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Bless the Newlyweds with these Prayers and Verses

Bless the Newlyweds with These Prayers and Verses

The music ushers the wedding party down the aisle. With a collective gasp of awe, we rise from our seats, beholding the radiant bride glide down the aisle. We are thrilled as she takes the hand of her groom. It isn’t too long before they are declared husband and wife. With joy and anticipation, they return back down the aisle and begin a grand adventure. We know God would ask us for our prayers for them as newlyweds. Here are several ways to bless newlyweds.

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In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. I John 4:10

Father God, strengthen this couple to know that true love is sacrificial. They have only begun to know what selflessness is like. Help them.

We love because he first loved us. I John 4:19

Father God, open their hearts to realize they can love their spouse because they are so perfectly loved by you.

God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Father God, I offer my prayers for these newlyweds to be able to receive your gracious love which then releases the expectation that their spouse should meet all their needs. Empower gracious responses because each one realizes they both are sinners and only you are capable of meeting all their needs.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Father God, show them your strength that not only prevents separation from your love, but also gives them confidence you can provide a strong commitment to keep their love strong.Short Prayers for NewlywedsPrecious Lord, give this couple the strength to release any defensiveness which builds emotional walls between them.Messiah Jesus and Lord, strengthen this couple to listen before speaking; to be able to release their own expectations of what their spouse should say.Father God, open their eyes to be able to appreciate the efforts of their beloved even if the result isn’t perfect.Dear Jesus, through the power of your Holy Spirit, hear my prayers for these newlyweds and strengthen them to release their anger. Help them see that anger doesn’t bring the results they want.Almighty God, hear my prayers for these newlyweds and teach them how to understand the needs of their spouse.Holy Spirit, at whatever point this precious couple is tempted to withdraw and shut down their emotions, give them confidence to risk sharing their hearts.Loving God, teach this new husband and wife to forgive even if the other doesn’t acknowledge their sin or insensitivity.Lord God Almighty, if these newlyweds have any financial difficulties, give them the faith to know you already know how you are going to lead them to freedom from debt.Gracious Jesus, remind this new couple that while on earth, you were kind and gentle with those who responded in fear or lack of faith. Hear my prayers for this newlywed couple to have courage to admit their own struggles so that they can help each other.Daily Prayers for Newlyweds

Father God, stir within these newlyweds a passion for praying together. Their lives are going to be so much more complex now and thoughts of praying together might be hindered. You know their expectations of how their spiritual life is going to be. If either one of them is unhappy by unfulfilled desires, give them grace toward the other. Build each one’s communication skills to share vulnerably and honestly but with no accusation. Give both such confidence in your ability to change the other that both can speak their hearts wisely and lovingly, especially giving thanks and credit for the efforts of the other. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Lord, only you know fully the spiritual desires and what each one thought would come so easily to their married relationship. Help them uncover those hidden beliefs and turn them over to you. Draw each one to your promises in your Word that you know exactly the plans you have for this relationship—plans for their good and your glory (Jeremiah 29:11). Open their hearts to honestly face how their desires may not be your hopes for them. I pray for this newlywed couple in faith and trust through the Name of Jesus. Amen.

My God, hear my prayers for these newlyweds who have begun a strange new journey of life. Invariably they will realize the ideas they had of their new spouse aren’t all that they expected. Each one may be tempted to try to change the other. Because of lack of faith in you, each one may think it’s up to him or her to convince, connive, even manipulate the other into behavior and beliefs they think are best.

Faithful God, you know how you created male and females different and how they are alike. You designed the husband to want to fix the problems for his wife. You designed the wife to want to be heard before being offered a solution. Hear my prayers for these newlyweds as they have only begun the journey of learning how you have made male and female—distinct and unique. And yet, Lord, you have created them to want what every person wants: love, security, significance and attention.

Teach this precious new unified pair the strength and desire to give grace when there are misunderstandings. To resist feeling threatened when their spouse looks at a situation different than them. Give a confidence from you that is willing to actually see the benefits of their spouse’s different perspective. Remind them you knew what you were doing when you intertwined them even though the depend upon different goals for life. You want them to grow emotionally and spiritually with the input from their beloved. Thank you for hearing my prayers for this valued couple. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Newlyweds’ Prayers for Themselves and their Spouse

Precious Lord, I’ll be honest. Right now it seems like what I expected from marriage isn’t being fulfilled. I confess I’m disappointed and thought my spouse loved me by knowing what I would like. Please teach us how to love each other in godly and attentive ways. Help me to release my expectations which I acknowledge can be unrealistic. Give me faith to know that your Spirit will help us grow in our ability to sacrificially love each other in deeper and deeper ways. I’m asking you, Father, to help us. I trust you want to do that. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Heavenly Father, I confess to you that I allowed anger to gain control over me and I verbally wounded my beloved. Please forgive me. Please empower my new spouse to forgive me. I need your help to discover the underlying reasons for my outbursts. I’m frightened when it feels like I’m voiceless. That my opinions don’t matter. Dear Jesus, I’m depending upon you to help me know I am loved completely and you hear me and consider valuable my opinion. Even if my new spouse can’t fully hear my desire to have my thoughts and desires considered important, you know everything about me and value me. Help me to understand how my spouse must be wanting the same thing from me. I’m trusting in you for this, because I know your love for us never wavers. In Jesus’ Name, I pray with faith, Amen.

Lord God Almighty, you know our financial situation. Maybe we married too soon or maybe we didn’t but you want to help us now regardless. We need your strength to have self-control. We need your godly perspective to see happiness doesn’t come from our purchases. I’m upset because my beloved doesn’t seem to understand that. I need your instruction in how to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). It’s so hard for me to share my opinion and then release the results to you. Give me confidence that as newlyweds, we are only beginning to learn how to support each other in the right ways. Teach us both. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Wedding Prayers for the Bride and Groom

Abba, these precious newlyweds want everything perfect in these first few hours of celebrating their union. I pray for this couple to be able to be flexible if something goes wrong. Empower them to enjoy every moment even if everything isn’t perfect. Help them give grace not only to each other, but to others who may disappoint them. Amen.

Dear God, please smooth out any conflicts between the families of this newly married couple. Hear my prayers for these newlyweds to keep their eyes on each other and you. Teach them how to leave and cleave as they form a new family unit as Genesis 2:24 says. Amen.

My husband, Larry, and I have been married for over 50 years and sometimes we reflect on the special day of our wedding with great fondness and some laughter. Little did we know what God had in store for us—which included our spiritual growth through the means of misunderstandings, struggles, challenges, losses and gains.

Over these many years since then, we know that many have prayed for us, especially our parents and other wise mentors as the years went along. We are thrilled that we can now support through our prayers those who are beginning the joy and challenges of married life. We think of our prayers for newlyweds as beautiful gifts that continue blessings them over many years. God remembers them all.

To bless the newlyweds even more, include with your gift a copy of my women’s Bible study, God‘s Heart for Your Marriage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series.

What Does “Kick Against the Goads” Mean and Why Should You Care?

What Does “Kick Against the Goads” Mean and Why Should You Care?

All of us have read confusing words or concepts in the Bible and wondered, “What in the world does that mean?” That’s certainly the case when Jesus tells Saul, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’” (Acts 26:14).

Before we look into the story at the foundation of Jesus saying this to the future Apostle Paul, let’s understand what a “goad” is.

Pastor Chuck Swindoll explains, “Apparently, ‘to kick against the goads’ was a common expression found in both Greek and Latin literature—a rural image, which rose from the practice of farmers goading their oxen in the fields. Though unfamiliar to us, everyone in that day understood its meaning.

“Goads were typically made from slender pieces of timber, blunt on one end and pointed on the other. Farmers used the pointed end to urge a stubborn ox into motion. Occasionally, the beast would kick at the goad. The more the ox kicked, the more likely the goad would stab into the flesh of its leg, causing greater pain.”

The word “goads” in Greek is kentra and is also translated pricks (KJV) and stings (kentron Revelation 9:10 KJV).

As we’ll see, Jesus is going to use this concept to force the Pharisee Saul to move in God’s direction. Saul refuses to understand he is hurting others and himself. In effect, Jesus is asking, “Why are you doing something that is so hurtful to yourself and to others? You’re never going to win and you are suffering from negative emotions like anger, bitterness and pride.” Emotions and sinful goals only create a hardened heart which is also damaging to the body (Proverbs 17:22).

Why Does Jesus Tell Saul He Must Not “Kick Against the Goads”?

When we first read Jesus’s words about Saul kicking against the goads, it might seem Jesus is saying, “It’s hard for me to have you kick against the goads.” But actually He’s saying, “Saul, it’s hard on you to kick against the goads.” In effect, Jesus is pointing out how Saul is resisting God’s work, not working for God as he thinks.

Jesus clarifies Saul is not just persecuting Christian believers but more importantly, actually persecuting Jesus himself. He is helping Saul see the battle is bigger than Saul realizes. The fact Saul becomes blinded by the bright light could be considered a “goad” in the sense that Jesus shows His power and Saul becomes incapacitated. It will be three days before his sight is restored through God’s healing and he must have felt helpless and powerless—maybe for the first time in his life. God used a physical affliction, a “goad,” to poke Saul into submission.

Jesus is going to win this battle for Saul’s heart and also protect His own followers. Saul is only hurting himself by fighting a losing battle. The omniscient Savior Jesus already knows and has planned how the future “Apostle Paul” will serve Christ for God’s glory. But, of course, Saul didn’t know all that. He wasn’t even “Paul” yet.

What Happens After Jesus Speaks to Saul?

After Jesus speaks to Saul about the goads, Jesus tells him to go into the city where God has prepared a believer named Ananias (Acts 9:10-19) to share with Saul the Good News of Jesus’s redemptive death and resurrection. Saul’s eyesight is restored, he believes in Jesus and begins preaching immediately (Acts 9:17-20). In Acts 13:9, Saul is called Paul for the first time. From then on, he is identified as Paul.

Does Jesus Say to Us: “Why Kick Against the Goads?”?

Jesus used blindness among many things to “goad” Saul into salvation and service. Jesus is still using goads in our lives today. “Spiritual” goads are anything God uses to correct sinful habits, transform wrong thinking, and direct us toward following His will.

Here are some ways God uses goads, His purposes for them, and how we can cooperate.

The goad of silence, stillness, and withdrawal. Psalm 46:10. The Holy Spirit often leads or calls us to times of inactivity or quietness. Prayer is a part of that. Sometimes we are forced into a lengthy time of withdrawal through injury or illness. Other times, He may invite us to take time off from a busy schedule or say “no” to an opportunity, even take a sabbatical from ministry. The purpose is to “cease striving” and “know He is God.” We might resist because we think activity brings glory to Him but hopefully we can cooperate, knowing He can glorify Himself with or without our contribution.

The goad of frustration from imperfection. Philippians 3:12; I Timothy 4:15. When we realize we haven’t totally conquered some sinful habit, our frustration can point us to the benefit of needing God’s help rather than drifting into pride of our own victories. Yes, God does conquer our sinful tendencies but then there’s always another area for Him to sanctify.

The goad of the Holy Spirit using the Bible and Christian leaders. Hebrews 4:12, Ecclesiastes 12:11. Reading and studying the Bible often “goads” us into evaluating choices we have made and incorrect beliefs we have committed to. Those in authority over us also challenge us to clarify truth and help us judge our heart motives. The Holy Spirit prompts, points out, and prods us within our hearts and minds.

The goad of trials, afflictions, persecution and misunderstandings. James 1:2-4, 9. Anything that doesn’t go our way or that makes us feel inadequate, should cause us to turn to God and humble ourselves. Then we become more and more surrendered to whatever God allows in our lives, knowing He will be glorified and we will identify His goodness.

The goad of temptation. James 1:13. Temptation is allowed by God but it doesn’t mean we’re necessarily sinning. Temptation is an opportunity to evaluate our motives, force us to seek God more, and increase our trust in God’s power and care.

The goad of disappointment. James 1:17. Romans 8:28. Some “gifts” don’t seem like gifts. We experience disappointment when God doesn’t answer “yes” to our requests. Or our expectations are dashed and it seems God has let us down. But what we judge as “bad,” God promises to bring good and blessings.

Being grateful for “goads” is challenging. The Apostle Paul had no idea when he became a believer that his life would include a multitude of obstacles (2 Corinthians 11:23-29). But he so considered his relationship with Christ far superior to his old life that he was willing to surrender. And he actually considered the “goads” as blessings and beneficial for his life and spiritual growth.

Can you think of a time you considered a “goad” in your life to be a blessing and a benefit?

Book Drawing!!!! “Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World” by Jill Garner

Book Drawing!!!! “Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World” by Jill Garner

I’m so excited about featuring this up-dated book by Jill Rigby Garner. She is an expert about raising children. I highly recommend all she offers.

Her latest book is Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World–an inspirational parenting guide that offers practical and positive steps to raising respectful, engaged, and grateful children. From media choices to how to create memorable family bonding times, this book will equip every parent wanting to raise kids who will grow up to become all they are meant to be.

And you could win a free copy in the drawing! Instructions are belowIn the meantime, here’s an insightful excerpt from Jill’s book.Help Your Child Identify their Strengths and Weaknessesby Jill Garner

It’s not always easy to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of your children. Make an effort in the early years to offer opportunities for exploration of the gifts that God has given your children.

Children can’t always identify their strengths. You must be intentional in looking for opportunities that enable them to find their interests #bookdrawing #parenting @jillrigbygarner https://bit.ly/42kpDAk
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Expand your children’s world as much as possible. The more your children visit museums, the better. We lived in New York City when the boys were four years old. There were days when we stayed in the Metropolitan Museum from opening to closing. My sons have an appreciation of art that far exceeds most of my friends’ interest or knowledge.Expose them to good books. Read a long classic, little by little, to your children when they are young. You’ll fill their minds with possibilities and dreams of other places. Read them biographies of people from many walks of life, from great artists to statesmen to missionaries to military generals; folks that made a difference in their fields and in the world. Spend time in the great outdoors . Watch how your children react. Are they comfortable sleeping under the stars or fearful? Are they at home with the sounds of the woods or ready to go home as soon as you get there? Encourage your kids to get a taste of many different activities before they settle into one or two. It’s okay for elementary-school children to try all the sports their school offers or to try playing a variety of musical instruments. Once they reach fourth or fifth grade, they begin to zero in on their areas of greatest interest. Then it’s time to settle on one or two activities per school year. Involve them in craft activities and art projects. Such activities will reveal any hidden artistic talent. Does your child enjoy the easy projects, or does she prefer a challenge? Does she become easily frustrated, or does she have an abundance of patience to complete a project?Support their interests. If your child enjoys art, set up an art corner in your home to encourage the budding artist. If your child enjoys nature, enroll him in programs that offer outdoor activities.As you provide your kids with opportunities like the ones above, look for a pattern to emerge. What kinds of things is each child interested in? In what areas does each excel? What things give each child joy?

Although it is never a good idea to compare your children, looking at their differences can reveal their individual strengths. I was blessed with an ongoing study in my home through my identical twin sons. It was fascinating to watch Chad’s leadership skills, as he tended to overpower Boyce much of the time. Boyce, on the other hand, displayed the qualities of a good negotiator, as he was willing to compromise for the sake of peace. Chad had a strong eye for color and proportion along with a keen mathematical sense. Boyce was a highly creative thinker and problem solver.

Because I had observed these qualities in my sons, I steered Chad toward architecture, which would allow him to use his sense of design and analysis. I encouraged Boyce to pursue entrepreneurship, so he could enjoy his gift of creative thinking.

So what fields did they choose in college? Chad earned a degree in economics and obtained a commercial real-estate license. Boyce earned a business degree in entrepreneurship. Good matches for both.

God has blessed your kids with specific talents and gifts to fulfill a specific purpose. When you help them identify those talents, you help them find their purpose.

Thank you, Jill, for giving us wisdom from from your book.

For my readers, enter the book drawing for the opportunity to win a copy of Jill’s book by making a comment on this blog post. The drawing is open to any with a US mailing address. The drawing ends Wednesday evening, February 7th, 2024.

Jill Rigby Garner

Jill Garner is the founder and chief visionary officer of Manners of the Heart, a nonprofit seeking to reawaken respect in our society for the sake of the next generation. With more than twenty years of interdisciplinary study and hands-on work with schools and families, Jill is a recognized authority in Heart Education and the publisher of Heart Education curricula for children, educators, and parents. She is the author of two parenting books, Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World and the Gold Mom’s Choice Award-winning Raising Respectful Children in a Self-Absorbed World. Her third parenting book, StrongHeart: Cultivating Humility, Respect, and Resiliency in Your Child, is due out in 2024 with Moody Publishers

Book links – The book can be purchased from Manners of the Heart at https://mannersoftheheart.org/shop/raising-respectful-children-in-a-disrespectful-world or on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Respectful-Children-Disrespectful-World/dp/195135009X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3GUOJ8YTOPPII&keywords=raising+respectful+children+in+a+disrespectful+world&qid=1706158574&sprefix=raising+respec%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1.Website – jillgarnercontent.orgEmail – info@jillgarnercontent.org.Facebook and Instagram – @jillgarnercontent.

 

I’m Dependable. Why Could That Be Wrong?

I’m Dependable. Why Could That Be Wrong?

Dependability is a great quality. But for me, it can be wrong because of my motive. Am I motivated by self-protection or by trust in God?

That question can apply to any quality but if you are desiring to live more powerfully with the goal of giving God glory, this post is for you!

But why is it so hard to get rid of the habits that block living for God’s glory and not ourselves?

Moments after I was molested as an eight-year-old, I thought, “Kathy, you should have prevented that. You are a dirty little girl.” Of course, the message was a lie, but I believed it was true. I never told anyone what happened. My heart sat for years in the agony of shame, vowing to protect myself from experiencing another incident of emotional pain. I learned to be hyper-vigilant, constantly evaluating the behavior and feelings of others to determine whether they had destructive motives toward me. My goal was to make sure no one touched me inappropriately again. 

When I was in third grade, about the same time as the molestation, I said something mean to a classmate and several students heard me. They called to our teacher, Mrs. Leighton, and she came over. Mrs. Leighton was my Princess in Shining Armor. I was her Teacher’s Pet. I could do no wrong, and she favored me. I felt special and important.

When the students reported what I’d said, Mrs. Leighton asked me with a worried look on her face, “Kathy, did you say that?” To keep my favored status, I replied, “No, Mrs. Leighton.” Mrs. Leighton walked away with a satisfied look on her face. 

I knew I’d lied and hated the feeling of being a liar—and everyone knowing I was. If I’d known about being able to ask Jesus to forgive me, I could have thrown off the heavy mantle of condemntion. I didn’t. 

Without knowing what I was doing, I formed a self-protective strategy of dependability.

The way to make sure no one knows I’m a liar and shameful is to always be dependable.

When I was ten years old, I sat with a group of my relatives and loved hearing the bantering back and forth. My Aunt Nita suddenly commented, “Oh, look at Kathy. Isn’t she sitting so nicely, just like a poised young lady?” Oh my! A flood of approval swept over me. I certainly wasn’t dirty and a liar in that moment. The praise felt so good to my thirsty, guilty soul. I added another layer of dependability dressed up as self-control: be poised. Hopefully someone will compliment me and I’ll feel good about myself. 

My layers of compulsive dependability were formed by many other experiences. If I didn’t keep a promise, I felt exposed. I was terrified of being identified as dirty, a liar, imperfect, or discourteous. The solution in my young brain produced people-pleasing, worry, and other habits that excluded God’s glory. 

You may not have had similar experiences or be motivated by the same strategies, but many of us find godly dependability to be a challenge in some area of life. Or any other “good” quality that is motivated by protecting our image instead of giving God glory.

Here are some ideas Choosing God’s glory over a need to be seen as dependable means recognizing to what degree it has a hold on you.Notice how you feel or what it seems like people are thinking about you when you aren’t dependable. Evaluate whether your thought is true or a lie.Surrender to being willing to be seen in a negative way. God may actually be more glorified and He can use everything.Live in the truth that God knows your heart and sees you through the lens of Jesus’s righteousness as His saved child. in what ways do you relate to the topic of dependability? Maybe you don’t feel a wrong desire to be seen as dependable. I hope so! 

Or share with us how you keep the desire for being seen as dependable in a healthy, godly way?

(If you’d like to read more about this topic, check out my book Pure-Hearted: The Blessings of Living Out God’s Glory.)

What is the Strangest Question Jesus Ever Asked?

What Is the Strangest Question Jesus Ever Asked? I think it is, “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5:6)

Jesus may be asking the most intriguing question ever as he talks to a man waiting to be healed. Our initial reaction is, “Of course he wants to be healed. Jesus, what are you thinking? Who wouldn’t?”

But the man responds, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me” (John 5:7).

The crippled man doesn’t say, “Of course. Can you help?” He gives an explanation. Or is it an excuse?

After thirty-eight years of a debilitating disease, is he comfortable in his situation? What would it mean to be healthy again? Maybe he fears handling the responsibilities of normal life.

I wonder how often Jesus asks us a similar kind of question.

By allowing frustrating circumstances, he might be asking: “Do you want to give up your disability of discontent?”When someone hurts us, is he asking, “Do you want to be emotionally healed by relinquishing your bitterness?”If someone takes advantage of us, is he asking, “Will you give up your victim mentality?”Do we have standard reasons—or are they excuses—for our discontent, anger, and powerlessness? The waters of healing are right before us. Why don’t we jump in?

Jesus is a wise counselor. He knows how to prod the handicapped man’s heart and our own.

Our hearts are an open book to him and a mystery novel to us.

But he desires to reveal the pages which are stuck together with the glue of sin or fear.

Jesus is prying two pages apart as he gives the man an assignment he can refuse. “Jesus said to him, ‘Get up, take up your bed, and walk.’ And at once the man is healed, and he takes up his bed and walked” (5:8-9).

We are cheering as he is healed and obeys with no explanations or excuses. Interestingly, Jesus tells him to “take up your bed.” The man couldn’t leave it there as his safety blanket in case he felt bad again.

Many years ago, I didn’t know releasing my unrealistic expectations of my husband, Larry, would be Jesus’s way of asking me to burn my “bed” of bitterness. In our early marriage, Larry worked two jobs and had a flying hobby. He was rarely home and gave little help with our two children, a new-born and a toddler. I wrapped myself in my mat of resentment as a way to protect myself from the pain of his rejection.

My husband says now, “I wrapped myself in my mat of controlling pride thinking Kathy had the problem, not me. In my view Kathy never appreciated my efforts so I gave up even trying.”

We both at different times and in different ways heard Jesus ask, “Do you want to be healed?” The process of restoration began when we each stopped giving explanations and instead acknowledged our own self-centered spiritual sickness.

We recently celebrated our 53rd anniversary and are more in love with each other and Jesus than ever before.

Although we each sometimes try to pick up another mat, God persists saying, “Do you want to stay well?”

(This post is an excerpt from Larry and my devotional book, God’s Intriguing Questions: 60 New Testament Devotions Revealing Jesus’s Nature).

Book Drawing!!! “Little Strength, Big God” by Debbie W. Wilson

Book Drawing for Little Strength, Big God by Debbie W. Wilson I love books by Debbie W. Wilson and I’m so glad she has another one available.

There are so many ways we can feel weak. With Debbie’s characteristic emphasis on Scripture, practical instruction and inspiring examples, you will increase your trust in our Big God and find more peace, joy, and self-control.

I’m so pleased to offer a BOOK DRAWING and there will be TWO WINNERS! Isn’t that exciting? Read below how to enter the drawing. In the meantime, here’s an encouraging excerpt from “Little Strength, Big God.”

How do we live and thrive in an antagonistic environment?by Debbie W. Wilson

“Ginny, the company’s targeted you,” my daughter’s supervisor said.

My daughter had excelled in her job with an international company for many years. Her performance repeatedly ranked in the top 5 percent worldwide. Suddenly, headquarters filed numerous complaints against this high performer.

No one could tell her what she needed to change because the complaints were not based on work performance. Despite successfully refuting these allegations, the false charges continued. Based on programs the company promotes, her conservative social media posts put her in their crosshairs.

How do we live and thrive in an antagonistic environment? For Christians, this has become an increasingly relevant concern. But the situation is not new to God’s people. The men and women featured in the last half of Hebrews 11 lived in extremely hostile times. Many lived and worked under oppressive rulers. Each demonstrated an aspect of finding strength in the Lord that allowed them to triumph in crushing circumstances.

A good English teacher shows her students how to use nouns and verbs to build sentences and paragraphs to convey thoughts. Practicing these skills makes a student a better communicator. Similarly, the Lord provides the tools we need to become strong in battle. And while he fights for us, most battles require our participation. As we follow his lead, like those in Hebrews 11, we become “powerful in battle.”

What battle are you facing? Is it your health, your bank account, your weight, your faith, or parenting your child? Do you need more strength, wisdom, or endurance? Finding strength in the Lord removes the fear of people and circumstances and allows us to soar in situations that paralyze others.

Little Strength, Big God

Little Strength, Big God is a Bible study that provides timeless truths to help you slay your giants. Like the faithful in Hebrews 11, you can become mighty in battle.

Loss and intimidation are not new to God’s people. What if you had to choose between―

– Drowning your baby or letting your worst enemy raise him?
– Bowing before an idol or being thrown into a fiery furnace?
– Compromising your convictions or being tossed to the lions?
– Living in fear or leading ill-equipped volunteers against an intimidating enemy?

The believers who faced these decisions felt their limitations. Yet they found strength in the Lord. You can too. Using the men and women highlighted in the last half of Hebrews 11, Little Strength, Big God will help you turn your weaknesses into strengths to accomplish God’s purpose in your life.

When trouble attacks, you don’t need a bigger God―you need clearer vision of the one true God. Discover the transforming power of a God greater than your Goliaths and live strong now.

Want to meet some of the characters in Little Strength, Big God? Have fun matching names with their descriptions in the Little Strength, Big God Matching Game.

Two winners will be drawn from the comments to receive a copy of Little Strength, Big God. (US shipping address only). Drawing ends Wednesday evening, January 10, 2024. 

Who is one of your favorite Old Testament Bible heroes?

Debbie W. Wilson is an award-winning author, Bible teacher, and former Christian counselor who  speaks  and writes to connect fellow sojourners to the heart of Christ. She and her husband lead  Lighthouse Ministries , a non-profit Christian counseling and Bible teaching ministry. Connect with Debbie, find  free resources , and  learn about her books , including  Little Strength, Big God , at  debbieWwilson.com .

 Connect with Debbie at:

https://twitter.com/DebbieWWilson

https://www.facebook.com/debbie.wilson.963871

https://www.pinterest.com/djwwilson/

 

A Surprising Perspective About Resolutions

A Surprising Perspective About Resolutions

I was working out at the gym with a friend and knowing it was January, we chuckled as we noticed how much more crowded the gym was since January 1st. Then as it happens every year, about four to six weeks later, the gym returns to its normal level—and we wouldn’t have to wait in line to use the weight machines. 

Yes, the New Year resolutions for buffing up the body and becoming healthy would last a short time for most people. Great motivation to start but not much to continue. Why is that? For many of us, it’s because we make our goals too high and become discouraged when we can’t meet them. 

But there is a solution. It’s found in “The 1% Principle.” It’s the idea of setting small goals toward a bigger one and when we meet the small goal (1% instead of 75% or larger), we’ll be encouraged to continue.

Here are some ideas. Instead of “I will have a devotional time with God for one hour every day this week,” think: “I’m going to spend 5 minutes with God two times next week.”Instead of “I’m going to stop eating all sugar,” think: “I’m going to limit sugar to one item per day.”Instead of “I’m going to go to the gym every day this week,” think: “My goal is to go to the gym two times this week.”Instead of “I’m never going to get angry with my child again,” think: “Since dinner time is the hardest time to be patient, I’m going to concentrate on staying calm on Tuesday next week and ask a friend to pray for me during that time.”Get the idea? Instead of thinking 100% toward a goal, start small and be encouraged as you reach it. Then you’ll continue to move toward the larger goal. (And by the way, it’s OK to do more than the 1% goal if you’re able).

Does this sound like a plan that God can’t applaud? After all, doesn’t He believe He can empower us to reach huge goals? Of course He can but He also understands that “we are but dust” (Psalm 103:14). That’s why He says, “Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to all.” (1 Timothy 4:15 NASB). He doesn’t say, “so that your perfection may be evident to all.” He expects us to be in process little by little and is pleased with our progress—even 1% at a time.

How can you use the 1% Principle to grow closer to God, become more of the person God wants you to be, or develop your spiritual life? Make a plan now and carry it out—little by little—1% at a time.

Book Drawing! “The Making of a Brave Hearted Woman” by Dawn Damon

Book Drawing!!!!! “The Making of a Brave Hearted Woman” by Dawn Damon

I’m excited to feature Dawn Damon’s exciting new book, The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence and Vision in Midlife. It Is a powerhouse book and the ultimate guide for midlife women (or any age) ready to rise to their design and live brave.

In her ultimate guide to living midlife full, women will find the courage to step out of the shadows of self-doubt and insecurity, seize unfolding opportunities, and boldly voice a resounding YES to embarking on the path that leads to a life brimming with BRAVE CONFIDENCE and a daring vision.

CLICK HERE to enter the drawing:

To enter the drawing, make a comment on the blog post (

Here is a sample that will bless you from Dawn’s book.

It’s Your Time to Riseby Dawn Damon

Because studies show that the transition of midlife for women, 40-65 is often a turbulent and unsettling time for women, my book is intended to teach women how to navigate the passage with confidence.

I will lead you through the “5 Fortitudes of fulfillment and Success.” These fortitudes are more than attitudes or good mindsets, they are the brave stance of a strengthened, resilient soul and spirit.

By definition, “Rise” is a verb that means moving from a lower position to a higher level, elevating, coming up, or going up. The word also means to awaken.

In arriving at midlife—the crisis of the crossroads—the invitation is for you to rise and shine.

With neglect to your fear, rising brave means you’re willing to stay fervently engaged. You’re willing to peel back the layers of the false self and come out of hiding. You’ve circled the same mountain long enough. You’re ready to shed old attitudes, bad habits, toxic relationships and meager mindsets. Mediocrity no longer defines you. You’re excited to set your true self free. Rising means you’re prepared to break through barriers and ascend to new heights.

But what if rising is uncomfortable?  

I hear the question, and I acknowledge your hesitancy! So, let me assure you here and now—you will definitely be uncomfortable. The opportunity to live authentically is not without risk. Rising as a bravehearted woman will require uncomfortable action accompanied by uncomfortable emotions. As I’ve often said, midlife is not for the faint of heart. It takes courage to honestly explore our current life and choose to re-invent.

Sometimes we’ll relate more to the cowardly lion. The dawn won’t always come up like thunder, but it will always come up. You can do something today to move you toward living from your heart. Take one bandage off at a time. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Do one thing every day that scares you.”

Practice getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Recognize that feeling foolishly awkward and vulnerable is a part of taking new and higher territory in your life.

Brian Tracy, a motivational speaker who has written over 80 books on personal growth and development, says, “You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable with trying something new.” I want you to realize, however, that uncomfortable doesn’t mean unsafe; it doesn’t mean you’ve made a bad decision or are heading in the wrong direction.

If you feel destabilized, rest assured; it’s normal and temporary. Tell yourself often, “This step of uncomfortable but courageous action is awakening my brain to accept something new. That means I’m growing and changing!” Be excited when you encounter resistance—you’re challenging your brain to move past the safety zone.

So where are you being called to rise? In what areas of your life do you need to become brave and step out of your comfort zone to reclaim the life intended for you? My book will help you be transformed in five distinct ways.

The “5 Fortitudes” of TransformationFortitude 1: Claim a Bold Vision. I See for myselfFortitude 2: Cultivate a Real Identity. I Believe about myselfFortitude 3: Choose an Able Mindset. I Think I’m ableFortitude 4: Craft Virtuous Talk. I Say what I wantFortitude 5: Commit to Excellent Actions and Habits. I Do hard things…

Thank you, Dawn, for this opportunity to feature your book and offer this book drawing.

For my readers: enter the drawing by the evening of Friday December 8th, 2023. Make a comment on this BLOG POST. Only US addresses can win. 

Check out Dawn’s book:

www.themakingofabraveheartedwoman.comTo connect with Dawn:https://linktr.ee/dawndamonlive

Dawn Damon is a Best-Selling, Award winning Author, National Speaker, Podcaster, and Life Coach, and the founder and CEO of the BraveHearted Woman, a transformational coaching and personal growth development enterprise designed to awaken and cultivate the vision of women-dreamers, calling them to braven-up and live their best lives. Dawn and husband Paul live in beautiful Michigan, traveling throughout the USA preaching, teaching, and changing lives.

My Mother’s Christmas Bank Account

My Mother’s Christmas Bank Account

 I grew up in a poor family and my mother saved in an actual bank account all year long so that we could have gifts under the Christmas tree. More than any other time in the year, except maybe my birthday, I felt loved.

My mom’s efforts to save money for gifts for three children seemed to indicate love and security.

I didn’t realize as I grew up that my mom’s efforts actually contributed to an unhealthy perspective about God—that He required my efforts so that He could love me. I didn’t know what to call this spiritual perspective at the time but I became a perfectionist. That meant I believed God was waiting for me to become perfect so that He could love me and admit me into heaven after I died. I had a mental image of a scale of justice which kept track on one side my good deeds and on the other my bad deeds. I hoped there would be more good deeds than bad on my scale when I died so that I could be approved by God to enter heaven.

Then on October 1st, 1967, at the age of eighteen, I heard clearly for the first time that I could never earn my way into heaven—but God had provided through His efforts—His work.

On that beautiful morning at a little church in Norwalk, California, a pastor explained to me for the first time that entrance came, not from piling good deeds on a particular side of my spiritual scale, but depending upon Jesus’ perfect sacrifice for my sins on the cross of Calvary. Such beautiful news! I prayed to receive Jesus as my Savior and Lord.

Two months later, on my first Christmas after becoming saved, I enjoyed celebrating Jesus’s birth with a new heart and a new understanding.

Jesus didn’t come to earth to examine my life and require perfection, but was born a human who was the only being who would perform perfectly. Only then would He be the perfect substitute for the sins of the world. I again recognized I could never achieve total purity. But that God saw me as perfect because I depended upon Jesus’s death and resurrection for my spiritual standing before a holy God (Hebrews 10:14).

I’m grateful for my mother’s faithful efforts to provide gifts for us children. But I’m more grateful that my spiritual gifts in my standing as God’s child doesn’t require me becoming perfect. Jesus’s perfect life from the moment of His birth guarantees He is the perfect substitute for me.

“Box of Blessings:” My Favorite Children’s Advent Project

Box of Blessings: My Favorite Children’s Advent Project Many years ago, one of our children inevitably exclaimed, “Mommy, it’s time to open another present.” No, it wasn’t Christmas morning, but it was time to help keep our family’s thoughts focused on the true meaning of Christmas by joining together for a holiday project which had become a family favorite. The children could hardly wait to dive into our “Box of Blessings,” a special box which held 24 gifts for the Advent season. TWEET THIS:

Years ago, one of our children inevitably exclaimed, “Mommy, it’s time to open another present.” No, it wasn’t Christmas morning, but it was time to help keep our family’s thoughts focused on the true meaning of Christmas. #adventproject..

The first present introduces the idea. On December 1, I open the large gift-wrapped box containing 24 more attractive gifts, and read the enclosed tag to the family: “Today we are beginning a Christmas project. We will open a different present for the next 24 days to help remind us of God’s most precious giftHis Son Jesus.”

Everyone can benefit from this family holiday project. Simply wrap a large box with Christmas paper, wrapping the lid separate. Gather 24 visual aids, wrap them, write out tags for each (object lesson, Scripture and discussion questions), and place the gifts in the box. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing for your own “Box of Blessings.” Gift: Several pieces of any kind of food. READ: Does food always stay the same even after a long time? No, it changes when it gets old, doesn’t it? But Jesus never changes; He is always the same. (Hebrews 13:8) Why do you think it is important that Jesus never changes?Gift:  A heartshaped object. READ: Hearts remind us of love. We love others, but did you know that God loves us even more? (I Corinthians 13:47) How many things about love can we find in these verses?Gift: A piece of soap. READ: Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to show them that they should be servants to each other. (John 13:5) How can we be a servant to each other?Gift: A piece of flat bread for each person. READ: Jesus was tempted just like we are. (Matthew 4:111) When we are tempted, how can we resist the Tempter like Jesus did?Gift: A small candle or flashlight. READ: Both a candle and a flashlight give light. (Matthew 5:16) How can we be a light so that other people can see Jesus in us?Gift: A little Bible or tiny Scripture booklet. READ: God gives us His words in the Bible. (2 Timothy 3:16) How does the Bible help us to live the Christian life?Gift: A piece of modeling clay. READ: We can mold this piece of clay into whatever we want it to be. Sometimes we want to be like the people of the world but Jesus wants to mold us into His image. (Romans 12:1,2) Are there some things we do that are like the world and not like Jesus?Gift: Scissors. READ: With scissors, we can cut out crowns for us to wear. (Have construction paper available for crowns.) Jesus promises to give heavenly crowns to those who still love Him even when sad things happen to them. (James 1:12) What sad thing has happened in each of our lives? Do we still love Jesus?Gift: A toy boat. READ: The disciples were afraid they would die in a storm. (Mark 4:3540) Are we afraid of something? What does God say about fear?Gift: A small battery. READ: A battery gives a flashlight the power to produce light. Similarly, the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live a Christian life and have the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22,23) What are the fruits of the Spirit? How can we have the fruits of the Spirit?Gift: A penny for each person. READ: God gives us everything we have and wants us to give a part of it back to Him. (2 Corinthians 9:7) What can each of us give to God? Does God want us to be happy or sad when we give to Him?Last Gift: A photograph of each child when each was a baby. READ: You used to be a baby, didn’t you? So was Jesus. Just as you are growing up, Jesus grew up so that He could one day become our Savior. (Luke 2:120) What do you want to be when you grow up? In what way can each of us continue to have the Christmas spirit every day of this next year? I hope you will enjoy this idea. Our family enjoyed this project for many years. It was also one of many ways God used to heal our dysfunctional family. If you haven’t yet read about God’s healing of our family and marriage, check out my book: No More Anger: Hope for an Out-Of-Control Mom. 

Available in print, Kindle, and audiobook.