"Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives"

 Reflections4Life™ May 29, 2022

"Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives"

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

Scripture Contemplation: Daniel 10; Romans 12; James 4…

©Ruthe McDonald.

God is doing extraordinary things through the lives of ordinary people. It is not extraordinary people doing ordinary things making a difference. Ordinary people—who follow God's lead and determine in our hearts to walk in obedience, are doing fantastic, marvelous, and extraordinary things. Extraordinary to others but the same old thing for us because we are doing what we love for Who we love.

I declare that this week's Reflections is a continued source of encouragement for your hearts, minds, and souls. God desires to give us understanding and insight into the parts of our hearts and souls where we may have felt stagnated. Lay it on the altar, giving it all to God for direction. Trust God to lead you into the places He has ordained for your life.

It is amazing when I see and hear the extraordinary accomplishments that everyday, ordinary people are doing. It encourages and inspires me to continue to go forward in the plans of God, allowing Him to lead me on the paths that He has ordained for my life. What I have learned on my life's journey, is that our ordinary, everyday self can and will do amazing things on this earth when we take a moment to first think about the needs of someone else.

The average person may often look at their life and feel what they do and contribute is not much. That, the extra sandwich they made and shared; the bag of clothes and shoes, the nearly used purses filled with toiletries, that bottle of water, that cover, that blanket, that cupcake or cookie sale--were all just very small things that really do not make much of a difference. They were just doing their part, but not really making much of a huge difference. That "average" person would be wrong. With a selfless heart, that ordinary person just did an extraordinary thing. Sometimes they may never know how great an impact they truly had, but the blessings of God will visit them in return.

That extra sandwich? It fed someone that had not eaten in days and gave them hope that someone does care. That bag of clothes and shoes? It helped someone who needed new clothing for a job interview that would change their lives and their family's lives. Some child was able to feel comfortable going to school with clean and new clothes. Three more outfits than what they had which were none. The purses filled with toiletries went to women and teen girls that are homeless and have no extra money for the basic necessities that we take for granted. The generosity touched their hearts and encouraged them to keep pushing forward. They feel clean and human again. They were so inspired they turn around and give from what they had and now are inspired to give back and work with the people they used to be. That bottle of water? It was not only used for thirst but to wash. It gave life. That blanket? Kept people warm and shielded from the cold and the other elements of the weather. That bake sale? Helped pay for several family meals for three months. Enough time for that mother, father, and guardian to gain employment, and does not worry about putting food on the table and feeding their children until they could provide; especially after being turned away from a food bank because they just ran out of food.

It is the ordinary people that are rising up in light of the tragedies that have befallen many that will make the difference in moving forward. Ordinary people who desire to help others are the ones that end up doing extraordinary things that change the world for the better. Out of tragedies, ordinary people do extraordinary things that change the course of people's lives for good.

I would be remiss not to mention the ordinary men and women that did the extraordinary every day when they made the decision to serve this country. We honor each serviceperson for the sacrifice they have made to ensure the safety and liberty of their country. Blessings to the families of those extraordinary men and women. We are forever indebted to their sacrifice and we remember and celebrate them this Memorial Day and every day that follows.

Ordinary people do what they would normally do but have extraordinary impacts. Ordinary people do extraordinary things because they dare to follow their hearts and take a chance on humanity and find themselves creating organizations, inventing products, saving lives, organizing grass-root organizations, raising funds, giving freely of themselves, and changing lives for the better forever. Giving their lives.

Beloved, God uses ordinary people. You do not have to come from a rich family to be wealthy. You can be wealthy in heart, mind, and spirit, wealthy in character, in love, and a desire to serve and make a difference. God is using ordinary people with a heart that is malleable to His touch; with a teachable spirit, to do extraordinary things every single day. He just looks for a willing heart to follow His lead.

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. You do not need any special skills to be used by God, to be His instrument, His hands, feet, and voice on the earth. He just needs a willing heart ready and willing to serve and share the love. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2022. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"It's Not Always What It Looks Like!"

 Reflections4Life™ May 1, 2022

“It’s Not Always What it Looks Like!"

“But just as it is written, “Things that no eye has seen, or ear heard, or mind imagined, are the things God has prepared for those who love him.” God has revealed these to us by the Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 (NET)

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 64; 1 Corinthians 2; Matthew 25; Daniel 2; 1 Corinthians 13; 14

     I declare that this week’s Reflections4life will continue to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Seek God early every day, with a heart of expectancy for all He desires to pour into you. Allow God to lead in your life. The Lord wants to fill us with not only, what we need and have asked of Him but also things we have not even thought to ask.

     There is so much more to life than we could ever comprehend when living it in Christ. There are many more colors than what is seen in a rainbow. Life is a kaleidoscope of events, circumstances, and situations, culminating in a life’s journey. The Father loves us without pause and desires our journeys to be filled with His love, healing, understanding, life-long lessons, reconciliation, redemption, and self-love. God desires for us to walk in abundant life lacking nothing but to be overflowing with His promises that we share with others. Prayerfully, those who receive will also believe in the love and power of God Almighty.

     Each of our lives is different. We may share similarities and experiences; have been through the same kinds of trauma and heartaches. However, who we are as individuals, makes our experiences unique, and different from anyone else in this world. Yet, we can still empathize with one another. Showing sympathy for losses, hurts, and heartaches. As well as, understanding and kindness when the right words escape us, but we want to show our support and love. We can also show our happiness for their celebratory milestones and achievements. 

     We never really know what a person may be going through unless they share it with us. A person can walk around, interacting with a smile on their face, a lilt in their voice, and never reveal the agonizing pain they may currently be in. They may dress in fine clothing, look put together every time you see them, showing up at church, work, and family or friend functions, but we would never know they have lost their job, their home, and are fighting thoughts of suicide, depression, rejection; all while smiling in our face. They present a picture as though all is well. The truth is, it is God’s grace holding them together.

     It is not always what it looks like. What we are seeing with our natural eyes does not always give us the whole picture and sometimes, not even half of the picture. This is the reason we need to nurture our relationship with God so that we gain knowledge of what is going on around us. God will give us understanding so we may make wise and correct decisions that are right for all involved. We must learn to look through our spiritual lens; through the eyes of God when interacting with one another. To, have our spiritual ears and eyes open, receiving our instructions from God and how to care, love, and hear one another.

     Even when it comes to our personal lives and relationship with God. Many have been believing in the word and the promises of God. Circumstances and situations arise, and we are shaken. Oftentimes, we do not admit to the doubts and fears that arise after we have been waiting a while for the manifestations of God’s promises in our lives. There are times when the wait seems so long that we may feel God has forgotten about us or abandoned us and the promises we have been waiting on to manifest. However, that could not be further from the truth of what God has planned for our lives. Our story is just beginning.

     

    Often, it is never what it looks like with God. What we are seeing in the natural is far from the gifts that lie ahead of us, waiting for us to claim them. Yet, have we to imagine the blessings for our lives. The magnitude of their greatness. We can believe when seeking God, having learned something magnificent about our Lord, there are yet mysteries that God desires to reveal. Too, those with a heart after His goodness and righteousness will see and understand this.

     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. Take your time in the presence of God this week, listening to His voice and instructions. Allow Holy Spirit to lead you into all truths. Not everything is as it seems. Do not allow what appears to be to fool you. To fool you into giving up, or making decisions that God has not sanctioned. Trust God. Believe His word and promises, and He will soon reveal all that you need to know and understand, about others and yourself, in due season. Let God lead. You are Blessed. Now go...and be a Blessing!

©2022. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"More Than A Feeling"

 Reflections4Life™ February 28, 2021

“More Than a Feeling”

“Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise…” Hebrews 10:35-36

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 1; 2 Kings 18; Job 4:6; Ephesians 3; Hebrews 10; James 5…

©Ruefox.

There are times when we get caught up in our feelings. We sometimes do things that we later regret because we reacted based upon our feelings at the time. Have you ever done that? React, based upon your feelings? Out of emotions? Only to wholeheartedly regret the actions afterward? We've all been there a time or two. Or maybe a few! We must learn that we are more than our feelings. When we walk in confidence, we’re learning to respond instead of reacting.

I  decree today’s Reflections brings comfort and peace to your heart and mind. I decree it be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration. Be certain to spend quality, intimate time with the Father this week. Let Him pour into you; filling your spirit and soul with all that He is. So that you may grow in boldness and confidence and not be swept away or swayed by wavering emotions.

Here's the thing, Beloved: Our feelings are at times like a pendulum; swinging high one moment then low the next. They change like the wind depending upon what is happening in our lives at the moment. Our emotions can be calm and peaceful as a steady stream. Or, as dangerous and ravishing as a Tsunami.

God does not desire that for us. Living by our emotions is not living at all. The Father wants us to walk with confidence. Confidence in Him and confidence in ourselves. When we walk in confidence, believing in the Word of God and promises for our lives, there is very little that can disturb our emotions. Should our emotions become disturbed or our feelings hurt; we learn to respond instead of reacting; having fewer regrets had we allow our emotions to overrule our hearts and dictate our actions.

Many times when we react to our feelings, it is out of fear. I don’t think many realize how fear plays a role in whether or not they are reacting or responding. Fear is often the absence of confidence. Our confidence in a situation, a person, or even God, can be shaken because of something that may have occurred. And when fear is present, it messes with our emotions often causing us to react, instead of being still, praying, and responding after we have given thought and consideration to the situation.

Beloved, remember that God has not given us a spirit of fear. But one of love, power, and a sound mind. We do not have to be overwhelmed by emotions. We do not have to allow our feelings to dictate our behavior. Instead, we can be bold and confident, and walk assuredly in all that God has spoken. Instead of allowing our emotions to rule; we yield to Holy Spirit and follow His lead in any and all situations, with the confidence that God has already worked it all out.

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. Be confident in God. Be confident in yourself. Do not be carried away in your feelings only to regret rash decisions. Pray, think, and then respond. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2021. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved. 

"Be of Good Character"

Reflections4Lif™ February 2, 2020

“Be of Good Character”

“ A thick bankroll is no help when life falls apart, but a principled life can stand up to the worst. Moral character makes for smooth traveling; an evil life is a hard life. Good character is the best insurance; crooks get trapped in their sinful lust.” Proverbs 11:4-6

Scripture Contemplation: Proverbs 8;11; 20; Matthew 7:15-20; Matthew 13; 1 Timothy 4; 2 Peter 1

©Ruthe McDonald.

How would you define your character? How would others define your character? Often times we see ourselves in an obscured light. But, when we have Christ on the inside, and we yield to His character, our character becomes of a reflection of that which resides within our hearts. God desires that we be of good character. That, we walk in righteousness and allow Christ in us to live.

I decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow God to lead you, and allow Christ within to shine without. Let your character be above reproach. Be diligent in your word. Allow people to see Christ in you, so that they may want to know Him, too.

We fall short often. We proclaim that we are children of God; believers of the word; that we walk in the love of Christ. Yet, many of us have characters that leave a lot to be desired. Can we be honest with each other? Can we tell the truth and shame the devil—as the old folks would say? There are many of us saying that we love the Lord with all our hearts. That, we are believers in the body of Christ. Yet, our character sucks! There...I said it! Some of us have characters that leave a lot to be desired. And we do not look anything or sound anything like Christ—who we profess to love and represent.

There was a time when we would be in church, and we were shining lights of the goodness and character of Jesus, then waited until we were outside of the church to act a fool. Now, even in the church, we are acting less than Christ-like. We are displaying characters that are far from what God would call righteous or holy or Christ-like. We are mean and bitter towards one another. We harbor ill-will and hold un-forgiveness like a badge of honor. Where did we get off track?

Our character must be one above reproach. When we say we are believers; when we say we love the Lord; when we say we want to attract all that is good, and righteous, and holy; then we must be first in representing that which we desire to receive from others. We must be who we say we are. 
 

There are far too many imposters running around claiming that they know the Lord and represent Him. There are wolves in sheep clothing coming to fleece the flock. There are imposters posing as true believers and lovers of God and the word, just to steal, kill, and rob the children of God, and destroy those who are seeking to know God. It is easy for many of them to slip in unnoticed, because too many of us that believe in the Lord, have accepted Christ as our Savior, have been living a lie. We, ourselves, have not totally surrendered to God. We have not yielded our all to the Father. We have been living as the Laodiceans—lukewarm. Our character has been less than godly. We have not honored our word to others, to God, to ourselves. We have been poor representations of Christ. And because of this, we have created open doors for the enemy to slip in.

If we, who say we love the Lord, behave in such a manner that is unbecoming and far from the character of Christ; how can we possibly be a shining light for those who need the Lord? For those that are seeking the Father? For those who are on the brink of losing their very life? 
 

How many times have we heard people say: If that's what it means to be a Christian, I don't want any parts of it! I know I have many times. Why? Because many of us who call ourselves believers are not living the word. Our character leaves much to be desired. We are not representing the Father.

1 Corinthians 15:33-34 (ASV) “Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals. Awake to soberness righteously, and sin not; for some have no knowledge of God: I speak this to move you to shame.”

Matthew 5:13-14 “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid.”

We must be of good character. Character in the Bible is synonymous with righteousness. When we walk in righteousness, not with a righteous attitude—there is a difference—we are exemplifying the light of Christ. We are allowing Christ to live in us. We are seeking to please the Lord and to live a life that is holy and acceptable unto God. Walking in righteousness is submitting all to the Father, and walking this path that will draw others in, and allow us to witness of the goodness of God. We are not judgmental, contentious, back-biting, unforgiving; but we are loving, understanding, forgiving, and uncompromising, and keepers of our word. We seek and strive to walk in integrity at all times.

It It is imperative that we understand that our character says a lot about who we are and who we represent. Often times we profess one thing with our mouths, but our actions are speaking something totally different. For those of us who truly say we love the Lord, and that we represent Him, we must truly live it. There are far too many coming in the name of God, who is not of God, while those of us who say we truly love the Lord, have not been living a life that is acceptable to God. We have been lukewarm in our faith and in our relationship. Because of this, the enemy has been able to come in and wreak havoc on many souls.

It is time to stand up. To stand in righteousness. To repent, confess, and do what God has called us to do. It is time to not only speak the word but live it and become the word. To, allow the Christ in us to live, so that we may draw others to Him, and see them receive all that God has ordained for them. We often forget: we may be the only Jesus that some may ever see. So...what is your life saying?

My Beloved, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Be of good character. Represent the Father well. Be the light that leads many to the throne of grace. Be the salt that adds flavor to the life of many. Be the ambassadors of Christ that represent Him well, in love, light, and truth. The ball is in your court. You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing.

©2020. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.