Reflections4Life: "Taking a Second Look"

Reflections4Life  April 27^th, 2014

“Taking a Second Look”

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me.² You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar.³ You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.⁴ Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all.” Psalm 139:1-4 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 139, Jeremiah 29, Zechariah 9, 2 Corinthians 10…

Have you ever looked at your life and wondered why some things continue to happen over and over again? Why the constant struggles? Why the same mistakes? Why any of this when you have repented, confessed, and asked for forgiveness and moved on?

It sometimes feels as though you are in a constant cycle. Everything starts to get better, then at some point the past is repeating itself, and you seem to be right back where you started or worse. Perhaps it’s time to take a second look. A second look at your heart, at yourself, at the things you speak and believe of yourself.

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 your heart and open your eyes to that which you may have hidden within your soul, allowing it to cleanse you and free you from all negative strongholds and evil imaginations.

Did you ever stop to think about your inner dialogue? What is it that we are saying to ourselves on a daily basis? So many of us are not even conscious of the fact that we are continually speaking negative things to ourselves. We have accepted the lies and whispers of the enemy, and those he uses, to become our truth.

Sometimes it can be subtle. A thought here, a whisper there. But we didn’t denounce the negative thought. We didn’t pull it down or reject it. Instead, most of us cataloged it; storing it somewhere in our mental, where it has taken root and begins to sprout bad fruit. And the bad fruit is the way we see ourselves, the things we get into, the habits we cannot let go of, the opinions we have of ourselves, and the garbage we and abuse we accept from others.

Yet, I have to say, that many of us are not even aware of this. We do not realize this about ourselves, especially when things may be going well for a while. It isn’t until we find ourselves in a familiar crisis that we question what is going on.

Our mindset, inner dialogue, and held baggage have much to do with our current situation and experiences. There are things in our lives that we have yet to confront. There are also things that we may not even be aware of that are lingering in hearts and are a hindrance to the move of God in our lives. We must take a second look and search ourselves; search our hearts and be completely honest with ourselves. We must be willing to see and hear the truth and be ready to get rid of those negative strongholds.

I have learned throughout my life journey with the Lord that, what we do not willingly confront will continue to show up in different ways in our lives. It will continue to be a thorn, a stronghold until we face the truth, confront it, deal with it, and allow God to truly deliver us.

We cannot allow the opinions and thoughts of others to rule us. We cannot allow the hurt and pain caused by others to dictate our lives. We cannot allow resentment and un-forgiveness to reside within our hearts. These things obstruct our path. They muddy the road of righteousness. They keep us from breaking through the painful cycles that we often find ourselves in.

These negative things have become strongholds. They have a grip on our lives. And one of the saddest things I have witnessed and come to learn about many is that they have become comfortable with the cycle. They have become attached and acclimated to the dysfunction, hurt, pain, and abuse. Worse, they believe the lies of the enemy over the truth of God.

Beloveds, the world goes by what is seen. The way of the world is far removed from God. And if you are going to overcome, declare and stand in your victory, then you must fight the way God says to fight. There is no self-medicating here. There is no easy way out of a messy mind or destructive pattern.

It is a process. When you come to God and believe in Him, He has worked all things out concerning you. He has forgiven you and given you a clean slate. But deliverance is a process. A process by which we are becoming who God says we are, as we let go of the lies and the pain of what others have said concerning us, and our own mistakes.

In order for you to break this cycle; to rid your mind and heart of the residue of afflictions by which God has already forgiven you of, you have to do things God’s way. You must confess daily what the Father says about you. You must change your dialogue about yourself. You must search your hearts daily and become mindful of your thoughts and attitude. You must be willing to let go of some people, places, and things. One of the hardest things will be confronting your truth. It will be like looking into a mirror, bare before the Lord, and seeing every weakness, flaw, imperfection, and giving it all to God, and then seeing you through His eyes.

This is a fight that must be fought in the strength and wisdom of God. We must use spiritual weapons and know that whatever God has spoken concerning you, it is the truth.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in every area of your life. There is nothing too hard or difficult for God our Father. God will do just what He said. But you must be willing to do what He has called you. There are no shortcuts to your deliverance. It is a process that requires you to see the truth, accept the truth, and become the truth. In God, you will find your healing, deliverance, freedom, peace, and love everlasting. It’s time to break the cycle, pull down those negative strongholds, and let the mind of Christ dwell in you richly! You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Because He Lives"

Reflections4Life April 20^th, 2014

“Because He Lives”

“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 NKJV

Scripture Contemplation: Matthew 28; John 21; Acts 1, 2; 1 Corinthians 15...

Happy Resurrection Sunday! May the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ be present in your lives today and each day that follows. May you know and believe in the love that He has for you. May you come to the knowledge and understanding of just how much power there is in believing and surrendering your all to God. And may you know in your hearts that because He lives, there is no day or tomorrow that you cannot face and not be triumphant in. For the Father has already declared us the winner because of His Son!

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May the glorious love of our Father continue to blossom in your heart, and you come into the understanding of just how much God has ordained for your life and made it possible through the death and resurrection of Christ.

Because Christ lives, we live. Because He lives, we have access to all that is the Fathers. Because He lives, there are a wealth of hidden treasures to be found within our own souls. Because He lives, the enemy has and will always be defeated. Because He lives, we are declared the victors. Because He lives, our future is guaranteed if we should believe.

I don't know if I can truly do justice to what it is that I am feeling in my heart at this moment. I do not believe that I have the proper words to convey what it is that my heart is bursting with over the fact that Jesus lives, and because He lives, every promise that God has made is a definite guarantee. That, all that I have ever been waiting for will come to pass if I just continue to be obedient and believe.

Have you ever waited so long for something and thought it was never going to happen. In fact, it seems as though the opposite has happened, and everything you believed went the opposite way? You know that feeling? That, unexplainable choke-hold on your heart? I suppose that was the same thing the disciples and followers of Christ felt when He was crucified.

Imagine walking with the One you believed to be the Son of God; the Savior of your people—witnessing the miracles and receiving the teachings, and learning of the promises of God, only to have the one you believe in captured by the enemy and put to death. But in your heart, you continue to hear His words playing over and over. You hear His lessons and His promises, and you see the miracles taking place over and over again; playing in your mind until sleep invades you? Then, you find yourself questioning what you believe; what was spoken. Surely, if He truly was the Son of God; the Savior; couldn't He just defeat the army of the enemy? Couldn't He prevent Himself from being killed?

They wrestled with what was in their heart versus what they were seeing and experiencing with their natural eyes. Yet, within their heart—even through the fear and doubts—there was hope. There were the words of Jesus, His promises coursing through their minds, and they believed that there had to be more. That, it could not be over. And they were right. For on that third day, the Son of God rose from the dead. And with His resurrection sealed our fate for all eternity! Hallelujah! The devil got him but kicked once and for all! And there's nothing He could do about it. And because Christ lives, we can claim the same victory should we believe and accept Christ as our Savior!

Oh, Beloveds! To have been there that day to see with our own eyes the promises of God being fulfilled. To witness the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. To understand that all that He had spoken and promises were made real and guaranteed on that day. So, come to the understanding that no matter what life throws at you; no matter what lies the enemy tries to spew; no matter what hindrances come our way; if we can just hold onto the fact that He lives; then we know for certain we win!

Allow me to speak into your lives today, Beloveds. I want you to be encouraged, as I am encouraging myself today. Whatever you have been waiting on the Lord for. Whatever you have been believing God for. Whatever the Father has promised you; Because He lives, you can take that as a guarantee that it is coming to pass!

Do not let go of the promises. Do not let go of what God has spoken to you. Do not go by what it looks like. Go by what God has spoken. Continue to walk by faith. I don't care HOW LONG THE WAIT!!! YOU KEEP TRUSTING GOD!!! For His promises to you are coming to pass. Don't get so close, and allow the enemy to fool you and have you give up and you walk out of position! I have been there! And I refuse to let it happen again!

The followers of Christ thought it was over. They thought the devil won. Heck! The devil thought he won, too! (I really laugh hard at that fact!) Imagine the celebration the enemy was throwing himself? Imagine all the plans he was issuing his minions so that he could take over. Then, he calls in death and asks for the soul of Jesus. And then death doesn't answer. He calls again. No answer. Then he goes to look and finds death bound up, the Keys of Life gone, the souls locked in bondage free, and not a trace of Jesus our Lord and King! Yes!!!! Oh man! The trembling that went on probably felt like an earthquake!

1 Corinthians 15:51-57 51-57 But let me tell you something wonderful, a mystery I’ll probably never fully understand. We’re not all going to die—but we are all going to be changed. You hear a blast to end all blasts from a trumpet, and in the time that you look up and blink your eyes—it’s over. On a signal from that trumpet from heaven, the dead will be up and out of their graves, beyond the reach of death, never to die again. At the same moment and in the same way, we’ll all be changed. In the resurrection scheme of things, this has to happen: everything perishable taken off the shelves and replaced by the imperishable, this mortal replaced by the immortal. Then the saying will come true: Death swallowed by triumphant Life! Who got the last word, oh, Death? Oh, Death, who’s afraid of you now? It was sin that made death so frightening and law-code guilt that gave sin its leverage, its destructive power. But now in a single victorious stroke of Life, all three—sin, guilt, death—are gone, the gift of our Master, Jesus Christ. Thank God! (MSG)

Be encouraged! Do not let go of the promises of God concerning your life. Be patient and fervent in your prayers. Believe what God has told you and shown you. Think of it daily. Prepare for it! For this is the season it comes to pass! Because He lives, you can face each day with boldness, faith, and expectancy. Though it may seem hard, don't look at the time. For God works outside of time and has the power to restore any time loss. Believe in Him.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Let this Resurrection Sunday remind you of just how powerful and loving our Father is. Let it encourage you and inspire you to hold on, and spark hope in your heart and resurrect those dreams and visions that may have died over the years of waiting. As long as God said it, that settles it! It shall be done if you continue to believe and faint not. Death, Satan, and the grave couldn't hold Christ. And that means they can't hold you or your dreams and promises from God. How do I know? Because every dream, vision, and promises God ever made to us was in Christ and was resurrected with Christ, and they cannot be killed, only left behind when we determine to not believe. So keep believing. No matter what! You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Happy Resurrection Sunday

Don't Believe The Lies! You are stronger than you think!

Reflections4Life: "Betrayed, Rejected, But Not Abandoned"

Reflections4Life April 13^th, 2014

“Betrayed, Rejected, But Not Abandoned”

“47 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. 48 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; John 19; Romans 3; Hebrews 7...

Wishing each and 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. Knowing that it is never over until God says it is over.

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

I declare and 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.

We have all experienced what it feels like to be betrayed by someone you love or trust. We can also attest to knowing the feeling of being rejected. Rejected by the people you love; someone you admire, someone you like, a job, or position. We know the sting, and often the heartache.

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

Abandon: to leave and never return to (someone who needs protection or help). : to leave and never return to (something). : to leave (a place) because of danger ...(Merriam-webster)

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

Yet, even with all this devastation and heartache, there is a fact that so many people do not know or understand—God is there. He's always been there. Waiting for us to call upon 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 that there is someone that actually cares enough for you to stay with you through your ups and downs. Someone that will never leave you or hold your faults and past against you. It is hard to reconcile within yourself that 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 for you.

It's hard to believe because we have put God on the level of man. We have placed God in the position of who man is, and how they can disappoint. So we attribute the same characteristics to our Heavenly Father.

There are also those of us who have a difficult time reconciling within our hearts and mind how it is possible for God to love us as He says He does when our lives have been hit with such devastation and setbacks. It is hard for us to justify in our mind that God truly cares and yet can allow us to be disappointed and our faith shaken and sometimes shattered. How is that God never leaving us, when these things keep occurring in our life. Isn't the Father suppose to protect us?

I've been there. And it's a hard place to be when you are in your emotions, and just simply cannot understand or justify the hurt and pain your heart is feeling with the God you have come to know and serve. Yet, I will say this: we live in a world that is filled with darkness. And there are people that make decisions that affect our lives. Yet, God is still merciful and in control. And if we can hold on to His word and promises, we will see God show up in unexpected ways.

No matter the circumstance or situation, God is there, He is in control, and His will shall be done concerning us. No matter how much it seems that the devil has won; no matter how heavy the hurt or devastation; God is still in control. And if we continue to trust Him, seek Him, and not abandon our faith, we will see that ALL things are working for our good. And 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 by faith and not by sight.

Luke 22:41-44 “41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” 43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”

Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane, battling His flesh for our souls. Feeling the sting of betrayal; knowing what Judas had done. Knowing the time of rejection before Him; how His disciples would scatter, and the very people He ministered to, healed, set free, would betray and reject Him; He determined that may His Father's will be done and not His own. Though He was betrayed and rejected, He understood that He was not abandoned by His Father.

Because of this, we live. Because of this moment; this decision, we have access to eternal life. Because of this moment, we can know for certain that we are never abandoned. Never alone as long as we know God. Even in our darkest hours, when all seems lost and makes no sense; God is there; stretching His hands towards us. Reaching out to us and admonishing us to come and have a seat at His table so He can fill us up.

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.

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. He has a standing invitation just for you at His table of abundant life. Where man has failed you, allowed God to lift and keep you. He sent His Son just for you. And He's not going to stop believing just for you. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Video: Don't Believe The Lie

Reflections4Life: "All That You Have"

Reflections4Life April 6^th, 2014

“All That You Have”

“Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” Mark 10:21

Scripture Contemplation: Genesis 4; 15; Psalm 63; Proverbs 21; Matthew 4; Luke 9; Luke 18...

As it stands right now; this very moment, this very day—would you give up all that you have to follow Christ? Some of us are prepared to argue that we are following Christ. That, we have willingly given our all to the Lord. To this, I would say: Perhaps.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration to your heart, mind, and soul. May the love of God fill you, reaching every part of your heart and soul; especially those areas that you have tucked away that no man knows of, but the Father knows all about.

In the world that we live in, it is quite easy to get wrapped up in things. It is quite simple to be distracted by the blessings and find ourselves spending less time with the Father. It is also quite possible to be overwhelmed by life's events and the very act of day to day living and neglect our relationship with the Father.

Many of us have forgotten that if it had not been for the Lord, we would not have a life to be distracted by. Had not the Father saved us when He did; we may very well be absent from this earth.

I always wondered how, as believers, we can witness to unbelievers and not fully grasp ourselves the omnipotent love of the Father? How could we say to another that our God saves and heals, and delivers if we ourselves do not fully believe or have walked in that love and deliverance? How can we say that we would do all that God asks of us, but are not willing to let go of what we have accumulated to receive what God has ordained?

There are many things, not just physical things, that we have yet to let go of. There are things that are stagnating our growth in the Lord, and watering down our witness of His goodness and love. In order to receive all that God has ordained for our lives, we must be willing to let go of everything. We must have that heart that is willing to walk away and trust God completely. To trust Him where you cannot trace Him.

In the eighteenth chapter of Luke, verses 18-30, Jesus is asked a question by a young, rich official. The young man wants to know what he can do to have eternal life. Jesus replies by telling him that he knows what the words say about the commandments. The young man states that he has followed it from his youth. Jesus then tells him that there is only one thing for him left to do: sell all that he had and follow him.

The young man was crestfallen. He was very rich and would not give up all that he had to follow Christ. He was not willing to let go of what he had in his hands for what he could not see with Jesus.

Jesus goes on to explain that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter heaven. Many of us have misinterpreted this saying. Myself included. Jesus wasn't speaking of a natural needle. He was referring to this gate in Jerusalem called “The Eye of The Needle”.

There was a large gate in which merchants would pass through with their wares. Instead of opening the large gate, if the merchant was traveling with a small shipment, they would open the smaller gate (the eye of the needle) to let the laden down camel walk through.

The disciples stated then who has a chance at all? To which Jesus replied, no one. Not of themselves. Only through God do you have a chance if you trust God to do it. The disciples thought about it, and all that they had given up to follow Him, Peter said that they gave up everything. Jesus agreed and said that all that they'd given up wouldn't be lost and that it would be multiplied unto them because they trusted God.

The willingness to give up all that you have for God is based upon how much you trust God. If you trust God at all to do just what He said. Yet, for many of us, we are having a hard time believing in what the Father has spoken to hearts many of times. Our trust is lacking, our faith is wavering, and we are bewildered with doubt.

How can we trust God? How can we give everything to God and believe in all that He has spoken to us? Relationship. It is through an intimate relationship that we gain trust with the Father. How can you trust someone you do not know or understand? Yet for many of us, we do it each and every day without thought. We trust the drivers who take us from point a to b. We trust our employers to pay us for our work. We trust people we hardly know to teach our children for at least eight hours a day. We trust the bank where we deposit our money. We trust doctors to diagnose us correctly. We trust family, who share the same blood, to be family. But we cannot trust God who created us and gave His only Son to die on a Cross for us. Hmm.

It is only through an intimate relationship with God that we can learn to trust without seeing. To walk by faith and not by sight. To come to know and understand the heart of God. To gain unflappable trust in God to pour out our heart, soul, and darkest secrets. To give all that you have and know that God will never betray you, but give you all that He has so that your walk and your life might shine bright and be the best, and draw others unto Him.

What are you holding onto? What have you been unwilling to let go of and place at the altar, leaving it at the throne for God's concern? No material thing, no person, not anything, can give you the fulfillment of life that the Father can. God is able. He is able to take all of you; your uncertainties, your doubts, your hurts, your disappointments, your failures, and give you all that you need, if you'd trust Him to do it. Because the evidence is quite clear: we cannot do it on our own.

There is no place too dark or too deep that God cannot reach you. There is nothing too scary or too bleak that God cannot see you. There is nothing that you have or could ever attain, that God cannot out do. He loves us just that much. Now all you have to do is exercise a bit of trust and walk in faith, that God will do just what He has promised concerning you.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your life. It is not easy to let go of things; especially when we have become dependent upon them, and have come to trust them (it) more than God. Release all that you have unto God. Give Him your all, and watch what God will do for you in return. You've trust others and they've let you down. Now it's time to trust God, who has never failed. No. Not once. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "What Are You Thinking?"

Reflections4Life  March 30^th, 2014

“What Are You Thinking?”

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

Scripture Contemplation: Psalm 34:13; Proverbs 23:7; Romans 12:1-2; James 1…

We have all heard that our words are powerful. We know that God created the universe with words. We understand the impact that words can have on a person’s life; especially those that are bullied, nearing death, facing certain tragedy.

But how many of us understand that there is a connection to what we are thinking and what resides in our hearts, to the words that we speak each and every day. Words that we say to others. Words we speak concerning ourselves.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections is a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. May the words that come forth from your lips be not only aligned with your heart, but with the heart of God, where your thoughts have been renewed.

There is a connection between what we are thinking of ourselves and others or a situation to the words we allow to pass through our lips. The human mind processes many thoughts throughout the day; many we are not even consciously aware of. Our mouths often betray what lies within our heart. Without any thought, we can blurt out things that are hurtful, harmful, and devastating.

What are we thinking?  When certain conversations and words come through our mouths, are we really aware of our thoughts? Many are not because they have gone into shutdown mode where their thoughts are concerned. They are in escape mode. And more often than not, our words will betray what we have not had the courage to confront; especially in a hostile or threatening situation where one may feel cornered, abused, scared, or frustrated.

There are times when we may lash out in anger and say things that we did not mean to say. Then there are times when our tongues will betray what we have hidden in our hearts. There will always come a time when whatever we have buried so deep, will no longer be able to stay buried; especially when we are in a relationship with God.

An intimate relationship with the Father will bring introspect. It will cause us to look within and confront some things about ourselves that we may have been avoiding for a very long time. Continued intimacy with God brings healing and deliverance. And part of that process is often taking a look at what we think and feel; what we think of ourselves and others, and the why of it.

Have you ever been around a person that continually speaks negatively about others? They have absolutely nothing nice to say concerning anyone. They seem miserable. Their mouths have caused negative feelings throughout the space; changing the very atmosphere. You may ask yourself: what is that person thinking? What could be going through their mind; what is in their hearts to have them be so foul or negative?

I often thought that. There were times when I have said something and wished I could take it back. I asked myself what I was thinking. And I was reminded by the Father that I must guard my tongue. And in guarding my tongue, I must take reign over my thoughts. To actually stop and think before I speak. To, be certain renew my mind with the Word, and to respond and not react.

We all have a story. We are all on the journey that will greet us with different experiences. We may not understand another person’s journey or why they do and say the things they say. However, we can get to the root of the things we are saying and thinking of ourselves that do not line up with what God has spoken to us.

Sometimes our mouths betray us and will reveal more than what we may want another person to know. There comes a time in our lives when we can no longer hide what is inside of us. We no longer can pretend or push down our emotions and thoughts, because there is just too much. And in order for God to pour into us what we need, and what He desires for us, we must empty out our cups.

However, this in no way gives us license to have a brash tongue that cuts and causes people to bleed; piercing their hearts and souls; causing damage as never before. We have a responsibility to ourselves, to God, to those we love and interact with to not only guard our tongue, but to check our thoughts, and be open to the truth about ourselves.

No one really likes to admit their faults, flaws, and fears. For too long, many of us have buried things so deep that there is no more room at the Inn! It is time to release it unto God before we release it upon others in a very hurtful and damaging ways.

I always believed that hurt people hurt people, and that anger is a symptom of some kind of hurt, and a person is more likely than not, lashing out because of something that hurt them, and things that they may not want to face.

To be truly free, there must be a confession. To open our hearts to the Father, we must be willing to face the pain of buried memories, and thoughts that we may have been suppressing. To be able to guard our tongues; we must be willing to allow the Father to guard our hearts as He takes on a journey of self-discovery; wherein we will have to decide if we have the faith and courage to face our past, our shortcomings, our fears, and uncertainties. To be willing to change how we think and believe about self.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity will find permanent rest in your lives. There is power in our tongues. The power to speak life and death to a situation. The power to change lives; our own lives, and to reveal where our thoughts lie and what is being etched in our hearts. Allow God reign over your thoughts as you renew them daily. Allow Holy Spirit to be your mind regulator and your tongue tamer. There is nothing more precious than speaking and believing what God speaks and believes of you. Let the mind of Christ dwell within. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Do You Really Want To Know The Truth?

Reflections4Life  March 23^rd, 2014

“Do You Really Want To Know The Truth?”

“Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.” Psalm 51:6 (NKJV)

Scripture Contemplation: Joshua 24:14; 1Samuel 12:24; Psalm 15:2; Psalm 25:10; John 14:6…

How many times have you asked the Father what to do? How many times have you prayed to God, seeking which way to go, or what you might have done wrong so you could correct it? I have, quite a few times. But it was only when I have been honest with myself and searched my heart that I truly heard the Father, and understood what to do next. If you are not first willing to look within yourself, then you must ask: Do you really want to know the truth? The truth can be quite painful but at the same time liberating if you truly are ready to move forward, and receive all that God has ordained for your life.

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 God to illuminate your heart with the truth. Don’t be afraid to search your heart and find out what is there. Allow the truth to free you, and set you on the path to your God ordained life.

What is it about the truth that scares some people? It is true: the truth can be painful. But it is also healing and liberating. I have always maintained that I would rather know the truth and be hurt than to be told a lie and find out later. The lie would be far more hurtful, to me. I believe that when you are told the truth; though it may hurt, you at least know what it is you are dealing with. You can build on that and make the proper decisions. With a lie; one has to continue to lie just to cover up that one lie. Then when the truth is revealed (and it always is), there is so much room for pain and damage that you may never be able to recover the relationship.

During my life’s journey, I have come to understand that many, including myself at one time, do not really want to know the truth. Why? Because the truth can be painful. Because it causes one to have to take responsibility. Perhaps it may reveal that we are the one that is holding up our blessing. And, we may be fearful to uncover all that we have been suppressing in our lives: past hurts, old wounds, abuse, and etcetera.

I openly admit that at one time, I was the master at hiding the truth from myself. I hid it so well that I did not even know who I was anymore. I had lost my own identity and was living my life to please others. Living the life that I thought would make others happy. The truth is—my past is filled with hurtful things that I just wanted to forget; pain that I wanted to stay buried. And if I were to face the truth about why I was not happy in my present, and why I felt stagnated, then I was going to have searched myself, and hear my truth which I wasn’t sure I really wanted to know.

Here’s what I know for certain: Whatever you do not confront will continue to show up in your life in different ways until you decide to deal with it once and for all. It will show up in your relationships, your career, your sleep, and your daily habits. It will be like an annoying itch that you cannot reach until you finally find a way to scratch it.

If we sincerely want to live the life that God has ordained for us, then we must walk in truth. In order to fully embrace what God has for us, our hearts must be prepared to handle all that goodness and awesomeness. But when we have things hidden in our hearts; truths that we do not want to confront; then we hinder the move of God in our lives. We stop ourselves from living our best life possible.

To thy own self-be true. Many of us hate to be lied to. I say many and not all; because there are some that want to be lied to. It enables them to continue to live their own lie. But I digress. Many of us hate to be lied to, but we will lie to ourselves. We will hide from our own truths, and do all that we can to avoid searching our hearts and bringing up and out those things that have hindered our lives from moving forward.

The sad truth is, too many of us have become comfortable in dysfunction. We have become comfortable in living an unfulfilled life; a stagnated life. Oh, we say we want more. We will profess that we want to go further. We say that we desire all that God has for us. Yet the truth of the matter is; we are afraid. We are afraid to step out of our comfort zone. We have become tied to our excuses and too familiar with our fears.

It’s time, beloved. It’s time to face our truths. It’s time to confront our pasts. It’s time to search and know our hearts. It’s time to know the truth, so we can be liberated, strengthened, healed, and delivered. What we refuse to confront will only keep showing up until we are forced to face it.

Allow God into those hidden places. The places that you have feared to tread for fear of uncovering the truth. Let the truth set you free. Let God become your truth. You are not alone in this journey. And your journey doesn’t have to only consist of pain, heartache, and disappointments. No. Your journey can be filled with joy—even in the midst of pain. Laughter—even in the midst of sorrow. Hope—in the midst of despair. God is your anchor. He will not lead you to a place to abandon you. He desires to wash away your shame and to give you beauty for your ashes if you will take the step to know and face your truths.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Know the truth; it will set you free. Face your past. Confront your fears. With God with you, you cannot lose. Yes. It may be painful, but Christ will be the balm that soothes your wounds and brings healing to your heart. Trust Him. He’s never lost a case! It’s time to live your best and most authentic life now. God loves you. And His love washes away all the hurt, pain, lies, and sin. You might not believe this, but it’s the truth: You are Blessed! Now go….and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "In Times of Pain and Heartache"

Reflections4Life  March 16, 2014

“In Times of Pain and Heartache”

“He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power.” Isaiah 40:29 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation; Psalm 121; Isaiah 40; Jeremiah 17; Zechariah 4; Ephesians 4; 6; Philippians 4:13…

It is so easy to let go and stop believing then it is to hold on and keep believing; standing in faith; trusting God to do just what He said. Oh, how I am there this very day. At the crossroads of holding on and letting go. Yet, my relationship with the Father just won’t allow me to let go. Even through this time of pain and heartache, I will continue to hold on, because I know God has me.

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 the times before you may be difficult and painful, and at times heart-wrenching; I implore you to look to the hills which cometh your faith; for your strength comes from the Lord.

This is what I know for certain: I am alive, breathing, and walking only by the grace and mercy of the Lord. There is a war going on between my flesh, emotions, and my spirit. There is a battle between my intellect and my faith. There are times when I can’t say who is winning because my heart just aches so much that my throat tightens from squeezing back the tears that want to continually flow. Yet, I still reach forward to God, even though I can admit that I am angry with God.

Yes. I said it. I am angry with God. Surely He could have stepped in! Surely He could have done something! Surely He could have prevented certain things! Surely He could have heard my prayers and answered! Surely He could have said something instead of being silent! And I could go on and on, because my flesh will always cry out this way, while my spirit says: All things are working out for my good. I will not grow weary in well doing. I will see the righteousness of God in my life.

I cannot be anything but transparent before you today, beloveds. When I say the pain and heartache that I am experiencing at this moment is deep; it is. It is so excruciating that it feels like someone has a vice-grip on my heart and is squeezing it. The enemy is taunting, while my spirit is yelling: GOD CANNOT LIE!!!

Have you been here beloved? Are you here now beloved? Are you in much pain and heartache that you do not know how or if you are going to make it? The last thing you want is a bunch of scriptures quoted to you. The last thing you want to hear is that God is working it out. All you know is that you want the pain to stop. You want God to answer your prayers…NOW!

This is the point where we need the scriptures more than ever. This is the point when we must remember the promises of God. This is the time when we must be totally honest with ourselves and the Lord. Trust me; God can handle it! Tell God you are hurting. Tell the Father you are angry at Him. Tell God about your disappointments. And after you have done all of that; after you have cried and felt sorry for yourself; open your mouth and begin to give God the praise. Open your mouth and begin to speak the scriptures, the promises of God, to your situation and your circumstances.

Yes! It is difficult. It is hard to do these things when the pain is so raw and present. Yet, this is what we must do to hold on. This is what we must do by faith. We cannot trust our feelings, beloved. We cannot go by what things appear to be. We cannot allow the present sufferings keep us from walking in faith and calling upon the Lord. Why? Because the moment we give in to the pain and heartache is the moment the enemy wins. It is the moment we lose.

We must determine in our hearts to go forward and to hang on no matter what we are going through. Yes, it is hard. Because it is during these times that we are in our emotions. We are like an open wound and exposed to the elements. But Jesus is the salve that covers us. And trust me; the flesh will fight continually against your spirit. The enemy will continue to whisper his lies. But we must determine to hold on.

It is easy to let go and to go back to the world’s way. You just let go. It is much harder to hold on because the flesh continually wants to wallow in the pain instead of remembering the promise. My goodness, it hurts so badly! Some days I just cry and cry, and my heart aches so badly. And I just want it to be over. I just want God to do what He said and bring His promises to pass right now!

I confessed my anger to the Lord. I let out all that is in my heart. I bring it the throne and lay it at the altar. Then, though my flesh does not want to, I remember His promises and I give Him the praise. I speak the scriptures. And I make God my strength. Yes. It still hurts, but I know that if I give up; if I let go now; things will only get worse, and the devil wins. And I refuse to give the victory to the enemy when he has already been defeated.

There is a fine line between moving forward in faith, and falling into self-pity. If we concentrate only upon the pain and heartache; making a shrine to it daily, then we are limiting God from moving forward on our behalf. There must come a time when we ask ourselves if we are going to believe God or not? If we are going to trust Him where we cannot trace Him? If we are going to walk by faith and not by sight? And, if we truly believe that God will deliver the righteous out every affliction! I am holding on. Determined that this pain and heartache will not last.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Though what you may be experiencing right now is painful. You may not be able to see the road before you; continue to trust God to bring you through. Let your faith lead you where your flesh is reluctant to go. We walk by faith, not by sight. God is doing just what He said; even if it doesn’t look like it. Your faith will determine how soon this, too, shall pass. Let the power of God fill you and strengthen you. Walk in His strength as you hold on to faith. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

It Doesn't Make Any Sense

Reflections4Life March 9, 2014

“It Doesn't Make Any Sense”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5,6

Scripture Contemplation: Job 34; Psalm 128; Proverbs 16; Jeremiah 29:11; 1 Corinthians 2:8-10; Hebrews 4:12...

I don't know. It doesn't make any sense. How could this happen? Why do these things keep happening? Is God even there? Is He even listening to me? Is this journey in vain? Is there even any purpose to holding on and having faith? What is going on!? I trusted and believed, and still!

Those are just a few of the things that crossed my mind and my lips this past week after yet another devastating blow happened in my life. Have you been there? Are you there now? How are you faring in your faith? There are many things that will happen in our life that will not make any sense at all. Yet, the Father wants us to hold on. To maintain our faith. Seems like a lot to ask for; especially when you have been holding on for so long.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. As it is very easy to give up and let go, I ask that you would do the harder thing: hold on. Do not let go of the promises of God; regardless of what it looks like or how long you have been waiting; keep holding on. It takes a lot more to keep holding on. But if you continue to trust God, He will see you through.

I cannot even begin to tell you the heartache, the disappointment, the confusion that I experienced this past week. It was so heart-wrenching and emotionally debilitating. Even when you know you have done all that you could do; you have believed, trusted God, had faith; you still find yourself asking God why because it just doesn't make any sense.

My mind could not comprehend any reason for what took place. It didn't make any sense to me whatsoever. Yet, in the stillness of my heart, I can hear God say: I got you. However, I could hear a “but” on my part. But why God? But how God? Why did you let this happen? Wasn't my faith strong enough? Didn't I believe? So why? It doesn't make any sense. Please help me to understand.

We are going to experience things in this lifetime that we are just not going to understand. It will not make any sense to us at all, and God will ask us to have faith; to keep believing Him and trusting that He is working all things out. The Father understands clearly what He is asking of us, and how hard it may be when it just doesn't make any sense to us.

The Father also understands that many of us will falter in our faith. We will waver in our belief in Him and what He has spoken concerning our lives. Yet, He still admonishes us to hold on, have faith, and keep believing. But how? How do we keep believing and holding on when it seems as though we have waited so long for the manifestations of the promises? When, we have held onto faith and believed, as everything around us has launched a full-scale attack upon us? How can God possibly expect us to keep believing when it doesn't make any sense?

Because God knows what He has declared and decreed over our lives. He knows that if we continue to trust Him where we cannot trace Him; if we continue to have faith in the midst of adversity; if we continue to praise Him in the midst of heartache; if we continue to believe in spite of the hurt and disappointments; we will receive the full manifestations of what we have been waiting and pray for.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

I know how hard it can get sometimes. I know how devastating it can be to have waited so long, and be disappointed to the point that you want to just give up; give up on life, give up on faith; give up on God. I implore you to not give up. To keep holding on and exercising your faith.

Many times we look at the clock and we get overwhelmed by the time as we see it ticking past, and as we grow older. Our focus is no longer on what God has spoken and decreed in our lives, but it is focused on the time that is passing and how long we have waited.

God is always on time. And whatever He has promised it shall come to pass if we continue to believe and have faith, and do not let go or grow weary in our waiting. Yes; easier said than done. But just as any other muscle in our body, our faith is a muscle that needs to be worked out daily. It needs to be exercised on a daily basis, so that it may become strong and immovable.

The Father works in seasons. He is outside of time. And whatever God has spoken concerning your life, it will come to pass in dues season. Our focus must not be on time but on God. It must remain on the Father and not the circumstances. I am most certain Job felt the same; that he was doing everything right in his life; pleasing to God. Even he learned some things about his life. Yet God still blessed him double for what was taken.

I look at the Hebrew boys in the furnace. They were stolen from their homes. Stripped of their names and culture. But they held onto their faith. They believed God. Trusted God even as they were being thrown into the fire. Their faith remained so strong, that they understood that even death would still bring them the ultimate pleasure of being in the presence of God.

Consider Daniel. It would have been far easier to bow, but he refused to change or compromise his faith in God. It didn't make any sense; he'd represented God. Stayed true to his faith and worship, and his reward was to be thrown into the lion's den? He believed. Had faith in God to do just what He said.

How many of us can say the same? Especially in the times when things just don't make any sense? Will you remain faithful? Will you continue to believe and trust God? Will you keep the faith, and recognize that you have already won and that God will not make you ashamed?

Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you shall have double honor, And instead of confusion, they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land, they shall possess double; Everlasting joy shall be theirs.”

I implore you to hold on. Even when it doesn't make any sense. Even when what you are experiencing seems counterproductive to the faith you have been exercising. Trust God. No matter what it looks like. Keep believing and speaking the word of God. We are declared the winners, regardless of what it may appear to be right now.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Though it may not make any sense the things you are faced with; have faith in God to see you through. Believe that God has a plan and purpose for your life and that even these setbacks and disappointments are all a part of making you ready for the manifestations of His blessings in your life. Have faith. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "Crossroads"

Reflections4Life March 2^nd, 2014

“Crossroads”

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

Scripture Contemplation:Proverbs 10:29; Obadiah 1:13-15; Matthew 6; Matthew 7; Revelation 3...

At times in the journey of our lives, we will come to a crossroads. And at these crossroads in life, we are going to have to make a decision—a decision that will not only impact our own lives, but those we love and associate with; those we may minister to; those we may have a responsibility to, and it will have a definite impact on our relationship with God.

There are various times or seasons in our lives when these crossroads appear; when these life changing moments occur. And it is in these seasons that we make a decision that will affect the rest of our lives. It will determine the direction in which our life's journey will continue. Are you at a crossroads today? Have you sought the Father and His wisdom? A crossroad is nothing we should ever take lightly, but always be prayerful about.

I declare and decree that this week's Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration to your heart, mind, and soul. As you stand at the crossroads of your life, may you be wise in your decision in which way to go. Lean not to your own understanding, but trust in the Lord to direct your path.

What is a crossroad? A simple definition is an intersection of two or more roads. What is a crossroad in life? It is a point that you come to in life when you may not be certain of which is the right path to take. It is a moment when you come to a point in your walk, your life, your career, etcetera. You are hit with the proverbial fork in the road. And you have to decide, which path is going to bring you to the life that you desire. Which path is going to lead you to where you need to be.

There are two things about crossroads. One is that you may not be able to see down the line of its path. You cannot tell exactly which road is going to lead you to the desired life because at the start of the crossroads everything looks the same. Each path seems good or the right choice. And often times you do not know until you choose the path if you've chosen the right path for yourself.

The second thing is that there are crossroads that you know which is the right path to go. You know what you need to do. But often, the path that you should go is not the easiest path to take. It is narrow. At times it can seem restricted, lonely, and unpopular. While the other path seems to get you where you want to go sooner and with merriment. But the thing about that particular wide path of ease; you cannot see the hidden pitfalls and traps. You cannot see all the detours, detractors and the heartache and pain; because in the beginning, everything feels good and right. And what most who choose this path do not realize is, it's a dead end with a circle that goes round and round, and the only way out is destruction and death.

Are you at a crossroads today? Which crossroads are you at? The one where you are not sure? Is the crossroad where you are certain of the path to take but are having trouble making the right choice?

We've all been there. We've been at the fork in the road where we are not certain which path is going to lead us to where we desire to be in life. This is where we must allow our faith to lead us. Where we trust God where we cannot trace Him.

It's not an easy task. Mostly because we do not want to make a mistake and choose the wrong path. But, here's the wonderful thing: we can trust God to lead us. We can walk confidently in faith and trust that whichever path we take, God will be with us and guide us. And that, whatever road we take, as long as we stay connected to our Father, and lean not to our own understanding, we will be exactly where we need to be.

Or, are you that person that knows which road to take, but are having a difficult time in making the right decision? Many have been there as well. You know what road you should go. But it is not appealing to your flesh right now. You know what decision would be right, but there is a battle going on between your spirit man and the flesh.

You may even be running away from what you know is right. Trying to escape the responsibilities of this life. But be certain of this: whatever path you take, you are not the only one affected by your choice. Those you love are affected. Those God has assigned you to. Everything in your life will be affected by your choice between right and wrong. So, when you know which is the right road to take, and you choose the other; you do so with the understanding that, yes, the choice is yours, you are free to make it—but there will be consequences, and not just for you.

Life is going to be filled with many choices. We will stand at many crossroads. And we may not always choose the right path. Yet, God is faithful to bring us to where we need to be. To get us back on the right path. However, when we come to the crossroads in life, all we have to do is stand still and listen to the Father's instructions. Follow what He tells us. Be confident and have faith.

Sometimes we have to make a split second decision; unable to give long thought to what we should do. It can be a life and death situation. Have faith in the Father that you will make the right choice. Believe in yourself. For God has placed in us everything that we need to make it in this life and to make the tough decisions that come with this life.

The choices we make today will not only affect our lives and those in it. But it will have an impact for generations to come. We are all connected. Life connects us and the choices we make. If you are not sure which path to take when your standing at the crossroads, ask the Father and search your heart. Then take a leap of faith. If you're at the crossroads, and you know what is right, but maybe feeling fearful; let it go, and understand that, yes, the choice is always yours to make. But obedience to the Father will always trump sacrifice. And that the choice you make today, have sure enough consequences for not only you but others also.

I decree that the spirit of peace and of prosperity have found permanent rest in your lives. Life is a journey with crossroads. We may not always be certain of the path to take. But when you walk by faith, you know that God will never lead you astray. Do not be afraid to do what is right. Do not be afraid of a daunting task, when God said He's already declared you the winner. It's just your turn to pick up the cross. Remember: Jesus was at a crossroads in the garden of Gethsemane. He chose. And because of Him, we are redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Our sins were forgiven. And eternal life gained. You are Blessed. Now go...and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.

Reflections4Life: "It's Time To Let It Go"

Reflections4Life  February 23, 2014

“It’s Time to Let it Go”

“If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:21-24 (NASB)

Scripture Contemplation: Jeremiah 17; 33; Romans 12; Ephesians 4; Romans 8; 1 Peter 1; James 4…

Did you ever own a favorite article of clothing that you just couldn’t seem to part with? It wasn’t that the clothing itself was in fashion, or looked good on you, but it was tied to a memory; to an experience, that whenever you held this article of clothing it reminded of you of that time long ago.

We have a way of holding onto things from our past; be it an article of clothing, furniture, a keepsake, a memory, a way of thinking or behavior. Because we are not letting go, it is interfering with our present and our future. It’s time to let it go. It’s time to say goodbye to our old ways, and embrace what God has for us now.

I declare and decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement for your heart, mind, and soul. There is much that God desires to bring to pass in your life. Let this be the week that you release it all into the hands of God and trust Him with your now, and with your tomorrows.

As long as you hold on to what was, you will not be able to receive what God has for you now. So many of us are trapped in our past. We are trapped in a realm of hurt, pain, disappointments, and we have become stuck, spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and even physically.

The truth of it is, many of us have been accustomed to a certain way of life. The enemy has convinced many that we are not worthy of the promises of God. We allowed the whispers of the enemy to take space in our minds, and take root in our hearts until we now believe his lies. By believing those lies, we sabotage our lives. We inhibit the Father from manifesting His blessings in our lives as He desires.

I am convinced that many people have a relationship with their past just as a victim of abuse has with their abuser. Many victims of abuse; especially domestic violence, have been abused in such a way that they start to believe that the abuse is their fault. Many ask the question as to why a person that is being abused just doesn’t leave the relationship. Why would anyone stay in a relationship that is so evidently toxic and painful?

What many feel to understand is that the abuser has slowly but steadily torn down the defenses and self-esteem of their victim. They have isolated them, stripped them of their voice, and work continually at manipulating them and those around them. It is the threats and whispers and the isolation that the victim succumbs to; giving up their will to fight; eventually believing that they are getting what they deserve, and are unworthy of anything or anyone better.

That is how it is with Satan. He is an abuser of our mind and soul. He tries to rape us daily with his lies, leaving us vulnerable, violated and without trust. He will use our past against us to try and keep us bound and from moving forward in the Lord. He will remind us of two things consistently: 1. who we were, and 2. what we did.

He will whisper lies and tells us that we are not worthy. He will remind us everything we ever did wrong, and plant seeds of doubt that God could never and would never use us. And if he cannot get you with that, he will try another scenario by making you long for your past. He will repeatedly bring pictures to your mind, people in your presence, to remind you of the sin which made you feel good at the time. That sin that made you forget about God and about responsibility. He will even try and convince you that you were better off without knowing God.

Here’s the real truth of the matter: If your past was so good to you; if your past held all the answers, then you would not have sought out God for His redemption and deliverance. Too many of us keep looking back. We know what we went through. We know the experiences we endured. We know what life was like; what our hearts were like without the Holy Spirit. Yet, we return to our past like a dog to its vomit. And we begin the torturous cycle all over again. Only this time, it is worse than before, because we have tasted and now know the goodness of our Lord.

Just as some victims return to their abuser, many of us will turn to our past. Why? Because it’s familiar. It’s what we know. It’s what we understand. Our minds have not been renewed or transformed. We allow the lies of the enemy to take root in our hearts and grow bitter and poisonous fruit in our lives. The fruit has grown with thorns; thorns that prick us, choke the good fruit, make us bleed, and cause us to hurt others in our lives.

We do not understand our worth and the abundance that God has for us because we are too busy holding on to memories and experiences of the past. We judge everything we do now by what our life was like before. We judge others based upon what we or others did to us in the past. We hold onto things and ways and thoughts, not because they are right, but because they are familiar, and we are comfortable with the dysfunction and disorder.

Everything we have done and have learned and have experienced before knowing Christ is corrupt. It must be filtered through the Holy Spirit, cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. God cannot pour into us all that He has ordained when we are filled with poisonous toxins from a life that was corrupt, filled with sin and deceit. In order to walk in the newness of Christ, then we must be willing to surrender all and lay down everything at the altar of God; putting the old man to death.

Our minds must be changed and renewed. For it is in the mind that it all begins. Whatever we think upon will eventually come to pass in our lives. It tells us in Isaiah that he who keeps his mind on Christ (on the things of God) will be kept in perfect peace.  Make no mistake: the carnal mind will always be against the Spirit. And until we yield completely, the enemy will take full advantage of his favorite place to reside: in the mind of man, which leads to the heart and actions of man.

Romans 8:7 “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.”

Do not forfeit what God has for you now and in the future because you are comfortable with your past, or afraid of change and becoming the person God has called you to be. Let those things go! Release it to God. You cannot come to the throne with closed fists and a closed heart expecting Him to fill you. You cannot walk in the abundance of God and in His knowledge and wisdom with the mind of your past. It must be renewed and transformed each and every day.

I decree that the spirit of peace and prosperity has found permanent rest in your lives. Surrender it all to God. Every thought, every memory, every keepsake, every sin.  Allow Holy Spirit to breathe into you and place in your heart the very thing that God has ordained for you. Don’t give the enemy any more room to rent in your mind and heart. Present him with his eviction notice, and Jesus shows him the door. He’s been trespassing way, too, long! You are deserving of God’s best. You are Blessed. Now go…and Be a Blessing!

©2014. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.