"Watch Your Mouth"

Reflections4Life November 16^th, 2014

“Watch Your Mouth”

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 1; 6; Psalm 19:14; Matthew 4:4; 15:18; James 3; Titus 1; Jude 1...

How often do we pay close attention to the words that are coming from out of our mouths? How many of us dare to put a watch over mouths, so that we bring no harm to others or ourselves? The words that we speak can bring comfort or pain. It can bring forth healing and even death. It is time for us to listen carefully and to watch our mouths.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and enlightenment for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow your time spent with the Lord this week to be filled with reflection. Reflection upon the things that come from your mouth. Allow Holy Spirit to guide your tongue, and to make you hyper-aware of the things you say during a normal course of the day. It can be the difference between life and death...literally.

Growing up, I always heard my Grams and my Nana, as well as my Mom say: watch your mouth. As children, we can try our parents sometimes and say something that is sassy or even disrespectful. The first warning was always watched your mouth. There really wasn't a second warning; just a pop in the mouth and punishment.

I believe today many of us need a spiritual pop in the mouth to remind of us the things that we are saying. It is not just the harm and hurt that we are bringing to others; but the harm we do to ourselves that many of us are not even aware of. So many times we have prayed and asked God for something, and in the next breath we totally wipe out our prayers, because our mouths defeat us. Instead of speaking the word of God and blessings over our lives, we speak negativity and curses. Instead of life, there is death.

Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

How many times have we heard this passage of scripture, only to forget it in the light of a days activity? How many times have we spoken things that are filled with negativity and the exact opposite of what we are believing God for? If we want what God has for us, we're going to have to start speaking like our Father. We are going to have to put a watch over our mouths, and speak what God speaks concerning us.

We also have the power to effect the lives of others. When I think of this specifically, I often think about what we say to our children. What are you speaking over the lives of your children? Do you inspire them? Encourage them? Speak positive affirmations? Do you declare and decree what God has spoken? Do you bless them or do you curse them?

My parents always told me what I could be; encouraging my endeavors even when I, myself, was filled with uncertainty and doubt. My father was bold and told me what I WOULD be, and WOULD accomplish in this life. He spoke a life of blessings over my life. He spoke the father's blessing over his children, just as Jacob did to his children.

The words that we speak into the atmosphere have the power to bring life or death. And can bring healing or destruction. Many words have caused strife and the life of people. I never understood that old saying I heard growing up: Sticks and stones may break your bones but names will never hurt you.

What a load of crap! The words we speak can cause irreparable damage. Words can kill. Its evidence in the number of cases of bullying and the continuing increase of suicide amongst our young children. Words do hurt. They can do so much harm and destroy many lives. Words spoken in a lie can change lives forever. It can cost lives, as well.

So yes, words do hurt and can can bring devastating harm. We must learn to guard our mouths and train our tongues to speak words that are edifying, and truth that is not destructive, but healing. To say what needs to be said in a manner in which a person's life is not torn down or destroyed.

If we desire the life that God has ordained for us, then we must also learn to0 watch our mouths concerning the things that we speak and declare of ourselves. Do not speak the opposite of what God has spoken. Edify yourself with the word of God. Speak God's truth. Watch what you allow to pass through your lips and into the atmosphere. You have the power to prophesy over your life. To speak life—abundant life—to your situation and circumstances.

Beloved, speak what God says about you. Let those words fill your heart and the atmosphere. Practice speaking what God says. Train your tongue to edify and not destroy. A word spoken in kindness can change someone's life forever. A comforting word can save a life. A word of wisdom can bring clarity. A word of encouragement can bring joy and happiness.

I declare and decree that the the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Watch your mouth, Beloved. Be aware of your conversations and the words you speak. They can be the difference between life and death. Life or death to dreams, hopes, and visions. The difference between life and death for a soul; for someone's life. Think on the things of the Lord, allowing it to fill your heart, so that it will begin to flow from your lips. How can we praise God with the same mouth that curses and bring destruction? The choice is always ours. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Good Sense, Common Sense, and God Sense"

Reflections4Life November 9^th, 2014

“Good Sense, Common Sense, God Sense”

“Even the stork in the sky knows her seasons; and the turtledove and the swift and the thrush Observe the time of their migration; but My people do not know The ordinance of the Lord.” Jeremiah 8:7 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 1; Psalm 104:19; Ecclesiastes 3; Daniel 2:21; Matthew 21:41

Our lives consists of seasons. And in those seasons we are learning and growing and gaining knowledge not only to take into each new season of our lives, but to knowledge and wisdom to share with others. The things we learn may come from personal experience or the experiences of others. We will have teachers in every season, and in some seasons, we will become the teachers.

Within the seasons of our lives we will always be faced with making choices. There are decisions that must be made in order for us to move forward. When it’s time to make those choices? We will either draw upon good sense, common sense, or God sense. God sense being the best sense of the three.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will continued to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Develop your intimate relationship with the Heavenly Father. God has so much to pour into you and to prepare you for. It’s only with God that we can gain an understanding of the seasons of lives. And learn how to navigate accordingly.

Growing up I heard many of parent and grandparents begin a sentence with: "Don't you have the good sense to..." I've also heard many people, including myself use the term: "Its common sense…" when explaining an action or planned action. Yet, it wasn't until I matured and truly appreciated my intimate relationship with God, that I understood "God Sense" and its difference from just good and common sense.

Good sense requires us to make a decision based upon reasonable thinking and knowing the difference between good and bad. Common sense refers to that which is a commonality amongst many. A choice that is dictated by what seems to be the natural order of things. Then there's God sense; making a decision based upon the wisdom of God gained through a personal relationship with Him.

There's nothing wrong with good or common sense. But neither is on the level of God sense. Why? Because there are times when we will be presented with a situation that our good and common sense dictates is all good to move forward with. Everything seemingly lines up and is in order. However, with God sense, though everything seems good and IS good, God Sense will let you know if the timing is right. If it is the right season, and if it's for you.

I have learned that everything good may not be good for me. Or, certain things are just not right for this season of my life. It is wonderful to use good and common sense. But it's even better to develop your God Sense. And that can only be accomplished through an intimate relationship with the Father Himself.

How many decisions have you made in your life that you can say you used God sense? How many times in your life have you used good or common sense, only to be disappointed by the outcome? As I said, there is nothing wrong with good or common sense. I pray that we all would be endowed with good and common sense. Face it: there are way too many people that choose NOT to use good or common sense, and the results are evident in the many lives that are lost, destroyed, and changed forever by the poor/bad choices made by another.

Yet, it is God sense that is layered over our good and common sense that allows us to know, understand which season of our lives we are in. In the book of Ecclesiastes, the writer tells us that there is a season for all things under the sun. A time to mourn, a time to laugh, a time sow, a time to reap. There is a season for all things. And when we are in an intimate relationship with the Heavenly Father, we develop our God sense, and come to learn and understand the seasons of our life. Whether it is time for us to plant or to harvest. Whether it is time for us to move or to be still. Whether or not an opportunity that seems good is good for the season that we are in.

It is vitally important that we learn to move in the realms of God’s timing. That, we are not leaning to our own understanding, but are walking in the wisdom of God. There will be times in our lives when situations and opportunities will arise. They will be good opportunities. Everything in your good and common sense sees nothing wrong or bad. However, it is your God sense that will let you know if that good thing is the in alignment with the season you are in.

There are sometimes in our lives when we are not ready, or incapable of handling the responsibility that comes with certain situations and opportunities in life. Sometimes we can become overwhelmed with a good thing. And sometimes, we want something so bad, that we move ahead of God and we become out of sync with the move and guidance of Holy Spirit.

Beloveds, there is a life before us that God has ordained for each and every one of us; specific to who we are, and who He called us to be. In our life we will enter many different seasons; seasons in which we are learning, growing, teaching, doing or waiting. It is through our intimacy with God that we learn how to recognize the seasons we are in. It is through our relationship with the Father that our God sense is activated, and we begin to operate in the knowledge and wisdom of God concerning our lives, and we never miss the seasons that we are in.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Trust, Beloveds, that God only and will always have the best in store for you. Though we may not fully understand the wait, we can come to understand the whys. Allow God sense to be the covering over your good and common sense. Allow God the space on the throne of your heart and in the depths of your mind that leads you in the paths of His righteousness, and the path of His ordained plan for your life. Let God lead—and you will never get lost or be disappointed! You are blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Grace & Mercy"

Reflections4Life November 2^nd, 2014

“Grace & Mercy”

“Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 84; Isaiah 55; 63; Ephesians 2; 1Timothy 2; Hebrews 4…

There are some of us that have been running for a very long time. Running from our past, our mistakes and failures, from the unfair judgments of others. It’s time to stop running away and run into the arms of God where grace and mercy wait to embrace us.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Yes, we all make mistakes and fail at one time or another. God wants you to know that no matter what you did or have done, His grace and mercy are extended to you. Receive what God is freely giving to you. There’s nothing you can do, no place you can you go where God’s grace and mercy are not present.

It is both wonderful and humbling to know how deep God's love is for us. No matter how many times we screw up; how many times we deliberately go the wrong way, God still accepts us. Not because of anything we did or didn't do; but by His grace and mercy. His grace paves a way for us to return to Him, while mercy covers us, and keeps us from being destroyed by our less than favorable actions.

Romans 8:1-4 “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3 For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”

The mercy of God ensures that we don't receive the just punishment our actions warrant. Yet...most of us are still running away from God; convinced by the enemy that God doesn't love us or want anything to do with us. The enemy is a liar! God will always love us; even in our lowest state. For His grace and mercy are evidence of that fact.

Beloved, whatever you do in this lifetime, God is right there with you. Yes. We screw up royally at times. We make mistakes that seem so severe that there is no returning. However, the grace and mercy of God is there for us. Not to take advantage of, but to ensure us that we have a way out; even when the path before us seems impossible and so dark.

There will be times when we feel as though God has abandon us. That, He has left us to the hands of the enemy to destroy us as punishment for our actions or a consequence for something we may have done that we may not even be aware of.

That is not God. That is not our Heavenly Father who sent His only Son to die for us. Those thoughts, that feeling, are straight from the enemy. And he will try to use it against you to stop you from going forward, and seeing the hand of God which is extended with grace and mercy.

Romans 8:37-39 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

NOTHING can separate you from the love of God. You cannot fall too far that God cannot reach you. You can never go too out the way that God does not have a plan and purpose for you to return to His fold. God loves you too much to just let you give up and abandon the path that He has ordained for your life.

God’s grace is sufficient enough for you if you believe. His mercy is evident in the fact that you are still here with an opportunity to get things right, when you know that the things you have done warrant a far more just punishment than you have received.

Wherever you are right now in your life, I implore you to trust God. Allow His grace and mercy to wash over you, and lead you onto the path that He has ordained just for you. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Yes. I said it! Do not allow that spirit of self-pity blind you to lessons that God wants you to learn in this season of your life. You are still here; in the land of the living, effecting the lives of people directly or indirectly. YOU do make a difference; even when you feel under pressure, against the wall, and abandon by God, and can’t see the road before you.

Know this: God is right there with you. He will never leave you or turn His back on you. He will always hold that door open for you to walk through, with boldness and confidence. Though things may currently be at a stand-still, or feel as though the walls are closing in on you; HOLD ON! God is there and His grace and mercy will not only cover you, but bring you through!

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Beloved, though you may feel like you’re at the end of your ropes, and that you have lost all hope, and your heart is breaking; know that the Father has not abandon you, but has extended His grace and mercy towards you; to help you make it to the other side of the road that seems impossibly dark and impossible to conquer. However, you got this, because God got you! No matter what! You are indeed Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe Mcdonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Special Gifts"

Reflections4Life October 26^th, 2014

“Special Gifts”

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:11

Scripture Contemplation:Daniel 2; Luke 11; Luke 21; Romans 12; Hebrews 2...

Along our journey of life, we will find roads that take us to various destinations. We choose the path/road we take. Some of us seek God's wisdom and direction. Some of us don't. Yet, the most humbling and beautiful thing is, that no matter what road we choose, God is still right there. It is at these moments when we feel lost, alone, and perhaps even fearful, that God will send a special gift in our lives. A gift to remind us of our purpose, our importance in this earth, our humanity as well as spirit, and to remind us of His unconditional love and His promise to never leave us or forsake us.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. There is nothing more reassuring than knowing how much our Heavenly Father loves us and is there for us. May you know this week just how deep and how profound the Father's love is for you. Let your heart and mind be open to receive and recognize the special gifts of God.

This journey that we are on called life can hot us with some serious roadblocks and bumps in the road. There are times when even the right path seems like the wrong path, and will have us questioning ourselves if we made the right choice.

It is in these moments of strife, confusion, and exasperation that the enemy likes to goad us, and play with our minds; speaking all kinds of lies. The three biggest lies that he will whisper at this time?—That God has forgotten about us, we're no good, and that we will never make it. Lies! All of them!

God has not forgotten us! No matter how rough this journey gets; no matter how many times we fall' even if we chose the wrong road—God is right there with us always. He will never abandon us; even when it seems He is silent, He is there, watching and protecting us; sending us reminders of just how strong we really are.

Psalm 37:25 I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendants begging bread.

Psalm 139:8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.

The mere fact that God has created us in His image gives us an advantage. We were made to make it. We were created with greatness already in our DNA. If no one else in the world believes in you; know with all certainty that God believes in you!

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Hebrews 10:35 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.

When we take on the mind of Christ, and believe what God has spoken of us, our journey becomes less encumbered. Though we get attacked, and we sometimes stumble and fall, we do not give up. We stand up, shake the dust off, and start again. We keep moving. Because the Father says we can. As long as we have God on our side, there is no way we will not make it. As long as we continue to believe, and follow the instructions of God—though the storms will rise, we may be betrayed by loved one, the enemy will rear his ugly head—it is still no match for the promise and word of God, that He will be with us through it all.

Isaiah 40:30-31 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall. But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

God assures us that we can and will win this race. That, we will make it through this journey of life if we continue to look to Him. If we would keep our eyes and heart on Him. And while on this journey, the Father has given us special gifts to aid us. And He wills end additional gifts along the way to help us, and encourage us, and to walk along beside us.

Know for certain and in your heart, that God already sees us as victorious. He understands how rough this journey we are on can get. He knows how strong the storms can be. This is the reason He has given us access to the greatest Helper of all: Himself.

The foremost special gift that God has given us is Christ. Because of Him, all things are possible. He has given us the special gift of His Word to light our path, to direct us, and navigate us through the sometimes choppy waters. He has given us the special gift of His promise. He promise to never leave us nor forsake us. He has given us the special gifts in way of mentors, teachers, students, family, friends, children. Along this journey God will grant us with special people in our lives that will not only walk with us and beside us, but also remind us of who we are, and the love that God has for us. We just need to keep our heart and eyes opened, and not become distant, jaded, and closed because of the bumps and roadblocks we will face in this journey called life.

Psalm 121 I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper;The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.

I have many special gifts in my life that remind me of God's love and promises along this road. Each time I have a difficult day and feel like the road I chose was wrong, I think of those gifts and what it means in my life.

I decree the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Though your road may seem filled with regret and troubles, remember that God is indeed with you. And He has sent some special gifts to aid you in your journey. Be open to the Spirit of God. He has not abandoned you. He is right beside you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights. Reserved.

"You Can't Fake It Forever"

Reflections4Life  October 19^th, 2014

“You Can’t Fake it Forever”

“As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.” 1 Chronicles 28:9

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 24:14; 1 Samuel 12:24; Isaiah 1; Mark 12:30; John 8…

If were to be totally honest with ourselves, we would more than likely confess that there are many areas in our lives that we are faking. Many are in relationships right now that they truly do not desire to be in. And for whatever their reasons, they are faking it.

Many of us have entered into a relationship with God on false pretenses. We want what God can give us, but we do not desire the change He desires to bring to our hearts and minds. There are many things that we can fake in our lifetime, and probably get away with. However, when it comes to relationships and a relationship with the Almighty God—you can’t fake it forever.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for heart, mind, and soul. God desires the truth in our inward parts. He wants us to walk in truth and sincerity. Allow Holy Spirit to expose the truth of your heart so that you can really start to live the blessed life that God has ordained for you.

Yes. We fake it. We fake relationships. We fake credentials. We fake what we know, who we are, where we’ve been, and who we love. The proof of all the fakeness is evident in the many broken relationships that we are either a party to or a witness of.

At what point in ourselves do we decide to lie? Some not only lie, but determine in their heart and mind that being false is the only way to get what they want. It is sad state of affairs when you cannot be yourself; when you cannot accept people for who they are and accept yourself for who you truly are.

What is even worse, is our vain attempts to fake a relationship with God. Yes. There are many whose heart are not with God. But on the outside, they appear godly and righteous. They have the appearance of a true believer, full of grace and faith, but it is only for appearances sake, so that they may get whatever it is they are coveting.

Make no mistake: There is no fooling God. He sees you for who you are. Though it may appear that you are getting away with a heart of deceit; you only fool yourself because God knows all things.

Galatians 6:7 “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.”

Many of us enter into relationships with our heart and mind already made up. We're either going to be honest or false. We're going to give our all or fake it until we get what we want. With God, there is no faking it. There is no gray area. It's yes or no. Cold or hot. Black or white. Either you believe God or you don't. God desires all of us. Our heart, mind, soul and body. There is no faking when it comes to a relationship with God.

Yet, the heart of a person can be so calculating and deceitful. Why would anyone want to use the kindness and the love of another with no intentions of reciprocating that which was freely give? We do this to God each and every day we profess to love Him and worship Him, but live our lives as though we never met Him.

Jeremiah 17:9-10 “The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be.”

What’s that famous Abraham Lincoln quote? — "You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time." I’d like to add that you cannot fool God at any time.

God knows us through and through. He knows the intentions of our heart. And though many may believe they are getting away with their deceit, sooner or later the truth will be revealed. I am of the belief that God gives people the opportunity to get things right. I believe He gives each person the ample chance to repent and humble themselves, and to do the right thing. He gives a warning in secret; speaking to the heart and mind. Then He sends a messenger with a word of knowledge. Lastly, exposure for all to see takes place.

Many want the benefits of knowing God, but do not want the intimate relationship or test and trials that come with the promises of God. Many may be able to fake a relationship for an undetermined amount of time. But sooner or later you will bear fruit that will tell the truth of who you really are.

Luke 6:43-44a “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit.”

No matter who you are. No matter how good your game is. No matter how many times you thought you got away with being false—you cannot fake it forever. The simple truth is; God. Already. Knows. He knows who you are. He knows your heart. And He knows the day you will be exposed. It’s just a matter of time. And for certain, we all reap what we have sown.

So—what are you going to do? Who are you going to be in this life? Are you going to real, honest, and sincere? Or, are you going to fake your way through relationships just to get what you want? Sooner or later the truth will be learned, and in the end, there will be only one loser: you. Get real. Get right. Get Christ…for real.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. There is no faking with God. He already knows the truth. He knows the heart and the mind. We do not have to fake who we are, when all we have to do is accept Christ and walk in the truth of who He has created us to be. There is nothing that anyone has or will ever have that can compete with the wholeness that comes from knowing and being in a sincere relationship with our intimate God. He accepts you just as you are: faults, flaws, and all. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"No Limits"

Reflections4Life October 12^th, 2014

“No Limits”

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

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 23; Psalm 4; Song of Solomon; John 13; 1 Corinthians 13…

What do you really know and understand about love? Most of us have conditions for our love. Yet, the word of God says that God kind of love is unconditional. It doesn’t put on restraints or hold judgments. There are no limits to unconditional love.

What do you suppose it would be like if we began to love—truly love with no limits? If we allowed ourselves to truly and sincerely love the way God loves? In order for us to do this, we must first ourselves have that kind of relationship with the Father. For only He could inspire such kind of limitless love, and teach us how to reflect it.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the love of God to fill you and to soften those places in your heart that have hardened because of disappointments and discouragement. Let Holy Spirit to teach you about the limitless love of God, and how it can change your life forever.

Many of us are gun-shy when it comes to love. I think that many are afraid to really lay their hearts on the line and to love freely and without limits because of their love history. Who can blame them? Especially if their foundation has been one of hurt and perhaps even abandonment by those who were supposed to care for them.

It is hard not to limit your love or place conditions upon it when you have experienced any kind of lack from your parents and family; those who are supposed to love you no matter what. It is a difficult task to fix what is broken when those responsible for teaching you have failed at loving and protecting you.

Yet, it is not so with the love of God. His love for us knows no bounds, as it was quite evident in Him giving His only begotten Son in exchange for us. There is no limit to God’s love. There is no limit to God. God is love. He is the essence, the embodiment, the definition of love. I can exchange the “love” in I love you, with God, and say I God you, and it will mean exactly the same.

There is so much that God desires to share with us, to give us, and show us if we would allow Him access to hearts; allow Him the seat of honor upon the throne of our hearts. Yet, so many of us run from God. We run from His kind of love. Many fear that kind of love. And they only fear it because they do not understand it or recognize it.

Why is it that we show no limits to the things that are bad for us, but limit the things that are good for us? Such is the way of the human mind and heart. However, with God, we can know an entirely different way. A way in which we come to understand and know what it truly means to love with no limits. To, not set any constricting boundaries or conditions upon our love for others and even for ourselves.

God does not judge us the way we judge ourselves or one another. Neither does He see us as we see ourselves and others. The Father knows who we are through and though. He knows our thoughts before we think them. He knows what we are capable of. He knows the contents of our hearts and still He sent His Son to die for us, knowing who we are and what we would do. He’d already seen the betrayal, the rejection, the lying, and the pain. But yet, He still went forth. And Jesus still went to the Cross willingly. Because—there are no limits to the love of our God. There are no conditions that say He would stop loving us if we did not conform to His ways.

Loving God’s way comes with freedom…and responsibility. We have the freedom to not be bound by what our past has done to us. We are free from every false teaching and belief that had us place restrictions and conditions upon love. And we have a responsibility to share this love. We have a responsibility to love in the manner in which God has loved us: unconditionally.

Here’s what I know for certain: We are not responsible for how someone else chooses to love. We also do not have to repeat anything that has been the opposite of who God is and what He teaches us about love. Because once Jesus came, and He sacrificed Himself for us, it freed us from the curse of generations and anything that was passed down. But it must be a conscious decision on our part to separate from what we were taught, and to receive, believe and live in the manner in which God has demonstrated.

Love—God love—knows no bounds or limits. It does not count all the wrongs done to us. It does not hold grudges, or punishes because of hurt or betrayal. It is not constricting but liberating. It is unconditional in every sense of the word. It does not give up, but knows when it is time to move forward.

What if we allowed ourselves to love with no limits? To give of ourselves completely without fear of being rejected or hurt? You see; when we love without limits, it is not about the other person, but about self. We give 100% of ourselves—no holds bar—with the understanding that no matter what happens, we were true to ourselves and gave ourselves the opportunity to receive what God has ordained for us.

It is true that we are a magnet, and that whatever we are, we attract to ourselves. If we live with a heart that is open, and we love with no limits in the manner in which God instructs us; then we will attract to us that which resides in the innermost being of our hearts. If you love with no limits; in the same manner that God loves, then you will find it reciprocated more times than not.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity have found permanent rest in your lives. Do not put a limit on love. Do not place conditions where God says there should be none. Love with your whole heart. Give without reservation, trusting that God will protect your heart, and give you exactly what resides within your heart. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"A New Thing"

Reflections4Life Sunday, October 5^th, 2014

“A New Thing”

“You have heard; look at all this. And you, will you not declare it? I proclaim to you new things from this time; even hidden things which you have not known.” Isaiah 48:6

Scripture Contemplation: Jeremiah 31; Isaiah 42; Isaiah 43; Isaiah 48; Isaiah 65; Matthew 26...

 “My God is so big, so strong and so mighty. There’s nothing my God cannot do! My God is so big, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do!” That one verse is ringing in my ears and in my spirit quite loudly this day. And along with that is the knowing that God is doing a new thing in many of our lives.

I don’t know what that “new thing” might be in your life; but I know that God is doing something new; that whatever you have been praying and waiting for, God is doing it. But we must listen carefully and pay attention, because it is a new thing, and may not come in the form or fashion we expect or are used to. Yes. God is about to blow our minds…in a very good way!

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a constant source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind and soul. The Spirit of the Lord is moving in our lives in a way we may not fully comprehend as of the moment. But, I encourage you to yield your all to the Father. That, even in the moments where you don’t understand, that you would trust God anyway, and allow Him to do a new thing in you and for you.

I wish I could adequately explain exactly what it is that is burning in my soul and spirit at this moment concerning the word of God and the promise that He has made. And just how close we are to a new thing occurring in our lives.

There is an excitement; a joy bubbling in my soul at what God is about to release in the lives of His children; especially those who have been waiting patiently, haven’t given up during the struggles and hard times. For those who have kept the faith and stood still, even when many around them have given up. A truly magnificent blessing for those who have weathered the storms and believed God, held onto faith, even when the flesh has seen no reason to. Yes. That new day is upon us.

It is hard to hold on to our faith and belief when we have experienced so many setbacks and hard times. It’s hard to keep believing when you have come so close so many times, only to feel as though the rug has been snatched right from under you. But God cannot lie. And if we continue to believe in Him and trust Him, we will see that new day with that new thing taking place in our lives. And all the sorrow and ache from those waiting years will soon become memories, and part of the lessons of life that we learned to prepare us for the abundance of blessings of the new thing that God has given to us.

Isaiah 43:18, 19 “Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past.
“Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness; rivers in the desert.”

We have to let go of the past. In order to fully embrace the new thing that God is doing in our lives, we must learn to not dwell on the former things; to not continuously keep our mind stayed on the things that hurt us, destroyed us, bound us, disappointed us; the failures, the mistakes, the hurt, the anger. We must release all of that.

There is something right before us waiting for us to embrace. But our past can sometime blind us to it. For many, the Father has provided a new thing in their lives—an answer to prayers—that has been bypassed because the focus has been on the things of the past. Whether it was previous good times; bad times; hardships; pain or regrets. Sometimes we can get stuck looking back, and become immobile, that we cannot move forward and miss the new thing that God has brought to our lives.

Let it all go Beloveds! Let the past go. Take the lessons learned and move forward into the promises of God. Embrace the new thing He desires to do in your life by trusting God to guide you, and knowing He only has the best for you.

Do not short change yourself by looking for something familiar, or by assuming how God is going to move or bless you. Be open to Holy Spirit and let Him lead you into the place that He has already prepared and ordained just for you.

Let the fear go. Sometimes we become afraid of change because we have become too comfortable with the pain and mess we are in. Prepare to be uncomfortable. Because what God has for you, and where He is taking you is unlike any other place or thing you have ever experienced. And the only way to get there is to move forward and not look back.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. God is doing a new thing. It may not happen in the manner you are expecting. It may not look like something you are used to seeing. But rest assure: It’s All Good. Because it’s coming from the Lord God Almighty! Trust Him. Believe Him. Embrace Him. Love Him. Because God certainly loves you more than your human mind can comprehend. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing.

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Who Are You Breaking Bread With?"

Reflections4Life September 28, 2014

“Who Are You Breaking Bread With?”

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart…” Acts 2:46 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 23; Jeremiah 16; Lamentations 4; Matthew 15; Luke 24…

It is a pleasure when you find someone you can connect with on different levels. It is wonderful to be able to invite people to sit at your table and break bread with. Yet, we must be discerning. Not everyone who appears to be for, love us, or likes us really do. Sometimes some wolves in sheep clothing sneak in. Trust God to point them out. Breaking bread with God first, will equip you with the knowledge of whom to share your "loaves" with!

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. There is so much that the Father desires to share with us. And there is much that we need to know, understand, and learn that can only be done at the table of the Lord. Take the time to break bread with the Lord first, so that He may fill you and direct your path concerning your life’s journey and who you invite along to travel with you.

How many times have we regretted things that we may have shared with people we thought were for us and with us, only to be betrayed? I have a few of those stories I could share. There is a part of every human heart that desires to connect with others; a desire to share our hopes and dreams and the deep things of our hearts. Those secret things that not everyone is privy to. Unfortunately, many of us have also experienced the sting of betrayal because we trusted the wrong person(s), gave a level of trust that was too high for who they were.

We must learn and understand that not everyone we break bread with has our back, or the best intentions towards us. Not everyone is truly for us as they have led us to believe. And when we discover truth about who and what they are, it can be devastating. Betrayal is one the harshest stings to experience. It pierces the heart and has destroyed many lives.

The spirit of discernment is paramount when inviting someone to sit at our table. There are some that we have discerned correctly in the beginning stages of the relationship. But as with many other things, people change. And sometimes that once dear friend, colleague, or even family member is no longer that friend or loved one at your table; but now an enemy.

If there is one thing I have learned during my journey of life, is that people change all the time. That, sometimes—unbeknownst to them—a spirit of jealousy has taken up residence. And when that spirit of jealousy enters, it changes the dynamics of a relationship.

In our lifetime, betrayal and jealousy is inevitable because of the world we live in. Disappointment, broken trust, shattered relationships will occur; even to the sweetest and nicest of persons. However, our hearts can be protected when we yield and trust in God first, and completely.

Make God’s table your first table. Break bread with the Father daily. Sit in His presence and allow Him to feed you and fill you with His love and wisdom. Spending time in the presence of the Lord will help you to discern not only who you should break bread with, but also who in your life you may have to pull back from, and should be uninvited from your table.

It is lovely and sometimes thrilling when we connect with someone and invite them to sit at our table, as we break bread and fellowship. It is a wonderful feeling when you connect with someone that seems to understand you, and you both seem on one accord, and you no longer feel alone is this journey called life. However, we must always use discretion and open to the leading of Holy Spirit, so we will know and properly discern when a wolf has entered and when someone has changed.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. In this lifetime we will experience betrayal and disappointments. Yet, when we sit at our Father’s table, breaking bread with our Shepherd; He will show us who we can trust. In fact, He will bring those who should be in our lives to us, and remove those who should be removed. Trust God, and before you break bread, discern correctly who is sitting at your table. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

"Faith Leads to a Heart of Trust"

Reflections4Life September 21^st, 2014

“Faith Leads to a Heart of Trust”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Detoxifying Your Life"

Reflections4Life, September 14^th, 2014

“Detoxifying Your Life”

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalm 51; Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 15:33;           2 Corinthians 7:1…

There are times in our lives when we must take a step back, stand still and evaluate who and what are in our lives, and the purpose they are serving. Not everything and everyone in our lives are good for us and the path that God has ordained for us. Even those things and people that seem good, seem right, seem to be working out; could be the very thing that is stalling us, keeping us from moving forward in the life that God has ordained for us.

There comes a time when we must detoxify our lives; purge ourselves of the things that have been poisonous to our lives, our goals, and our vision. Sometimes it is not what we are doing that’s wrong, sometimes it’s the people, places and things we have surrounded ourselves with.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Allow the Father to lead you and show you the places in your life that need detoxification. Let Him lead you through the process, so you can be ready to receive the abundance that God has ordained for your life.

Life can throw us some hardballs and twisted curveballs. One moment we can be riding high, and the next, we are down and out for the count. Yet, one thing remains the same: God’s love for us, and His wisdom and instruction that never fails.

With our life’s journey come many ups and downs, along with bumpy rides and rocky roads. However, if we will yield to the Father’s instructions we will be able to navigate the storms and trials of this life and be the better for them.

Along our life’s journey, mistakes and missteps will occur. We will sometimes trust in the wrong people, go the wrong way, get stuck in a place, and fumble at times. Yet, it is nothing that we cannot overcome and get through, as long as we follow what God is telling us to do.

I have learned in my journey that it is not necessarily what one is doing that’s wrong or stalling the process of our reaching our destination. No. Sometimes it is the people, places, and things we have surrounded our lives in. Not everything is good for us. Not every person has good intentions towards us. Not every place is the right place to see our visions come to pass.

We must be intimate with the Lord, seeking His will daily, and following His instructions so that we know what we should do if we ever find ourselves in a place of stagnation. The solution can be as simple as moving, changing a routine, or letting some people go.

Many of us do not even know this, but our lives have been clogged with poison. There are toxins that must be purged from our lives in order for us to move forward and receive the full manifestations of the blessings of God.

Far too many of us hang on to people when God has told us to separate ourselves from them. There are places we have stayed when God has spoken to our hearts and told us to move on. There are things in our lives that God has told us to let go of, and we haven’t. Obedience unto God will save us unnecessary sacrifices down the road.

One of the things I know for certain is that not everyone is meant to go where I am going. Not everything I have is meant for the next level. And not every place I reside is the place for me to grow and move forward. There are people I must separate from. Things I have to let go of. And places I need to move away from, if I truly desire to walk in the ordained life God has for me and mine.

No. it’s not easy. Especially when you have become attached to certain people, places and things. Don’t get it twisted: there may be nothing wrong with the people, places or things. They may very well be good people, great places, and helpful things. HOWEVER, they are not good for the plan that God has ordained for YOUR life. Sometimes we cannot see the problem, because we are not looking through the eyes of God. This is where we must trust God where we cannot trace Him. This is where we must believe in God with or whole hearts, even when we may not understand…yet.

Beloved, it’s time…it’s time to move forward into the promises of God for our lives. And part of moving forward is learning to let go and truly walk in faith. In order for you to get to that next level, and to be where God has called you to be, then you must be willing to accept the truth about some things, and have a willing heart to do as God has ordained.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Stagnation is a sure sign that a detoxification must take place in your life. Allow God to lead you through the purging process. Follow His instructions; even if it means walking away from some people, moving from certain places, and letting some things go. Remember: whatever you have to give up only pales in comparison to what God wants to give you. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"About Yesterday"

Reflections4Life September 7^th, 2014

“About Yesterday…”

“Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past.  Behold, I will do something new. Now it will spring forth…” Isaiah 43:18-19a (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Isaiah 42; 43; 2 Corinthians 5; Colossians 3; Revelation 21…

Whatever is going on in your life right now—be assured that God is doing a new thing. However, you will never be able to see, understand or recognize it, if you are too preoccupied about yesterday. It’s time to let some things go so that you can make room for what God has for you right now.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. There is so much that the Father wants to reveal to you; so much He wants to do in your life. Yield to His love and covering this week. Open your heart and receive all that God has been longing to give to you.

Yesterday I had a blast! I celebrated my birthday and I truly enjoyed myself. This particular birthday, I felt a different current working through the atmosphere. A different kind of excitement. I am grateful for another year of life. Although everything was not as I desired; I was blessed nonetheless, because I trusted the Father to keep His promises. And I concentrated on the good and didn’t allow the sadness of the past dictate the happiness of my present or future. I am truly blessed and thank the Father for a new year of His grace, mercy, love, direction, and supernatural happening in my life! Thank You, Lord!!!!

There is so much that we miss out on in life today because our focus is continually on yesterday: What happened yesterday…Who did what to you on yesterday…What didn’t go right yesterday…What you didn’t get yesterday…And so on, and so on. We miss many opportunities that God has placed before us today.

Often times, fear is a part of yesterday. Because yesterday did not happen the way we desired, or something bad happened yesterday—we have a fear of moving forward or hoping in today. Fear can immobilize you; keep you from moving forward in the promises of God. We can become fearful of ever trying again or stepping out in faith on the path that God has ordained for us. Faith and fear cannot operate together. We’re either walking in one or the other but never both.

It is time, Beloveds. It is time to move forward and into the new things that God has ordained for your life. It is time to stop pondering on the former things, and allow Holy Spirit to lead you into the path of today and the promises of God being manifested in your life.

Aren’t you tired of carrying those old bags? Aren’t you tired of fighting that same old fight? Aren’t you tired of feeling like you are missing out on something? Aren’t you tired of not living life to the fullest? God is waiting on you to decide if you truly want what He has already promised and done for you.

Isaiah 43:16-19 (The Message Bible) “This is what God says, the God who builds a road right through the ocean, who carves a path through pounding waves the God who summons horses and chariots and armies—they lie down and then can’t get up; they’re snuffed out like so many candles: “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it? There it is! I’m making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands.”

Amen!!!! I don’t know about you but that makes me excited! It not only makes me excited but gives me hope and strengthens my faith in the God that I served; knowing and understanding that my Father has already made a path for me to walk on that will lead me to an expected end. That, through the harshest of places and the roughest of times, God is doing something brand new just for me. And all I have to do is let go of the past and what didn’t work, and who did whatever, and follow what God is saying right now!

Yes. It can be difficult to let go of the past; to not dwell upon what has taken place when you are currently dealing with the aftermath of what took place in the past. However, yield to the Father. Give it all to God. Do not keep going over what was and what didn’t take place or what someone did. Be alert and present. Be in the here and now, and allow God to lead you to the place He has long ordained for you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Let the Father’s healing consume you—reaching every barren, hollowed and hurting place. Let God do that new thing in you, and bring you to a place of rest and completion. He loves you and has already ordained a path that is filled with hope, love, faith, and greatness. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.