Yvette Walker's Blog, page 6

Why the end of summer is God’s perfect timing

In this week’s newsletter:

Seasonal endings and beginnings

Latest Positively Joy podcast episode

The Bookshelf

Support the ministry

As summer fades and the days grow shorter, I can’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. I love the warmth, the long, sun-filled days, and the vibrant energy of summer. It’s a season that feels alive and full of joy. And I’m a joy girl! That’s why it’s so hard to let go.

But as the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, I’m reminded that God has designed the world to change—and in that change, there is purpose.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we are reminded, “To everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” God’s creation moves in cycles, and with each new season comes an opportunity to trust in His perfect timing. Though I may long for the comfort and ease of summer, fall represents a season of preparation, reflection, and growth. Just as the earth slows down and rests, maybe this is God’s way of inviting me to pause, reflect, and find rest in Him.

It’s easy to cling to the brightness and joy of summer, but what if the coolness of fall is meant to draw us closer to God? He may be sending us in a new direction, as he did Gideon in Judges 6:14. The changing seasons can be a powerful reminder that life isn’t about clinging to one moment or season. It’s about trusting that God is guiding us through every transition—whether it feels easy or hard.

As the days grow cooler, I am reminded of Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Maybe the stillness of fall is an invitation to rest in Him, to lean into His presence, and to find comfort in knowing that He is always with us—no matter the season. Summer may be ending, but God’s faithfulness endures, and with each change, He is working something beautiful in our lives.

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Smoking, obedience and freedom

In this week’s newsletter:

Learn freedom from “Smoking in the Boys Room”

Latest Positively Joy podcast episode

The Bookshelf: Win bookish stuff!

Support the ministry

I’m back after travelling to Dallas recently to meet up with some sisters in Christ. We were speakers — those who spoke the Word and told the truth. At the Christian Communicators Conference, we were inspired through worship, prayer and listening to each other’s stories. Some were sad, some were tragic, and others were funny.

As I stepped up on the platform to share a short talk, I told a story about a silly song that was in my head one morning. I’d like to share it with you, and I hope you find encouragement today:

“Finding freedom through obedience”

Where are my rule followers? Who hates to misbehave?

Where are my rule breakers? There you are!

But you know what? You can find freedom in obedience.

The Lord reminded me of this recently when He woke me with a song in my head. And you know, the Lord can work with anything, even a 1970s pop song called “Smokin' in the Boys' Room.”

Remember the story? The boys are bored with school and sneak off to the second-floor bathroom to smoke. But they KNEW they weren’t supposed to be doing it. How do I know? From the chorus. It's written right there:

Now, teacher, don't you fill me up with your rules

But everybody knows that smokin' ain't allowed in school

Everybody knows it! Not a few people, not some people—EVERYBODY knows that smoking ain't allowed in school.

But they did it anyway! Regularly, it sounds like. Why?

Because it felt good, maybe, or because they liked to break rules. Even the little rules that you break sometime: like jaywalking, littering, or leaving the grocery cart in the middle of the parking lot.

But here's the thing: the boys were looking for joy in all the wrong places. Their temporary high was a poor substitute for the lasting joy that God wants to give us. They chose disobedience, and while it might have felt good for a moment, it wouldn’t last.

Obedience to the Father gives us the freedom to seek and be filled with HIS joy. The very joy that I found after a tragic divorce and feeling like I’d never be loved again. The very joy that led to this ministry, PositivelyJoy.com

Jesus tells us how to find it in the Gospel of John, chapter 15. I call it Jesus’ DIY, and on the surface, it seems pretty easy: abide in the love of the Father and do His will.

When we do this, Jesus says we will be filled with a joy that completes us.

I want that, don’t you? To be filled with the joy of the Lord? To feel complete and satisfied in a way the world can’t provide.

On judgment day, I want to hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I don’t want to hear disappointment in my Father’s voice.

Think of how you have been disobedient in areas of your life. Find the freedom to seek his joy. Surrender to Him. Imagine what would happen if you did?

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Prayer and self-confidence

selective focus photo of person wearing black and gray cap

Photo by Joshua Hanks on Unsplash

In this week’s newsletter:

Prayer: God can give us self-confidence

Amazon Prime Day: Is that your thing?

Latest Positively Joy podcast episode!

The Bookshelf

Support the ministry

I had the opportunity to speak with Pamela D. Smith for the podcast (the new episode is up! ) and her outlook on prayer was really interesting.

She uses it for self-confidence.

Smith, of course, uses prayer not only to evangelize, communicate and give glory to God, but to give herself a boost. On the podcast, Pamela shares her story of being a teen mom, and all the insecurity and doubt that came with her journey.

But she loves her children and is so proud of them. Today Pamela teaches us what prayer is and how to pray.

Should you use a “template?” She says there are pros and cons to this. After all, Jesus did give us a template, the Lord’s Prayer, right? Listen to the conversation with Pamela.

Prayer and self-confidence

Photo by Joshua Hanks on Unsplash

In this week’s newsletter:

Prayer: God can give us self-confidence

Amazon Prime Day: Is that your thing?

Latest Positively Joy podcast episode!

The Bookshelf

Support the ministry

I had the opportunity to speak with Pamela D. Smith for the podcast (the new episode will be up soon) and her outlook on prayer was really interesting.

She uses it for self-confidence.

Smith, of course, uses prayer not only to evangelize, communicate and give glory to God, but to give herself a boost. On the podcast, Pamela shares her story of being a teen mom, and all the insecurity and doubt that came with her journey.

But she loves her children and is so proud of them. Today Pamela teaches us what prayer is and how to pray.

Should you use a “template?” She says there are pros and cons to this. After all, Jesus did give us a template, the Lord’s Prayer, right? From Matthew 6: 9-13

“This, then, is how you should pray:

‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
    on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
    as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
    but deliver us from the evil one.’ ”

Pamela also talked about writing down prayers, in a journal or notebook. Be sure to listen to the full conversation (see below).

Your sister in Christ,

If you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Read more about joy: visit Positively Joy here. And visit my speaking page if your church or women’s ministry would like to explore real joy!

Amazon Prime Day. Love it or hate it?

I am an Amazon Affiliate but I never talk about it here. But today is the last of Amazon Prime Days and I’m seeing so many people chatting about it. If you are interested at all in a few items on deep discount that I personally can recommend, keep reading. If not, scroll on with the newsletter!

Backpack: I LOVE a good backpack, it’s the only kind of purse that I carry. and this one is nearly half off, depending on the color you choose!

Cute Rug: At 15 percent off, this easy to clean rug is perfect to sit at the front or back door. I got mine to hide electrical cords when the outlet was too far from the side table. Comes in loads of colors.

Cozy shawl: I’m always cold, and this shawl with sleeves does the trick. And, you can dress it up! It’s 33 percent off today and I bought it twice! Lots of colors.

Showerhead: We bought this for my sister’s master bath and one for ours. It’s great, easy to install (says my husband) and is so handy in the shower. Today it’s 60 percent off!

Chair leg protectors: I hate scuffing my floors when sitting down or getting up from a chair. These protectors are awesome and they are nearly half off! Easy to put on, too. Be sure to measure your chair legs!

Floating shelves: How cool is this to display album covers (or make up or anything!) Near 40 percent off! I use these either with with 3M tape or you can screw them into the wall.

Curtain tiebacks: This is such a little thing, but makes such a big difference! At 20 percent off it’s only $7 bucks for a set of two!

Roku: Need a streaming stick? I have this one and it’s 42 percent off.

That’s it. I hope this has been helpful and saved you some money!

Listen to the latest episode of the Positively Joy podcastWant news with a Christian perspective?

Try The PourOver. Each news report is followed by scripture or a Christian comment.

THE BOOKSHELFChristian literature giveaway!

Searching for your next favorite story? Look no further! These bestselling authors have teamed up to offer a delightful selection of new books. Available for a limited time.

Check out a selection of these (and more) here.

Check out these freebies!

Support the ministry!

I hope you are enjoying this newsletter. If so, consider giving to support the ministry. For as little as $7 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

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Published on July 17, 2024 07:01

Summer faith check in

short-coated brown dog sit beside person wearing white tank top near beach during daytime

Photo by Alvin Balemesa on UnsplashIn this week’s newsletter:

Summer faith check in

Special overeating podcast episode

The Bookshelf

Happy July and Independence week! I love this time of year, don’t you?

The days are long, the sun shines bright, and the air hums with the energy of life. The world feels vibrant, and yet, a quiet question might stir within you:

Have you explored your faith this summer?

It's easy to get caught up in the rush of the season – the trips, the holiday gatherings, the endless sunshine (or here in Kansas City, the endless summer storms). But summer is also a time for reflection, a time to step back and ask yourself, “What matters most?”

Read the post here.

Your sister in Christ,

If you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Read more about joy: visit Positively Joy here. And visit my speaking page if your church or women’s ministry would like to explore real joy!

Listen to this episode of the Positively Joy podcast

Worried about overeating this holiday weekend? This episode is for you!

Want news with a Christian perspective?

Try The PourOver. Each news report is followed by scripture or a Christian comment.

THE BOOKSHELFSearching for your next favorite story?

Look no further! These bestselling authors have teamed up to offer a delightful selection of non-fiction books. Available for a limited time. Check out a selection of these (and more) here.

Support the ministry!

I hope you are enjoying this newsletter. If so, consider giving to support the ministry. For as little as $5 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

View more on Yvette Walker's website »

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Published on July 03, 2024 12:53

When a church leader fails

Photo Illustration: From top left, Jimmy Swaggert, Carl Lentz, formerly of Hillsong Church, Jim Bakker and Robert Morris, formerly of Gateway Church.

In this week’s newsletter:

Church leader failures

This week’s podcast episode

The Bookshelf

How to get more!

In the past few weeks, we have heard some sad news from church leadership. In Missouri, a pastor stepped down after several allegations of inappropriate touching surfaced. And in Texas, nationally known pastor Robert Morris stepped down from Gateway Church after an Oklahoma woman accused him of molesting her.

It’s certainly not the first time we’ve heard about scandals. In the 1980s, Jimmy Swaggert broke down in tears after being entangled with a prostitute. Later in that decade, Jim Bakker was accused of sexual misconduct by church secretary Jessica Hahn. Earlier in the 70s, the megachurch couple Jim and Tammy Faye, faced accusations about personals use of church funds.

It hurts the body of the church when our leaders succumb to moral failings. Of course, cheating on your spouse or misusing funds is bad enough, but preying on our young people is a sin and a crime.

Read more here and learn how to pray for the church and its leaders.

Your sister in Christ,

By the way, if you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Be sure to listen to the latest podcast episode!

THE BOOKSHELFFeatured Author

Learn to lead from a healthy heart.
Speaking of leadership, today, we feature Mason D. Powell and his book, “A Leader’s Heart.” As a leader, the pressures of life can weigh you down. You can feel you are going at it alone, climbing an uphill battle, and spinning your wheels with no traction. But God is always at work through every leader that wants to follow him.
It was true for Paul. It was true for Timothy. And it is true for you, too.
This easy to read devotional is designed to:

Help you come to God's Word expecting to encounter Him in your day.

Consider that God has a space for you to serve and make an impact for Him in the next generation of leaders.

Learn to apply biblical principles to your leadership.

Strengthen you with faith, hope, and love through the wisdom Paul shared with Timothy.

Learn to develop the heart and character every leader for God needs to develop. If you want to lead like Paul, then this devotional will help you do that.

Follow me on Facebook, Amazon

Did you know I have written five non-fiction books, one translation, one audiobook, and one novel? Plus some shorties!

Follow me on my Amazon Author page and you will get notifications when I write new books.

Like my brand new Facebook Author page and stay up to date just on my books, including:

"Trial of the Heart," the highly anticipated second installment in the thrilling Linda Radcliffe Chronicles series, is now available for pre-order at an unbelievable price! If you haven't had the chance to dive into the action-packed world of Linda Radcliffe yet, now is the perfect time to start. https://amzn.to/43g3JP7

Start your journey with "Sixty," the first book in the series, available now.

Get more!

For as little as $5 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

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Published on June 27, 2024 08:51

Praising God in Psalm 47

In this week’s newsletter:

Psalm 47 and praising in all times

This week’s podcast episode

The Bookshelf

How to get more!

When Candace Cofer asked me to write an essay for her summer series, “Summer in the Psalms,” I was honored and excited.

So much so that I actually wrote the first draft on the wrong scripture! I chose Psalm Psalm 28 and not 47. Both are wonderful, but I had done the wrong assignment. So I rewrote and focused on the correct psalm, number 47:

Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy.

For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth.

He subdued nations under us, peoples under our feet.

He chose our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom he loved.

God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the Lord amid the sounding of trumpets.

Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises.

For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise.

God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne.

The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham,

for the kings of the earth belong to God; he is greatly exalted.

Isn’t it wonderful, and full of so much joy? Listen or read my contribution to Candace’s Summer in the Psalms series over at The Good Day.

Your sister in Christ,

By the way, if you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Be sure to listen to the latest podcast episode!

THE BOOKSHELFTransformational books

Searching for your next transformational devotional or non-fiction book?

Above The Sun is happy to present this powerful selection of books specifically aimed to enhance your life.

Devotionals can be found here.

Non-fiction can be found here: Available for a limited time.

Bargain Christian Books

Get low-cost (less than $5) or free samples! Click here.

Follow me on Facebook, Amazon

Did you know I have written five non-fiction books, one translation, one audiobook, and one novel? Plus some shorties!

Follow me on my Amazon Author page and you will get notifications when I write new books.

Like my brand new Facebook Author page and stay up to date just on my books, including:

"Trial of the Heart," the highly anticipated second installment in the thrilling Linda Radcliffe Chronicles series, is now available for pre-order at an unbelievable price! If you haven't had the chance to dive into the action-packed world of Linda Radcliffe yet, now is the perfect time to start. https://amzn.to/43g3JP7

Start your journey with "Sixty," the first book in the series, available now.

Get more!

For as little as $7 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

View more on Yvette Walker's website »

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Published on June 22, 2024 04:14

Heavenly vs. Earthly dads

In this week’s newsletter:

Father’s Day reflections

This week’s podcast episode

The Bookshelf

Support the ministry!

(That’s dad, holding me. Grainy and blurry, but one of my favorite photos of us!)

Father's Day is a day when we reflect on the significance of the men in our lives. However, as we commemorate this day, it is also an opportunity to draw a comparison between our earthly fathers and our Father in Heaven. Both play crucial roles in shaping our lives, but their nature and the scope of their love offer unique perspectives.

My daddy was less than perfect, but his unconditional love for me and my family helped me understand how my heavenly father loves me. The major difference is that now, many years since childhood, I can see how his flaws made him human and why I shouldn’t compare him to my heavenly father.

Read more in the newsletter: CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE PHOTOS AND VIDEO

Your sister in Christ,

If you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Read more about joy: visit Positively Joy here. And visit my speaking page if your church or women’s ministry would like to explore real joy! Of course, check out the latest podcast episode and our book promos below!

Listen to the latest episode of the Positively Joy podcastTHE BOOKSHELFTransformational books

Searching for your next transformational devotional or non-fiction book?

Above The Sun is happy to present this powerful selection of books specifically aimed to enhance your life.

Devotionals can be found here.

Non-fiction can be found here: Available for a limited time.

Bargain Christian Books

Get low-cost (less than $5) or free samples! Click here.

Support the ministry!

I hope you are enjoying this newsletter. If so, consider giving to support the ministry. For as little as $5 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

View more on Yvette Walker's website »

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Published on June 15, 2024 10:53

Heavenly vs. Earthly dads

Father's Day is a day when we reflect on the significance of the men in our lives. However, as we commemorate this day, it is also an opportunity to draw a comparison between our earthly fathers and our Father in Heaven. Both play crucial roles in shaping our lives, but their nature and the scope of their love offer unique perspectives.

My daddy was less than perfect, but his unconditional love for me and my family helped me understand how my heavenly father loves me. The major difference is that now, many years since childhood, I can see how his flaws made him human and why I shouldn’t compare him to my heavenly father.

This photo above is grainy and blurry but is my favorite of us. Daddy’s holding me in his arms, and my sister stands next to Mommy. It was sissy’s First Communion.

We loved parties! Here is a photo of the fam at one of our famous shindigs (The gentleman seated was a guest). We had such a good time:

Earthly Fathers: Pillars of Strength and Guidance

Earthly fathers are often seen as the pillars of strength within a family. They provide for their families, offer guidance, and serve as role models for their children. The love of an earthly father is tangible and expressed through daily actions—whether it’s working long hours to ensure financial stability, imparting wisdom during crucial life decisions, or simply being present during significant moments.

Those tangible actions are reflected in a wooden box he gave me for my birthday. I loved collecting albums and he knew it, so he had someone he knew handcraft the box for me. I still have it.

A father’s love is also characterized by its protective nature. Fathers strive to shield their children from harm and hardship, sometimes through discipline and setting boundaries. This form of love is nurturing and foundational, helping children to grow into responsible, independent adults.

The Heavenly Father: An Eternal Source of Love and Grace

In contrast, our Father in Heaven embodies a divine, boundless love that transcends human understanding. Unlike earthly fathers, whose presence is limited by time and space, God’s presence is omnipresent and eternal. His love is unconditional, not based on our actions or merits but given freely to all His children.

God’s guidance comes through spiritual means—through prayer, scripture, and the inner workings of the Holy Spirit. While an earthly father’s advice is rooted in worldly wisdom and experience, God’s counsel is perfect and infallible, offering eternal truths and divine wisdom.

Comparisons and Contrasts

Love and Forgiveness:

Earthly Fathers: The love of an earthly father, though deep and sincere, is shaped by human limitations and imperfections. Forgiveness, while present, may require time and effort.

Heavenly Father: God’s love is unconditional and boundless. His forgiveness is immediate and complete, as illustrated in the parable of the Prodigal Son. He welcomes back His children with open arms, no matter how far they have strayed.

Provision and Protection:

Earthly Fathers: They provide for physical needs and offer protection from worldly dangers. Their resources, however, are finite.

Heavenly Father: God provides for both physical and spiritual needs. His protection is all-encompassing, offering a refuge that transcends any earthly danger.

Discipline and Guidance:

Earthly Fathers: Discipline from earthly fathers is necessary for growth and learning. It can sometimes be harsh but is intended for the child’s benefit.

Heavenly Father: God’s discipline is always just and loving. He corrects out of love, aiming to lead His children toward righteousness and eternal life.

As we celebrate Father's Day, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the distinct yet complementary roles that both our earthly fathers and our Heavenly Father play in our lives. Earthly fathers offer a glimpse of God’s love through their sacrifices, guidance, and protection. Meanwhile, our Heavenly Father provides an ultimate example of perfect love, endless grace, and eternal security.

By reflecting on the attributes of both, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the divine nature of fatherhood. We honor our earthly fathers for their tangible contributions and unwavering love, while also lifting our hearts in gratitude to our Heavenly Father, whose love and care for us is the ultimate standard. This dual appreciation enriches our understanding of love, family, and the divine connection that underpins all of creation.

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Published on June 15, 2024 10:35

Transform your mind

Photo by Brett Jordan on UnsplashIn this week’s newsletter:

Multimedia: Transforming your mind

This week’s podcast episode

The Bookshelf

Hi everyone, and happy Friday!

Today we’re keeping it brief: I have a short video for you on Romans 12:2. I hope you are enjoying these new video creations. Let me know if you like them. In the video, you’ll find:

Renew Your Mind

Study the Scriptures

Keep a Spiritual Journal

Engage with a Community

Mindful Media Consumption

Serve Others

Be a Light to Others

Of course, check out the latest podcast episode and our book promos below!

Your sister in Christ,

If you liked receiving this, like and comment!

Read more about joy: visit Positively Joy here. And visit my speaking page if your church or women’s ministry would like to explore real joy!

Listen to the latest episode of the Positively Joy podcastTHE BOOKSHELFTransformational books

Searching for your next transformational devotional or non-fiction book?

Above The Sun is happy to present this powerful selection of books specifically aimed to enhance your life.

Devotionals can be found here.

Non-fiction can be found here: Available for a limited time.

Support the ministry!

I hope you are enjoying this newsletter. If so, consider giving to support the ministry. For as little as $5 a month, receive extras, like the video podcasts of my guests, early copies of my books and other video interviews exclusive to paying supporters of this newsletter.

Or if you are a Patreon member, you can subscribe that way, too!

Your support helps continue this ministry and you get exclusive content, like free copies of my books. Thanks!

Support this ministry

View more on Yvette Walker's website »

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Published on June 07, 2024 14:36