"Live! Live! Live!"

Reflections4Life™ June 9, 2019

“Live”

“I knew that You always hear Me; but because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.” When He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.” The man who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” John 11:42-44 NASB

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 143; Ezekiel 18; John 11; 2 Timothy 9; Galatians 2; Ephesians 5...

©Ruthe McDonald

     The Father has loosed you from your grave clothes. When Jesus was resurrected, you were resurrected with Him. It is time for you to live. To live for Christ. To live your lives. To live it abundantly. To let go of the past along with any regrets, shame, or mistakes. It is a brand new day filled with the promises of God.

     I declare that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. You are blessed today because God has spoken it. May you understand this week just how much God loves you, and has already prepared a way for you, so that you may live this life to the fullest, and abundantly.

     What is keeping you from living your best life? What has you bound today; afraid to move in the space that God has already ordained and regulated for you? Where are the faith walkers? God has decreed that you are no longer bound. Every chain, every bondage, has been loosed by the death and resurrection of Christ. It is time for you to live.

      Many of us wait for circumstances and situations to be “just” right before we extend ourselves, or begin to do things that we enjoy and love. Some of us have been waiting a long time for conditions to be the way we desire before we start to live our lives. To start doing the things we have been holding and planning in our hearts to do.

     Guess what? If you continue to wait for everything to line up just right, you may be waiting for an eternity. Life will pass you by, and you will have nothing but regrets; wishing you would have just taken that first step—that step of faith. You find, once you start, that is when things begin to fall into place and begin happening as you desire. The key is to first start.

     We have a list of things and ideas that we want to accomplish in our lifetime. But everything will not always line up the way we desire before we start living the life we desire. We just have to begin living out our dreams now. When God is for you and has ordained you, and has blessed you; you do not have to wait for the situation to be just right. All you need is the green light from God, and go forth in faith!

     I can guarantee that there will be times when God will tell you to go forth now, and you will look at the circumstances, and they will not be conducive to what you want to do. In fact, it will seem impossible for you to do what God is telling you to do. But that is how God does it most times. This is a faith walk. To live our lives to the fullest will require that we walk by faith and not by sight. It will require us to know and understand that God will call upon you to go forth, and you may not have support, finances, or the knowledge to do so. All you will have is the word of God. All you will have is His promises to provide, and guide you. When God gives you a vision, He will be your provision.

      So many of us spend our lives wishing, hoping, and dreaming. At some point, we have to start being and doing, or we will miss many opportunities. It is time for you to live, beloved. It is time for you to come forth, and shake the remnants of the shackles off (Because God has already broken the chains) and begin to live your life; your abundant life.

Galatians 2:20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

     It is time to allow Christ full reign of your heart, and to allow Him to live through you. He will show you how to walk in your abundant life. The enemy wants to keep us bound by situations and circumstances. He [enemy] desires for us to be filled with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. Binding us, and eventually destroying our dreams, and killing our spirits, and even our very lives.

     Yet, God has said that you shall live and not die if you believe in Him. The Father assures us that the enemy has no power to defeat us when we are walking in relationship with the Father, abiding by His will, and living our lives as He has ordained.

      Just as with Lazarus, God is calling us to come forth. He is calling us to live our lives now. To, follow in His path of righteousness and holiness. To, release the fears and to take our eyes off of the flesh and the seemingly impossible, and put them on Him, and believe with every fiber of our being the word that He has spoken over our lives.

     At some point, we have to be the one that makes that decision to go forth. We have to be the one that decides that regardless of our present situation or conditions, that we will and can live. Live for Christ. Live our lives. And believe with all our hearts, that God will make the necessary changes in our lives, as long as we are seeking to please Him, and living for Him.

     Here is what I know for certain: No matter the condition of your life right now. No matter the hardships, or limitations—be it physical or financial—when you make up your mind and heart to go forth and live your life, live for Christ and put your best forth; God will indeed take care of the rest. When your focus becomes the will of God, and not your lack or limitations; you will see God move on your behalf in the supernatural. We often say we are waiting on God. But the truth is: God is waiting on us. Waiting for us to push forward in faith and to trust Him with our everything.

     It's time to live, beloved. It is time to come out of those grave clothes, and begin truly trusting in God, and living your life right where you are at. God has you, and He will never leave you. And, He has already freed you. It's up to you, now, to begin walking in that freedom.

     My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you.  Live. Your. Life. God has untied the binds. He has released you from the past. It is time to live your abundant life. Not by what you see or feel; but by the word of God that has been already decreed over you. Let Christ in you arise and live. This is your time! You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Hold On"

Reflections4Life™ May 26, 2019

“Hold On”

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 27:14

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 15; Psalm 27; Psalm 91; Numbers 19; Hebrews 12…

 

©Ruthe McDonald.

First, I want to give thanks to every Service man and woman. Thank you for your sacrifice, for your dedication and service to our country. We bask in the liberties we now have because you made the ultimate sacrifice, to give your life. We honor your memory, we honor your sacrifice, we honor your love and say thank you. Amen.

Whatever you are facing today whatever you may be going through right now, allow me to encourage you to hold on.

I declare that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart mind and soul. Dig your heels in, anchor yourself to the Lord, and do not give up or give in to the words, whispers, and lies of the enemy that only wants to rob you of your promises and manifest blessings. Hold on, and trust God. Pray, have faith, and stand in the knowledge that no one loves you more than your Heavenly Father.

It may not look like it. It may not feel like it, but God is indeed moving on your behalf and has already worked it all out in your favor. The wait does not feel good at all. In fact, you may even feel abandoned and lied to by God.

Know this and remember it, Beloved: GOD CANNOT LIE! Whatever, God has promised you, it will happen. When things are at its hardest; when it feels like all hope is gone, that is when you are right at the cusp of a breakthrough...of it all working out for your good.

The devil does not play fair. He fights dirty. However, God is just, and

He has given His angels charge over you. There is a legion of angels on your side, waiting for you to lift up your hands and begin to praise God in the midst of the hardship and sorrow. As the devil is whispering, you began praising God. When the blessings go up, you are giving the Angels charge to move on your behalf. Your praise is ushering in the angels of ministry, of worship, of warfare—all on your behalf.

There is power in your prayers and in your praise. That is why the enemy wants you to get quiet and give up. He wants you to be so angry, that you turn away from God. Do not give the enemy the satisfaction. Praise God, instead; through the tears, through the hurt, through disappointments—knowing that the Father is your help, and is bringing you through.

One more thing to think about, you must be pretty awesome for God to be bragging about you! You must be very great for the enemy to be so jealous that he had to get permission from God just to mess with you!

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. If God is allowing this test, these trials—just know that God believes in you and trusts you to stand and know, that He is your strength through this all, and just like Job, He is about to bless you with a double for your troubles! You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2019 Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Detoxifying Your Life"

Reflections4Life™ May 19, 2019

“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…

©Ruthe McDonald.

There are going to be times when we must take a step back, stand still, and evaluate who and what are in our lives. As well as, the purpose they are serving. Not everything and everyone in our lives is good for us, or the path that God has ordained for us. Even that which seems good, seems right, seems 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. We must detoxify our lives. Allow God to purge us from all that has been poisonous to our lives, goals, and vision. It may not be what we are doing; it may be certain people, places, and things, we have surrounded ourselves.

I 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.

Yes, life can throw us some hardballs and twisted curveballs. One moment we can be riding high and the next to be 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 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. Mistakes and missteps will occur. Sometimes, a trust will be placed in the wrong people, we will go the wrong way, be 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 instructing 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 reaching our destination. No. Sometimes the people, places, and things surrounded our lives in. Not everything is good for us. Not every person has good intentions for us. Not every place is the right place to see our visions manifest.

How do we avoid this? Intimacy with the Lord; seeking His will daily, and following His instructions.  This affords us the knowledge to 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 as difficult in letting some people go.

Many are ignorant of the truth, that their lives are clogged with poison. These toxins 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, to get out. 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.

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. Also, not every place I reside in is the place for me to grow and move forward. There are people I must separate from. Things I have to let go of, places I need to move away from if I truly desire to walk in the ordained life God has for me and mine.

It is not easy. Especially when you are 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 trust God, where we cannot trace Him. This is where we must believe in God with our whole hearts, even when we may not understand…yet.

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. 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!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"One of God's Greatest Gifts"

Reflections4Life™ May 12, 2019

“One of God's Greatest Gifts”

“Therefore it came to pass when the time had come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bore a son and called his name Samuel [that is, Asked of God], saying, “Because I have asked him of the Lord.” 1 Samuel 1:20

Scripture Contemplation: 1 Samuel 1; 2; Lamentations 2; Mark 10; 1 Timothy 5...

©Ruthe McDonald.

Happy Mother's Day to every woman that has nurtured, loved, cared for, attended to children, whether they were yours biologically or not. I honor you this day and pray the blessings of God to continue to manifest in your life. May your children rise up and call you blessed.

I sincerely believe that one of God's greatest wonders is not only the entire gestation process of pregnancy. (It is fascinating how a woman's womb can hold and sustain life within her body.) Birth, also, is definitely a miracle, as is the mother's strength to endure labor. However, it is the heart and strength of a mother that is and how God created the mother’s heart.

I decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. Be encouraged in the word and promises of God. No matter where your life has taken you, what journey you started on, it will be God's strength and love that will see you through. You are a gift of God. Your presence on this earth is not an accident. It is a divine purpose.

If there is one thing that I long for most on this earth, it is to be a mother. I can identify with Hannah. The ache and need in your heart and spirit so strong, that when you pray and cry out to the Lord, no words can come forth, because they're all being said from the deepest core of your spirit. I have mothered many children. I love and cherish each one with no regrets. However, like Hannah, I will believe in the promises of God, knowing that my blessings will soon manifest.

It is a God-thing to see the heart and strength of a mother in action. That, love that exudes forth from her soul for her children. There are some women, who have given birth and are not mothers. They are, removed from what God intended. So, it is in the world. Thank God, for the women that can step in, and fill those gaps and tend to the wounds and broken spirits and hearts of those children that have been abandoned and/or abused.

There is nothing greater than a mother's love (other than that of our heavenly Father.) A mother's love can bring healing, comfort, strength, direction, correction, discipline, and inspiration. Lives change when a woman dares to love with such strength and abandonment. When, she loves from a place deep in her soul, and looks pass situations, circumstances, and parentage.

The moment you give your time and love to a child; whether or not they came from you—as a mother you are changing a life forever. You may never know the impact you have on the lives of a child that was under your influence. Sometimes, they grow up, move on, and live their lives. But rest assured, God knows. He has taken account of every act of love you poured from your heart.

I had the fortunate opportunity of having women in my life that let me know just how powerful a mother's love could be. It shaped who I am, and who I desire to be as a mother. My mother and I have had our shares of ups and downs (as mothers and daughters often do!) Yet, I knew from the beginning how strong my mother's love was for me and my brothers. Even as a foster mother and adoptive mother, she never held back. She was blessed, and I honor her, for all she did for me, even as a grown woman. Including her prayers, that God will still honor, although she has transitioned.

Proverbs 31:28-29 28 Her children rise up, and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praiseth her, saying:29 Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

There is no way to truly explain what happens to your heart when you become a mother. There really are no words to explain when you lose your mother or a mother loses a child. However, it is the love that will always be present. The strength of that love, that keeps one going. For everyone that may have lost their mother, I extend my prayers and thoughts to you. I encourage you to continue to celebrate your Mom. For as long as you are on this earth, she will be present. Mothers who may have lost a child, you don't stop being a mother—your heart is too big and filled with love for that. I pray for your heart and speak life into you. And pray that you will be able to share that love with others who could benefit from a mother's love.

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. May the grace of God continue to fill you and your hearts be filled with His joy and laughter. There is something mighty special about the heart of a woman who can give and receive love. Whether a child is biological or not, it is one of God's greatest gifts—to see a Mother's love in action. You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"The Greatest Source"

Reflections4Life™ May 5, 2019

“The Greatest Source”

“And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him…” Hebrews 5:9

Scripture Contemplations: Deuteronomy 12; Jeremiah 29:11; Matthew 27:43; Philippians 4:19;

©Ruthe McDonald.

If there is one thing that I am certain of, it is the fact that God is our greatest source for all things. Whatever it is we need desire or want—our Heavenly Father is the ONE source that will always give to us what we need and even what we desire. Yet, for many of us, God is the last source that we go to. We will go to everyone BUT God, and wonder why we find ourselves in dire situations with a growing bitterness in our hearts and mind that become less trusting as each day passes and every unfulfilled desire and need.

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart mind and soul. Run to God today. Run to Him with all that you have bottled up in your heart mind and soul. There is no one like Jesus that can take care of you and answer every question and prayer; especially the secret ones that no knows about but you and God. Trust Him this week. Dedicate this week to getting reacquainted with the Father and allow Him to restore your heart and renew your faith.

Listen; I have been where many of you are and have been when it comes to wanting something so bad that you feel as though it is never going to happen. Every door you knock on stays closed. Every open door you walk through suddenly closes. Every cup you go to drink from dries up. It is as if every time you get a little money, it is gone and you don’t even know how! Like, you put money in your pockets, and there has been a hole in your pocket and you have been losing money all along.

It is a devastating thing to feel like you are never going to make it. That, you are never going to realize your hopes and dreams. That, at every turn, there is someone waiting to knock you back down and steal the little piece of happiness you just managed to gain. To feel like, you have a great job, only to wake up the next day and your job no longer exists! It is a crazy feeling that washes over you, that sometimes leaving you desperate, angry, hurt, and even scared.

Yet, my dear Beloveds, there is a Source that is endless. A Source, that will never let us down. A Source, who will continue to give, and give and give and never run out. A Source, that holds the answers to every one of our questions. Who knows the secrets of where our treasure lies. A Source who has unlimited resources and has already made a way for us if we would just believe in Him, and follow His instructions. GOD is that Source. He is the only one who understands us so completely and has the ability to see us through every situation and STILL love us in spite of our doubts and previous lack of faith and rejection of who He is.

Beloved, nobody will love you better than Jesus. Nobody will give you what you need to get you where you want to be. God is the greatest source that many of us only run to when we have exhausted every other avenue. Though the Father will still greet us with open arms, because He loves us past our faults, flaws, and sins—if we were to go to Him from the beginning, it would alleviate the pressure we often encounter when we are trying to make it. Trying to figure things out. Trying to get to the next day and live our best lives possible.

I am going to be transparent with you, because, 1. I want you to know the truth, 2. I can only be transparent and authentic, 3. I desire for you to have all that God has ordained for your life and 4. I do not want you to think or believe for a moment that you are alone in this, or there is something wrong with you or your life. Beloved, God is the Source that keeps on giving. If only we would take Him at His word, and believe Him and follow what He instructs us to do; it would save us so much trouble.

There will never be anyone like God, our Father. No one but Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, giving us access to eternal life and a completely new life on this earth filled with His promises. I have been to that place where you start doing things and get so wrapped up in the everyday things that you forget that God is your strength and in order for you to keep going, you need to feed your soul; fuel it with the very thing that is needed to keep moving forward. We do not live by bread alone, but by the word of God, spoken into our lives. I neglected my Source. I did not take care of my spiritual well because I was too preoccupied with the gifts given, that I forgot to stay connected to the Source of all the resources. God will gently remind us of what we're missing. He will first whisper. Then He will send a messenger. Then He will allow us to get into a situation, where He is the only person that can get us out.

God loves us completely, unconditionally, and has the resources that we need to accomplish what He has ordained for our lives. Beloved, God loves us so very much. We spend so much time seeking all these paths for happiness, wealth, health, and we neglect the greatest source available to us, that resides in our heart—Our Heavenly Father. He is Jehovah Jireh—our Provider. He is, Jehovah Shammah—there with us always, through EVERYTHING that we go through. He is, Jehovah Rohi—our Shepherd, leading us in the path that we should go.

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. GO TO GOD FIRST! Let Him be your source for all things who will lead you to the resources that He has already ordained for you. There is no one who loves you more than your Creator, and He will always have what you need and even what you desire. Trust Him. You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing.

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Holding On to Love"

Reflections4Life™ April 28, 2019

“Holding On To Love”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Beloveds, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Let love reign. Let God be all up in your space, loving on you and teaching you to love. Hold onto love and never let it go. No matter the circumstances or situations, love will always and can always endure. You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Gods Cup of Life"

Reflections4Life™ April 21, 2019

“God’s Cup of Life”

“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons…Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” 1 Corinthians 10:28, 11:28

Scripture Contemplations: Matthew 20, 23; John 19, 20; Acts 1; 2…

Happy Resurrection Sunday! What an awesome day to continue to give thanks and praises to God for His gift of love, sacrifice, and love. God, in His love and mercies—saved us from ourselves. He saved us from the death and the grave; from the clutches of the enemy! Excuse me, while I praise my Lord and Savior!

Lord! Thank You! Thank You for Your grace and mercies! Thank You for saving me! For dying on the Cross for me. For taking the stripes, the whips, for my healing and deliverance! Thank You for rescuing me from a life of sin and death; for freeing me from a spirit of guilt and condemnation. Thank You, Lord, for consuming me, covering me under the Blood of the Lamb! I cannot breathe without You. I cannot live without You. I cannot exist without You! Your love is like fire, all in my bones! Your love is washing all over me; making me clean, clearing my mind, lifting heaviness; leaving waves of sunshine, and pockets of hope for me to hold onto when trials and tests come, and rock me to the core, sometimes blinding me and stealing my memories of what You have already done! But Hallelujah! Thank You for that line, that line that keeps me tethered to You. That keeps me connected. Thank You, that when Christ rose, I rose with Him, with the keys of like. Thank You, my Lord, my Savior, for saving me from myself and doubt. Thank You for freeing me from unbelief. Thank You for just loving me the way You do, that even through the tough times, the times I cannot see You, that I can rest easy knowing that You are moving on my behalf and that Yes!—Your will is done in my life, and I blessed forever more, because You loves me…unconditionally! In Jesus’ Name. Amen!

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart soul and mind. Rise up with Christ today. Rise up from your past; past hurts, sins. Bow at His feet, laying down your heart, your burdens, your hurts, your fears, and receive His love, forgiveness, His breath of life and the blessings He has ordained for you this lifetime. Take from His cup of life and drink, becoming a new creation in Him. Receive your blessings.

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Whose cup are you drinking from today? Are you drinking from the cup of regrets, guilt, and shame? Or, are you drinking from the cup of life, of faith, of redemption and of a new life in Christ? When we are in Christ, we have been crucified with Him, and we now live by faith and not feelings. We drink from a completely new cup. God’s cup of life. Jesus drank from the cup of crucifixion, a cup of a necessary death, a cup representing salvation for man. Because He did, we are! We are able to now drink in not only remembrance of His sacrifice for us; partaking in Holy Communion. We are now, also able to drink from God’s cup of life.

When we enter into prayer and conversation with the Heavenly Father, we are partaking in that cup of life. When we stand on His promises and do not give up or give in to the enemy—we are drinking from God’s cup of life.

Every time we spend time in the presence of God, the more God reveals to us. No one can stay the same who has been the recipient of God’s love and attention. We are transformed and renewed, with every sip from God’s cup of life. We are changed forever by the Father’s unconditional love, forgiveness, and the precious gift of Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus taught about the wheat, and how it must die to live; we, too, must die first. Die to our old selves and beliefs that would block the blessings of this new life that God has ordained for us. Christ did the hardest part. He drank from the cup of death, and died on the Cross—feeling the entire world’s sins on His shoulders, in His body; the heaviness of guilt, shame, worry, abandonment, and every whispered lie of the enemy. The love of Jesus knows no bounds. He could have walked away, instead, He called upon His Father, and took it all to the Cross. for us. Then He fought death, hell, and the grave, reclaiming the keys of life. So now, when we partake in the cup, it is not just in remembrance of the crucifixion but also the cup of life. Christ died that we may live. And live an abundant life filled with His blessings and grace.

What cup are you drinking from today? Are you drinking from the cup of your past? The cups of regret, shame, mistakes, guilt, and condemnation? That’s not what God ordained for you. And that is not what Jesus died on the Cross for. He did not drink to save Himself—he was not a sinner. He drank to save us; to give us 24/7 access to the cup of life!

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity find permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. Embrace the forgiveness of the Father. Shake off the old clothes of the past and put on the garments of praise and worship, drinking from God’s cup of eternal life and redemption. Jesus made a promise and kept it. Now it’s time for us to walk in the victory, drinking constantly from God’s cup of life! You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"Betrayed Rejected but Not Abandoned"

Reflections4Life™ April 14, 2019

“Betrayed Rejected but Not Abandoned”

“And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” Luke 22:47-48

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 26-28; Luke 22; John 19; Romans 3; Hebrews 7

©Ruthe McDonald. www.reflections4life.com

I wish everyone a glorious Palm Sunday. I pray this time of reflection on the Cross, and the resurrection of Christ, will bring you clarity, strength, and encouragement. Know that it is never over until God declares it is over.

There are times in our lives when we will feel the sting of betrayal and rejection. People will disappoint us, hurt us, and even leave us. Although betrayed and rejected, we are not abandoned. Not by the Father. God is always there, whether we acknowledge Him or not.

I decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May the redemptive work of Calvary flood your heart, mind, and soul; bringing you peace and encouragement and the knowledge that with God, you are never alone.

Many have experienced what it feels like to be betrayed by someone you love or trust. Most of us can also attest to the feelings of rejection. Rejected by the people you love; someone you admire, someone you like, a job, or position. We know the sting, and often the heartache.

There are those know the devastation of being left behind. Left by those who were supposed to care for you and love you. To, look out for your best interest and protect you. Though they left, you are not abandoned. Not if you know God, and understand, He is with you always; even when you do not acknowledge Him, feel Him, or see Him. He is there.

The human heart can be a messy thing; deceitful and cruel. It can be loving and kind, also. While others cannot fathom the thought of abandoning someone they love or hurting them in any way, shape, or form. There are others, who will cause devastation, leaving many broken and bruised.

With all this devastation and heartache, one fact many do not understand is that God is there. He has always been there, waiting for us to call on Him, to come to Him. To know, that He has never abandoned us. He has never left us. In fact, He has been reaching out towards us, calling for us to take His hands and trust Him.

Even in our darkest hours when the enemy is whispering his lies, and saying that not even God cares or understands; that God has abandoned us and forgotten us; God is there. He is there waiting for us to call unto Him. Waiting for us to accept the love and healing that He has long offered us. Waiting for us to show up to His table and dine with Him.

However, when you are one that has experienced much betrayal and rejection in your life, it is hard to imagine or believe there are some who care enough for you to stay with you through ups, and downs. Someone, who will never leave you or hold your faults and past against you. It is hard to reconcile within yourself there is someone that loves you just for you, and will move heaven and earth just for you; just as He gave His only begotten Son.

We have put God on the level of man. Placing Him in the position of who a man is, and how they can disappoint. We attribute the same characteristics to our Heavenly Father. It makes it difficult reconciling within our hearts and mind how much God does love us as He says He does when our lives have been hit with such devastation and setbacks. It is difficult for our minds to justify that God truly cares. Yet, it will allow disappointment and our faith shaken and sometimes shattered. Asking ourselves; how is it that God never leaves us but these things keep occurring in our life? Isn't the Father supposed to protect us?

I've been there. And it's a hard place to be when you are in your emotions, and simply cannot understand or justify the hurt and pain your heart is feeling with the God you have come to know and serve. I will say this: we live in a world that is filled with darkness. There are people that make decisions that affect our lives. Yet, God is still merciful and in control. If we hold on to His word and promises, we will see God show up in unexpected ways. If we continue to trust Him, seek Him, and not abandon our faith, we will see that ALL things are working for our good. Understanding will come. Maybe not today or tomorrow or next week, but it will come. We just have to have faith, which dictates that we walk not by sight.

Though people may betray you, reject you, and even leave you; know in your heart that the Father will never abandon you. He is there with you in all of your storms, tests, and trials. He is encouraging you and making ways for you that you have yet to see. Everything that you experience in this life, God will make it for your good; if you trust Him and keep believing. God will never leave you. He was there before you even showed up.

My Beloved, I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Believe with all your heart and soul that God will never leave you, betray you, or reject you. You have a standing invitation from the Father at His table of abundant life. Where man has failed you, allow God to lift and keep you. He sent His Son just for you. He's not going to stop believing in you and your salvation. You are blessed. Now go...and be a Blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

"God Cannot Lie"

Reflections4Life™ April 7, 2019

“God Cannot Lie”

“God is not a man, that he should lie, Neither the son of man, that he should repent: Hath he said, and will he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and will he not make it good?” Numbers 23:19

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 1; Numbers 23; Job 5; Jeremiah 29; Ephesians 3; Philippians 1...

©Ruthe McDonald.

Do you trust God? Do you believe what God has spoken concerning your life? Do you believe He is able to do just what He said? Are you confident in God? Do you walk in confidence and faith? Or, are you bound by fear and unbelief? Know this truth, Beloved. Hold it in your heart, remind yourself daily: God cannot lie.

I decree and agree with Jesus, that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. That you will believe with all your heart that this is your season to believe and walk in the promises of God. That, you will know in your heart and believe with all your soul, that whatever God has promised you, He is making happen.

I understand clearly those times when you feel that what you have been waiting for is not going to happen. I clearly identify with the thought, that maybe God has forgotten you. Perhaps what He has promised is not going to happen. I know what it is like to wait and wait, and feel your faith get a little shaky; to the point that you almost stop believing. I have been there, Beloved. However, I held on by speaking the word of God, by meditating on His word, by praying, fasting, and surrounding myself with like-minded people.

In this world, we are surrounded daily with people and things that are contrary to our walk in God. We are faced with wickedness, fear, doubt, and unbelief. We often walk a fine line while navigating this narrow path every day. Yet, we must continue to believe in our God. We must continue to walk in confidence, in faith, knowing that God has us covered. That, what we are waiting upon is going to happen. In the meantime, there are obstacles to contend with. Many battles we will fight. However, through it all, we can overcome and see the promises of God fulfilled in our lives if we follow God's instructions.

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

Times will get hard sometimes. Our path will get a little bumpy. Things will happen in our life that will look nothing like the blessings of God. In fact, it may even look like we do not serve God or that there is a God. Yet, God tells us that this is a faith walk. We cannot walk this walk, or run this race by what we see. We must believe and walk by faith. Endure the hard times and have courage, believing that God will see us through every time.

Grant it, it can feel as though we are hit constantly on all sides at all times. That, just when we get over one hurdle and one test, and come through one difficult time, there is another one right behind it. Making you feel as though you cannot catch a break. The fact of the matter is it causes you to feel as though God is removed far from you, as though He has abandoned you.

These are those times Beloved when God is conditioning our heart. These are the times when our faith is being developed. When God is preparing us for what lies ahead. These are the times when we are so close to the manifestations of God's promises in our life happens. The enemy is hell-bent on causing us to lose focus and give up; to walk away from our miracle, from our blessings and promises.

Don't you let that happen! Don't you dare come this far and give up on God, when God has not given up on you! God has equipped us with everything we need to make it through this race. He has already assured us the victory. Jesus made us that assurance when He went to Cross and defeated hell and death.

Everything the enemy is doing is designed to get you to forfeit your promises. He is strategic in his war against you. You must be strategic in your prayers and faith. Do not grow weary while doing the will of God. Though those times of weariness come, shake it off by remembering the promises of God. Don't just read the word, pray the word. Stand firm in what God has told you. Now is not the time to get quiet. You must declare and decree what God has spoken concerning you. Declare His word to the atmosphere.

Surround yourself with those who can encourage you and not commiserate with you. Remember all that God has already done for you. We often forget past victories because of the severity of the current circumstances. People change, circumstances change, but God does not change. He will keep His promises to you. He will complete in your life that which He has started.

I don't care what it appears to be; what it looks like at the moment; you can believe with every fiber of your being, that God is not a liar. He cannot lie. He will do just what He said. We must believe. We must have courage. We must have faith. And, we must learn to pull down the strongholds and evil imaginations that the enemy uses against us. Greater is God in us that he that is in this world. If God was not so great, and your life was not so precious and valuable, and destined for greatness, as well, the enemy wouldn't take another look at you. But I have a feeling that just as Job, God has been bragging on His children again. If God believes we can pass these tests, and be all He called us to be; then it's about time we start believing it and believing in Him with all our heart and soul.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives: spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and financially. Whatever you take from today, remember this: God cannot lie. He has already worked things out for you. His promises will happen. Stay in with a heart of faith. Believe in Him with all your heart. Trust Him where you cannot trace Him. Continue in prayer and meditation. And, leave the enemy to God. He knows just what to do. You are blessed. Now go...and be a blessing!

©2019. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.