tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46425449377438979382024-03-18T06:24:08.929-07:00Growing Up In The Word The Balm of Gilead Ministries -
Growing Up In The Word -
Equipping, building up and encouraging through the word of GodGrowing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comBlogger1923125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-9146501795481599802024-03-18T06:23:00.000-07:002024-03-18T06:23:21.583-07:00Remove the Ban Aid of Bitterness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxZ8PInlAKOVL6wBezFK4odRRdodRSPu2SQLhXk_a5tvl359TthtnwHKcgDhIa5bcqKUIxvHMZoqTpXNRPCo-RKmRAXsC0iSrgyvyed9ZENUcBC2cJMakwNgbMdTxlyQp3LptCPKxJMr-6i2fIRt-y1uPzRcuvH8AAjbzix72tK0MsgUfh2s_3gIFhsbd/s2048/IMG_9192.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxZ8PInlAKOVL6wBezFK4odRRdodRSPu2SQLhXk_a5tvl359TthtnwHKcgDhIa5bcqKUIxvHMZoqTpXNRPCo-RKmRAXsC0iSrgyvyed9ZENUcBC2cJMakwNgbMdTxlyQp3LptCPKxJMr-6i2fIRt-y1uPzRcuvH8AAjbzix72tK0MsgUfh2s_3gIFhsbd/s320/IMG_9192.png" width="320" /></a></div><p>When we are hurt by others, the fastest way to stop the emotional bleeding is to put on the band-aid of bitterness. It keeps us from feeling the pain and on guard of being hurt again. It also keeps us from feeling God at work in our lives or His call to do His work.</p><p>God’s word warns “Looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springs up and cause trouble, and by this many become defiled.” (Hebrews 12:15) Once bitterness has taken root it causes the wound to fester and grow. Anger, depression, anxiety…all grow out of bitterness.</p><p>To get rid of the ban aid of bitterness we need to allow God to come in and clean the wound so that it can heal properly. Because even though it’s been covered up through various coping mechanisms, is still there and it still hurts. Just like a cut that got infected, emotional wounds have to be cleaned so we can get rid of the infection and heal.</p><p>Like poison bitterness can slowly kill us. It can harden our hearts to where when God points it out to us we turn our back on what we need to do to get rid of it. The good news is that we have a Savior who can heal our broken hearts and bind up our wounds so that we no longer have to pretend that everything is okay and stop putting on a happy face when we are crying on the inside.</p><p>Take your hurts to Jesus. He can clean out the wound causing the infection of bitterness that is making you heartsick and preventing you from giving or receiving forgiveness and living in the fullness of His love and grace.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-2825641638181112292024-03-15T05:57:00.000-07:002024-03-15T05:57:09.769-07:00Prayer for Healing A Broken Heart <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAuNJBdTuyZJ48fivvKELuYq_6Rlf145vIyXQWfBLjTqGow_soV-YnYq2DtovVI_NK1V-uJg_tVjg4-egr0lKu5V8Z8j_knRqMt6NT5ARPNhp3Kg19c3uNFM6aPhyphenhyphenfAWkcDDkYz5lBXrMLaYIQNcqLEqpZDNsGPCMNoc2eaco6IchG56zFOlghlj8KrWT/s1080/IMG_9166.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAuNJBdTuyZJ48fivvKELuYq_6Rlf145vIyXQWfBLjTqGow_soV-YnYq2DtovVI_NK1V-uJg_tVjg4-egr0lKu5V8Z8j_knRqMt6NT5ARPNhp3Kg19c3uNFM6aPhyphenhyphenfAWkcDDkYz5lBXrMLaYIQNcqLEqpZDNsGPCMNoc2eaco6IchG56zFOlghlj8KrWT/s320/IMG_9166.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Lord God,</p><p>I come before You with a heavy, yet willing and obedient heart. I am in pain, Lord God, and I need Your guidance, courage, and strength.</p><p>I surrender my whole heart to You and only You...I seek You and only You...I choose You and only You as my Lord and Master.</p><p>Abba Father,</p><p>Cast the Light of Your Truth into the darkened shadows of my heart...identify, expose and excise the seeds and weeds of deception...the sources of pain the enemy has placed within my heart and utilized to cheat and derail me from the authentic path ordained by You for my life.</p><p>Please give me the courage to face the pain of my past...the lies, sin, shame, guilt, doubt, violations, unmet needs, injustices, rejection, fear, abandonment, abuse, pride, denial, anger, addictions, bitterness - all things the enemy has whispered into my life and utilized to create a false belief system. Father, deliver me from this bondage and reveal to me how to truly receive Your Grace...to replace the darkness with Your Everlasting Truth and Love.</p><p>As I earnestly seek Your cleansing of the corrupted soil of my heart, I realize the enemy may retaliate, but You have promised to tuck me under Your Wing, graciously giving me Your divine spiritual, emotional and physical protection, as You are The Lord of Hosts and Ruler over all principalities.</p><p>I praise You, Lord God that You are faithful and will not allow me to endure what I am unable to walk through...that You love me and will not forsake me. </p><p>I pray all these things in The Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-70438223418007483752024-03-14T05:52:00.000-07:002024-03-14T05:52:26.568-07:00The Battlefield of Our Mimd <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuuYUQT7Ocdwnpz4oz_4ecszXh_qedC5MU7R5kdMWJGPCztBvGL5uQY4YOXNgR8oujupQT_OwhdBLxd6i34GMf8tXwvA7poS7WgAvtiHQWWm4t8OZP2qn1BNdeHrbU4pofKd7Y9nQT3CFLCaemEOGsHwCDFWHNH9FTfXindy0BQQ-4yD51o6JNn7y1nVgO/s1080/DB3BF822-A780-479B-BEF6-86465ECB5B6B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuuYUQT7Ocdwnpz4oz_4ecszXh_qedC5MU7R5kdMWJGPCztBvGL5uQY4YOXNgR8oujupQT_OwhdBLxd6i34GMf8tXwvA7poS7WgAvtiHQWWm4t8OZP2qn1BNdeHrbU4pofKd7Y9nQT3CFLCaemEOGsHwCDFWHNH9FTfXindy0BQQ-4yD51o6JNn7y1nVgO/s320/DB3BF822-A780-479B-BEF6-86465ECB5B6B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Many struggles in life often are fought on the battlefield of our minds. That’s why James writes “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” (James 4:1). That’s why we are exhorted in God’s Word to demolish any thought that goes against what God says is true about any given situation.</p><p>We are in a Spiritual battle and need to take every stray thought captive and repent, correct it and align it with the truth of God’s Word. If someone has hurt us or wronged us, and we are having hateful thoughts towards that person, we need to take that hateful thought captive immediately so that bitterness does not take root in our hearts and defiles us. (Hebrews 12:15)</p><p>We need to stop, realize what is truth in the situation, take responsibility for our wrong actions, ask for forgiveness, acknowledge when they are wrong, understand that we cannot change another person, offer forgiveness, release them to God and choose not to hate. The victory in the battle is won when we discipline our thinking, so it focuses on thoughts that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and are praiseworthy to God. (Philippians 4:8)</p><p>Negative emotions like anger, bitterness, hate, jealousy, fear, anxiety can kill us. They are joy stealers. They suck the life out of us and hinder us from living abundant lives in Christ. The good news is that we are not powerless. God has given us a choice to meditate on life giving thoughts or thoughts that bring death in our lives and render us defeated. Choose life! Choose victory! Make it a practice to capture every negative thought and choose to replace them with good ones which come from the truth of God’s life-giving Word.</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-8417996599651570032024-03-13T06:51:00.000-07:002024-03-13T06:51:54.184-07:00The Truth Sets You Free <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9DdaK9Th5MyDT2MiyAT9cEyxQzaG18DdhijCtLHwej21G1cSiIWAHOvwd8FLaMxgdwXGF3lHwaYZ2uNGn7j3RvEQZJ2cph4U2175FhtLtxmJu9gN0WGydJ_04HuTfYNS9iSfaeEB_dsrakSrbz7Eze02g_yFyh69hlso_mx5Htx9IU844KRYhrsPMsCS/s1080/IMG_9156.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9DdaK9Th5MyDT2MiyAT9cEyxQzaG18DdhijCtLHwej21G1cSiIWAHOvwd8FLaMxgdwXGF3lHwaYZ2uNGn7j3RvEQZJ2cph4U2175FhtLtxmJu9gN0WGydJ_04HuTfYNS9iSfaeEB_dsrakSrbz7Eze02g_yFyh69hlso_mx5Htx9IU844KRYhrsPMsCS/s320/IMG_9156.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Nothing hurts and nothing heals like the truth. Facing the truth is sometimes like getting a shot from the doctor. Facing the truth sometimes brings a sting, but eventually healing will come and we will feel better. The truth heals us and restores us when we place our life in the hands of God. Without placing our life in Christ's love and grace, the truth can only hurt us and there are even times when the truth can maim and traumatize us.</p><p>However, God has organized things in such a way as to bless us and heal us when we are with Him and when we rejoice in knowing the truth. The truth heals and restores our soul because when we live and immerse ourselves in the truth, eventually the truth will lead us to God. We are healed and restored by the truth because the truth always leads us to a place where we find comfort and love in His presence. The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is this…God loves us beyond our ability to fully comprehend. All the hurt, trauma, and tragedy of this life can be washed away in the truth of God's love and grace if we are willing to be His child.</p><p>This washing away of our darkness is how the truth heals and restores us. After we are washed clean by Christ's love, we find ourselves being wrapped up in His arms. In the washing away of our lies and deceptions, we begin to see clearly our Savior who stands by us every second of our life. We also see He wants us to join Him in Heaven after our mission on earth has been completed. </p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-70248805080828282842024-03-12T07:05:00.000-07:002024-03-12T07:05:57.996-07:00Get Rid of All Bitterness, Rage and Anger…<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9noD5ztsXujQ5iWZ5SusouK0MtYonKdUmc7aPKdygjhh3J4tkqWTzw6RGWo9541Sp3JeORGWWm5dWu-ISFmNxRzyUYp4w10D_cwrDdenaeuVYadApFLM0CtT78fIDAsyI8rNHSrfU1JSlxDqEKqDzreSIp_M3UlnFRHX0PzoRZ4ouBroW8JxDmJCIFVlU/s1080/B73B9193-94A9-4C72-972A-7967C676B91D.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9noD5ztsXujQ5iWZ5SusouK0MtYonKdUmc7aPKdygjhh3J4tkqWTzw6RGWo9541Sp3JeORGWWm5dWu-ISFmNxRzyUYp4w10D_cwrDdenaeuVYadApFLM0CtT78fIDAsyI8rNHSrfU1JSlxDqEKqDzreSIp_M3UlnFRHX0PzoRZ4ouBroW8JxDmJCIFVlU/s320/B73B9193-94A9-4C72-972A-7967C676B91D.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>People even in the church can behave in very unloving and ungodly ways. They can act out in pride and holier than thou attitudes or lash out in anger, addictions, slander and malice towards others grieving the Holy Spirit in whom we were sealed. It’s easier to judge the sinful attitudes and behaviors on the surface without taking a step back and gain God’s perspective on the matter. But doesn’t Scripture tell us that God judges the heart and not the outward?</p><p>People don’t wake one morning with a hardened heart. What could have happened to an individual who acts out so negatively, rudely and hurts self and others? What kind of hurts are they carrying around inside? Please understand that whatever hurts are buried deep inside a hardened heart does not excuse the sinful behavior. God hates sin, and we are allowed to hate it too. Nevertheless, by peering into the heart of God and seeing things through His eyes, it will help us understand the reasons why people act out and will help us gain compassion and not personalize the sinful behaviors of others.</p><p>Painful wounds in our hearts can always be traced back to the effects of sin, whether our own or someone else's. Disguising pain with either good or bad habits, or addictions create a vicious cycle of guilt and shame. Whatever the coping mechanism, until the root of the hurt is dealt with the wound will continue to fester allowing sinful negative behaviors to continue. God wants to heal your broken heart. No matter what you have been through, God is bigger than anything you have experienced or are experiencing now. No matter where you’ve been, what you have done or what has been done to you … the Master Healer, Jehovah Rapha, can transform your innermost hurts into conduits of His blessings. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead can heal and restore you. He only asks one thing…”Do you want to be made well?” Healing is a choice.</p><p>“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:30</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-76765250219934836472024-02-01T05:33:00.000-08:002024-02-01T05:33:27.020-08:00Nothing Can Keep You from His Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_v_s56044GtFMyDRacjiybWo9dA2sRz50XavJOd3sw_OXQzQIuwsR6DvaV31IL3kycYn0vWWbHOwp3obtm_rTKWo7ecar4jrzziqp1QM5iZ0q00sIYjH_8-XLUGwP_JrgVZ0Gh9gX_dW_rDGc_wsJIYUsewDWoFyufyzj8uxDYLYfA99UW0n7V0xAY2o/s1080/IMG_8493.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_v_s56044GtFMyDRacjiybWo9dA2sRz50XavJOd3sw_OXQzQIuwsR6DvaV31IL3kycYn0vWWbHOwp3obtm_rTKWo7ecar4jrzziqp1QM5iZ0q00sIYjH_8-XLUGwP_JrgVZ0Gh9gX_dW_rDGc_wsJIYUsewDWoFyufyzj8uxDYLYfA99UW0n7V0xAY2o/s320/IMG_8493.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Guys, nothing can be more true than the lyrics in this song. Nothing can keep you from His love. Whether you mess up big, or you mess up small, He loves you just the same. Just because you might be struggling in an area, doesn’t mean His love for you changes or He sees you differently. He just wants you to see, that not coming to Him with your struggles is what keeps you in that prison. Not admitting what He already knows is what keeps you enslaved to them. And when we choose to hold it all in, instead of going to Him, we WILL continue to get eaten alive by them.</p><p>I’ve stolen, lied, been in jail (more than once), drove drunk (more times than I could ever count), hurt people, manipulated people, had sex before marriage, abused my body, did things I’m not proud of, and the list goes on...</p><p>And guess what. NOTHING stopped me from receiving the all-encompassing, awe-inspiring, deep, and passionate love of Jesus in EVERY area when I finally came to Him about each one. And even if I struggle today, nothing keeps Him from helping me just the same.</p><p>Big or small, He cares. Big or small, He wants to love you through it. Big or small, He wants to help you beat it, conquer it, and rise above it. ❤️</p><p>“I don't know what you've been taught</p><p>Don't know what you've been told</p><p>All I know is my God</p><p>Will never let go, no. No matter what.” @ryansmusic</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-19219509523981770212024-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:002024-01-30T07:00:27.286-08:00Joy Comes in the Morning<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcBbGC3MDJ8N9ZoGIR4DByJXO0Dp63s93JNC_NylaPHfvvhqAf8SnoRwjOI2mXwCPuvOyfZ4sqz1Gv8QlLREJ62gMbd5f_76WTmOtCUQSfomwL932KAfbYpQsZm3My1Z2JGsx8adu4yExoUMBjUoB3LMKzLJ_8MMsUmDStFZ39veGtiUmR1Qpi3KfPOXu/s960/IMG_8479.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcBbGC3MDJ8N9ZoGIR4DByJXO0Dp63s93JNC_NylaPHfvvhqAf8SnoRwjOI2mXwCPuvOyfZ4sqz1Gv8QlLREJ62gMbd5f_76WTmOtCUQSfomwL932KAfbYpQsZm3My1Z2JGsx8adu4yExoUMBjUoB3LMKzLJ_8MMsUmDStFZ39veGtiUmR1Qpi3KfPOXu/s320/IMG_8479.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Take heart brethren, for no matter what temporary trials are troubling your heart today, it is in no comparison to the glorious paradise that awaits those who are in Christ Jesus.<p></p><p>Keep the faith...fight the good fight...give it to our Abba God...and readily receive His grace. For, His mercies are unending and everlasting! He will refresh, restore and strengthen you, according to His promises.</p><p>Be confident and unashamed, boldly approaching The Throne of Grace. And may incomprehensible, everlasting joy be yours every morning...forevermore!</p><p>2 Corinthians 4:17</p><p>For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.</p><p>Romans 8:18</p><p>I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.</p><p>1 Peter 5:10</p><p>And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.</p><p>Colossians 3:4</p><p>When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.</p><p>1 Peter 4:13</p><p>But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.</p><p>Titus 2:13</p><p>...while we wait for the blessed hope--the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ...</p><p>1 John 2:28</p><p>And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.</p><p>1 John 3:2</p><p>Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-56104390728499783282024-01-29T06:16:00.000-08:002024-01-29T06:16:45.076-08:00Stand Fast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUkJ2a1hTQ8an8IGl5Wiq69RBwPf6lYR8G2eelYuyHmmmDws03kv9OcNgfg8OqaRN6iZjh_LF2Ng0lUWm-FILrGr7BQXKVvcTYMNOdgADgfZDvtdTMjq78BlrHYPwPxVxnNJSBGLT5AIipCWcpp9eMsVyDqTc8uJ9JjAr58qddECtahUbGOxbt6AcNbaH/s1080/IMG_8473.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUkJ2a1hTQ8an8IGl5Wiq69RBwPf6lYR8G2eelYuyHmmmDws03kv9OcNgfg8OqaRN6iZjh_LF2Ng0lUWm-FILrGr7BQXKVvcTYMNOdgADgfZDvtdTMjq78BlrHYPwPxVxnNJSBGLT5AIipCWcpp9eMsVyDqTc8uJ9JjAr58qddECtahUbGOxbt6AcNbaH/s320/IMG_8473.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Be courageous and transparent before God. Open up to The Lord regarding your struggles. Give the battle to Him; exchange your struggle for His strength.</p><p>Be watchful at all times. Consider the spirit behind the negative emotions and difficult situations you face. The enemy prowls around like a lion and can gain a foothold when we drift.</p><p>Put on the full armor of God. Stand boldly on Truth...steadfast and fixed on the Gospel of Jesus.</p><p>Be alert and aware of your enemy. But, know with confidence The Almighty Lord of hosts is the recipient of your prayers...the source of your hope, faith and trust.</p><p>Be strong and let your heart take courage. Wait on The Lord...and run your race with supernatural strength of endurance.</p><p>Psalm 31:24</p><p>Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD.</p><p>1 Peter 5:8</p><p>Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Corinthians 15:1</p><p>Now brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, and in which you stand firm.</p><p>Galatians 5:1</p><p>It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery.</p><p>Ephesians 3:16</p><p>I pray that out of the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being,</p><p>Philippians 4:13</p><p>I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.</p><p>Colossians 1:11</p><p>being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully</p><p>Ephesians 6:10</p><p>Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power..</p><p>Hebrews 12:1</p><p>Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-76847249851593402392024-01-26T06:58:00.000-08:002024-01-26T06:58:51.174-08:00Forgiveness Differs than Reconciliation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30xglYRIldk-t7Z8v2O63ei72_ZAhc739gfQWmbU-ZNin24GACDPYc-KdfnyQFzGwMkCsh39XhBXf7By7MZCgj845b7Bu33c_5PnliGD_7RHBSGbWlrs7PFglcxAOyvKzfK5mwQG9A9pBnFi8UxO85BH0v5DvSx_x_qZdlvMXFWlx-HtBpD2yP2jR-dtG/s1080/IMG_8464.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="1080" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh30xglYRIldk-t7Z8v2O63ei72_ZAhc739gfQWmbU-ZNin24GACDPYc-KdfnyQFzGwMkCsh39XhBXf7By7MZCgj845b7Bu33c_5PnliGD_7RHBSGbWlrs7PFglcxAOyvKzfK5mwQG9A9pBnFi8UxO85BH0v5DvSx_x_qZdlvMXFWlx-HtBpD2yP2jR-dtG/s320/IMG_8464.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Forgiveness differs from reconciliation, as forgiveness is a personal choice to cleanse one’s heart, releasing the hurt and the violations to the Lord. </p><p>While reconciliation involves two individuals taking accountability for their actions, admitting faults, and working towards unity and trust with each other.</p><p>Forgiveness can be accomplished without involving the other person at all. 🙏 </p><p>”So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”“</p><p>Matthew 18:29-35 NKJV</p><p>Niki Chiles</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-4117795605296363502024-01-25T06:11:00.000-08:002024-01-25T10:18:01.220-08:00God Will Never Leave You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoSoUGGsCsF2AtrGomfoBT8OLlDw5nK_FoyvPWPUl3vE966Y0V-bmL8b63mp7V4nvdLNBLYMeURkajW65k5GYQr0-15rky6wLpbnz-ydQuAYPiNW6i_BCyHtXjZNhMGlsuxRfiVdkvwBu-KW2b_JLsZal9r3x4fP857z8Qujh1DzNWpmNP6jVM_CvCM3g/s1080/IMG_8458.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoSoUGGsCsF2AtrGomfoBT8OLlDw5nK_FoyvPWPUl3vE966Y0V-bmL8b63mp7V4nvdLNBLYMeURkajW65k5GYQr0-15rky6wLpbnz-ydQuAYPiNW6i_BCyHtXjZNhMGlsuxRfiVdkvwBu-KW2b_JLsZal9r3x4fP857z8Qujh1DzNWpmNP6jVM_CvCM3g/s320/IMG_8458.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>People who grew up in a home where the seed of rejection was planted have a difficult time trusting God. They transfer the negative characteristics of their caregivers unto God believing that they will never measure up, are not worthy to be loved, and are convinced that God would never approve of them.</p><p>If their earthly father rejected them, or if their mother was untrustworthy, if people in authority who were supposed to love and protect them hurt them, then God will reject them and is untrustworthy. That is a lie!</p><p>God wants to replace the lies that were planted and replant the word of truth in the soil of your heart.</p><p>Get to know God's character and His immense love for you through His word. Claim God's promises for your life. The heart of your Heavenly Father is for you to know the truth so that you will be set free.</p><p>“ I have loved you with an everlasting love.” Jeremiah 31:3</p><p>“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.”</p><p>1 John 3:3-</p><p>“Moreover, I will make My dwelling among you, and My soul will not reject you.”</p><p>Leviticus 26:11</p><p>“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37-39</p><p>"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-62466075591235564272024-01-23T05:25:00.000-08:002024-01-23T05:25:26.621-08:00Let Go and Release It <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQesac5kJ1T-wEmXFXxzcUcyVyANTBUa9RS74L1WtVxaYssS-ze65eHHw_Dfgug4kB09hSHpx_vPkBQTj-JvTx6zN3RRfdvQgLH8E9yNqBEGQr-6iqP5KTEbD_9krRiCYfidSkJiJ-rZ5xgGy4u4h64aoyoq0Kb7L-wEpjRWcLJ1C2ozwpS1S5-baTPD1O/s1439/IMG_8447.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1439" data-original-width="1439" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQesac5kJ1T-wEmXFXxzcUcyVyANTBUa9RS74L1WtVxaYssS-ze65eHHw_Dfgug4kB09hSHpx_vPkBQTj-JvTx6zN3RRfdvQgLH8E9yNqBEGQr-6iqP5KTEbD_9krRiCYfidSkJiJ-rZ5xgGy4u4h64aoyoq0Kb7L-wEpjRWcLJ1C2ozwpS1S5-baTPD1O/s320/IMG_8447.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I know this isn’t always easy. Trust me, I know. But when we can finally realize that God has our best interest in mind, and that, He sees everything and is always doing something in whatever we are walking through, we can finally let go of trying to figure things out, worrying about the future, and the stress of trying to guess what’s next. We can let Him be God. And, friend?He wants to be. For you, and for me. So open your tiny hands, let go of what you are holding on to, and let His big hands grab hold of yours and lead you to the place He is trying to. Because He will.</p><p>“And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.” (Psalm 9:10)</p><p>“The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” (Psalm 28:7)</p><p>@sarah.jean.armstrong</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-82833944455609850602024-01-22T06:08:00.000-08:002024-01-22T06:08:41.133-08:00Cease from Anger <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdpgqlX0eU1R7Gtei0nJ37eRD6hdBhqN77jSlE3m0YR4_o5oQb76F2xJfQaWjMBsqvw5ASo5-ibdrqanB_THdqeNBRTqnT2uolkiqIpzsMUWY7SiLTK1fjX6RjWcqQTuX7uKXvoIe927Q3904K0Ru_LpDy-luKSIdTa6FkOaj7xWyoLhII4sH7BEdCoWe/s1080/IMG_8438.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdpgqlX0eU1R7Gtei0nJ37eRD6hdBhqN77jSlE3m0YR4_o5oQb76F2xJfQaWjMBsqvw5ASo5-ibdrqanB_THdqeNBRTqnT2uolkiqIpzsMUWY7SiLTK1fjX6RjWcqQTuX7uKXvoIe927Q3904K0Ru_LpDy-luKSIdTa6FkOaj7xWyoLhII4sH7BEdCoWe/s320/IMG_8438.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Anger can be overt – screaming, yelling, rage, throwing things, physical abusive, or it can be very covert– slow simmering suppressed anger beneath that surfaces occasionally.</p><p>Hidden anger is usually rooted in past childhood hurts, what lies underneath is ready to erupt at any moment much like a volcano.</p><p>For instance when someone does or says something wrong, the one with hidden and suppressed anger often overreacts, an innocent mistake may unleash a magnitude of anger out of proportion with the simple mistake.</p><p>If you have hidden anger, you may find yourself at one extreme or another – hopelessness to extreme hostility and yet be completely unaware why you are experiencing these feelings and may even be clueless to the severity of your outbursts of anger towards others and how they are being hurt emotionally in the wake of your anger.</p><p>Unresolved anger causes deep wounds in your relationships with God and others. It hurts little ones who are caught in the aftermath of a parent’s anger. Children learn that anger is an acceptable way to deal with conflict, and often take this modeled behavior into adulthood negatively impacting relationships at all levels.</p><p>This powerful emotion robs your heart of peace, joy and steals contentment from your spirit.</p><p>It’s never too late to get to the root of anger and allow God to heal your heart. A willingness to admit you have hidden anger is the first step to freedom. God is faithful to heal and restore those who come to Him for healing.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-54440227252371875982024-01-19T05:58:00.000-08:002024-01-19T05:58:17.092-08:00Nothing Can Separate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CkXxhvw67E4Rt3x7GOE96iInu3N8a0mvMBNSN4NCJgQAve4F7KASBlEYeoiyuKv60hy5s12TNmSGUT9IKoq2_27HGyscB7I0kaKyB1MrhocICL1I2LtRbV5dcsvFagL1LgA7-tuXABs2nKF8DbVdt-I0R7ebx4hzevcr7-pYi4JZrEY4Z7ClJjo9tNxi/s1080/3788C3E9-8B43-44AD-9EAE-63E2693B11D8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CkXxhvw67E4Rt3x7GOE96iInu3N8a0mvMBNSN4NCJgQAve4F7KASBlEYeoiyuKv60hy5s12TNmSGUT9IKoq2_27HGyscB7I0kaKyB1MrhocICL1I2LtRbV5dcsvFagL1LgA7-tuXABs2nKF8DbVdt-I0R7ebx4hzevcr7-pYi4JZrEY4Z7ClJjo9tNxi/s320/3788C3E9-8B43-44AD-9EAE-63E2693B11D8.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Absolutely nothing can separate you from God’s love.</p><p>No matter where you are, where you have been, what you have done or what's been done to you. No matter the trial, circumstances, past or present sins, failures or hurts, you are covered in His grace. You are loved!</p><p>You are not unwanted. You are chosen. You were to die for. You are not alone! You are His!</p><p>Don't let the enemy lie to you. None of those things define you. You belong to Jesus. You are a child of the living God - precious, cherished and adored!</p><p>Let the Balm of Gilead heal your heart so you can walk in victory anchored in the truth of who you are in Him.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-23728654177188800562024-01-17T06:01:00.000-08:002024-01-17T06:01:49.908-08:00Forgiveness Is A Priority<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZO6KTL4Ci_YJvmuev8e4Rb6O-uuUh0fKuSsqmqdbqsYuLHTPN0v8xVkrtTDlg3aEsAM0FUBRJDUhcqMYs-EZgZt6BCJ7gkAuoRBE_qetADURuxH1K44fQB6IlFrb9IVntmUOiRqigPA-YbWrH_KjeWB2opzPw__JHKiscq6bkiSnP_KLMwhI80HycOUPO/s1080/IMG_8402.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZO6KTL4Ci_YJvmuev8e4Rb6O-uuUh0fKuSsqmqdbqsYuLHTPN0v8xVkrtTDlg3aEsAM0FUBRJDUhcqMYs-EZgZt6BCJ7gkAuoRBE_qetADURuxH1K44fQB6IlFrb9IVntmUOiRqigPA-YbWrH_KjeWB2opzPw__JHKiscq6bkiSnP_KLMwhI80HycOUPO/s320/IMG_8402.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Forgiveness is a priority...it is a true expression of agape love and it honors God.</p><p>Understanding forgiveness is key and leads us to experience the fearless freedom it offers.</p><p>Forgiveness is not minimizing, excusing, or agreeing with the offense. We must see sin for what it is and recognize who the true offender is. Remember, our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places...against the author of anger, fear, frustration, hurt, pain, sin and confusion.</p><p>Separating the sin from the sinner opens up our heart to forgiveness of our fellow human beings...it allows God to shed His Healing Light and Truth on the stronghold of the offense...and the darkness loses its power.</p><p>Forgiveness does not always lead to reconciliation. Jehovah IS Holy and He calls us to holiness. He also calls us to guard our hearts. There are certain relationships and circumstances that we should not expose ourselves to because they are not born of The Holy Spirit. We can forgive the offense...love and pray for the sinner...but must diligently separate ourselves from sin.</p><p>If we seek God and His truth...listen to the whisper of The Holy Spirit...He will enable us to forgive others and ourselves...lead us to the people, places and situations that He ordains, according to His purpose.</p><p>We have certainly all sinned and fall short of God's glory. But, as believers, we are to be imitators of Christ. And if we make forgiveness a priority, we will indeed experience peace, healing, wholeness and freedom...and honor Him with a clean heart.</p><p>Matthew 6:14</p><p>For if you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you.</p><p>Ephesians 4:32</p><p>Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave</p><p>Colossians 3:13</p><p>Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.</p><p>Proverbs 4:23</p><p>Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.</p><p>.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-90688780131185835322024-01-16T05:38:00.000-08:002024-01-16T05:38:49.778-08:00Forgiveness Doesn’t Let Someone Off The Hook<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4sUGQaBSFxtkVzQA_qt2vSU_59LbDhJRi3xTTdwCF91anU2P6czDIP6fZ2aZk0SIIKANYSM3VU7-JgkQfTvp8dpneJLAJzrjrsNj9O4u7uRcWgZYcs9Qzbk7cA_KvqtcErWI3PL2loLgKhWaX6mNwDZeDpfrg4xGCkKgYkAyJwLzlf54p57xqmvJ4j3s/s1439/IMG_8395.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1439" data-original-width="1439" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4sUGQaBSFxtkVzQA_qt2vSU_59LbDhJRi3xTTdwCF91anU2P6czDIP6fZ2aZk0SIIKANYSM3VU7-JgkQfTvp8dpneJLAJzrjrsNj9O4u7uRcWgZYcs9Qzbk7cA_KvqtcErWI3PL2loLgKhWaX6mNwDZeDpfrg4xGCkKgYkAyJwLzlf54p57xqmvJ4j3s/s320/IMG_8395.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>It doesn’t mean it’s easy, and often, we won’t even FEEL like we want to forgive them. But it’s what frees us. It’s what releases us of the burden and allows us to move on. And if our hearts are ever struggling with letting go of the hurt, the anger, or how badly we were wronged, we need to remember the cross. We need to remember that Jesus took all that WE have done, do, and will continue to do, to the cross, so WE could be forgiven. And we didn’t deserve it either, friends. We still don’t.</p><p>I know it can be hard when we forget that. When our eyes have become more focused on what’s been done to us instead of what Jesus did for us. And if you are having a hard time, it’s just a sign you’ve maybe forgotten. But remember, friend. Remember YOU are forgiven, and it will help you to let go. Remember what God did to release you of your sin, and it will help enable you to let go. You’re not letting them off the hook, friend. Just taking them off of yours, and putting them on His. So you can be free. </p><p>“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)</p><p>@sarah.jean.armstrong</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-38937424294810226922024-01-12T05:50:00.000-08:002024-01-12T05:50:14.850-08:00Many Struggles Are Fought In Our Minds <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0Zr3aKIMnVSygOALdNh9CFiy-H4W2s750tZuT5A3SWdft7PiLtm_jdO2_zxu0e3Yf2NLvU49a6gL45D45g7LtaR6cB4bFcXwwVUoJznLvfeCe-eg36nE8OtsEm8oVem2OXo83T14vN6SsPHQCmGarXgk2N1cBSOFcGabRKRZl9N584UQgeJ-oVvTs1KQ/s1080/F1C8959D-296D-45FD-9C8A-3BF452D72AC0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0Zr3aKIMnVSygOALdNh9CFiy-H4W2s750tZuT5A3SWdft7PiLtm_jdO2_zxu0e3Yf2NLvU49a6gL45D45g7LtaR6cB4bFcXwwVUoJznLvfeCe-eg36nE8OtsEm8oVem2OXo83T14vN6SsPHQCmGarXgk2N1cBSOFcGabRKRZl9N584UQgeJ-oVvTs1KQ/s320/F1C8959D-296D-45FD-9C8A-3BF452D72AC0.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Many struggles in life often are fought on the battlefield of our minds. That’s why James writes “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” (James 4:1). That’s why we are exhorted in God’s Word to demolish any thought that goes against what God says is true about any given situation.</p><p>We are in a Spiritual battle and need to take every stray thought captive and repent, correct it and align it with the truth of God’s Word. If someone has hurt us or wronged us, and we are having hateful thoughts towards that person, we need to take that hateful thought captive immediately so that bitterness does not take root in our hearts and defiles us. (Hebrews 12:15)</p><p>We need to stop, realize what is truth in the situation, take responsibility for our wrong actions, ask for forgiveness, acknowledge when they are wrong, understand that we cannot change another person, offer forgiveness, release them to God and choose not to hate. The victory in the battle is won when we discipline our thinking, so it focuses on thoughts that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and are praiseworthy to God. (Philippians 4:8)</p><p>Negative emotions like anger, bitterness, hate, jealousy, fear, anxiety can kill us. They are joy stealers. They suck the life out of us and hinder us from living abundant lives in Christ. The good news is that we are not powerless. God has given us a choice to meditate on life giving thoughts or thoughts that bring death in our lives and render us defeated. Choose life! Choose victory! Make it a practice to capture every negative thought and choose to replace them with good ones which come from the truth of God’s life-giving Word.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-31064993723919892412024-01-11T06:57:00.000-08:002024-01-11T06:58:23.789-08:00Brokeness Is A Heart Condition <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHyBUsS33d2StlHvpCL00PN0hPcxlq0eg-hB1nxFHegtxbhuhgwqRHbudEpT8Z5b9U6tkjGvh92WdJRWtT4nCsEQxT52vIo_O3T1R3KWhlhmJ8HLobxg4kOk9qd_lUvUVZ1bLiwZLqSRwlPmuVs9VtjxIXeCLS_HhbxuE8HuBMU3QcngfItCfh-Ms1qwl/s1080/6C385504-3450-4EF2-B043-0CBDED70AB4F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHyBUsS33d2StlHvpCL00PN0hPcxlq0eg-hB1nxFHegtxbhuhgwqRHbudEpT8Z5b9U6tkjGvh92WdJRWtT4nCsEQxT52vIo_O3T1R3KWhlhmJ8HLobxg4kOk9qd_lUvUVZ1bLiwZLqSRwlPmuVs9VtjxIXeCLS_HhbxuE8HuBMU3QcngfItCfh-Ms1qwl/s320/6C385504-3450-4EF2-B043-0CBDED70AB4F.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The Balm of Gilead</p><p>Brokenness is a heart condition. Jesus is the remedy...and His cure guarantees eternal life!</p><p>When we invite in The Great Physician to perform His spiritual surgery, we receive a heart healing that includes redemption, restoration, rest and peace...beside the still waters of everlasting love.</p><p>Won't you cry out to The Balm of Gilead? That He may bind and heal your wounded heart?</p><p>Psalm 30:2</p><p>O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.</p><p>Psalm 107:20</p><p>He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions.</p><p>Psalm 103:3</p><p>Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases;</p><p>Psalm 147:3</p><p>He heals the brokenhearted</p><p>And binds up their wounds.</p><p>Matthew 9:12</p><p>On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.”</p><p>1 Peter 2:24</p><p>who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.</p><p>Jeremiah 8:22</p><p>Is there no balm in Gilead,</p><p>Is there no physician there?</p><p>Why then is there no recovery</p><p>For the health of the daughter of my people?</p><p>Isaiah 53:5</p><p>But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed.</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-76445228555501465822024-01-08T05:50:00.000-08:002024-01-08T05:50:49.827-08:00Cease from Anger<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisn4cjyDuIEew-BeRHb8_ydd0aNbLGz-nhVnuS76Sb8bD2Cz7q-OmwmjEErYBpmfvwo6SbAo68v87k80nLXnzDOkXgj-jscFKBeizOgvov2fH0UpWuZKaWmT94QQxGRYoY7Ngw2fgrpYNw-8LaiFNCTVz2cIMBSQ8SkM88gEM3736diNImxmwi2_7-Fk0g/s640/AF7FCD03-A0D5-4FC2-80F5-CDF5A33E9D1C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisn4cjyDuIEew-BeRHb8_ydd0aNbLGz-nhVnuS76Sb8bD2Cz7q-OmwmjEErYBpmfvwo6SbAo68v87k80nLXnzDOkXgj-jscFKBeizOgvov2fH0UpWuZKaWmT94QQxGRYoY7Ngw2fgrpYNw-8LaiFNCTVz2cIMBSQ8SkM88gEM3736diNImxmwi2_7-Fk0g/s320/AF7FCD03-A0D5-4FC2-80F5-CDF5A33E9D1C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Anger can be overt – screaming, yelling, rage, throwing things, physical abusive, or it can be very covert– slow simmering suppressed anger beneath that surfaces occasionally.</p><p>While hidden anger is usually rooted in past childhood hurts, what lies underneath is ready to erupt at any moment much like a volcano.</p><p>For instance when someone does or says something wrong, the one with hidden and suppressed anger often overreacts, an innocent mistake may unleash a magnitude of anger out of proportion with the simple mistake.</p><p>If you have hidden anger, you may find yourself at one extreme or another – hopelessness to extreme hostility and yet be completely unaware why you are experiencing these feelings and may even be clueless to the severity of your outbursts of anger towards others and how they are being hurt emotionally in the wake of your anger..</p><p>Unresolved anger causes deep wounds in your relationships with God and others. It hurts little ones who are caught in the aftermath of a parent’s anger. Children learn that anger is an acceptable way to deal with conflict, and often take this modeled behavior into adulthood negatively impacting relationships at all levels.</p><p>This powerful emotion robs your heart of peace, joy and steals contentment from your spirit..</p><p>It’s never too late to get to the root of anger and allow God to heal your heart. A willingness to admit you have hidden anger is the first step to freedom. God is faithful to heal and restore those who come to Him for healing.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-15814864935105122332024-01-05T05:49:00.000-08:002024-01-05T05:49:54.631-08:00Repressed Grief<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFpYV3enga5zl8X9a0PUUJpML9QxXfzw8QkZucbVbXF4OyqJhcOqyuauqOLMsaiW05w13CM-4IUEwYrkTSYJMj_kC1xq_1Cg-KGlLB4BmuKV5NVD8IHmu5sY4AdNYyUjDS6Cr5j_Q_ZNfOrReg1EgZjXG1m-BbuBAh-Oo4qVbtzROaMpgx9EdSOw-9ajX/s640/IMG_8302.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFpYV3enga5zl8X9a0PUUJpML9QxXfzw8QkZucbVbXF4OyqJhcOqyuauqOLMsaiW05w13CM-4IUEwYrkTSYJMj_kC1xq_1Cg-KGlLB4BmuKV5NVD8IHmu5sY4AdNYyUjDS6Cr5j_Q_ZNfOrReg1EgZjXG1m-BbuBAh-Oo4qVbtzROaMpgx9EdSOw-9ajX/s320/IMG_8302.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Have you seen someone smiling, yet within the smile you recognized sadness? Have you heard someone laughing, though you knew the heart was not healed.</p><p>Repressed grief occurs when a person has reason to grieve and needs to grieve but does not grieve.</p><p>The person with repressed grief exhibits negative lifestyle patterns but does not know why. Examples may be distancing from others, playing the clown, using mood-altering substances like alcohol or drugs, engaging in mood-altering behaviors like gambling or compulsive spending.</p><p>Only by facing the truth of your painful losses in life and by going through genuine grief will you have emotional healing.</p><p>In the bible, the Psalmists prayed this prayer....</p><p>“Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me.” Psalm 43:3</p><p>When you are ready to grieve your hurts and losses, Jesus will apply his healing balm. He is The Balm of Gilead - The Ointment that can heal your wounded heart and give you emotional healing.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-21640717593252018042024-01-04T06:05:00.000-08:002024-01-04T06:05:03.453-08:00The Lord Is In Your Midst<p><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKiYs3MtquWMIj3SmZZx7ZEptvQFt7mSFNi8KFGxguOgLzmDretlN2-06EYZxSFjCx2xaBAKV6CMFbLDVlE-fuzKG1VRUOfLg3egQqBGHa0phz9_SXvs-7-Eano-67DZS4uMLIrBlikSy4lQvgqtsv9TIdcKeqTKPHKNQq39jhcrSKSjX0ojFr6neXOMT/s2048/23387A02-6197-4595-9959-B292E4816D8C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKiYs3MtquWMIj3SmZZx7ZEptvQFt7mSFNi8KFGxguOgLzmDretlN2-06EYZxSFjCx2xaBAKV6CMFbLDVlE-fuzKG1VRUOfLg3egQqBGHa0phz9_SXvs-7-Eano-67DZS4uMLIrBlikSy4lQvgqtsv9TIdcKeqTKPHKNQq39jhcrSKSjX0ojFr6neXOMT/s320/23387A02-6197-4595-9959-B292E4816D8C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we reflect back on the past year, and look forward to the new year, let us never lose sight that the Lord is in our midst.<p></p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">He is there in the good times, the difficult times, the lean times, the times of fear and uncertainty, always reminding us through His Word that our hope is not found in what is seen but what is unseen. Our hope is in Jesus - our precious Savior. No matter the season of life - He is there!</p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">He will walk us through every season. Even when things don’t make sense and we can’t see a way out- He is there! He brings light to the darkness, hope to the hopeless, guides, protects, provides, comforts and fills us with His love and grace. We are never alone. </p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">So let’s enter into the new year with confidence trusting that whatever the year brings - The Lord is there! </p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"> Hallelujah!!!</p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Happy New Year friends. </p><p style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;" />Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-15882675828130995102024-01-02T06:04:00.000-08:002024-01-02T06:04:20.828-08:00Grief<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLroSn2WSlqtq8zMKgNyBj_MhSiIYqy0WQDoP6qjCx1CWQPNfIs2gJa9cOEWBDdkYKjKf9wjMlRaPQHzHHemIFH_PggAzA0KK5wewRNQ91SRGJYcJYt6kE8VwlZ4Kp6YNCjG9u6eEmRmy2pgj34lBy9mrK_aTtJrRzieqaZGbCJ_UqW3XPOmEF4CzvF1Og/s1080/C49DEEAB-32EB-42D9-81CF-4C8F82AC3C66.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="1080" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLroSn2WSlqtq8zMKgNyBj_MhSiIYqy0WQDoP6qjCx1CWQPNfIs2gJa9cOEWBDdkYKjKf9wjMlRaPQHzHHemIFH_PggAzA0KK5wewRNQ91SRGJYcJYt6kE8VwlZ4Kp6YNCjG9u6eEmRmy2pgj34lBy9mrK_aTtJrRzieqaZGbCJ_UqW3XPOmEF4CzvF1Og/s320/C49DEEAB-32EB-42D9-81CF-4C8F82AC3C66.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>🌿🌱 Grief is paralyzing, it’s mundane. For me, it’s constantly feeling lost. I wish I could confess that all is well but, I believe vulnerability is power. </p><p>We are all meant to grieve in this life. Whether death, heartbreak, change, fear: all of these can produce grief within us. We grieve because eternity is etched into our souls. </p><p>Whatever you grieve today, Jesus longs for you to see Him grieving there beside you. We are not alone. 🌱🌿</p><p>“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Hebrews 4:14-16 </p><p>Brooke Ballard</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-54721475903058127012023-12-22T06:39:00.000-08:002023-12-22T06:39:01.677-08:00Abundant Life<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqD1T3dLd55JPjpXlqzgnEd1Wod7KTn0s4qXME2ZOc2YUxlFKNHeBhx3Rrysua5PAGbIgtELb6iPKP5yL1MAekRzBwKTVVHhIMblqWEV5aKMZYZZeqm2LQw6hVb4PpPQabDDhKfK_qS_947AZFBUg9LpkoZ2NZpY8356lppf6Wbh5zRNV8oF8JawO27KT/s1080/IMG_8199.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqD1T3dLd55JPjpXlqzgnEd1Wod7KTn0s4qXME2ZOc2YUxlFKNHeBhx3Rrysua5PAGbIgtELb6iPKP5yL1MAekRzBwKTVVHhIMblqWEV5aKMZYZZeqm2LQw6hVb4PpPQabDDhKfK_qS_947AZFBUg9LpkoZ2NZpY8356lppf6Wbh5zRNV8oF8JawO27KT/s320/IMG_8199.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Would it make any difference to you today if you received the truth that Jesus came that you may have life, and to also have it abundantly? How much different would your life be if you understood that God has a specific, fruitful plan for you; one that is immeasurable by man?.<p></p><p>God does have a distinct, predestined purpose for all of His precious children...both individually and collectively...and it is far beyond anything we can possibly conceive in our humanity.</p><p>Our unchanging, unwavering Provider has unlimited resources and He is exceedingly able to bless us far beyond our heart's desire...according to His power that is at work within us...today, tomorrow and forevermore!</p><p>All of the trials, temptations, fears, possessions, pain and worldly pleasures we attain or experience on Earth are temporary. But, a life that is sustained through The Holy Spirit is exceedingly abundant and eternal. Through His provision of truth, freedom, and grace...we should not just be alive, but experiencing our lives abundantly!</p><p>Ephesians 3:20</p><p>Now to Him who is able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us,</p><p>Psalm 37:4</p><p>Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.</p><p>Philippians 4:19</p><p>And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.</p><p>Ephesians 1:11</p><p>In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will... James 1:17</p><p>Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.</p><p>Romans 16:25</p><p>Now to Him who is able to strengthen you by my gospel and by the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery concealed for ages past,</p><p>2 Corinthians 9:8</p><p>And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-79502113993608144302023-12-21T05:59:00.000-08:002023-12-21T05:59:30.585-08:00The Cure for Loneliness & Despair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3T2ZnZ8vrS0dOdosWR-oq4wggj39fv11Xv8tVcCRfJjd9f4X0bBA_yz65TuYnlQRyBfJg1-s0ALBLFV61MD-E1qLGl1aO8ck88peAHdA4ATmlChmjaBzxQAeOAvpj6cb33ZmRDRacTntI7y3PZ55Y5KtcsFkE4XCabcV4-_WGmqSqHYxc39eryvgzWgD/s1080/IMG_8191.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3T2ZnZ8vrS0dOdosWR-oq4wggj39fv11Xv8tVcCRfJjd9f4X0bBA_yz65TuYnlQRyBfJg1-s0ALBLFV61MD-E1qLGl1aO8ck88peAHdA4ATmlChmjaBzxQAeOAvpj6cb33ZmRDRacTntI7y3PZ55Y5KtcsFkE4XCabcV4-_WGmqSqHYxc39eryvgzWgD/s320/IMG_8191.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Christmas is a time of good cheer, excitement, expectancy, warmth, busyness and feelings of joy surrounded by family and friends. But for some, it can be a time of extreme loneliness. Loneliness can be described as a feeling of emptiness in the pit of your stomach when someone you love has left you either through death or broken relationships. You may feel abandoned, unwanted, or unneeded as if you’re all by yourself when you are actually surrounded by all kinds of people. You may feel like no one really cares.</p><p>These feeling can intensify if you begin to believe that your loneliness is a result of something being wrong at a core level with you – that you are somehow unacceptable, unworthy, don’t measure up, or unlovable.</p><p>When this happens, you may feel hopeless and have nothing to live for. Your pain can erode your self-worth, and drain you of strength. Loneliness puts a huge wall around your heart and prevents you from allowing others in including God.</p><p>When you feel as if the entire world has abandoned you, and that no one understands your pain and sorrow God’s Word promises that the Lord is with you and He will never leave you.</p><p>The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”</p><p>Deuteronomy 31:8</p><p>In your loneliness and despair, have you distanced yourself from the Lord?</p><p>It is never too late to draw near to Him again. You are His precious child. And when you return to Him, you will be welcomed with open arms. You will have heartfelt joy when returning home to the shelter of God’s unconditional love and acceptance. You are never alone!</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-38463730955009989032023-12-20T06:41:00.000-08:002023-12-20T06:41:17.325-08:00The Author of Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwemNoYGZEbsFpkGJvR5gYHrM1_wj0KUik84fyV9NH2pneEDLRt_rqoEy1yC3inMXpBj60kyS_o9aGqddw7Lpk3WvOuTZ134SkCOorXDh66wFXqx_B3fe1-ekr2OQrhhM5VkgDAvxumqP7Z14qGBhx6duQOWwC-eI2vnrGX1Te1keqcvn3O5YzNWPhVAvW/s1080/IMG_8186.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwemNoYGZEbsFpkGJvR5gYHrM1_wj0KUik84fyV9NH2pneEDLRt_rqoEy1yC3inMXpBj60kyS_o9aGqddw7Lpk3WvOuTZ134SkCOorXDh66wFXqx_B3fe1-ekr2OQrhhM5VkgDAvxumqP7Z14qGBhx6duQOWwC-eI2vnrGX1Te1keqcvn3O5YzNWPhVAvW/s320/IMG_8186.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>God brings order out of chaos, even the chaos we create ourselves.</p><p>If there is conflict and confusion in your life today and you lack peace, chances are you are looking at the relationship, situation, or problem through the eyes of the world. Doing so brings about impatience, disorder, and anxiety, which can cause us to lash out unlovingly at others.</p><p>But when you shift your focus through God’s lens, His peace begins to reign in your heart. God is able to help you respond to others in love, patience, and forgiveness; thus, maintaining peace with those around you. It’s your choice – you can live in confusion or chaos, or you can live a life marked by peace.</p><p>Proverbs 16:7 </p><p>When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.</p><p>Isaiah 26:3 </p><p>You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.</p><p>John 14:27 </p><p>Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.</p><p>John 16:33 </p><p>These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.</p><p>Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.</p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4642544937743897938.post-8683225080490731062023-12-19T08:12:00.000-08:002023-12-19T08:12:00.283-08:00God Is The Strength of My Heart <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uQACGFV-7ZqKVsTe4Y8YbVifbOIB_wddFa_r24VD6kcvLCN1vVzXfuiQOBD25t-0Ozj2pmvGW6tEcO4aECvMA3bnddu1gt4tRoNRxr8dzjdtCf7hYXq5vXPflM2PAJSrQ2cus8MaBEulhdniveRD414QXoONyM2NeLBrjV4AvQ1UDKooqqo-hVBNTwJy/s640/save-image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uQACGFV-7ZqKVsTe4Y8YbVifbOIB_wddFa_r24VD6kcvLCN1vVzXfuiQOBD25t-0Ozj2pmvGW6tEcO4aECvMA3bnddu1gt4tRoNRxr8dzjdtCf7hYXq5vXPflM2PAJSrQ2cus8MaBEulhdniveRD414QXoONyM2NeLBrjV4AvQ1UDKooqqo-hVBNTwJy/s320/save-image.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Others may have done things in the past that leaves us feeling angry, victimized, unappreciated, and used. Indeed, you may have a valid reason to feel anger.</p><p>You may have been taken advantage of and victimized by others. You may have been unappreciated by others. You may have been used by others. These are common life experiences many people go through at some point.</p><p>However, when these kinds of occurrences happen in life, we have a choice to make. We can choose to be drawn into the darkness put upon us by others, or we can choose to remain in the light and love of Christ.</p><p>If you are truly a child of God, others may try to do things to make you angry but you do not have to respond or feel angry.</p><p>In Christ, others may try to victimize you but you do not have to be a victim. -</p><p>In Christ, others may not appreciate you but you do not need the appreciation of others.</p><p>In Christ, others may use you to their advantage but you do not need to feel used because you have given over all of who you are to Him who died for you.</p><p>The power we live under in Christ is an insulating power for our hearts. This insulating power keeps us from feeling angry, victimized, unappreciated, and used by others.</p><p>Proverbs 4:23</p><p>Above all guard your hearts, for out it flows the issues of life.</p><p>Luke 10:42</p><p>“But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her."</p><p>Lamentations 3:24</p><p>"The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him."</p><p>Colossians 1:13</p><p>He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son.</p><p>Luke 6:28</p><p>bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.</p><p><br /></p>Growing Up In The Wordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16470333623844895796noreply@blogger.com