Reflections4Life: It's About Faith

Reflections June 9^th, 2013

“It's About Faith”

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” Romans 10:17

Scripture Reading For This Week: Matthew 8; Mark 2; John 16; Romans 1; 3; 10; Hebrews 11...

It's all about faith. Life. Everything we do, all that we believe—has to do with faith. Many of us exercise a certain faith without realizing it. Don't think so? You prepared for today, didn't you? You thought about what you had to do, what you were going to do, with the 'faith' that you were going to be here today to accomplish those tasks. That is faith.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflection is a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Each day you are granted, may your faith be made stronger, and you yield to the Father concerning your life and its purpose.

I don't know what we'd do without faith. I do know that many take it for granted. We underestimate its power to change lives; to make an impact. We even underestimate ourselves in terms of our internal dialogue and the things we think and believe and hold onto.

What is faith again? “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1. I like the Amplified Bible's interpretation: Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Faith is an action word. It requires you to have faith in something, not just anything. Faith needs a purpose; a hope. It must be based upon something. If you do not know what you are having faith in, then is it really faith? What are you hoping for? Believing for?

Just saying you have faith is not enough. It's like saying you have a plan, but have no idea what the plan is for or what it entails. You're just saying it to be saying it. You know what that is, right? Empty. Useless. No value or substance.

Faith is the assurance of what we have hoped for. It the insurance policy that guarantees what we may not see with our natural eyes but believe in our hearts. It is believing in what God has spoken to you, though you have been waiting a long while, and others may not see or believe it, but because God said it, you believe it.

This life we are living is all about faith. It is all about hoping that we get another chance to start over tomorrow. It's about hoping that the plans we have put forth come to fruition. It's about hoping that what God has promised us comes to pass. Faith is about believing that the time, effort, hope, and execution of what you have done and have believed for comes to fruition. That, it all pays off.

God made me a few promises, and I believe Him. I have faith in what He has spoken to my heart. I believe in the word of God. I believe in God. Some promises seem to be taking a while to come to pass, but because God said it, I believe in it. His word is my assurance. His word is my faith. He spoke it. I believe it. I hope for it.

Everyday we put for faith in something or someone. You believe that the work you do for your employer will garner you a paycheck at the end of that pay period, don't you? You work diligently, hoping to be rewarded for your efforts, do you not? You have certain expectations that you believe should occur when you do one thing or another.

I am convinced that what I believe and see in my spirit is surely coming to pass. I stand in my convictions that my faith in my God is justified. As longs as God spoke it, I will believe it. If I have asked my heavenly Father for anything, according to His will; then I know it is already done, and I have faith that it will soon manifest.

Sometimes the hardest part about faith is waiting. During that waiting time, many things can occur. And you must know that the enemy will do all that he can to shake and disrupt your faith, and try to make you lose hope. Hope is very important. When a person loses hope, they can very well lose themselves; even their life.

Many have joked at Reverend Jesse Jackson's famous quote: “Keep Hope Alive!” But he's absolutely right. We must keep hope alive. For, it is the basis for our faith. It is the “thing” that keeps us striving and believing. To have something to hope for, to hope in, keeps our faith growing; gives us something to continue to fight for. If we have nothing to hope for, then what does that mean for our faith?

I decree that the spirit of hope, of peace, and of prosperity finds permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. What do you have faith in? What are you hoping for? Who are you believing in today? Who are you listening to? Hear the Word of God and believe. Let your faith come forth boldly by hearing what God is saying to you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: What Would You Do?

Reflections Sunday, June 2^nd, 2013

“What Would You Do?”

“But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 10:33

Scripture Reading For This Week: Psalm 23; Proverbs 3; Isaiah 12;Isaiah 65; Matthew 6; Matthew 10

We are faced with many choices in our lives. There are roads leading to various destinations; some proclaiming to get to the same location. Yet, there is only one road that leads to God. Only one way to get to heaven, and that is through Jesus Christ.

I am going to do something totally different today. I am sharing with you something written by Patricia Harris. She is a teacher, a pastor, an evangelist, a prophetess, and a mighty prayer intercessor, who just happens to be my mother. Yes. I am blessed to have this woman not just as my mother, but as a friend and encourager.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued and constant source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Do not let anyone deter you from the path that God has ordained for you. The enemy comes in many ways, but God will expose them all. Let God lead you. And know that He does answer prayers.

What Would You Do?

Suppose someone offered you five million dollars tax free? But with one condition: for one day you could not mention the name of Jesus. Even if someone came to you and asked, what does it mean to be saved? How does one get saved? What would you do?

Perhaps you have been praying for a breakthrough, and are backed up in so much debt. Possibly you just received a great offer for a business deal, and all you needed was capital. Maybe your mortgage is over due, and you're about to go into foreclosure; what would you do? One day not to mention the name of Jesus.

Suppose you went to visit a friend in the hospital, and when you get there, the doctor says they have maybe a few hours or day, at best, left to live. You know they've never received Jesus in their heart. Here you stand, with the question whether to say: just let Jesus come in, or Jesus loves you, that would bring them comfort. What would you do? In your ear it's ringing: Five million tax free dollars!

Perchance you have been praying for years, kept believing for a financial windfall. You begin to think, this could be your blessing. What will it hurt—just one day not to say anything at all? You begin reasoning with yourself. You'll give twenty percent to the church; you'll do this and that. But then you are told, you don't have overnight to think about it. Your answer must be within the next six hours.

Your phone begins to ring off the hook. Bill collectors are calling one right after the other. Your car just broke down. The house you wanted and needed just became available. It has the right amount of rooms. You don't have to do any work to it. Just one day not to mention the name of Jesus.

Maybe you're home-bound, and you can't get out, and a knock comes on the door offering you five million tax free dollars, and all you have to do is not mention the name of Jesus for one day. Your child comes home from school, he brings a friend home with him. They say: Dad/Mom, my friend wants to know about heaven. One day not to mention Jesus. What would you do? You ask the Father what you should do, but you don't hear anything in your spirit.

How about a husband and wife. Neither of you were saved when you got married. But now, you, the husband are saved but your wife isn't. You love your wife deeply. She loves you deeply. Before you were saved, you promised that when you became financially able to, you were going to send for her parents, bring them to the States and give them a real home. You have the opportunity with this five million dollars; but one day not to mention Jesus. What would you do?

Perhaps it is your child that stands in need of a life and death surgery. They require the best doctor and best care in order to make it. It's going to cost $250,000. This is your only child. $250,000? You'll have that and then some. Just one day not to mention the name of Jesus. What do you do? What do you say to your child, when you explain the situation, and as your child, he answers you and says: God got this, Dad. Just give me Jesus.

At the end of the six hours you make your decision; either saying yes or saying no. Not realizing it was a test, you were entertaining angels unaware.

Wow! Talk about powerful! What would you have done? Could you say you would have passed the test? We all have needs. We all are faced with some difficult decisions in life. But would you deny Christ to get what you wanted when God says that He knows what we need?

Matthew 6:8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”

There are times when we have denied Christ without even realizing it. Those times when we have acted other than a child of God. Those times when we have ignored the tugging of the Holy Spirit. Those times when we have not followed His instructions. Those times when we have not visited the sick and shut in, or those in prison, or have ignored hungry.

Matthew 25:42-45 “For I hungered, and ye gave Me no meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave Me no drink;43 I was a stranger, and ye took Me not in; naked, and ye clothed Me not; sick and in prison, and ye visited Me not.’44 Then shall they also answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when saw we Thee hungering or athirst or a stranger, or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister unto Thee?’45 Then shall He answer them, saying, ‘Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to Me.’”

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Believe in the word of God. Believe that His promises for you are coming to pass. Do not deny Him,or else He will deny you. Stand up for God. And stand your ground against the devil. Got got you covered. And He is meeting every need. Youa re Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Is It a Godly Anger?"

Reflections Sunday, May 26^th, 2013

“Is It a Godly Anger?”

“When angry, do not sin; do not ever let your wrath (your exasperation, your fury or indignation) last until the sun goes down.” Ephesians 4:26

Scripture Reading For This Week: Exodus 34:5-7; Deuteronomy 6:15; Job 35; Psalm 103; Proverbs 16:32; Proverbs 22:4; Ephesians 4...

When one considers the circumstances occurring in this world at this time, how can one not be filled with anger? Yet, is it a constructive anger; a godly anger, or anger that leads to bad behavior, malice, and bitterness? It is very easy to cross the line and sin in our anger, when we allow our emotions to rule and do not take everything to the Father in prayer.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. Should you be facing a situation that has caused anger to rise up in you, I pray that you would go to the Father and allow Him to lead you, so that you may not sin in your anger. Or, allow anger to turn into bitterness and regrets. A spirit of anger can cripple you. God has far more for you to do.

How many times have you become so angry that your emotions got the better of you, acting upon that anger, only to have profound regrets later? That's usually what happens. We blow up, acting out of anger, and we end up feeling worse than we did before. Anger can cause a vicious cycle if we are not careful.

Anger breeds anger. Angry people who do not check their anger, become bitter people and spread their anger like a virus to the lives of others. The emotion of anger can be contagious. All it takes is one angry person to come into a room and change the atmosphere. If those there do not know how to process or channel anger, they will find themselves becoming angry, as well.

It is one thing to have a godly anger; to be angry at the injustices and actions of another that are causing hurt and pain to a person or people. To have a righteous anger for things that are out of the will of God, and a desire to see things as God has ordained. However, it a whole other thing to be angry and filled with rage, that you have a difficult time letting go, or releasing that anger; causing you to act out of character or to bring harm to another, whether verbally or physically. To be filled with such wrath that it sets the tone for your day, and it inhibits your life from moving forward, allowing a spirit of bitterness and contempt to settle in.

Have you ever encountered a bitter person? I have. It was the most unpleasant encounter. No doubt, that bitter person was filled with so much anger, that they couldn't let it go. It caused them to close their heart off to others; allowing the anger to settle in that they could not forgive or move forward in life. The anger had consumed them so much, that they pushed everyone that loved them away. Anger robbed them of joy, happiness, peace and even love. It left them with a spirit of bitterness, loneliness, and also a spirit of self-righteousness. It was truly a sad thing to behold. Everyone else was wrong, and they were right. And, they believed they had a right to be angry because of what was done to them.

Yes. We have a right to get angry. But we do not have the God-given right to stay angry, and to allow that anger to bring sin into our lives. We do not have the luxury of time to allow a spirit of anger to rob us of what God has ordained for our lives, or to bring that spirit of anger into the lives of others.

Ephesians 4:29-32 (NASB) “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”

When we read the word of God, it is quite clear the damage that comes from a spirit of anger. The Father admonishes us to steer clear of a spirit of anger; to not let it rule us or govern our lives that we miss out on the blessings of God for our lives.

Anger unchecked and allowed to fester grows into a monster that is hard to put back in its bottle. It is like trying to place an adult back into the womb—not going to happen! It can cause irreparable damage to not only self, but those in the crossfire of that anger. Before one knows it, actions have occurred for which there is no returning from.

Yes. We may get angry at a situation. We may get angry at what someone has done to us or those we love. However, we must not allow that anger to dictate who we are and what we do. We must learn to give that anger to the Lord. We must teach ourselves to respond, rather than react to the anger. We must also learn how to release anger in a healthy way.

The emotion of anger can be toxic physically, emotionally, and mentally. It can cripple us if we do not know how to deal with it, or to let it go. And rest assure, however we deal with anger, we teach our children to do the same. Constantly reacting to anger and lashing out and exploding, we pass on that same behavior to our children. And chances are they will do the same—creating a behavior that can go on for generations to come.

Proverbs 16:32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, he who rules his [own] spirit than he who takes a city.

Proverbs 19:11 Good sense makes a man restrain his anger, and it is his glory to overlook a transgression or an offense.

Proverbs 22:24 Make no friendships with a man given to anger, and with a wrathful man do not associate...

Do not allow a spirit of anger to rob you of the blessings of God. Do not allow anger to turn into bitterness and contempt, making your life full of regrets and loneliness. In your anger, take it to God. Allow Him to direct your paths and to your knees in prayer. Don't sin in your anger, making things worse. Give it to God and allow Him to free you, and to bring a spirit of peace and calm.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. God has granted you a spirit of peace to transcend all anger. Respond to the wisdom of God, rather than react to the emotion of anger. Walk in the peace and comfort of God, knowing that whatever comes your way, you can get through it with God on your side. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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No More Doubts

Reflections May 19^th, 2013

“No More Doubts”

“And the woman said to Elijah, 'Now by this I know that thou art a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth.'” 1 Kings 17:24

Scripture Reading For This Week: Genesis 15; 1 Kings 17; 18; 19; Habakkuk 2; John 10; 12...

It is so easy to lose faith and to be filled with doubt when we place our focus upon the circumstances instead of the word of God. God desires for you to believe Him with all of your hearts. And if you are struggling in any way—believing what God has promised you, then allow the Father to remind you of His promises and His power, so that you will have no more doubts.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a constant and continuous source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. This is the week that all doubts will be eradicated, and your faith stirred up, as you stand upon the word of God and His promises to you.

Let's face it; when we first receive a word from the Lord, and we understand His promises and what He has spoken to our hearts—we are strong in our faith and we will declare what the Father has spoken concerning our lives with enthusiasm and complete faith. Then time happens. We wait, and we believe, but the seasons go by, the calendar changes and we are still waiting. Others seem to have received their promises. People begin to ask you: Didn't you say God said? The enemy begins to whisper: Did God really say that? Maybe you heard Him wrong. You know, He will not come through for you. Look how long it's taking. He's forgotten about you.

I know; I've been there. But neither time, circumstances, words of people around us, or whispers of the enemy changes what God has spoken and has promised. It will come to pass. Every. Single. Promise. We must continue to believe and have faith; even when it feels to painful to do so, or the situation impossible.

During my study time this week, I was reading 1 Kings 17. The Lord told the prophet Elijah to go to Zarapheth where He had instructed a widow woman to sustain him. At this time, there was no rain in the land, because Elijah had prayed so. Elijah asked the widow to bake him a cake. She told him that all she had was a little meal and some oil, that she was going to use to bake a cake for her and her son to eat and then die. He instructed her to bake him a cake first. He then told her that her barrel of meal and cruse of oil will stay replenished until the lord sends rain.

1 Kings 17:8-16 NASB “8 Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9 “Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and stay there; behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you.” 10 So he arose and went to Zarephath, and when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks; and he called to her and said, “Please get me a little water in a jar, that I may drink.” 11 As she was going to get it, he called to her and said, “Please bring me a piece of bread in your hand.” 12 But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have no bread, only a handful of flour in the bowl and a little oil in the jar; and behold, I am gathering a few sticks that I may go in and prepare for me and my son, that we may eat it and die.” 13 Then Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go, do as you have said, but make me a little bread cake from it first and bring it out to me, and afterward you may make one for yourself and for your son. 14 For thus says the Lord God of Israel, ‘The bowl of flour shall not be exhausted, nor shall the jar of oil be empty, until the day that the Lord sends rain on the face of the earth.’” 15 So she went and did according to the word of Elijah, and she and he and her household ate for many days. 16 The bowl of flour was not exhausted nor did the jar of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord which He spoke through Elijah.

As I studied the 17^th chapter of 1 Kings, it occurred to me that at some point in time, perhaps this widow woman had begin to doubt; to doubt that Elijah was a man of God and spoke for the Lord. Yes. She'd seen the miracle of God in the meal and oil. But it still had not rained. The drought in the land was severe. Maybe Elijah was wrong? Maybe the meal and oil would not last? Maybe he was not a man of God, but one of Jezebel's prophets.

At some point, doubt entered into this widow's heart concerning what the Prophet Elijah had spoken. Even though she'd seen with her own eyes the meal and oil; time had effected her perception, and caused doubt. There was no rain, and the land was suffering.

It is easy for us to forget what God has already done for us, and what He has promised when we look at the situation we are face with, and the length of time that it seems to be taking for the promises to come to pass. While waiting, we may grow weary and begin to doubt that which God has spoken concerning our lives because we don't see anything happening, or it is taking some time for the promise to come to pass.

Here's my reasoning for believing that doubt began to settle in the widow. At some point during Elijah's stay, her son becomes ill, loses his breath and dies...

1 Kings 17: 17-24 NASB 17 Now it came about after these things that the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became sick; and his sickness was so severe that there was no breath left in him. 18 So she said to Elijah, “What do I have to do with you, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my iniquity to remembrance and to put my son to death!” 19 He said to her, “Give me your son.” Then he took him from her bosom and carried him up to the upper room where he was living, and laid him on his own bed. 20 He called to the Lord and said, “O Lord my God, have You also brought calamity to the widow with whom I am staying, by causing her son to die?” 21 Then he stretched himself upon the child three times, and called to the Lord and said, “O Lord my God, I pray You, let this child’s life return [o]to him.” 22 The Lord heard the voice of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him and he revived. 23 Elijah took the child and brought him down from the upper room into the house and gave him to his mother; and Elijah said, “See, your son is alive.”

And this is how she responds, which is my reason for believing that doubt began to settle in:

verse 24: Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”

Beloveds, there are times in our life when God has spoken a word to us. He has sent His messengers, His prophets, His teachers, His shepherds. We receive the word. We wait. We even have been blessed and seen miracles and God move in such a way that we were certain it was God. Yet, there is still that promise; that one or two things that God said He was going to do that had yet to come to pass. And in the midst of our waiting, we begin to doubt. We begin to question if it will surely come to pass. Although we have experienced blessings in many areas. We have witnessed the move of God in many ways; doubt can still arise when we take our eyes off of God and begin to count the seconds and minutes of the clock.

It is in these times that I believe God will move exponentially in some way, and we will witness His hand in such a mighty way, that every doubt is eradicated. That, every voice that is contrary to what God has said is shut up. Our faith is recharged and we again can wait with expectation and hope that whatever God has spoken—no matter how long the wait—it will come to pass because God said so!

Perhaps the widow had her doubts from the beginning about Elijah. It was not uncommon for soothsayers and magicians in that time. For people, just as today, to say they spoke for God, but knew nothing of the One true God. In the midst of her waiting for the rain, and the surfacing of doubt arising, tragedy occurred, taking the life of her son. But God used his prophet, and restored the life of her son, and her faith in the Lord, and that Elijah truly spoke for the Lord.

What have you been waiting for the Lord to bring to pass in your life? What promises have you been waiting to see manifested. I have a few. And I refuses to give in. I will believe with every part of me that whatever God has spoken is surely coming to pass. And if there be any doubt in me, I pray that He'd remove it and deliver me from any unbelief. Because I do know: There is NOTHING impossible for God!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity will find rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and financially. Believe in the word that the Father has spoken to you. Stand on His word. Meditate on it day and night; allowing it to wash away all doubts. You are blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Happy Mother's Day!

Reflections May 12^th, 2013

“Abundant Love's Power”

“The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3

Scripture Reading For this Week: Proverbs 31; Jeremiah 17; 31; John 3; 15; Ephesians 5; 1 Timothy 5...

Happy Mother's Day! I pray that this day is extra special for each and every mother, expectant mother, those who will be mothers, and those who mother other children as though they were theirs. May God continually bless you and shine His love upon you and all that you do!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued and constant source of encouragement for your heart, mind and soul. As you stand in receipt of your blessings, and continue to grow in the wisdom and knowledge of love, may you continue to reach forth to others and share that love.

Many things come to my mind when I think of mothers. My own relationship with my mother naturally comes to mind. My own skills as a mother come to mind, also. However, what comes to my mind the most is what God says about mothers and the gift that He has placed in each and every woman.

The first word that comes to mind when I think mother, is love. The love that is associated with being a mother; the caring, the concern, the loving and nurturing ways of a mother. Of course I know that not every woman that has birthed a child has motherly instincts or behaves like a mother ought to. For those women, I feel sorry for. Perhaps they never had the kind of healing love of a mother that taught and instilled in them the strengths and values of a mother who loves unconditionally.

Through out the word of God we see many mothers and their characteristics. Some were good, some were horrible, but there was a lesson to learn from each and everyone. We have prime examples in the word of God on how a mother should be. What God has ordained for the role of a mother.

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her: Proverbs 31:10, 27-28 KJ21

When I think of my mother, I think of unconditional love. When I think on my Grams, my Nana, my Aunties; I think of unconditional love. These women who raised and taught me, showed me nothing but unconditional love. I was surrounded with an abundance of love. It wasn't until I went to college that I truly understood that not everyone was as blessed as I was when it came to that kind of love.

Do you know that love makes a difference? Do you realize how powerful unconditional love is? Do you know what the presence of abundant love will do for a child? It makes all the difference in the world.

A home that is filled with abundant love will find that there will be peace in that home. Even if there should be a little turbulence at times, peace will settle in because the love in that house commands it to be so. Love is powerful that way. And I believe most miss it, because they miss the fact that love is God and God is love. And wherever God is, there will be peace.

Each one of us comes with an abundance of love. We are born into this world, created with abundant love, waiting to be nurtured and fed. Hate is a learned behavior. And where there is an absence of love, hate and bitterness, and selfishness have the opportunity to grow.

Mothers have so much power, that I don't believe many realize it. Even while a child is in the womb, the mother has the ability to influence that child. Not by just by caring for herself physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. The connection between that child and its mother is the difference between life and death. And a woman who understands the power of love and how it can change the life of a child, is one who understands about motherhood.

Whether you gave birth to a child or chose to adopt or are mothering other children; you already know the difference that love can bring into a child's life. Mothers have the power to change the world in the way in which they love and raise their children.

I think of Moses in this instance. His birthed mother loved him and knew to save him, she must let him go. Pharaoh’s daughter loved and raised him, and gave him the love and nurturing that help shape the man that he became. With her love and the exposure she gave him to freedom, Moses was in the position to become who God ordained him to be.

Hannah, who was barren, prayed earnestly. She longed for a child. Although her husband, Elkanah, loved her and lavished her with much, it did not take away the yearning in her heart for children. Before she became a mother, Hannah had a mother's heart. She thought like a mother, loved like a mother. And God blessed her. In that love, she too recognized the gift God have given her. She nurtured her son, pouring into him all the love she had. Then, she gave Samuel back to God.

God trusted Hannah. He trusted Jochabed and the Pharaoh's daughter. He trusted them to be the mothers he ordained them to be that would bring forth mighty men. In the like, God trusts us today. He trusts us with children, to raise and strengthen them and to do right by them.

When we walk in the unconditional love of God, the abundance of that love exudes in every area of our lives. It is evident in all that we do. And that abundance of love spills over into the lives of others, bringing healing, comfort, joy, and even strength.

I can't begin to say how many times that I have been hurt to the core of my heart, and how much healing and strength I received just by being able to speak to my Mom or my Grams, and receive a refill of their abundant love. It was refreshing, and healing, and comforting.

You know that song—What the World Needs Now (Is Love) ? It's true. It needs abundant love. It needs the kind of love that mother's had back in the day when my Grandmother was raising her babies. That unconditional love. The kind of love where it did not matter whose child you were; if you needed mothering, there was someone in the community who was going to shower you with that love and wisdom. We need God love. That unconditional love that makes room for every person, no matter what path they've taken in life.

I decree that this week will find the spirit of peace and of prosperity finding permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Love the way God loves. Love abundantly. There is someone who needs the benefit of that love. Once again, Happy Mother's Day! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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"With an Expectant Heart" Reflections, May 5, 2013

Reflections May 5^th, 2013

“With an Expectant Heart”

“Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.” Philippians 4:6-7 CEV

Scripture Reading For This Week: Isaiah 28; Isaiah 51; Micah 7; Luke 6; James 5...

With an expectant heart, filled with joy and peace, I wait for the Lord to fulfill His promises concerning my life. Regardless to whom or what I may face; I wait with an expectant heart that whatever God has spoken concerning my life IS coming to pass. While I wait, I pray, and I do whatever the Father asks of me. I am about my Father's business. For, I am certain He is about mine.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a constant source of encouragement for your heart, soul, and mind. With an expectant heart, wait on the Lord and follow His directions. God has already worked things out for your good. Keep praying and believing. God is just getting started!

When you have experienced much disappointment in your life, it is easy to become jaded when it comes to receiving good news. You tend to lean more towards the side of pessimism, rather than optimism. When you hear a word from the Lord; when some good news or promise of something great occurring; because of your past experiences, or seeming delay in your prayers being answered—you may find yourself doubting the good news. Your heart no longer expects the greatness of God being fulfilled. Instead, you automatically begin to doubt the word, as negative thoughts seep through your mind then come forth from your mouth.

I understand. I have been there. There are some of us that do not even want to pray anymore. We have been fooled into believing that prayer does not work. The devil is a lie! Prayer still works. And when you pray with an expectant heart, believing that God has not only heard you but has answered, you with stand strong and wait on the Lord to deliver His promises. There will be no doubt. And your heart will increase in its expectancy of the promises of God.

How do I know? Because I am living it! I am living proof of wanting something so bad, and believing what God has spoken to you, then going through a dark period where it seems that God is silent, and not one single prayer is being answered. It is as if God had abandoned me, and Heaven was closed to my prayers and my cries. But I have learned that during those silent times, God is moving mightily on my behalf. He is doing something so phenomenal that it goes far beyond what I even asked Him! Hallelujah!

Let me tell you something, Beloved—Prayer Still Works! No matter what the circumstance or situation is dictating, it will never outweigh or speak louder than the voice of God and what He has promised and ordained for your life. It is imperative that we keep an expectant heart concerning the promises of God. That, we are constantly meditating on His word. Feeding our souls from the Book of Life. Speaking to ourselves what God has spoken concerning us. Surrounding ourselves with like minded people. Being strong in our convictions concerning our faith. And when we pray, pray fervently and with all sincerity and belief.

James 5:16b-18 “The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with. Elijah, for instance, human just like us, prayed hard that it wouldn’t rain, and it didn’t—not a drop for three and a half years. Then he prayed that it would rain, and it did. The showers came and everything started growing again.” (Message Bible)

We must pray according to what God has ordained. I have learned that there are things we ask of God that are not for us, not good for us, or to us. We have desires for things that have not been sanctioned by our Father. It is not in His will for us; yet we fight, whine, plead to have it, and get mad when God does not give us what we want. The expectant heart that yearns for God's will shall receive. The expectant heart that waits for his own will to be done will run into disappointment and heartache.

James 4:1-6 1-2 Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it. 2-3 You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way. 4-6 You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.” (Message Bible)

What's in your heart today? Do you have an expectant heart? Do you believe that what God has spoken concerning your life is coming to pass? Do you KNOW what God has spoken concerning your life? Maybe that's where many of us lose heart and focus—we don't know what God has spoken concerning our lives. If this is so, then it's time to find out. It's time to seek the face of God and find out what He has ordained for you. Then once you know, you will know what to expect and what to pray and fight for! Trust: we are in a war against the enemy. And if you don't know what you are fighting for, then how can you fight your best fight? How can you give your all to something you know nothing of? ASK THE FATHER. God will tell you. Prayer still works! Seek His face early. Look to the Lord and trust in Him; for He has the answers you seek. And when you find them, keep an expectant heart for that which God has ordained just for you!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity will find permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Let your heart be filled with expectancy for the things of God. Believe in what the Father has spoken concerning you. Walk in His truth. Walk in your truth. Seek God with all your heart, mind and soul. And know that a delay is not a denial. God has the absolute best for you! And there is indeed power in your prayers! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Getting Personal With Your Faith - African American Culture

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Reflections April 28, 2013 "Hold On To Love"

Reflections April 28^th, 2013

“Hold On To Love”

“But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:12

Scripture Reading For this Week: Genesis 1;2; Song of Solomon; John 3:16-17; John 17; 1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:22-23...

How can I possibly explain how much I love the Lord? I don't believe I have the vernacular to do justice to what my heart and spirit hoards for the Father. I love Him. I love Him with every fiber of my being. Every single molecule. His love has set me free, and I never want to let go of Him. No matter what comes at me in this life; I will hold on to love.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind and soul. There may be some things that have caused you to draw back and not to love freely or unconditionally; but now is the time to get back in and love unconditionally. No longer will you let go of love, but you will hold on, give love and receive the love you deserve.

What a powerful revelation the Father blessed me with concerning love. How can I even begin to tell you? I guess the best way is to just show you; through my actions, through my writing, through my service to the Father on a daily basis.

Do you know how powerful love is? Do you understand how love can change things? Unconditional love? God love? God? Oh my dear friends, when I understood that God is love and that He has created in me that same love; a part of Him is in me—I cannot begin to tell you how that revelation changed my life, and how I love and receive love.

It is a given that in this lifetime we are going to be hurt, disappointed, and discouraged. It will come. Yet, we cannot allow those things to stop us from loving unconditionally. Many of us love, but we love with conditions. This was not always the case. When we come into this world, all we know is to love unconditionally as a child, until we grow up and begin to experience life and put into practice what we've been taught. Taught through others actions; mimicking the way others loved around us.

The only way to know how to love, to love unconditionally, is to be intimate with the Father; to understand how He loves and to know what it is He desires from us. Any other kind of love is temporal. It will not last or stand the tests and trials of our lifetime. It holds restraints and has conditions upon it.

However, the love of God—God Love—is refreshing, liberating, unconditional, mind and heart changing, and it is everlasting. Don't get me wrong; I am not saying that we will not experience hurt and disappointment while loving unconditionally, because we will. That being a part of life in this earth. But, we can triumph over those hurts, and love freely without having to contort ourselves into someone we do not know, filled with bitterness, regrets, carrying countless baggage, and never trusting anyone. That's not Christ! That's not God Love! That is a prison sentence. God has set us free from that. And we can live and love without any strings or conditions attached.

So can we agree that in this life we will experience disappointment and hurt? But can we also agree that we can will also experience the joy and gift of love when we love God's way? We cannot allow unconditional love to slip from our spirits because we have been hurt. No matter how many times it has occurred. I know: easier said than done. But I don't believe so. Not when you allow God that place upon the throne of your heart, and you begin to love as He loves. When you allow the Father to teach you how to navigate and how to love as He does.

I learned a valuable lesson. I came to the understanding that many of us have allowed the way we love to be shaped by our experiences with others. And because of this, we hinder and short change ourselves when it comes to giving and receiving love. We punish others for the missteps and hurts caused by another.

When you are hurt, you cannot allow it [hurt] to change your love. Love should be unconditional. When hurt or disappointed, there is the tendency to alter how we love, and not allow the next person in our lives to experience that unconditional love. Instead, we bring judgment and fear and baggage from the past. This can keep us from the wealth of blessings that God has for our lives. Do not allow the pain and heartache and disappointment from previous relationships; whether it's romantic, friendships, or even a relationship with a church—to change how you love and receive love. Allow God to guard your heart, as you continue to love unconditionally.

Again, in this life, there is going to be sorrows, heartache, pain, disappointment. But there is also triumphs, joy, peace, and yes, love. We mustn't allow the hurt we have experienced today to dictate how we love tomorrow. We find this especially in romantic relationships. We get hurt by someone we loved deeply. Because of this, we may find that we are not willing to love as freely; finding ourselves placing conditions on our love. If the person does this,or if they say that, then it's over. We hold them to a standard created by the actions of another. In this instance, we never get to truly know or even love this person or receive the love they have for us, because it is tainted by the hurt and disappointment from previous experiences.

The same thing can be said when we go to churches. I don't know how many stories I have heard, and can testify to myself, where someone has been hurt by people in the church. They find themselves going from church to church; eventually giving up on on any fellowship with a local church body. Why? Because as soon as we see anything resembling what we experienced, we are out the door! Is that fair? Did we sit down with the Pastor and discuss our experiences? Did we allow God to bring healing to our hearts? Dis we allow ourselves time to even heal before moving forward? Probably not.

When it comes to love—unconditional love—we need to hold on and never let it go. It makes all the difference in our experiences. It makes the difference in how we interact with others, how we see ourselves, and how we not only give love, but receive love.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a “Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or 5 rude. Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered. It doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.6 Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. 7 Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting.8 Love never fails!”

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 love reign. Let God be all up in your space, loving on you and teaching you to love. Hold onto love and never let it go. No matter the circumstances or situations, love will always and can always endure. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Fatherless Sons in the Black Community - African American Culture

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What Are We Teaching Our Black Children? - African American Culture:

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Something's On My Mind

There has been many things on my mind lately; things that I have been occupying much mental space and time.  Before I know it, the minutes and hours have passed, and I STILL have these things on my mind.

Have you ever been there? Where you lose track of time because of the things that are heavy on your mind? What do you do? How do you deal with those things? How do you address them, and move forward without losing hours of your time?

I know that when things like that enter my mind, I have to take a step back and really address what it is that is going on inside. I realize that something taking up that much time, is not solely in my mind, but has made it to the core of my heart.

Two nights ago, I was up working late; writing, editing, researching. And in the midst of my flow, my heart grew heavy and thoughts began swimming quickly through my mind, and I felt the ache in my heart flutter, as my mind thought on each and every black son.

Woosh! The thoughts came rushing in like a heavy wave; one right after the other. My mind could not stop from thinking on the state of our young black children; especially our sons. Everyday I am hearing a tragic story concerning one of our youths. Please don't get me wrong: I also hear and relish in the good that I hear also. However, my heartaches for those who have someway fallen through the cracks. Those young boys and men who didn't get their opportunity and was robbed. Those young black men that were lied to, and had their innocence stolen.

I am tired of seeing our children not make it to adulthood. I'm tired of the prisons filling with our best and brightest. Yet no one knows this, because so many were never given the opportunity to make another choice. They didn't know there was another choice.

Yes. This is on my mind, and what we should do. We cannot continue to abandon them, or act as if they do not exist. There has to be a change. A change in our behavior, in our actions, and our reactions. 

My Black Son, My Black Son

My Black son, My Black Son

Where are you going, what have you done

I see your face everywhere I go

I hear your cries and the pain you cannot let go

My Black Son, My Black Son

Where are you going, what has been done

Who lied to you, and led you astray

Who made you feel less than, when you are so much more than

My Black Son, My Black Son

Where are you going, what are you doing

Who placed death into your hands, who told you that's what makes a man

Who was it that rob you of your youth, and questioned your manhood

My Black Son, My Black Son

Where are you going, what is going to become

Your legacy, your mark upon this earth

You have power, God given power

Your past, your failures, your trials and tests

Do not determine your worth, but add to your growth and strength

My Black Son, My Black Son

Strong and Majestic, Called and Chosen

My Black Son, My Black King

Copyrighted ©2013 by Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Be Confident

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Live Out Your Faith

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Let Us Pray

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Sincere Witness

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yfrog Photo : http://yfrog.com/h3z99xlj Shared by IAMQUEENLATIFAH

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Edy's® Fruit Bars: Communities Take Root

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As It Is In Heaven in 2011

Reflections Sunday, January 2^nd, 2011

“As It Is In Heaven in 2011”

“So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Luke 11:2

Scripture Reading For This Week: Exodus 16:1-3; 1 Samuel 2:1-3; 2 Chronicles 6:18-20; Psalm 23; Psalm 35:13; Matthew 5; Luke 11...

In December 2010, in the middle of the night, I awoken saying: “No More Crap!” When I was fully awoke, I realized that my spirit was crying out for a profound change; not just in me, but all around me. So, in 2011 I determine for there to be no more crap! It will be in my life on earth as it is in Heaven. Because this is what the Father Himself decrees.

The past is that: the past. There is no going back and changing anything. Only God has the power to do that. But I do know that what we do today will determine our tomorrow. I will not accept any crap from any person or thing. I will not even accept any crap from myself. And I definitely will not accept any crap from the enemy!

It is my sincerest prayer that this week's Reflections will be a source of encouragement and inspiration for this New Year of 2011. May our hearts and ears be open to the will and word of God. May we hear and receive all that He has ordained, and moved forward with determination and the grace and glory of God covering us.

Happy New Year! Oh, what a year this is going to be! I believe it in my soul. In the deepest of my spirit. It is not a feeling, but a sure enough knowing. I know for certain that whatever you have been diligently waiting for the Lord to do; this is the year! Whatever good seed you have sown; this is the year to begin reaping its harvest!

Hallelujah! I am excited! I am excited to see what God has ordained for me and for you this year! I am anticipating and expecting numerous praise reports and testimonies of answered prayers, miracles and the supernatural. I am looking forward to hearing about loved ones being saved. Backsliders coming home. Deliverance and healing taking place. Immediate answers to prayers. Emotional and spiritual and financial breakthroughs!

Ten years we planted. From 2000-2010, we sowed in tears. We planted in faith. We believed in the impossible. And now it's time to bring in the harvest! Yes! No matter what it looks like, feels like, or what negative people may say: this is the beginning of the harvest for God's children who have been faithful and diligent, and walking upright in the presence of the Lord.

This is why I have declared and decreed, no more crap! It will be in my life, and your life, as it is in Heaven in 2011! God is saying that we must come up higher. We must not accept the lies of the enemy. And we must not live mediocre lives. We must continue in faithfulness and diligence.

Whatever we do, do it well, and do it in the name of God. Now is not the time to sit back and get lazy, or accept things half way. We cannot be lukewarm in any area of our lives. We are either all for God, or not at all. There is no half-stepping! There is no gray area with the Father. It is either black or it is white. It is either cold, or it is hot, but never lukewarm!

My husband, John, asked me to clarify what I meant by no more crap. It simply means that I am not accepting any mess in my life. Not even from myself. My health will continue to improve. My thoughts. And my finances. I will not tolerate laziness, excuses, negativity, naysayers, or “I can't”. I am not accepting this from anyone and I am not accepting it from myself. You know how sometimes we have a tendency to get down on ourselves? Well, I won't be accepting that in myself this year. I will not allow myself to open that door, and I have determined not to complain. I asked the Lord to help me. I never realized how much we really complain. I ask the Father if a complaint is about to come from my lips, allow praise to come forth. Let me turn any murmur or complaint into a praise and thank you, for His goodness.

And I am definitely not accepting any crap from Satan. Whether it comes in the form of things or people or the devil himself; he got in the right church to get happy, for he sure enough will be destroyed this year! This is war. And I know that it is a war that I have already won, and that each battle that comes, belongs to the Lord. So I must do my part, and be diligent and persistent in my walk, my faith and relationship with God.

This means more time in the presence of God. Less television, less computer, less telephone, less idle time, and more quality time with the Lord. Success is not based upon what I can do. It is based upon how much time I give the Father, and the ability to receive a glorious download from Him for each and every day.

As it is in Heaven in 2011 is how I am determined to live this year! I am anticipating and expecting my life on earth to be as it is in Heaven. All things that have been established in Heaven concerning me, will be established upon the earth. We do not have to wait to we are in Heaven to receive what is in Heaven. We can experience it right here on the earth. I am not only believing this for me, but I am believing this for you, as well.

The Father's will for our lives can and will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. So that, as faithful and diligent believers, we do not have to allow the worries of the world be our worries. We can fully cast all our cares upon then Lord and leave them there, and walk with the knowing that God is leading us to an expected end.

Sometimes we forget that we are not of this world, as believers. That we are citizens of Heaven, and that we walk and should govern ourselves by a different set of standards. We really need to walk and live by the word of God. Allowing the Father to govern our footsteps, and not allowing the worldly system and systematic problems dictate how we live and what we believe.

This is a brand New Year, filled with brand new opportunities. It is up to you to decide what you are going to do with those opportunities. As for me and my house: we are going to serve the Lord with all that we are, and accept what the Father. We are taking no more crap. The will of the Father will be done in our lives on earth as it is in Heaven. We are going to: live hard, love hard, laugh hard, and leave all the tough stuff to God!

I pray that you are filled with a determination to live this New Year to the fullest. May the spirit of peace and prosperity find rest in your spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial lives. May it be in your life as it is in Heaven in 2011. You are blessed. Now go and Be a Blessing.

©2011. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

I Have a Dream Speech - Full text, audio & video of Martin Luther King Jr's most famous speech, I Have a Dream / Address at March on Washington

I Have a Dream Speech - Full text, audio & video of Martin Luther King Jr's most famous speech, I Have a Dream / Address at March on Washington

It's Been A While!

There is a lot of things going on in the world today. Much of it pains my heart. Where does one even begin to start? It's been quite a while since I have posted anything to this blog. I have been so busy with other things. It's not that this hasn't been on my mind; because it has. There are definitely things that have been bothering me, and hurting me deeply.

Let's see, what has been going on in our world? Gas prices are up. Food costs are on a steady rise. Floods have caused major damage--causing people to lose homes, crops, business's and their lives. There are out of control wildfires in the west again. There were even some fires in Florida. Two weeks ago, it snowed in Washington state. There was cyclone, and earthquake, a typhoon! A gem of journalist passed away, Tim Russet. (I thoroughly enjoyed his work. His commentaries were awesome. Meet The Press will never be the same) Comedian George Carlin died yesterday! I really liked him. Surprising, huh? Not really--I have eclectic tastes in just about every area of life.

Let's see--what else? Teenage girls are making pacts to get pregnant. Hollywood "bad-girls" have become the role model for many young people. They are choosing notoriety, over sound education! Not realizing that they aren't the one's with the money or, publicists, that get paid to put a spin on things.

Poverty levels are increasing as we take a breath. Soldiers are still dying in Iraq. Some people are less concerned about what's right and the chance of a Black man becoming president. The issues at hand are being skated around. No one is really saying with clear understanding, what they plan to do to get this country back on track. Race relations can no longer be denied or buried. Churches are under fire and more scrutiny. Black churches, especially, have been placed under a microscope.

There is a host of other things, as well. By why should I bore you with everything you already know? Life is hard. And for some, it just plain sucks! We apparently are in the last days, and people still don't think it's real. Look around you, cupcake! The prophesy of the word of God is all around us being fulfilled every day. So, what are you going to do about it?

I often wonder if people who say they love God and want what is best, for not only themselves; but for those around them, would do, if today were their last day? Or, if they knew for a fact that they had but a small window of opportunity to save someones life?

So much to think about. All these things happening--are they not signs? Do they not point to the coming of Jesus? Now is not the time to tuck our tails between our legs and hide. On the contrary. Now is the time for us to get involved and help out those we can. To be bold and recognize that laziness is not an option. We have to stop complaining, sitting on the sidelines, and make things happen...for the better. Whether it's our lives or someone elses.