Reflections4Life: Are You A Joseph?

Reflections4Life August 25^th, 2013

“Are You A Joseph?”

“And the Lord will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them.” Deuteronomy 28:13

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 37; 41; 42; Deuteronomy 28; Psalm 37; Matthew 6; Philippians 4...

There are those of us that dream big. Our vision is far beyond what most can even imagine—even family members. And when we begin to share what is in our hearts, more often than not, we will find opposition rather than agreement.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and food for your heart, mind, and soul. Be bold in your walk in God. Declare and decree the things that God has spoken of you. Do not back down to opposition, but know that it will come. Let it strengthen you and cause you to seek the Lord even more. God desires to use you; even in the lives of those that have opposed you and hurt you.

Are you a Joseph? Did God give you a vision, a dream that is far beyond what you could have ever imagined? Did you share that dream and vision with your loved ones and be looked at as though you were insane? Did your vision cause disruption, bring opposition, cause you to see less than the favorable side of character of your loved ones? If you answered yes to any of these, then you are a Joseph!

Genesis 37:5-11 5 Now Joseph had a dream, and he told it to his brothers; and they hated him even more. 6 So he said to them, “Please hear this dream which I have dreamed: 7 There we were, binding sheaves in the field. Then behold, my sheaf arose and also stood upright; and indeed your sheaves stood all around and bowed down to my sheaf.” 8 And his brothers said to him, “Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?” So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words. 9 Then he dreamed still another dream and told it to his brothers, and said, “Look, I have dreamed another dream. And this time, the sun, the moon, and the eleven stars bowed down to me.” 10 So he told it to his father and his brothers; and his father rebuked him and said to him, “What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall your mother and I and your brothers indeed come to bow down to the earth before you?” 11 And his brothers envied him, but his father kept the matter in mind.

Wow! Talk about hating! But those of us who have been walking in the Lord, and have been walking in obedience understand that “haters” will come; even in our own family. It always seems to be the ones closest to us, the ones we love the most.

Here is what I have come to understand and know for sure: God will use the opposition to propel us into the position that we need to be in, in order for His vision and purpose in our life to come to pass. What's the saying: haters are going to hate? Well it's true. Yet, God is still God, and there is nothing that can stop the will and plan of God for our lives from coming to fruition, unless we remove ourselves or walk away from the Lord, and walk in disobedience.

God will and has used the enemy to catapult us into the place in which we need to be, so that He may bless us as He desires. Let's face it; there are some things about our character and our behavior that can be a hindrance to what God desires to make happen in our lives. There are some things about ourselves that need to be checked before we can walk in the fullness of God, and the visions that He has given to us.

Being a Joseph is more than just being someone that has dreams and a vision. It is more than just being hated upon and receiving opposition from those closest to you. Being a Joseph is being able to go through the process of being stripped of your flaws, of human pride, of being made humbled, and learning to look to God for all things, and not making a move until God says so.

In being a Joseph, it is not just coming from the “pit to the palace” like so many have preached. No. It is being able to withstand what happens in the middle; the process between the pit and the palace, and the ability to rise above hurt feelings, not yielding to emotions, and walking in the anointing of God, full of forgiveness and kindness; being able to be in the position to bring aid to the very ones that tried to destroy you, and left you for dead, without holding animosity. The ability to love in spite of and not because of. Being a Joseph is allowing the Christ in you to rise up and live.

Is that you today? Have you been rejected, scoffed at, opposed, lied on, falsely accused, deserted, abandoned by your family, sold out for money, left for dead, outcast, imprisoned, forgotten, despised; but you still dream, you still have vision, you're still holding on to what God has spoken to you, you still love those that hurt you?

Is this you? Then know this: God has anointed you today. He has chosen you to stand and to be the person in your family that brings healing and aid to them. God is using YOU; the one thought the least of; the one rejected, and abandoned to bring about healing and deliverance to the very ones that hurt you the most.

Don't allow the process to rob you of your vision or belief. Do not allow the rejection and opposition of those you love to deter you, or stop you from trusting and believing God. Joseph was given a gift from God. God trusted Joseph to go through what he went through, knowing that He could trust Joseph, and use him for His glory, and to bring salvation to a nation.

Joseph was a spoiled and prideful child. He was favored of Jacob. Jacob doted upon him, and that caused friction and jealousy amongst his brothers. Yet, there was something special about Joseph. And God used the actions of Joseph's brothers to bring about a plan that would cause a maturity and strength in Joseph that was needed. It caused the man in Joseph to rise; the visionary to come forth. It caused Joseph to call upon his God in a land that knew not his God. Joseph became a blessing even in the enemy's camp. God promoted him within to bless those without.

Know this beloved: whatsoever it is you are faced with today, do not allow it to keep you from seeking God and believing in what God has spoken to you. No matter how long the wait for the manifestation; continue to walk in the knowledge and preparation that today is the day that it comes to pass. Be ready. Forgive those that have hurt you, rejected you, opposed you. And learn to say thank you to your haters. For God is using them to propel you where He has ordained you to be, from the beginning.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found a permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Are you a Joseph? Continue to believe in the Lord and His purpose and plan for your life. Let God use you. You are the instrument that God has chosen to bless your family; to bring deliverance to a nation. Forgive. Love. And move forward in the Lord. He has anointed you to go through, and you are victorious! You are Blessed! Now go...and Be that Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved. 

Keep Believing!

*TESTIMONY*

There is going to come a time when you are going to have to lay everything on the line. You will come to a place where you are going to have to choose to believe regardless to what you can see with your natural eyes. You will have to come to the decision to trust God where you cannot trace Him. To believe His word and His promises to you, just as much as you believe in the air that surrounds you keeps you breathing. Even when EVERYONE around you has failed you and let you down; even when those you love and trust wound you the deepest; even when you have given it your all and you are totally spent—you are going to come to place when you know, without a doubt, that this is what true faith is really about. Believing God to do just what He said, no matter how long the answers take.

I give God the praise for answered prayer. I am here to tell you. YES YOU!!! The one who has stopped believing. The one who has given up. The one who has lost faith. The one who cannot see a tomorrow. GOD is real, and He answers prayers. He may not answer you in the way you were expecting. He may not move on your time table. The blessings may not be in the form you are expecting. But you can best believe—God is answering.

I thank the Lord tonight for holding me when I felt I was losing control. For keeping me sane when I thought my mind would go. For protecting my heart when I thought it would bleed out. For charging and stirring my faith, and for directing my path, and for putting up with all my questions, and loving me in spite of. I thank the Lord for loving me so. I thank Him for His directions; His instructions for His perfect plan.

God is amazing. This journey of life is beyond whatever I can imagine. And I thank God for every, single moment He grants me upon this earth. God gave me some instructions. He told me exactly what to do. Even in my uncertainty, I just followed through. Hey, He's God! He has a proven track record! Step by step, I obeyed. One week passed. Then two. A month came and gone, and nothing. FOUR MONTHS, and it came to pass! THANK YOU JESUS! God did that thing!

I encourage you to hold on and keep believing. No matter how long the wait; believe in what God has spoken. Follow His instructions. Do exactly what He says, how He says to do it. Trust: God knows just what He is doing!

Blessings!
Ruthe McDonald

#REFLECTIONS4LIFE #GODCANNOTLIE #FAITH #VICTORY #BELIEVE

Reflections4Life: Let The Healing Begin

Reflections4Life August 18^th, 2013

“Let The Healing Begin”

“He healeth the broken in heart, And bindeth up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3

Scripture Contemplation: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Job 5; Psalm 30:2; 147; Luke 9; John 5; 1 Peter 2:24

Many of us are walking around with wounded hearts, wounded souls, wounded spirits. Our wounds are so deep and so painful, that they are affecting our physical and mental health. Today is your day to let the healing begin. God has called for you to be made whole. He desires to heal every wound, bring peace to your heart and mind, and wholeness to you once again. Will you allow Him that today?

I decree and declare that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind and soul. This is your day to be healed. This is the hour for your healing to manifest. For, you to receive the wholeness that you have been seeking, and the answers to your prayers.

Not accepting or living the truth can cause pain and deep wounds. A lie is never good. Whether we are telling a lie to others, or to ourselves, or if we cannot accept the truth or live our truth; we are creating not only wounds in ourselves, but wounds in others. The truth will always set us free; even if the truth is painful. As well, we really have no control over other people's actions. People will be people, and their actions can and do affect others. The consequences of other people's actions can often bring hurt, harm, and deep wounds for those of us that are apart of their lives, or who are innocently in the vicinity of what's taking place.

God desires for us to be whole and to walk in our healing. He desires to bind up every wound and restore our hearts and our faith. Yet, the healing process doesn't always look like we expect it to. And, the healing process itself can be sometimes painful. However, with God on our side, we can and will make it through to the other side of the pain and wounds, and walk in our healing and deliverance.

Truth Be Told

The truth can hurt, but it is also healing and liberating. There is a truth that has to be spoken and realized. We must be in a place to hear God's truth concerning ourselves and others. Many of the wounds we have, have been inflicted by our own actions. When we do not accept the truth, or receive what God is saying and have been disobedient, we open ourselves to the consequences; consequences that could have been avoided had we listened to God and received His truth.

How many of us can testify to doing the opposite of what God spoke to our hearts? I can. How often has the Father spoke the truth to our spirit concerning a person, place or thing, but we ignored His warning and truth, and allowed our flesh and emotions to lead us on a path that was not ordained by God? Do recall the truth He was telling us about that man, or woman? How about that road not to follow, or that job not to take, or that advice not to follow? Yes. God has spoken to us many a time, trying to keep us from harms way. But we rejected His truth, because we allowed our flesh to overrule the spirit. And because of this, we are faced with the consequences of our actions. And it is indeed a painful and hurtful lesson that we often learn. Leaving us with scars and wounds. And for some, the scars and wounds are so deep, that we have a hard way of seeing our way out.

Repent. That is the beginning of your healing. And as you deal with the consequence of your actions, learn to forgive yourself. Stop beating yourself up. God has forgiven you, and it is time to forgive yourself so that your healing can fully manifest. Don't allow the enemy to hold your past against you. In whatever form he comes in: your thoughts, people, memories—move forward with the confidence that God has forgiven you, and you have a brand new day ahead of you, with the life lessons you have gained to keep you from making the same choices.

Forgiveness Is Key

Perhaps you have been wounded by someone you love. Maybe you have been wounded by the church or those professing to know the Lord, and you find yourself unable to trust anyone. Give that to God also. Chances are great that we will not escape this life without being wounded or greatly disappointed by someone we love and hold in high regards. If it happened to Jesus, then you can believe that it will happen to you, too.

Forgive. Forgive that person for what they have done to you. Not for them, but for yourself. I can tell you now; that person or persons may never change. They may continue to be who they are. But you do not have to allow yourself to be bound any longer by their actions. When we do not forgive, those emotions begin to foster bitterness and anger in our heart and soul. And once bitterness and anger unchecked takes up residence, it blocks us from receiving what God has ordained for us. It blocks our blessings, and immobilizes us. We cannot move forward, and become stuck in a place and time. All the while, the person who has hurt you has moved on.

Free yourself. Understand that hurt people hurt people. And chances are good that if you hold on to that pain and anger, and you do not forgive, you will become just like that person and begin to hurt others; whether you meant to or not. It is a debilitating cycle that can be cut off with your one decision to forgive.

A Painful Process

Beloved, you are right on the edge of your breakthrough. You are closer than you think to your healing manifesting, and your prayers being answered. How can I be so certain? Because I have been where you are more than once. Because I know that God desires you to be whole and complete, and your prayers to be answered.

Have you ever had a wound that when you went to the doctor, the treatment for the wound seemed to cause more pain? Or, what about a broken arm, leg or nose? Oftentimes for correct healing to take place, the doctor has to either reset or break the bone again in order for proper healing to take place. It is very painful, but in the end, the bones or the nose heals properly.

You've listened, and have been obedient. You have accepted the truth, told the truth, repented, and even have forgiven. But still, the pain lingers and the heart still aches. The Father says to you today: let the healing begin. Part of the healing process can be painful and uncomfortable.

It is a process, beloved. But you can be assured that God is there with you. And He is bringing you through. And once you set in your heart and mind following what God has spoken, and to believe what He has spoken to you; your tests will soon be your testimonies. Those wounds will become a banner by which you can tell another brother or sister that God will do the same for them, as He did for you. So, do not give up. Though the pain seems unbearable right now, know that God will do just what He said, and He is bringing you through this, making you stronger, and wiser for the purpose He has ordained for your life.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your life: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Be encouraged. Your healing has begun. Let the truth be in your heart and mouth. Walk in forgiveness. Trust the process. God knows just what He is doing. Be made whole today by the truth of what God has spoken to you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Reflectiosn4Life: "Words of Encouragement"

Reflections4Life August 11^th, 2013

“A Word of Encouragement”

“And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters; but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6

Scripture Contemplation:Joshua 1; Romans 1;12; 15:5; 2 Corinthians 7;Ephesians 6:22; 1Thessalonians 4; 5; Hebrews 13...

Be encouraged! Be encouraged! Be encouraged! Know that the Father in Heaven has not forgotten or abandoned you. Stand firm and know within your heart, that the fulfillment of His word in your life is soon coming to pass.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Be encouraged today through the word of God. Stand on His word and promises. Encourage yourself in the word this week, and do not let go of what God has spoken concerning your life.

How much weight does the word of God hold in your life? How much power does it hold for you? For so many, we have forgotten the word of God. We have long forgotten the promises He has made unto us because the trials of this life have overwhelmed us. We have become discouraged with the passing of time; believing that if what God said was going to happen, it should have happened by now. And because of these thoughts, we prolong the manifestations of His word coming to pass in our lives.

The spirit of discouragement has seized many of hearts. So much so that we have lost sight of the promises of God. We have become lax in our intimate time with God. We no longer read or study the word, or go before Him in prayer. Our internal conversations have become one of doubt and negativity.

It is so very easy to lose our sight when we take our eyes off of God. We live in a world that is ruled by negativity. It thrives on destruction and bad news. Seldom do we see things of encouragement outweighing that of negative feedback. This creates a bleak picture. And should we dwell on these things, we too will soon have a negative outlook and give up on what God has promised us.

I want to encourage you today to stand strong on the promises of God. Do not give in to your feelings. Emotions are subject to change. They are like a pendulum that can swing either way depending upon the current winds. Stand firm in your faith. Do not go by what it looks like or feels like. But instead, walk and go by the word of God and what He has spoken concerning you.

Surround yourself with positive energy. Surround yourself with like-minded people. It is a fact that when we continue to associate with negative people, we tend to be influenced more by their negativity than they are by our positivity.

Speak to your heart and to the atmosphere the promises of God. Say it out loud each and every day. Write it out. Put it in places that you can see so that you will be constantly reminded of what God has said concerning you.

Beloved, the enemy, our adversary, is continually seeking to destroy us. He lies in wait waiting to pounce on us at any given sign of an opening. He presses in on all sides, whispering lies into our ears, stirring up controversy and negativity, and often coming as an angel of light to deceive us. His goal is to move us; to move us out of a position of receiving what God has ordained for us. He wants us destroyed, busted, broken, and out of focus.

1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour...”

1 John 10:10 “The thief cometh not, but that he may steal, and kill, and destroy: I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.”

Beloved, the enemy has already lost! And he knows this! But he will use every weapon in his arsenal to come at us and try to get us to forfeit the blessings and promises of God. His mission is to steal, kill, and destroy. To steal your dreams and visions; to kill you before you had the chance to live; to destroy your happiness and your peace of mind and your will to go forward! Don't you let him do that when God came to give you life, and life abundantly!

This life, even through its challenges and adversities, was meant to be lived with joy and love and hope! God sent Jesus for this purpose: that you would have eternal life. That, you would be redeemed by His blood. And that, on this earth, while we tarry, we would live an abundant life filled with love, joy, peace, and grace; even in the midst of the trials that come our way.

Be encouraged today. Be encouraged that troubles don't last always, and that joy comes in the morning! Be confident in the promises of God. Stay firmly planted in the word of God. Do not slack in your intimate time with the Father! It is your key to holding on and forging ahead through all the crap the enemy tries to send your way. For, those that keep their mind stayed on Christ will be kept in perfect peace. And those that stay at the feet of Jesus, know and understand that the battle is not ours, it is the Lord's!

Beloved, God got us! He has us. Yes; the devil is going to try everything he can do to discourage you and try to knock you off the path of righteousness. And if he could, he would take you out and destroy everything you ever hoped and believed for, and have you believe that he is the winner and you are the loser! But glory to God! The devil remains a liar, and we have already won! The enemy has no power except the power you give him. Stand your ground against the devil. Be encouraged in the word and promises of God. Keep your focus on God and not the circumstances, and stand firm in the word of God! He got you!

The Father is not slacking concerning His promises to you! He is answering. The manifestations are taking place. And know that God has already declared you the winner. I've read the book, and I know that we win!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Be encouraged today! Stand firm on the word of God. Do not give in to the taunts and lies of the enemy. Continually speak the word of God, and let Jesus answer the door when the enemy comes knocking! Believe the report of the Lord! You win! You are Blessed! Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: Call Unto God

Reflections4Life August 4^th, 2013

“Call Unto God”

“This is God’s Message, the God who made earth, made it livable and lasting, known everywhere as God: ‘Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.” Jeremiah 33:2-3 MSG

Scripture Contemplation:Judges 16:27-29; 2 Samuel 22; 1 Kings 18; Psalm 18;37; Hebrews 5:6-8...

Have you ever had those times in your life when you are so overwhelmed and you just do not know what to do or where to go? I know I have. And it is in those times that I cry out even the more, and call unto my God who I know has the answers. Even if the answers are not the ones I was expecting or recognize.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Call unto God and He will answer you. Go before Him with an open heart, and allow Him to fill you and direct your paths. Trust Him; He knows what is best for you. Learn to trust Him where you cannot trace Him.

There are just times when we really do not know which way to go. We do not see a way out of our situation. Many have come to the end of their ropes and are just about ready to let go and give up. Don't! Do not let go unless you are letting it all go into the hands of God! Do not give up and walk away and do something that you may regret because the road ahead of you seems to be so dark, or the road you're on just seems to be too much to bear. God has you, beloved! He has you, and this is where you must call unto Him, and believe that He will answer you and deliver you. You just have to believe and hold on. Even in the darkness.

Isaiah 65:24 “Before they call out, I’ll answer. Before they’ve finished speaking, I’ll have heard.”

God has you, beloved. He knows all about you. He has answered your prayers before you even asked them. Before you even finish speaking it, He has already heard you. How many of us truly believe that God has heard our prayers and that He is answered? How many of us can honestly say that our level of faith is still in the same place when we encounter very difficult times? Or, when we have been waiting and waiting for the promises to come to pass? Has your faith grown or faltered? Tough times will come, and they will try your faith and bring forth what's really in your heart.

I love the Lord. I love Him with every fiber of my being. And I am the first to admit that there were times when my faith was shaken. It wasn't taken, but it was definitely shaken. From all that I had endured, and all the heartache and tests and trials; I began to wonder if I missed something? Was there something that I wasn't doing? Did I miss the mark? Was my faith really not strong enough? Then the Lord let me know, that there are times when our faith will be tested. We will go through moments of stretching and pain, and grief, but we must know to call unto Him, and allow Him to stretch our faith, and grow our faith in these times of adversity.

The saying is true: No pain, no gain. Even in our walk with the Lord. Jesus was not exempt, and neither will we be. There will be trials and hard times in this life. However, they will never outweigh the love and joy and the victory that is in this life, if we would believe and hold on and trust God. And learn to call unto Him first and foremost. Our faith is strengthened through adversity. The tests and trials allow us to see what is in our hearts and what we truly believe.

Do you call unto God first when something happens, and you don't know what to do? Or, do you seek the counsel of man, asking your family, friends, counselors, etc., for answers and direction? Our first call should be unto God. He is there waiting for us to just ask Him; to call upon His name and seek Him so that He may show us what to do; where to go, and what steps to take, and even whose counsel to seek.

So often, God is the last one we call upon. We often go to God last, after we have gone to everyone else seeking for the answers that only God has. We must learn to go to God first in all things; whether they be big or small, we need to take them all to the Lord. We must seek out God; seek His will and answers concerning our lives and the road we need to be taking. God should be the first stop, not the last.

I know this, beloved, that God has something wonderful to tell us when we come to Him. He has the answers that we seek, to the questions in our lives. He has the solutions to the difficulties we may be facing. And He wants to be our first call so that He may direct our paths and lead us to the right place and people. If only we would trust the counsel of God and believe that He has what is best.

I know for certain that the enemy revels in the fact when we do not seek out God. For even He knows that those who seek first the Kingdom of Heaven will be privy to his machinations, and less likely to fall for his lies and traps. I know it can be difficult to hear or see your way out when everything seems to be going the opposite of what we have believed and hoped for. I also know the pain and hurt that comes when it seems like you can never seem to get away from heartache, trials, and tests; feeling as though just when one ends, here comes another one, threatening to take the very life out of you.

I say to you, beloved, stand strong and call unto God. Tell Him everything that is in your heart and soul. God can handle it! He is big and mighty God. And once you are finishing pouring out, be still and listen. God is going to answer you and He is going to show you some things that will give you exactly what you need to make it through. I'll be honest with you: He will not stop the tests, but He will direct you and tell you how to get through and how to come out stronger and wiser. He will also give you something so phenomenal to hold on to, that it will stir your faith, and give you the very ammunition that you need to defeat and destroy the enemy once and for all. You just need to be certain that God is your first call and not your last.

Troubles will come. Storms will arise. But I can promise you this: God will have you through it all. Put your trust in Him, and do not go by what it appears to be, but what God has spoken it to be. Lean not on your own understanding, but put all your trust in God who loves you more than anything and anyone.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.”

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found a permanent place in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Let God be your first call. Trust Him to lead you to where you cannot trace Him. Be confident in the Lord, knowing that He has not abandoned you, but has only the best for you. Don't try to figure things out on your own. Go to God, and allow Him to speak to your heart and show you marvelous and wondrous things. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved. 

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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.

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Reflections4Life: "Truth Will Set You Free"

Reflections4Life July 21^st, 2013

“Truth Will Set You Free”

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart...” Psalm 15:1,2

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 15; Psalm 51; John 1; 8; Ephesians 4; 2 Timothy 3...

Stop lying! Stop lying to yourself, to others, and stop trying to lie to God! A bit harsh? I don't believe so. It needs to be heard. Some of us need reminding. We have been living a lie for so long that we are actually beginning to believe those lies. Know this: the truth will set you free!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and enlightenment for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow yourself to walk in truth; to walk in the truth of who you are in Christ and what God has spoken of you. Forget what others have said about you. Forget the lies they try to put upon you. Stand in YOUR truth, and dare to live it each and every day.

There is no need for us to lie when we know who God is and we know and believe who we are in Him. Many have been living lies for a long time, and it is starting to take its toll and catch up with them. God wants you to be free. He wants your life to be full of joy, happiness, peace, and love. But how can you possibly have any of those things if you have been perpetrating a fraud? If, your life has been one lie after another? Aren't you tired? Isn't the load of trying to keep up with the lies tiring? Then stop lying and start living your truth.

There are some of us who do not even realize that we have been living a lie. We have not been living our authentic lives. Everything we do or say is to bring pleasure for someone else. Everything we do is to get accolades or acceptance and love from someone else. Whether it is parents, spouse, children, employer, friends—you are not living your own personal truth because you are living to please someone else.

I've been there! I have the T-Shirt to prove it! Along with the scars from the wounds of not living my authentic truth. I gave power over my life to others who thought and believed they knew what was best for me. I got real tired of that! I grew exhausted and angry. Angry at them, but especially angry with myself.

God has a plan for each and everyone of us. He has ordained each one of us to live out our own lives and destiny, and to walk in the greatness that He has created for us as individuals. It's just like our relationship with God: it is personal. No one else can walk your walk with God, but you. No other person can stand before God on the judgment day, but you. No other person can live your life, but you.

Sometimes our need to be accepted and loved, and to fit in, causes us to lay aside our own desires and wants, so that we can please another. Soon we find that we have forgot about who we really are. We have been far removed from the truth of what we desire and long to be and have in our own lives. We cannot survive like that. Sooner or later death will come. It will come to our dreams, our passion, our hopes, and even our lives.

Life is too precious and too short not to live our truths. Perhaps you do not even recognize your truth anymore. Then it's time for you to get to the throne of God, and pour out your heart to the Father. Repent, confess, and ask God to turn it around, and show you the truth about you and His will for your life.

That's one of the greatest things about the Father: His unconditional love. Even when we have walked away, and have turned from Him, it doesn't stop Him from loving us. It also does prevent Him from reaching out towards us; especially when we cry out to Him. He waits patiently for us to get the message from all the hints and whispers He's been sending our way throughout the years. And when we are finally tired of being tired, and truly and sincerely want to be who He designed us to be—He is right there to lead us in the path that we must go.

Are you living your truth today? Are you walking in the greatness that God says is your birthright? Do you believe what God says about you, or are you trapped in the lies of what someone else says of you, and the lies of being someone that needs acceptance and fears rejection?

Rejection is going to happen. Not everyone is going to like you, love you, or want you. Life is a journey filled with hills and valleys. In your life you will meet those who cheer for you and jeer at you. There are those who will comfort you, and those that will try and take from you. But ultimately, when it's all said and done: YOU are in charge of what you accept or do not accept. It's up to you what you believe and give power to. This is YOUR life. You get to choose. God gave that gift to you. The choice is yours. Live your truth or continue to live a lie. When you live and walk in your truth, lies have no power over you. What other people say or think about you will have no effect on you. Truth sets you free, and takes away the power of the enemy to hold anything over you or against you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Walk in your truth. Be free in your truth. God cannot lie; whatever He has spoken concerning your life, believe it, hold onto it, run with it! You are worthy of walking in your truth and not in what somewhat else says about you. Stand up and live. Be bold. God has indeed anointed you! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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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.

Reflections4Life: It Ain't Over!

Reflections July 7^th, 2013

“It Ain't Over!”

“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proved; He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him.” Psalm 18:30

Scripture Contemplation: Philippians 1:6; Isaiah 45:1-7; Isaiah 10:27

Sure; it's not grammatically correct, but that is what I hear this morning ringing loud and clear in my spirit, in my heart, in my ears: IT AIN'T OVER!!! Not unless God says it is over!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. May you walk in the wisdom of God and the confidence that God is not finished with you! Know this: God will do just what He said He will do.

Now is not the time to give up or in! You are so close the manifestations of the promises of God in your life. I know, I know; how many times have you heard that before? Well, I don't care how many times you've heard it before. This time you need to believe it! It's is your belief in what God has spoken and promised to you that will make all the difference this time around.

Many of us have received bad news, and have been disappointed. Just when we think everything is going just right—BOOM!—something happens to try and shake our faith, and make us doubt what God has said. I know. I've been there. I'm there right now! The devil is whispering. Things have seemingly gone backwards. But there's a difference between you and I: I am going to keep believing, and knowing that it ain't over! It ain't over until God says it's over. And I will rest in His word that whatever He has spoken to me, that is exactly what is coming to pass. And I will see in my spirit what the Father has said. I will visualize it, believe, hold onto it, and prepare for it!

You have a choice before you today. Whatever you decide right now is going to determine how long you have to wait for the fruition of the promises of God in your life. You are either going to choose to believe God and see it in your spirit as done. Or, you are going to doubt God and believe that there is no hope. The choice is up to you! Do not allow the enemy to rob you of your sight. DO not allow him to blind your spirit to the vision that God has given you concerning your life. You must first be able to see it in your spirit before it manifests in the natural.

Yes, you have had some setbacks. Yes, it seems at times that God is far away, as though He has abandoned you. Yes, it seems as though the enemy is winning. Yes, the situation seems almost hopeless and impossible. Yes, the wait has been long! But beloved, you must hold onto your vision. You must hold onto the word of God. You must know that the circumstances and situations never dictate the whole truth. It is not an indication that is over. It is a sign that God is just getting started! Until you hear the Lord say unto you that it is over, that you should move on—do not give up! Do not lose the vision!

Proverbs 29:18 “Where there is no vision, the people perish...”

I am determined, and I encourage you, as well, to be as Joshua and Caleb and not give up on the promises of God because of what your natural eyes can see or because of the report of those who look at the challenges and obstacles as too much to overcome.

No. Be like Joshua and Caleb—tenacious! Believing with all your heart that you can subdue the land and overtake the enemy because God is on your side. That, whatever God has promised you, He will make it come to pass in due season. Don't grow weary in the wait. Stand firm in what God has spoken.

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not be weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

We are in a race. The finish line is closer than you think. But during this race, there is going to be bumps and rough spots, and some blocks and pits, and many hurdles. Along this race there will be detractors, naysayers, and obstacles that are designed to take you out and have you give up and either turn around, or not go forward, becoming stagnate where you're at. But there are also encouragers and helpers and trainers along this race. They cannot run it for you, but some will run it with you, some will show you where the pitfalls are, some will show you how to overcome the obstacles. Some will be there just to cheer you on. Some to give you a drink of water to refresh you, and some to come and take you by the arm, lifting you up when you feel like your legs are too tired to take another step. And along the sidelines are a host of witnesses that have gone before you and finished the race. They are there to cheer you on and let you know that all you have to do is endure. That, you are already a winner, and all you have to do is follow what God has said, see the finish line ahead, and run the course as He leads you.

Hallelujah! I don't know about you, but I just encouraged myself all over again! Thank you Jesus! Beloved, it doesn't matter how rough it gets. It doesn't matter what it looks like, or what obstacles come to try and prevent you from moving forward. When God has spoken a thing, that's what it is! When God has made a promise, He keeps it! We must keep our mind stayed on Christ. We must speak to ourselves each and every day what God has spoken to us. We must meditate upon His word day and night. We cannot allow one ounce of doubt to creep in. Because if we do, it is like a cancer that quickly spreads and is hard to get rid of! Say what God says! See what God has spoken to you! You must first see it in your spirit and believe it before God brings it to fruition! Believe God: It. Ain't. Over.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Know that unless God says a thing is over, it's not over! Believe on the word of God. Stand upon it. Meditate on it. See it. Believe it. Prepare for it. God is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent. Whatever He has spoken, He is surely bringing it to pass! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Reflections4Life: Truly Free

Reflections June 30^th, 2013

“Truly Free”

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

Scripture Reading For This Week: Psalm 119:45; Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 4; Romans 8; Galatians 5...

Are you free today? Are you free in your mind, in your soul, in your heart? Or, are you still bound up with the cares of this world, or your less than perfect past? God desires us to be free today. To be free from sin and our pasts. To help others to know, that true freedom lies within a relationship with God.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. May you walk in the truth that God has already set you free. Regardless to the situation you are in right now; God has declared that you are free. That, He has granted you liberty. And once you believe that, and receive it in your heart and spirit, the physical manifestations will follow suit.

Many of us are walking around with chains binding our hands, and minds, and shackling our feet to the point that we cannot think or move or go forward in what God has ordained for our lives. They may not be physical binds, but they are just as debilitating. These spiritual chains have a hold on many of us, preventing us from doing all that God has ordained for our lives here upon this earth.

Whether it is something from our past, old wounds, something someone has spoken over our lives, or familial curses that have plagued our family for generations—God says we are free! When you come into relationship with Him, and submit your all to Him; surrendering every part of your life to Him; you are truly free. Free to be who He has ordained you to be from the moment He created you.

Yet, there are so many of us—many of us believers and followers of Christ—that are bound. We are living lives without any passion, joy, or peace. That's not God! That is not what He has intended our walk to be like in Him.

We are bound by our past and worries of today. We allow the whispers of the enemy to become strongholds in our hearts and minds, blocking us from hearing God and receiving from God. Too many of us have began to doubt the promises of God. And each time we doubt, another chain is attached to our soul, rendering us immobile.

Isaiah 61:1-3“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek. He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound, 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn,3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.”

God has declared that we are free. That we have been liberated. But we must first believe this in our spirit. We must begin to see it in our spirit. We must what God has spoken concerning our lives before we can walk in it physically. We must believe first in the word of God and what He has proclaimed in our lives.

The enemy is excellent at pointing out our flaws, and reminding us of our past. He watches us diligently to assess our weaknesses and our Achilles heel. He attacks us when we are most vulnerable. Most of his attacks are not bold or brazen; they are subtle in nature. He is like a stalker, stalking its prey waiting for an opportune time to pounce. He will use subtle suggestions, whispering in our ears until we think they are our thoughts. He will use those we love to come against us. He will remind us constantly of our past and any mistakes we may have made. The enemy will try and make you doubt who you are and what God has said. And if that fails, he will suggest that you are not worthy of what God has promised you. He will suggest that you are not good enough to receive such blessings in your life. He will do anything to get the door open to your heart, where he seeks to come in, steal, kill and destroy. He will even use fear to get us to give up.

Yet God has given us the power to overcome the enemy, to stop him in his tracks: Jesus! The Blood of Jesus covers us, and has made a way for us. His love and sacrifice has set us free once and for all, and all we have to do is believe and walk in it daily, and speak what the Father has spoken concerning us.

John 10:10 The thief cometh not but to steal and to kill and to destroy. I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

1 Peter 5:7-9 casting all your cares upon Him, for He careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren who are in the world.

2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God for the pulling down of strongholds, 5 casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ...

We are free in God today. We must be proactive in our faith, proclaiming what the Father has already declared and decreed over our lives. The enemy has no power except the power we yield to him when we walk in doubt, fear, and disobedience.

Walking in the ways of God, our hearts totally surrendered to Him; we are truly free. There is not one thing the enemy can do to us, or take from us, or hold over our heads when we are surrendered to God and walk each day of our lives seeking to please the Lord. And should we fall, we must get back up, confess, repent, forgive ourselves ans God has forgiven us, and get back on that path of righteousness.

You know you are truly free when your past no longer has a hold on you, or when something someone says or does causes you to feel no guilt for that which God has already freed you from. And when you can see the gifts that God has blessed you with, and know that you are worthy of such awesomeness because God said so, and because He has forgiven you of your past and remembers it no more!

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and financially. Walk in the freedom that God has granted you through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. Let go of the past, and all the things you thought you should have done, and receive what God has for you right now. Remember: God makes no mistakes. He's perfect that way! You are Blessed. Now go....and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

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Reflections4Life: Our Strength in Joy

Reflections June 23^rd, 2013

“Our Strength In Joy”

“Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.” Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP)

Scripture Reading For This Week: Deuteronomy 28; Nehemiah 8; 2 Chronicles 20; Psalm 21; 1 John 5

What an awesome feeling to know that God is on your side. It fills your heart with peace and an unspeakable kind of joy. It is also liberating to understand the power that joy has and why the enemy is always trying to steal it. When we understand joy, then we will do all we can to hold on to joy and never let it go.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind and soul. Allow the joy of the Lord to reside in every area of your life; strengthening you in your walk and commitment to the Father, and your resolve to hold on, as you wait upon the promises of God to be fulfilled in your life.

In my spirit, a song is ringing loud and clear: Joy, Joy, God's great joy. Joy, joy, down in my soul! Sweet, beautiful, soul saving joy. Oh, joy, joy in my soul. I find myself filled with so much joy. Joy that I do not, and cannot, and will not let go of.

The most important thing that I've learned about the joy of the Lord, is that it is my strength. It is what keeps me pushing forward when everything around me says to give up. It's what encourages me when I don't see no way out of a situation. It helps me to remember the plans of the Father concerning my life. Joy is what encourages me in the mist of sorrow and heartache.

“Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.” Nehemiah 8:10

Ezra was reading the law to the children of Israel so that they would understand. As the people heard the word, they began to mourn and be sad. But Ezra admonished them to rejoice. To not be depressed for it was the Lord's day, and that the joy of the Lord was their strength and stronghold.

What is the joy of the Lord? The joy of the Lord is His word. It is His thoughts. It is His promises. It is Jesus. The joy of the Lord is powerful. It transforms your mind, heart, and life. It is the Lord's strength that is placed in us to walk in this journey that we call life. The joy of the Lord gives us hope in a world that is filled with evil and sorrows.

There are times that we are surrounded with so much negativity that we begin to see things as impossible. It makes us feel as though mourning will never cease, and joy will never come. It is the joy of the Lord that enables us to see past the moment, to get through the grief, and to understand that mourning will occur—it is a part of life—but there will be a morning.

Psalm 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

We may not know how long the night is—for some of us it has been a very long night—but we do have the promise of our Father that there will be a morning. A morning that comes with joy. And while we are waiting for our morning, we can be strengthened by the joy of the Lord. We can allow it to be a stronghold over our heart and mind, and draw upon whenever we feel weak or afraid or even abandoned. God's joy will strengthen you. His word. His promises. His thoughts. His ways.

In order for us to hold onto this joy, we must be intimate with the Father daily. We must be in His word, meditating upon it, and keeping ourselves away, as much as possible, from constant negativity that would hinder us from seeing or hearing that which God is saying.

The joy of the Lord is my strength. Whatever I face in this world; I am not alone. For my God is with me. Through my mourning and weeping times; I have the courage to hold on knowing that my tomorrow will soon come. In fact, my morning has arrived. And I know it was the strength of my God—His joy that resides in my heart—that strengthened me to hold on, keep believing, and never give up. God said it. I believe it. My Morning has come.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Hold on to your joy. Let the joy of the Lord bring you comfort and peace of mind as it strengthens you through all waiting periods, and battles. Meditate on the word of God. Speak His word to the atmosphere and to yourself. God cannot lie. There will be a morning, and His joy will see you through. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: Honoring Your Father

Reflections,  June 16, 2013

"Honoring Your Father"

"Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. Psalm 103:13 NASB

Scripture Reading For This Week: Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16-17; Malachi 1:5-7; Matthew 15:3-7; Ephesians 6:1-3…

I would like to take this moment to wish a Happy Father's Day to all the father's and father's to be. May your heart be filled with abundant joy. I pray that you will continue to look to the Father for all instructions, allowing Him to lead you; even in the most difficult of times.  God will never leave you, but will lift you up and be your strength.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. As you honor your father, you are honoring God. No matter what path your earthly father may have walked, when you honor him as your father, God will move upon your behalf.

I loved my father. I honored him no matter what he did or didn't do. He was my father. Yes; I was a Daddy's girl. And most people believe that it is much easier for a daughter to look past or forgive their father's transgressions than a son. Maybe for some. However, I have come to understand, that unless both daughter and son can honor their father—no matter the actions of his life—they do themselves a disservice when it comes to their own life's journey and choices made in relationships.

Not all people make great parents. Some just do not have the skills it takes to do what is necessary. Yet, this does not cancel out the fact that God says we must honor them. We must show them respect; if not for the mere fact that because of them, you are here in the land of the living. He gave to you life. Let's face it: without his contribution you would not be here. So for that reason alone, if you can't find any other reason, he deserves  that much respect.

Did you know that the commandment: Honor thy father and mother, is the first commandment with a promise?

Ephesians 6:2-3 "Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), so that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth."

So that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth…That's the promise. Here's the deal: God wants us to show honor and respect to our parents regardless to what they may have done or not have done. He is concerned with our heart and our future and His plans for our lives. You don't think God knows about the atrocities that some parents make? You don't think He sees the abandonment? The failures? The broken promises?  Yes. he sees all of that. Yet, the Father understands that if we walk around with un-forgiveness, bitterness, hatred, disrespect towards our parents—the very ones who gave us life—then we are blocking what He has ordained for our lives. We trap ourselves, and may very well become the very person we have dishonored all this time.

Regard them, consider them, respect them.  Do not let your heart be burdened down with dishonor that you miss out on what God has for you in your life.

I honor my father. He was far from perfect. He did things that were not acceptable. But I loved him, honored him, and considered his life, as well. If it had not been for him, I would not be here. If it had not been for him, I would not be an author. He was the first person who told me I could. When he passed, I was only sixteen. I thank God for the Uncles I have who stood in the gap and nourished my broken heart. They are fathers, as well, who have made mistakes and were not perfect. But I honor them, just as their children do.

Honoring your father is not for his benefit; it is for yours. God knows exactly how to reach a parent who is not behaving accordingly. To honor them, in spite of, is a testament to your heart and where God wants to take you. When it comes down to it; to honor, respect, regard or consider them, has to do with where you want your life to go, and how long you desire it to be.

There are many fathers who are not being honored or respected for who they are. They have worked hard to provide, and to be the best father they could be; even when they had no example themselves of a good father. They make mistakes along the way, but they are not giving up. They are striving to do that which is right so that their children will benefit and receive what they never received growing up.

I take this time to honor every father. Whether you are considered the greatest of fathers, or the worst of fathers, I honor you today. I give God praise for you. For those who are not doing so well as a father, I consider you and all you may have gone through, and pray that the Lord will get a hold of you and direct your path; bring healing to your wounds, and forgiveness to your life so that you may truly begin to experience the joy and abundance of fatherhood. To every father that are doing all they can as a father; I honor you, and pray that your heart is continually filled with joy, and that your example of fatherhood and leadership will be passed on to your children, and that your children will honor you all the days of your life.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Honor your father. Whether he is the greatest or hasn't done all that well; still give honor to him as your father. For, God is looking at your heart, and it will determine how your days are upon this earth. Make peace so that your manifestations of blessings are not held up. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2013. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Encouraging Our Fathers - African American Culture

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