone of us.

We may not always understand the way in which God does things; but a closer, intimate relationship with the Father will bring understanding of His nature and how He does things. Make no mistake: God is not sitting back and blinking at the evil that men do. Or, the injustices that are occurring each and every day around the world. However, for those of us that say we love the Lord, and are in a relationship, should know and recognize that these are the times that we must be upon our knees and turning down our plates. We must also remember that we are not fighting against flesh and blood.

Ephesians 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Sometimes it is truly hard to wrap our mind around the fact that we are up against such evil, and spirits, because we contend with the flesh each and every day. It makes it difficult for us to understand the battles that we face and why. It sometimes makes no sense at all. And this is why we, as children of God, must be continually prayerful. We must be fully dressed always in the armor of God. We must constantly be before the Lord, seeking Him, and following His directions.

There are times when we forget that God has given each person the freedom to choose. The Father does not force anything upon us. We all have the right to choose the path we walk, who we believe; if we accept God or reject Him. With these choices are consequences. And sometimes the choices of others bare evil and hurtful consequences for us.

Yet, in knowing all of this, we mustn’t grow weary or give up on God or His promises. Yes. Many a thing are easier said than done. But God is our strong tower, even in the midst of heartaches, disappointments, and the evil that men sometimes do. We won't always understand the reasoning behind why certain things happen; why God allows certain things. But we can rest assure that God gets the final word on each and every matter, and He will indeed strengthen us to endure.

Isaiah 40: 28-31 28 Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of His understanding. 29 He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; 31 but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.

No, we will not always understand. But God is still God, and He will have His way. Let us remember to pray, to stand firm in the word of God, and to fast and believe. Though the enemy seem to be winning, we can rest assure that God is not slack, and that He shall recompense to each person what is due them. Don't lose hope or faith. Instead, put it all in the hands of God and follow whatever the instructions the Father gives. It will lead you to a place of victory...always.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Allow the hand of God to rest on you; giving you comfort and strength in times of uncertainty. Remember that we are not up against flesh and blood, but the wicked spirits that inhabit lost souls. Pray continually. And Believe God for His understanding. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

April Fool...Ha!

Are you a fan of Jokes? In my family, April Fool's Day is a no-holds-bar day! No one is safe—not even Grandmas!

My Uncles were crazy jokers! They got my Grandmother each and every time. I remember this one time they got my Grandmother so good; that she whipped their behind, but good. (I guess the joke was on them, huh?)

My Grandmother always advised her children that sex was for marriage. That, engaging in a sexual relationship is for mature folks. And, she definitely did not want no young girls coming to her house saying they were pregnant.

They (Uncles) came up with a crazy joke: tell my Grandmother that one of them got a girl pregnant. They were fifteen and seventeen at the time. Well, they proceeded to tell my grandmother this lie—she was none to thrilled. She screamed; she hollared; she tried to choke him. She asked him if he was crazy.

Not only did he say that the girl was pregnant; but that she had the baby already, and was downstairs waiting to come in, because her parents kicked her out. Now, I won't repeat what my Grandmother said—*$#*&#*—and the like! My younger uncle went down stairs to get the girl.

My Grandmother tried to compose herself—afterall, this was her grandchild, right? The girl came in holding the "baby" in her arms, wrapped in a white receiving blanket. My grandmother asked her to come show her the baby. She asked what it was. The girl said it was a girl. My Grandmother said, let me see who she favors.

By this time, my Uncles were starting to lose it. They were trying to stifle their laughter. When the girl placed the "baby" in my Grandmother's arms, she stood back. My Grandmother lifted the blanket up, and said: "What the—"!

My Uncles and that girl started howling with laughter. One of my Uncles fell to the floor, holding his sides. My grandmother was cussing, and called them every name she could think of. Inside the blanket was a baby chimp!

I was just a little girl when this happened; but I knew it was funny! My grandmother chased my Uncles around the house with a belt. I laughed so hard, I nearly peed my pants!