Things You Need to Do That Will Heal Your Broken Heart

You loved big and you weren't loved in return and the pain feels overwhelming. But there are things you can do that will heal your broken heart. #BrokenHeart #Faith #Hope #Marriage #Parenting #Relationships

Your heart is broken! You loved big and you weren’t loved in return and the pain feels overwhelming.

If you click over to the Blessing Counters Prayer Page, healing and restoration of broken hearts caused by broken relationships is the number one prayer request.

No matter how hard you and I try, rejection is an unfortunate part of life and to say it hurts is an understatement. We simply can’t make everyone love us.

Something I’ve learned, from experience and from watching others, is that the closer the relationship and greater the love … the more intense the pain.

So, what are you supposed to do when your heart is broken?

When the pain is so great that you don’t want to get out of bed or do anything?

C. S. Lewis said,

“No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear.”

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing your heart is broken and you’re grieving, not the death of a person but the death of a relationship.

I’ve been where you are and I know the fear you’re feeling comes from wondering if—you’ll ever feel like yourself. You’ll ever trust again. You’ll ever love or be loved again.

You’re wondering if you’ll ever be happy again.

I want you to know, you will. You will heal and you will be happy again.

But be patient with yourself. Grieving takes time … it’s a process without a timetable. It’s something you walk through, not around or over. You have to live it out one day at a time.

The following is a list of things I actually used as I walked through my own season of heartbroken grief.

I believe they can help you walk through yours…

Things You Need to Do That Will Heal Your Broken Heart

1. PRAY! Pray again and pray some more.

Cry out to God. He knows what you’re going through. He understands and He will help you.

Ask the Lord to comfort you and give you His strength and peace. And as hard as it may seem … ask Him to help you forgive the person who broke your heart.

I remember how letting go of the pain seemed impossible. I knew I needed God’s help.

So, I turned to the Psalms and prayed…

Father, I am sad and tired. Make me strong again as You have promised. (Based on Psalm 119:28)

Father, Your Word says You hear our prayers when we call out to You for help … it says You rescue Your children from their troubles. It tells me that – You are close to the brokenhearted and rescue those whose spirits are crushed. I need Your help and Your healing touch. (Based on Psalm 34:17–18

Father, You understand what I’m going through. You know what it’s like to be rejected. I trust Your perfect and unfailing love. Please heal my broken heart. Amen.

2. Turn to God’s Truth and Trust His promises.

God never rejects or betrays His children when they come to Him for help. Never! His promises are true! He proved every single one in and through Jesus.

It’s hard to function when grief is overwhelming. I remember struggling to accomplish even the little things and going through the motions of life in a numb fog. By God’s grace, He guided me to grab my Bible and for the first time in my life, I read it … not for knowledge but with a hunger in my heart. I spent every spare moment in the Word with the Lord, allowing Him to fill me with His truth and promises.

Promises like…

He gives strength to those who are tired and power to those who are weak.
Isaiah 40:29

I can do all things through Christ because He gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

And the one that became my life verse…

My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:26

And knowing He was able to hold me close and give me strength, help me to…

3. Breathe and Take Time to Heal.

Broken hearts don’t heal over night any more than broken bones do!

Accept the fact that healing will take time. Get counseling if you need it. Find a wise friend who has walked this path before you … who will walk alongside you giving you hope and encouragement.

You may have friends who don’t understand … that’s okay. This is your life, your journey … ask God to surround you with people who will simply be with you not try to fix you.

I like the following quote because even when the steps are small and the progress is slow … if you’re moving forward, you’re heading in the right direction.

“Take all the time you need to heal emotionally. Moving on doesn’t take a day. It takes a lot of little steps to be able to break free of your broken self.”
Author Unknown

Something I needed to remember was to…

4. Stop Reliving the Painful Memories.

Repeatedly reliving painful memories only robbed me of peace, contentment, and joy.

But I’ll be honest with you, this one was really hard for me. I kept wondering … What if I hadn’t said this; what if they hadn’t done that. What if!

I’m not going to tell you it’s easy, it’s not. But there is an important truth to remember… you and I get to choose what we think about.

Negative thoughts and painful memories will inevitably come to mind … the enemy loves to taunt and discourage us with them but we get to decide how long we will allow them to linger and upset us.

One of the things I learned to do was to…

Set grieving appointments. I gave myself 15-30 minutes each day, to feel big and express painful emotions. I could cry, rant, stomp my feet, or punch a pillow. Whatever I needed to release what I was feeling. When the time was up, I’d take a breath and tell myself to let it go for that day. Then … when negative thoughts upset me, I’d remind myself that I would deal with them later at my appointment.

And when negative thoughts tried to derail me, I do my best to remember the following truths…

Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.
Proverbs 4:23

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:8

5. Do Things that Make You Happy

It’s easy to believe that feeling happy somehow denies your pain and grief. It doesn’t. Do things that bless you … things you love will help you heal.

Go out for coffee with a friend. Take a walk in the park. Buy yourself flowers. Eat a piece of chocolate. Make a list of your favorite things to do and check them off … one by one.

“Today I choose to let go of pain, hurt, resentment, sadness, guilt, and negativity that I’ve been holding onto and allowing to control my life. Today I choose happiness and above all love.” ~Author Unknown

6. Surround Yourself with Love

Don’t let your broken heart define you.

Spend time with people who love you. Allow the people who do love you to fill your joy tank. Pour yourself into the people God has placed around you. Look for someone to help … someone else who needs hope and encouragement.

“Live your life from your heart. Share from your heart. And your story will touch and heal people’s souls.”
Melody Beattie

Friend, God is greater than your helplessness and hopelessness. He is able to heal your broken heart.

He understands the pain of rejection. You can give the pieces of your broken heart to Jesus and let Him help you heal.

I’ll admit that occasionally painful thoughts still pop into my head but that doesn’t mean God hasn’t healed my broken heart. All it means is that it’s time to repeat these six steps and trust God to once again give me His perfect peace and fill me with joy.

The One who holds the universe in the palm of His hand loves you! He is able to give you everything you need. He will heal your broken heart!

He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and calls them all by name. How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension!
Psalm 147:3–5

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5 Verses to Pray When You are in a Time of Change

5 / 16 / 195 / 16 / 19

It’s that time of the year…

I’ve heard friends are calling it #Maycember.

And I understand. I still remember overstuffed calendar pages filled with end of the school year events and activities, and although the days were long and exhausting, that wasn’t the hardest part…

The hardest part was dealing with impending CHANGE!

Any time of change is part of life but it's not always a welcome part. It can spike your stress level and leave you sleepless. Let's pray about it... #Prayer #Faithblogger #LinkParty #SeekGodFirst #GoodNews

The end of every school year was another reminder that my children were growing up!

Change is part of life but in all honesty, it’s not always a welcome part of life, is it?

Our children growing up makes us emotional but it’s anticipated and expected … honestly, they’re supposed to grow up.

But what about the unexpected changes that spike our stress levels and leave us staring at the ceiling each night.

Things like…

losing a job.
receiving a difficult diagnosis.
caring for an ailing parent.
having an unforeseen/overwhelming expense.
moving.
finding out you’re pregnant.

Good or not so good – change is often stressful.

So today, we’re taking our time of change to the throne of grace … asking God to meet every need and give us His hard to understand peace.

5 Verses to Pray When You are in a Time of Change

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6–7

Father, You have faithfully given me everything I need in the past and I know You are with me today. Why is it so hard to simply wait trusting You will faithfully give me what I will need tomorrow.

Life is hard. When I look around it’s easy to see that plenty of bad things happen. And this change, Father, feels like it could go either way. So, please help me remember all You have done for me in the past. Help me trust You to give me all I need tomorrow. And fill me with Your Spirit that I might experience Your hard to explain or understand peace.

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalm 32:8

Father, I love this promise. It comforts me. I can trust You to guide me and You always guide with love and wisdom because You are Love and Wisdom! I am never alone, even during this time of change! You are watching over me. Your Spirit is with and within me guiding me according to Your will. Help me quickly and willingly follow wherever You lead.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Deuteronomy 31:8

Oh, Father, please help me remember this … You are with me. You will never leave me. And Your love never fails. Through this time of change calm my fears and help me defeat discouragement as I continually keep in mind that whatever tomorrow may bring—You are already there. Nothing comes as a surprise to You. Father, You know exactly what I need today and exactly what I will need tomorrow.

You will keep in perfect peace
    all who trust in You,
    all whose thoughts are fixed on You! Trust in the Lord always,
    for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
Isaiah 26:3–4

Father, I do trust You. I will not be shaken when I trust Your Word and Your promises. I can experience peace even through uncertain times when I remained focused on who You are and all You’ve done. You are my Creator, Redeemer, Comforter, Helper, Healer, Shepherd, and Provider. You are my Lord and Savior … I can face tomorrow secure in Your mighty power and unchanging love.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:8

Father, thank you! Your Word, from beginning to end, points to Jesus. John called Him the Word, with You from before the beginning of time. (John 1:1) The One promised in the Garden. (Genesis 3:15) The Word made flesh … full of unfailing love and faithfulness. (John 1:14) The Alpha and Omega … the One who always was and always will be forever. (Revelation 1:8) The One who sits on the throne. (Revelation 5:13) The One who is coming soon. (Revelation 22:21)

When I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus with an eternal perspective … this time of change simply becomes part of the adventure we are taking together.

Father, thank you for never leaving me to face day to day adventure alone and thank you for making it possible for me to know with confidence that my adventure will continue forever in Your presence. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

Friend, if you’re going through a time of change…

My Bible reading this week included Psalm 103…

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things He does for me.
Psalm 103:1–2

David continued by naming things he wanted to remember. Things like…

forgiveness
healing
righteousness and justice
redemption
tender mercy
compassion and patience
grace and unfailing love

You and I can trust God through each and every time of change be He is unchanging. We love, trust, and pray to the same heavenly Father that David did and all of those “good things” He did for David … He continues to do in your life and mine.

When I remember all that God has done for me in the past I have strength and courage for today and hope for tomorrow.

Praise the Lord!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Before She Was Your Mother

by Pam Ecrement
@ A New Lens

20 Reasons You are a Great Mom

by Dr. Michelle Bengtson
@ Hope Prevails

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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When I Tell You I’m a Mess…

5 / 13 / 195 / 12 / 19

When I tell you I’m a mess, I’m admitting I’m a sinner … I’m not saying it’s okay.

When I say that my life is a mess, I’m recognizing that I am living out the consequences of my sin and the sins of the people around me … every single day.

When I talk about the world being messy, I’m pointing out the fact that we live in a world broken by sin … and we need help.

Like so many, I hesitate to use the word SIN because too often that word shuts down the conversation. You see, we live in a society of “specks and logs.”

Jesus said,

Why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?
Luke 6:41

And we’re guilty aren’t we?

Many Christians love to talk about and condemn sexual sin and abortion; while rarely admitting or even thinking about the fact that they are guilty of doing many of the things the Bible says “God hates.”

There are six things the Lord hates—
    no, seven things He detests:
haughty eyes,
    a lying tongue,
    hands that kill the innocent,
a heart that plots evil,
    feet that race to do wrong,
a false witness who pours out lies,
    a person who sows discord in a family.
Proverbs 6:16–19

Which one of us can honestly say we’ve never had a moment of arrogance or “better than you” pride? Who has never told a lie? Who hasn’t stirred up a little family unrest?

And those are things the Lord hates.

What about Paul’s list of things that come from a “sinful nature.”

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these.
Galatians 5:19–20

Yes, he starts with the ones we love to condemn but what about lust, quarreling, jealousy, angry outbursts, selfishness, etc.

Seriously, aren’t we all guilty of at least a few of those?

And then there was the time a Pharisee asked Jesus…

“Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”
Matthew 22:36

And Jesus replied…

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37–40

I don’t know about you, but I fall short of that kind of love every single day.

So, when I tell you I’m mess, I’m admitting I’m a sinner.

AND IT’S NOT OKAY!!

I don’t want to make excuses for my sins while pointing out someone else’s. I want to come alongside other “messy” people and lovingly tell them they don’t have to make excuses or pretend like they’re perfect.

There is a better way.

Jesus said,

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28

“Your sins are forgiven.”
Luke 5:20 and Luke 7:38

And Peter, the disciple who denied Jesus, said…

And He [Jesus] ordered us to preach everywhere and to testify that Jesus is the one appointed by God to be the judge of all—the living and the dead. He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in Him will have their sins forgiven through His name.”
Acts 10:42–43

And friend … forgiveness is so much better than denial.

You see, we all know the truth. We know we are broken and messy people living out the consequences of sin in the world and in us.

John wrote…

If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.
1 John 1:8

We are only fooling ourselves!

But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
1 John 1:9

Forgiven and clean.

That is just better! Don’t you want that for everyone you know? Don’t you want them to know and love the One who is able to forgive their sins and give them eternal life?

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23

I will continue to tell you that I’m a mess … not because I want you to believe it’s okay to be messy. It’s not! I don’t want to be a mess. I hate living out the consequences of my messes. I hate living out the consequences of other people’s messes. And I hate the messes we’ve made for ourselves in this broken world because we’re excusing the things the Bible clearly says “God hates.”

I will tell you I’m a mess … because I want you to know that I’m a sinner saved by God’s grace through Jesus. I want you to know there’s a better way to be free of sin than to pretend it doesn’t exist.

And that way is Jesus…

“the way, the truth, and the life.”
John 14:6a

Jesus said He is the way and then He added…

“No one can come to the Father except through Me!”
John 14:6b

Jesus is the One who took my mess and yours, my sin and yours, upon Himself. He suffered our punishment so we can come to the Father freed and forgiven.

When I tell you I’m a mess … I’m saying I need Jesus!

So, when I tell you I’m a mess … I’m not saying it’s okay.

I’m telling you I care about you and I’m inviting you to bring your mess alongside mine and walk with me to the foot of the cross … to Jesus. And I’m admitting that I will never be mess free this side of heaven no matter how hard I try … but I am trying.

And maybe, just maybe, you’d like to try with me and together with God’s help we can be a little more loving, compassionate, and caring. Maybe we can be a little less messy together as we link arms in faith united by His grace, mercy, and love.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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5 More Verses to Pray When You Need to Know God’s Will

5 / 9 / 19

I want to consistently know God's will and follow it but I have to admit there are times when it's not as clear as I'd like it to be. That's when I need to pray... #Faith #BibleStudy #SeekGodFirst #FaithBlogger #CountingMyBlessings

It can happen in the middle of the mess but it can also happen when the chaos is over and you’re left picking up the pieces of your life.

If you’re like me, questions take over your thoughts…

“What now?”
“What’s next?”
“What am I supposed to do?”
“Where do I go from here?”

Or maybe, your questions weren’t caused by a mess. Maybe you’re at one of those forks in the road and you’re not sure which one you should take.

The questions are the similar even though the circumstances may vary.

I want to consistently know God’s will and follow it but I have to admit there are times when it’s not as clear as I’d like it to be. And truthfully, I occasionally have times when wish I could see into the future … but then again, it’s probably better that I can’t.

Because…

Life is meant to be lived one day at a time.

I love the way The Message presents Matthew 6:34…

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

I love that! And yet, I need to know how to make wise choices today as I prepare to live in God’s will tomorrow … right?

So, what do I do?

I pray to the One who not only knows the future … He’s already there. I pray to the One who not only knows the future … He knows my future.

And He knows yours as well!

Pray with me … I’m asking God to show me His will for today and guide me according to His plans and purposes tomorrow…

5 More Verses to Pray When You Need to Know God’s Will

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.
Jeremiah 29:11–13 (NIV)

Father, these words were spoken to Your children living in exile in Babylon. Talk about living in a mess! I can only imagine the questions they must have been asking.

And then You speak to them through Your prophet. “I know the plans I have for you … plans to give you a future and a hope.”

Hope! I pray for hope! I pray for You to guide and direct me. I pray that I might claim this promise personally. And with Your Spirit’s help, I will seek You “wholeheartedly.” Please help me love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength even when life is hard and distracting. Please help me humbly come to You in prayer and follow Your will as it is revealed in Your Word and fill me with hope as I anticipate a future that is already full of Your loving presence.

My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience. Let your patience show itself perfectly in what you do. Then you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you need. But if any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it. He is generous to everyone and will give you wisdom without criticizing you.
James 1:2–5 (NCV)

Father, it’s hard to be joyful and patient when I’m confused and life is hard. Please forgive me for the times I get so focused on my “troubles” that my faith falls short. Please help me. I need wisdom … a generous supply of Your wisdom. Not quick solutions and easy answers but the truth that lasts.

Please strengthen me to trust and obey Your command to love … to think about myself less and depend on You more. And Father, please give me the hope and confidence I need to know today that You are always with me giving me everything I need.

Show me the right path, O Lord;
    point out the road for me to follow.
Lead me by Your truth and teach me,
   for You are the God who saves me.
   All day long I put my hope in You.
Psalm 25:4–5

Father, teach me and lead me. Give me a hunger and thirst to know You through the pages of Scripture and by the power of Your Spirit, help me trust, and obey without reservation. That will always be the “right path.”

Please bless me with the fruit of Your Spirit. Fill me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Help me live the words of the Psalmist, “not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name goes all the glory for Your unfailing love and faithfulness.”

Let me hear of Your unfailing love each morning,
   for I am trusting You.
Show me where to walk,
   for I give myself to You.
Teach me to do Your will,
   for You are my God.
May Your gracious Spirit lead me forward
    on a firm footing.
Psalm 143:8 & 10

Father, help me to “be still” that I might hear Your gentle guiding whisper. I trust You to faithfully guide me in love. Help me, by the power of Your Spirit, to humbly offer myself as a “living sacrifice,” willing to do Your will as You reveal it to me. And when I don’t know what to do … help me live each day free of worry, simply doing what I know to do.

Teach me Your will as I study Your Word and sit with You in prayer. And lead me by Your Spirit giving me the courage and strength I need along the way.

Seek the Kingdom of God, above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.
Matthew 6:33

May this be my daily prayer, Father. Make me a SEEKER first and foremost! I want to KNOW You. I want to KNOW Your will. I want to TRUST and OBEY Your commands. I want to live with gratitude because You have given me everything I need … You have given me Jesus, the One who has made possible my hope and my future. Thank you, Father, in Jesus name I pray. Amen.

One more thing to know God’s will…

The most important thing I’ve learned about knowing and following God’s will is that it is done one day at a time.

It has to begin again each morning with fresh faith in God who is not far off or uninvolved … but close enough to hear every whispered prayer and loving enough to guide every surrendered step.

Click here to read – 5 Verses to Pray When You Need to Know God’s Will.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

How to be Thankful When You Don’t Feel Thankful

by Debbie Wilson
@ Refreshing Faith

What To Do When You Don’t Know What To Do

by Lois Flowers
@ Waxing Gibbous

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

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Thank you and God bless!

7 Important Things to Do When You Need to Be Wise

5 / 6 / 195 / 4 / 19

Have you ever followed someone’s advice or went along with what they were doing and realized later that you had made a huge mistake?

Yea, me too.

You went shopping with a friend and overspent your budget so you could get matching bags.
You spent time gossiping with a friend and later learned she was also gossiping about you.
You sat around with other parents and trashed your child’s teacher.
You invested in something that turned out to be a scam.
You jumped to a wrong conclusion and judged someone without knowing all the facts.
You got involved in an ugly social media rant and hurt a friendship.

I’m sure the list could go on and on.

Solomon wrote…

The wise are glad to be instructed, but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.
Proverbs 10:8

Yep, been there … done that! I’ve been foolish more times than I’d like to admit.

I’m guessing, that like me, you don’t want to be foolish. You want to know the wise thing to do and do it. But you also know you’ve got some growin’ to do . . . at least I do.

So what’s next?

What should we do when we’ve decided we want to live with wisdom, but change is neither fast nor is it easy.

We need a plan of action.

So, let’s get started…

7 Important Things to Do When You Need to Be Wise

1. Know What it Means to Be Wise.

Wisdom is not intelligence, knowledge or understanding. Wisdom is knowing what is true and right and applying that knowledge and understanding to life.

My favorite simple definition is…

Wisdom is knowing the right thing to do and doing it at the right time!

Whew! I don’t know about you but I need help if I want to live by that definition.

Solomon began the Book of Proverbs like this…

These are the proverbs of Solomon –

Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise.
Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
Proverbs 1:1–3

2. Admit You Want to Be Wise.

I finally decided that I’d spent way too long learning about life the hard way … living out the consequences of my foolish choices. But I couldn’t stop there! I had to admit my foolishness and that I wanted a better way.

A wise person chooses the right road; a fool takes the wrong one.
Proverbs 10:2

I knew I needed help!

3. Know the Truth about the Source of Wisdom.

The Psalmist wrote

The [reverent] fear of the Lord is the beginning (the prerequisite, the absolute essential, the alphabet) of wisdom; A good understanding and a teachable heart are possessed by all those who do the will of the Lord; His praise endures forever.
Psalm 11:10 (AMP)

I love that! It says it all. If I want to be wise I need to live with awe and respect for God, trust that He is who He says He is and that He can do what He says He can do.

The Life Application Bible Notes say the following about this verse…

If we do not acknowledge God as the source of wisdom, then our foundation for making wise decisions is shaky and we are prone to mistakes and foolish choices.

But the good news is … God wants to make us wise. We can go to Him in faith and ask!

4. Ask God for the gift of wisdom.

I ask God every morning to give me the wisdom I need to live that day. I don’t need to know what to do next month or next year … I need to know what to do today.

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
James 1:5

Life Application Bible Notes say the wisdom we need is three-fold…

It is practical for life … godly wisdom is profound ideas put into action.
It is divine … godly wisdom goes beyond common sense.
It is Christlike … godly wisdom is asking to be like Christ.

How awesome is it that God wants to give us wisdom that looks like that?!

5. Seek God’s Word for Wisdom.

Intentionally and prayerfully reading and studying God’s Word has changed my life. I’ve learned from the real-life accounts of God’s people … their successes and their failures. I’ve studied the words of prophets, priests and kings. And I’ve read and reread Jesus own words for life … words that are full of wisdom.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.
Luke 12:31

6. Knock – Get Involved and Obey.

This I’ve learned is the hardest part … to actually act on what I’ve prayed for and learned. I know it’s better. I know I’ll enjoy more of the peace, joy, and contentment of life when I do … but like the Apostle Paul, I don’t always do those good things I want to do.

I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.
Romans 7:15

Praise God! Because of His grace, mercy, and great love … because of Jesus sacrifice I have a clean slate and an opportunity to try again tomorrow.

7. Learn From Your Mistakes.

As long as you and I are here on earth, we will never be perfectly wise. My friends like to call me “the wise one.” Whew … not even close.

But by God’s grace, I know the One who is. I know where to go when I need wisdom. I know where to take my failures and I trust that He will help me turn foolish mistakes into gained wisdom

The Lord always keeps His promises; He is gracious in all He does. The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
Psalm 145:14–15

And repeat #4 through #7 as often as necessary when you need God’s help to be wise.

You want to know the wise thing to do and do it. But you also know you've got some growin' to do ... things to do when you need to be wise. #BibleStudy #BeWise #Faith #SeekGodFirst #ChristianBlogger #CountingMyBlessings

Because…

We have a Father who wants us to live with wisdom and understanding for His glory … knowing it is what’s best for us, too.

We have a Savior who loves us so much He gave up everything to show us what a life of wisdom looks like and who sacrificed Himself to forgive every foolish mistake we’ve ever made.

We have the Holy Spirit who has given us the tools we need to help us grow in wisdom.

We have a God who wants to bless us today, tomorrow, and forever.

My child, listen to what I say
and treasure my commands.
Tune your ears to wisdom,
    and concentrate on understanding.
Cry out for insight,
    and ask for understanding.
Search for them as you would for silver;
  seek them like hidden treasures.
Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord,
    and you will gain knowledge of God.
For the Lord grants wisdom!
    From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:1–6

Friend, it is awesome to know that even though you and I will continue to be wisdom works in progress, we are forgiven and free to keep trying.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

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5 Verses to Pray Before You Tell Your Story

5 / 2 / 19

Thank you so much for SHOUTING your disapproval and disagreements on social media and blog comments. You’ve convinced me how much I really need to know your Jesus.

Said no one ever!

5 verses and prayers to help you be prepared to tell your story with gentleness and respect ... not to be right but to share God's love. #Prayer #SocialMedia #BibleStudy #VersestoPray #CountingMyBlessings #faithblogger

So many of those disagreements have to do with the things we consider moral and immoral, right and wrong, good and bad … you know the things we call the law!

There is an account in Scripture where Jesus addresses the subject with an “expert in religious law”…

Jesus asked, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?” And the expert answered…

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Luke 10:27

And Jesus said, “Right!”

He didn’t correct the man or remind him of that well-known list of shalts and shalt nots. Jesus agreed that love is the way to sum up the message of that law. It’s interesting to note that love is also the message of grace.

If love is the message of the law and the gospel … I can’t help but question how well we’re sharing the message when I read through finger pointing posts and contentious discussions on social media.

So today, I’m praying about ways we might do a better job of sharing God’s love … not by telling people they’re wrong but by showing them through our kindness and compassion how God’s amazing grace and love is able to transform lives. By telling our own transformation stories.

I’d love for you to pray with me…

5 Verses to Pray Before You Tell Your Story

Father, I want to live for Your glory! I want to tell people about Your amazing grace, mercy, and love. I want to show them Your love. Please help me.

The man who had been freed from the demons begged to go with Him. But Jesus sent him home, saying, “No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you.” So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him.
Luke 8:38–39

Father, I was a broken mess and You delivered me. I am overwhelmed by Your grace and mercy. What a blessing to know Your perfect unfailing love covers me. How I want everyone to know the hope and joy only You can give. Please fill my heart with love and help me to go and tell all the “great things” You have done for me in and through Jesus.

You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.But do this in a gentle and respectful way.
1 Peter 3:15–16a

Father, Give me a heart of gratitude and worship. Make me mindful of all the blessings I have as Your child. And through Your Spirit, help me tell my story with gentleness and respect. Help me remember that I don’t have to be “right” because I know and love the One who IS RIGHT! Help me humbly remember that it is not my job to change hearts and minds … You do that. I just need to “always be ready” to tell my story of faith and hope.

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Matthew 5:14–16

Father, I am so aware of my weaknesses and faults. Please forgive me for the countless times I fail to shine for Your glory. You have given me an amazing light-filled story to share. A story of the transforming power of Your love. A story of fear to faith, doubt to hope, and anxiety to peace. A story that knows Your grace really is sufficient. Help me shine … not so people will see me but so people will see You.

“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:4–5

Jesus, please hold me close. Help me remain in You, producing fruit for Your glory. You said that I will “remain in You” when Your words remain within me. Then … You invited me to ASK! So, I’m asking today that You will help me make knowing Your Word and prayer a priority in my life. Please help me love You, Lord, with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength … and help me love my neighbor as You want.

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
John 13:34–35

Jesus, You made it known it is our love that will show the world we belong to You. Forgive me. Too often, I have failed to love because I’ve been quick to criticize and judge. Forgive me. Too often, I’ve expected people to clean up and conform before I’ve accepted and loved them. Forgive me. Too often, I’ve refused to listen with love and compassion. Please help me love as You love. Make me humble and caring. Help me bear the fruit of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Help me love! That the world may know You! Amen.

Always be prepared to tell your story.

Friend, I believe that by God’s grace we can do this … maybe not perfectly but certainly better. We can tell our stories of God’s grace with gentleness and respect. And with His help, you and I can love each other in ways that show changed lives for God’s glory.

One more thing…

I am not throwing out the Commandments nor am I saying the Law no longer matters. What I am saying is that Jesus Himself said that the list of rules we love to wave like a banner is about unselfishly loving God and loving others. It doesn’t throw them out … it’s just a better way of looking at them.

Here are a couple of articles I received this week that I believe speak to this…

Today’s Apostasy by Billy Graham, Decision Magazine

A Divided American – 3 Responses for Christians by Ronnie W. Floyd, National Day of Prayer Website

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

What You are Missing When You’re Not Honest With God

by Carlie Lake
@ From Dust Towards the Heavens

PERSONAL COMMUNION – ARE YOU JUST “MOWING GOD’S LAWN”?

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 of the Best Faith Books You Need to Reread Every Year

4 / 29 / 194 / 29 / 19

I’ve read a handful of books in my life that I would say have been “life-changing” in the ways they have challenged me and grown my faith.

Books I simply call – the Best Faith Books!

These are books I reread often. Most have them have been around for a while. I’m guessing that even if you’ve read them … it was some time ago. So, I thought I’d take a few minutes to tell you why I think it may be time to read them again…

5 of the Best Faith Books

♥ Soul Keeping: Caring for the Most Important Part of You by John Ortberg

How would you describe your soul?

If you’ve always wanted to know the answers to questions like:

1. What is the soul?
2. What does sin have to do with the soul?
3. What does the soul need?
4. How to restore an injured or hurting soul?

John Ortberg does an excellent job of explaining how you and I are more than a body, a mind, and free-will. You and I are souls, and there may be nothing more important than knowing about our soul’s care and keeping.

Pastor Ortberg draws upon his years of study and mentorship under the late Dallas Willard to provide readers with a guide to their souls, the gateway to a deeper relationship with God.”Your soul is not just something that lives on after your body dies. It’s the most important thing about you. It is your life.”

Quotes from Soul Keeping…

“You’re a soul made by God, made for God, and made to need God, which means you were not made to be self-sufficient.” In one of his books, Dallas has further explained, What is running your life at any given moment is your soul. Not external circumstances, not your thoughts, not your intentions, not even your feelings, but your soul. The soul is that aspect of your whole being that correlates, integrates, and enlivens everything going on in the various dimensions of the self. The soul is the life center of human beings.”

“Our world has replaced the word soul with the word self, and they are not the same thing. The more we focus on our selves, the more we neglect our souls.”

My mind may be obsessed with idols; my will may be enslaved to habits; my body may be consumed with appetites. But my soul will never find rest until it rest in God.

♥ The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel

I reread Lee Strobel’s books because they deal with facts … they always encourage my faith and give me tools I can use to share my own story of faith.

Lee Strobel wrote the following about this journey…

For much of my life I was a skeptic. In fact, I considered myself an atheist. To me, there was far too much evidence that God was merely a product of wishful thinking, of ancient mythology , of primitive superstition.

Then he spent nearly two years interviewing thirteen scholars and authorities on his quest for the truth about Christ. His “Case for” books present the facts and information gathered to the reader as a litigator would present evidence to a jury … facts and information that forever changed his life.

The reason I recommend reading and rereading Strobel’s books is I believe they will encourage your faith and give you tools you can use to share your faith with others.

Quotes from Lee Strobel…

“To continue in atheism, I would need to believe that nothing produces everything, non-life produces life, randomness produces fine-tuning, chaos produces information, unconsciousness produces consciousness, and non-reason produces reason. I simply didn’t have that much faith.”

“Christian faith is not an irrational leap. Examined objectively, the claims of the Bible are rational propositions well supported by reason and evidence.”

“I believe in Jesus on the basis of the historical evidence, but my relationship with Jesus goes way beyond the evidence. I have to put my trust in him and walk with him on a daily basis.”

♥ Your 100 Day Prayer: The Transforming Power of Actively Waiting on God – by John Snyder

This is by far, the best books on prayer I’ve ever read. It’s a book God placed in front of me in the middle of a book store when I was going through a very difficult time.

I’ve read and prayed through this book several times and I’m currently reading and journaling my way through it again.

When the need is so great, so seemingly impossible that only God’s direct intervention will ever bring it about, it takes a different kind of prayer. Your 100 Day Prayer is designed to take you straight to the heart and will of God by seeking him for a specific need. This book includes:
A dedicated page to express your need before God on the day you start your 100 day of prayer,
100 entries to help you focus your prayer through the truth of God’s Word and character,
Leading prayers to give you a jump start,
Writing space to capture your conversations with the Father and the spiritual transformation you experience day by day, and
A concluding page to memorialize how God answered your prayer and transformed you through the process.

Quote from Your 100 Day Prayer – A Prayer To Begin

Lord, as I embark on this journey of prayer, come and banish from my heart every last trace of self-reliance and captivate my mind with the truth that you are sufficient for my every need, great or small. Transform me by increasing my confidence in you, in all your extravagant forgiveness and mercy, and strengthen my trembling knees in the face of trouble. Cause my loved ones and me to emerge from this season of prayer with a fresh vision of Your glory, a new and lasting fearlessness, and a renewed devotion to Your purpose for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

♥ The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

This is another book I’m currently rereading…

I love the first question … What on earth am I here for?

Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions of life … swimming around in your own little fishbowl, feeling like there ought to be more?

If you’re longing for more … if you need a new perspective and new hope it just may be time to reread this book.

Quote – Rick Warren dedicated The Purpose Driven Life to you…

Before you were born, God planned this moment in your life. it is no accident that you are holding this book. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live—here on earth and forever in eternity.
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. Ephesians 1:11 (MSG)

And finally the #1 most important book you need to read, reread and then reread it again.

♥ The Bible … The Word of God

I promise you the more you read the Bible … the more you will fall in love with reading the Bible.

I’ve participated in more Bible Studies than I can count and although I’m still a fan, studies are primarily reading what someone else has to say about various and specific sections of Scripture.

And although valuable, I don’t want to rely simply on what someone else thinks about God’s Word … I want the Holy Spirit to speak God’s Word of truth directly to my heart and mind.

You see, through faithfully reading through the Bible every day I’ve not only fallen in love with reading the Bible … I’ve fallen in love with the Author.

Quotes from The Bible…

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Hebrews 4:12

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
2 Timothy 3:16

Jesus prayed…

Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.
John 17:17–19

You are so very loved by the God of the universe.

The 5 best faith books will bless and encourage you and if you’re like me you need that reminder most when you’re caught in the middle of life’s daily routine!

P.S. I don’t benefit from the sale of any of these books and have not linked to any resources for you to purchase them. They are all available through Amazon as well as a variety of other book distributors. However, I am adding a link to my favorite version and translation of the Bible because the New Life Translation plus the Life Application Bible Study Notes blesses me.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?

Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Fear

4 / 25 / 194 / 26 / 19

I’m not a fan of many of the sayings you typically find on church signs.

Fear doesn’t leave because someone says . . . don’t be afraid or you need bigger faith ... practical ways to help a loved one struggling with fear. #Faith #BibleStudy #Prayer #OvercomeFear

You know. Things like…

Don’t tell God how big your fear is, tell your fear how big your God is.

F.E.A.R. – False Evidence Appearing Real

Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.

Although there may be some truth in these quotes they sound trite to…

the parent who received a hard diagnosis about their child.
the spouse who is suddenly widowed.
the child whose parents are divorcing.
the employee whose boss just gave them a pink slip.
the family who can’t pay their bills.

The truth is that although there are countless verses telling us not to be afraid . . . there are things in life that are understandably frightening.

I can relate to this…

“It’s not the unknown I’m afraid of, it’s the known unknown.”

You see, I learned at a very young age that bad things happen.

I can still see my two-year-old self standing next to my grandmother looking out of an upstairs window as paramedics loaded my mother into an ambulance.

Until that, my only caregivers had been my parents or my grandparents and an aunt who lived upstairs.

But for the next two weeks – I stayed with family members I didn’t know very well and I learned . . . life can change in an instant.

And from that time on I was afraid.

Afraid of the dark. Afraid to spend the night away from home. Afraid something bad would happen to my parents. Afraid of being alone.

Once fear is a close companion it doesn’t leave because someone says . . . don’t be afraid or you need bigger faith. Frightened people know that and believe me, they would stop being afraid if they could!

Frightened people don’t want to be afraid! Telling them they shouldn’t be afraid and that their faith is weak or even sharing some trite church sign saying … is not going to help!

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Fear

Listen with compassion – Don’t tell them not to be afraid. In fact, sometimes the best thing to say is, “I’m sorry you’re going through this. Would you like to talk about it?” Then listen, care, and be willing to help if you can.
Pray – Offer to pray for them. Better yet, offer to pray with them. Jesus understands fear as He experienced it.

While Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane praying before His arrest, trial, suffering and death, He prayed.

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
Luke 22:42

Jesus was not afraid of the known unknown. He knew what was about to happen, and Luke, the Physician, wrote…

He prayed more fervently, and He was in such agony of spirit that His sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.
Luke 22:44

♥ Pray that your loved one would come to know that God truly is greater than their fear.

I didn’t believe God was greater than my fear until He proved it to me by graciously giving me everything I needed while lived through some of my greatest fears.

And one day at a time, He gave me the strength to keep going and peace that I couldn’t begin to understand.

And gradually, I began to realize that He really was with me … I didn’t have to be afraid anymore. G

I started to realize things that used to terrify no longer upset me … not because some quip on a church sign or picture on Pinterest said so but because God was giving me strength and peace when I needed it most.

As I prayed and others prayed for me, I focused more on Jesus than on fearful “what ifs.”

Who needs you to pray for them today?

Verses to Pray for a Loved One Struggling with Fear

“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

Jesus, __________ is struggling with fear. Please help them to know You are always with them … that You will never leave them nor forsake them. Help __________ know you understand their fear and how very much You love them.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28–29

Jesus, fear is a difficult burden … it is exhausting. __________ needs Your help. Fear-filled thoughts keep them from getting the rest they need. Please help them and fill them with Your peace.

You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalm 32:7–8

Father, be my __________’s hiding place; protect them in this time of trouble and surround them with songs of victory. Guide them along the best path for life. Advise them and watch over them.

Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6b–7

Father, Please give _________ Your hard to understand peace. Help them remember the big and small things You have done … ways You have blessed, helped, and protected. By Your grace, increase __________’s faith and help them turn to You in prayer whenever they’re afraid.

And please help my loved one remember…

Where God’s love is, there is no fear, because God’s perfect love drives out fear.
1 John 4:18a

Father, You are the perfect love who casts out fear. Thank you for demonstrating Your love through Jesus, who suffered our punishment so we know Your love and never have to be afraid again. Amen.

Friend, when someone you love is struggling with fear … listen and pray!

Because the truth is…

God really is greater than our fears!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

My Favorite Bible Resources

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

Three Ways to Surrender Judgment and
Welcome a Heart of Compassion

by and @ Lisa Murray

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

How to Have Faith that is Greater than Your Fear

4 / 22 / 194 / 16 / 19

Have you ever noticed that the first emotion Adam and Eve experienced after eating the forbidden fruit was fear and here we are still struggling with it thousands of years later?

How to Have Faith that is Greater that Your Fear - Eight practical and easy ways to have faith that will help you live victoriously, even in the face of fear & three good news reasons you don't have to be afraid. #BibleStudy #Fearless #OvercomingFear #CountingMyBlessings #FeartoFreedom

I used to think I was in a small group of fear-filled worriers. Almost everyone around me seemed more capable and courageous than me.

But God has graciously allowed me to realize I’m not alone in this struggle … and neither are you.

He is with us. Just look at all the times God’s Word says, “Don’t be afraid…”

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

Don’t be afraid – God will strengthen you, help you, and hold you.

So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
Matthew 10:31

Don’t be afraid – you are valuable to the Father.

“Don’t be afraid,” He said, “for you are very precious to God.
Daniel 10:19

Don’t be afraid – you are precious and loved.

“Don’t be afraid. I am here!”
John 6:20

Don’t be afraid – God is with you.

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
John 14:27

Don’t be afraid – He will give you peace.

If I could have a life do-over, I’d spend less time worried and afraid!

Although I can’t change the past … I can change the future.

Max Lucado once said, “The presence of fear does not mean you have no faith. Fear visits everyone. But make your fear a visitor and not a resident.”

With God’s help, I can release persistent fear that wants to take up permanent residency and rob me of peace and joy.

I will always have fearful moments. You will too. Life is hard. (I almost made a list of hard things … but honestly, you don’t need my help to come up with things that frighten you.)

Jesus said we’d have troubles. He knew! He experienced them.

“Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

One of the things I love is that Jesus didn’t simply say, “Don’t be afraid.” He gave the reasons why we shouldn’t be afraid.

Don’t be afraid, because…

I am with you.
I have overcome the world.
You are precious and valuable.

You see, throughout His ministry, Jesus also talked about the relationship between faith and fear.

“Don’t be afraid. Just have faith.”
Mark 5:36

And…

“Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!”
Matthew 8:26

And the truth is, when I truly believe that I am precious and valuable to the God of the universe, the One who has overcome the world and is always with me and rock solid faith in Jesus, the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life … I have all I need to reject persistent fear.

Friend, I’ve been blessed to experience moments when by God’s grace and with His help my faith was greater than the fear in front of me. And in all honesty, I can still have times when my weak faith keeps me from the victory God wants for me.

So, I’ve built a list of things to do that help me reject fear and move forward in faith.

And I thought they might help you as well…

How to Have Faith that is Greater than Your Fear

♥ Identify the Fear

Sometimes I can just get that old familiar “what if” feeling for no apparent reason at all. It’s important for me to decide – am I really afraid or is this an old bad habit rearing its ugly head once again.

♥ Ask Myself if It’s True

Is the thing that’s frightening me real in my life or is it just another “what if” possibility of something that could happen. If it’s not real … I need to let it go!

♥ Pray about It

If it is real – take it to God. I love these verses…

Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt His name together.I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:3–4

I believe that’s a prayer the Lord always wants to answer positively!

♥ Picture Positive Outcomes

Fear often comes from imagining worst-case scenarios. Once I’ve prayed about it … I want to consistently think about God’s love and power and all the ways this thing I fear might have a positive outcome in my life.

♥ Repeat as Often as Necessary – “Fear Doesn’t Change Anything”

It’s a hard truth but I can’t control everything, no matter how much I’d like to!

I can only do what God leads me to do; then I have to entrust the rest of it to His loving care.

♥ Avoid Things that Trigger Fear

You and I are in a spiritual battle. The enemy will use things like the news, websites, tweets, Facebook posts, and anything else he can to send us into the downward spiral of fear.

Part of fighting the battle is knowing the things that trigger my fears and avoiding them as much as possible.

♥ Memorize Faith Strengthening Bible Verses

Scripture is the “sword of the Spirit” for this battle. I’ve memorized many of the verses listed above so I’m ready to fight back whenever necessary.

♥ Get a “Freedom from Fear” Friend.

Sometimes when I’m afraid, it helps to talk with a faith-filled friend who will pray with me and speak God’s encouragement and truth over me.

Friend, I can’t begin to imagine the fear Jesus must have felt as He approached the crucifixion. And yet, He endured the cross and its shame. It is the very thing God used to “overcome the world.”

No fear, real or imagined, is beyond Jesus understanding and compassion. And no fear, no circumstance, no person is beyond His ability to help and to hold.

His victorious right hand is holding you and me, we can be strong and courageous … He is with us wherever we go.

I like these words of Woodrow Kroll…

“Are you facing fear today? Perhaps you are afraid of losing your job, of developing cancer or being left by your spouse. At times all of us experience fear. But don’t allow fear to keep you from being used by God. He has kept you thus far; trust Him for the rest of the way.”

Because when I really believe, when I am full of faith and trust, I can say with David…

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.

Amen!

And finally, a huge shout out thank you to Alisa Nicaud for inviting me to be part of the From Fear to Freedom Tour. Please head over and check out 29 other wonderful posts from faith-filled bloggers who want to help you become brave and bold.

From Fear to Freedom Tour at Flourishing Today by Alisa Nicaud

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How Can I Ever Begin to Thank You, Jesus?

4 / 21 / 194 / 19 / 19

It’s Easter!

He is Risen!

I thought this would be the easiest prayer of all to write until I began and words seemed beyond my reach because I knew the truth…

How Can I Ever Begin to Thank You, Jesus?

Your Resurrection Day changed everything! Everything!

Because of Your resurrection…

My sins are forgiven and I have been freed from sin’s greatest consequence.

He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins.
Ephesians 1:

I have a LIFE that lasts forever.

[It] was God’s plan from before the beginning of time—to show us His grace through Christ Jesus. And now He has made all of this plain to us by the appearing of Christ Jesus, our Savior. He broke the power of death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the Good News.
2 Timothy 1:9b–10

I have the promise that, You, Jesus are praying for me.

Because Jesus lives forever, His priesthood lasts forever.Therefore He is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through Him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Hebrews 7:34–35

I have hope for today, tomorrow, and forever.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)

I have Your perfect peace to guard my heart and mind.

Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6b–7

I have confidence that all of Your promises are true and that You will faithfully accomplish them all.

Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and He was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.
1 Corinthians 15:3b–4

I have the assurance that You are with me through good and bad … always and forever.

Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

And today and every day I can proclaim with Job…

As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
   and He will stand upon the earth at last.
And after my body has decayed,
   yet in my body, I will see God!
I will see Him for myself.
   Yes, I will see Him with my own eyes.
    I am overwhelmed at the thought!
Job 19:25–27

How can I ever begin to thank you, Jesus?!

With Your Spirit’s help…

I will do my best to make everything I do and say an offering of thanksgiving for all that You have done for me.

I will surrender each day to You. I will trust and follow Your will as You reveal it to me.

I will rely on You to give me everything I need for whatever lies ahead.

I will love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength and I will love those You place around me.

Yes, I will love because that is the perfect way to thank You, Jesus!

By Your grace, please help me fulfill these “I will” promises as my thank you!

Because Jesus…

Your love overwhelms me! Your love transforms me! Your love surrounds me and fills me.

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

By Your grace, mercy, and love, I have everything I need now and forever!

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You, Jesus! Amen.

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Father, Please Help Me on the Painful In-Between Days

4 / 20 / 194 / 20 / 19

I'm praying because I can relate to in-between days ... painful days of confusion, overwhelming grief and unanswered questions. #Jesus #Easter #MountainMovingPrayers #CountingMyBlessings

It’s the day between Good Friday and Easter.

And for a moment, I want to turn my attention from Jesus to His followers because I can relate to between days … painful days of confusion, overwhelming grief and unanswered questions.

I think most of us have experienced those “in-between” days. The truth is we’re all living in the “in-between” … so, I’m praying…

Father, Please Help Me on the Painful In-Between Days

Father, in-between days should be full of hope but when yesterday is painful and tomorrow is unknown … living in-between is hard.

I can imagine myself hiding in grief with Jesus’ disciples. I picture them overwhelmed with grief at Your Son’s death and terrified of those who killed Him. Confused because it didn’t turn out the way they thought it would and full of questions about what lies ahead.

Yes, I see myself grieving and afraid.

I’ve been there, between…

the diagnosis and the healing
the loss and the restoration
the lie and the truth
the lack and the provision
the bitter and the sweet
the unknown and the known

I need You, Father. I need You because You live on the side of the healing, the restoration, the truth, provision, and sweetness. You live on the side of the known and You are more than able to gently and securely take me from this in-between time and space to the one that awaits me. The one You are preparing … a future hope.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11

With Your Spirit’s help, I will focus on Your promises that give me hope.

I will trust that whatever is going on in my life, You are able to renew my strength. I believe there will be days when You will help me soar but there will also be others when it will take supernatural strength just to keep moving ahead. (Based on Isaiah 40:31) And that’s okay … because You are with me.

That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it? It’s what the disciples thought on that in-between day and it’s the lie I can so easily believe on my in-between days.

Their master was dead and they believed they had been left alone and I can feel alone sometimes too.

But Jesus said…

Jesus told His disciples, “Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

And…

I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.
John 14:16

Your Word also says…

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38–39

So, with Your help, I will cling to Your promises.

I will trust You on the in-between days.

The truth is … every day is an in-between day … as we live between Jesus’ ascension and His glorious return. But just like those first followers on that Holy Saturday, that new day is on the horizon. A day of hope and promise and life!

Thank you, Father! Amen.

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Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

4 / 19 / 194 / 19 / 19

It is finished. How can we call it Good Friday? Because Jesus' sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken ... people like you and me. #GoodFriday #Easter #Jesus #CountingMyBlessings

I have a hard time getting my brain around all that this day we call “Good Friday” embraces.

When I think about the betrayals and denials, trials and lashes, a crown of thorns and crowds shouting “crucify Him” … all pieces of the day that Jesus suffered and died.

How can we call it … Good Friday?

Because Jesus’ sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken … for people like you and me.

People who need forgiveness. So, I’m praying…

Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

Father, Your Word says…

This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
1 John 4:10

Your love overwhelms me … humbles me.

I am so undeserving of Your grace and mercy.

I imagine myself in the worst parts of that day. Oh, it’s easier to think that I would have been standing with John and the Marys … that I would have faithfully followed Your Son to the foot of the cross.

But I wonder, would I have been strong enough or would I have followed the crowd? Would I have been stood strong on Your truth or listened to church leaders, the ones with power and prestige.

That’s how I end up overwhelmed…

Because of Your amazing grace and unfailing love You suffered and died for them, for me!

You sent Your Son to suffer and die for…

Pharisees and Sadducees
High Priests and Temple Leaders
Caiaphas, Herod, and Pontius Pilate
Soldiers and Guards
Betrayers and Deniers
Tax-collectors, Adulterers, and Cheaters
Sinners

People like me!

So today, as I approach the foot of the cross and hear His words, “It is finished!” And my heart and mind cry out, “Father, forgive me!”

I’m so sorry!

I believe Your Word that says…

Everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Romans 3:23

And…

The wages of sin is death.
Romans 6:23

I believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that…

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

I believe that by You grace…

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.
Galatians 2:20

And that I have been made right with You, Father, by placing my faith in Jesus Christ. That this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. (Based on Romans 3:22)

I trust Your promise…

If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.
Romans 10:9–10

And Jesus promise…

I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.
John 11:25–26

Which is why I’m overwhelmed, Father.

It is by Your grace that I am saved. Grace given to me through the undeserved suffering and death of Your Son, and my Savior, Jesus.

Thank you!

Because of Jesus’ “It is finished!” Because of Good Friday, I can say, “Please forgive me!”

And hear Him say, “Your sins are forgiven.”

Thank you, Father! That is Good News!

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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Father, Help Me to be Humble and Kind – Make Me Like Jesus

4 / 18 / 194 / 13 / 19

So much happened on Thursday of Holy Week. Jesus washed His apostles’ feet. He celebrated a Passover meal with them. He walked with them and taught them about faith and faithfulness. He warned them of the world’s hatred and promised them the presence of the Holy Spirit.

And He prayed.

On Maundy Thursday, Jesus served and taught His disciples and He prayed. I'm inviting you to pray with me as I ask God to make me humble and kind—more like Jesus. #BibleStudy #Prayer #MoreLikeJesus #CountingMyBlessings

Today, I’m praying and asking the Father to work in me and make me like Jesus.

Father, Help Me to be Humble and Kind Make Me Like Jesus

Father, I want to be humble and kind. I want to be like Jesus … to live for Your glory and love as He loved. But I fall so far short. I can be self-focused and selfish. I can get so busy doing I fall short of loving.

I’m sorry! Please forgive me and help me.

I want to be willing to humbly wash feet … to take the role of a servant. Make me willing to serve You by loving Your people.

Father, make me…

strong … willing to work enthusiastically for You remembering Your promise that nothing I do for You is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58
obedient … willing to follow Your will and keep Your commands. John 14:15
a living sacrifice … serving as an act of worship. Romans 12:1
humble and gentle … willing to love and forgive for Your glory. Ephesians 4:2

It’s hard to be a servant sometimes; especially when people are demanding and greedy.

May Jesus be my example…

Help me take time to get away with You so that I might have patience and strength to serve. Help me rest when I need to so that I might have the energy I need to love like Jesus.

Make me wise and discerning that I might follow where You lead and serve as You want.

Keep me faithful to the study of Your Word that I might know Your truth and follow Your will.

And Father, I ask that You will protect Your children. Jesus said…

I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.
John 15:19

And…

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.
John 16:33a

This is hard, Father. It’s hard to be hated and persecuted. It’s hard to face trials and sorrows.

When I’m afraid. When I’m dealing with loss, pain, or prejudice. When my health fails and my heart hurts. Please help me remember that Jesus also said…

Take heart, because I have overcome the world.
John 16:33b

And He promised…

I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me.
John 15:26

With Your help, I will surrender this day to Your Spirit’s guidance and I will do my best to love like Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

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Jesus, Help Me to Be Still So You Can Strengthen Me

4 / 17 / 194 / 19 / 19

We don’t know what Jesus did on Wednesday of Holy Week. It is the only day we don’t have an account of His words or activity.

I'm praying and sitting quietly. Today, I will "be still" with the Lord and ask Him to give me strength when I need it most. #Prayer #BibleStudy #Faith #CountingMyBlessings

Jesus knew what the next few days would bring and I want to follow His example…

When I’m stretched by people and problems. When days ahead promise to be painful and hard … I need to be still and rest in God’s presence so He can strengthen me.

Throughout His life on earth, Jesus spent countless quiet hours with the Father.

Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.
Luke 5:16

So today, I want to sit quietly, to “be still” with the Lord and ask Him to give me strength when I need it most.

Jesus, Help Me to Be Still So You Can Strengthen Me

Lord, before you “did” … You spent time with Your Father.

Before You selected the Apostles…

Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night. At daybreak, He called together all of His disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles.
Luke 6:12–13

Before You spent a day healing and teaching…

Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.
and
Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.
Mark 1:36, Luke 5:16

And before Your crucifixion…

“He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
Matthew 26:39

Lord, Your Word does not tell us what You did the day before Your arrest and Your suffering began but I picture You spending it quietly with Your Father … preparing for the days ahead.

Please forgive me. It’s so easy for me to hurry through my days … the good ones and the bad ones. Too often, I allow my emotions to influence so much of what I do and say not allowing myself to be fed and filled with all I need.

And when I anticipate a time of pain and suffering…

I can find myself fretful and worried on my own before I “cease striving” and trust You.

Please help me to “be still and know” that You are…

God. Psalm 46:10
My refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1
With me always and forever. Matthew 28:20
My strength and shield. I can trust You. Psalm 28:7
With me to strengthen and help me. Isaiah 41:10
The peace that guards my heart and mind. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
The One who has overcome this world and its troubles. John 16:33
The Power that overcomes my weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9
My hope and my future. Jeremiah 29:11

Lord Jesus, You showed us that the closer I am to the Father the less I have to worry about or fear.

Fill me Your Spirit and help me keep my heart and mind focused on You no matter what is happening in my life knowing that Your grace is sufficient … Your power is always available to help me when I am weak. 2 Corinthians 12:9

And with Your help, I will spend time in Your presence meditating on Your Word. I will surrender my concerns to Your loving care and provision. I will trust Your will and follow where You lead. I will be still so You can strengthen me.

Thank you, Lord! You are my peace, my strength … my Savior. Amen.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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Jesus, Help Me Obey and Love with Faith and Patience

4 / 16 / 194 / 13 / 19

The Lord spent the Tuesday of Holy Week teaching important truths, so we're praying Jesus, help me obey and love... #Faith #BibleStudy #TrustJesus #CountingMyBlessings

On Tuesday of Holy Week, Jesus spent one last day teaching in the Temple Courtyard and the leading priests and elders came to Him with a challenge…

“By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?”
Matthew 21:23

After answering their question with a question … He began teaching some very important lessons about obedience, love, patience, and faithfulness.

So today, we’re going to pray and ask the Lord to help us sit with Him and learn the important truths we need to love and obey His commands and patiently wait with unwavering faith.

Jesus, Help Me Obey and Love with Faith and Patience

Jesus, I am overwhelmed that even though You had cleared the Temple courtyard the day before and You knew the very leaders of that Temple would succeed in their efforts to have You tortured and killed … You returned yet again to teach them the truth. To give them one more opportunity to change their hearts and minds and believe.

Your love amazes me. You continue to pursue each one of us … offering Yourself, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Offering the transforming power of faith.

Please forgive me for the hurriedness that prevents me from sitting with You — listening and learning. Please forgive me for the times I’ve believed lies without examining them against the truths that You taught. Forgive me the many times I’ve failed to love the way You want and wait the way You ask. I’m so sorry.

I’m asking You to help me sit with Your Word today and hold the truths You taught in my heart praying…

Please Lord Jesus, help me…

Obey when You ask me to go and work. Matthew 21:28–32
Surrender my heart, my life, my all to You, the Cornerstone of our faith. Matthew 21:33–44
Prepare my heart and mind for heaven knowing that to enter, I am completely dependent upon You, my Lord and Savior. Matthew 22:1–14
Trust and obey Your commands to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And love your neighbor as you love yourself. Matthew 22:34–40
Sit and learn both the Old and New Testaments that I might know and understand the way every account and testimony points to You. Matthew 22:41–45
Help me to test the teachings of people against the teachings of Scripture that I might know the Truth that gives me forgiveness and freedom. Matthew 23:2–12
Surrender my life completely to You that I might reject hypocrisy and be clean inside and out. Matthew 23:23:13–36
Give You my all. Luke 21:1–4
Faithfully wait and watch … always prepared and ready for You to come for me personally or for Your triumphant return for us all. Matthew 25:1–13
Invest in things that matter. Make me a faithful servant. Matthew 25:14–30
Do for others in love as if I were doing for You … for this is your will for me. Matthew 25:31–46

Lord, thank you for seeing to it that Your teachings were written for us. Thank you for being the Way for us to be forgiven and restored to the Father. Thank you for being the Truth that gives us freedom today and hope for tomorrow. Thank you for being the Life we need … life that lasts forever and always.

Thank you for being all we need to heal our past, to live in the present, and to face the future with anticipation and joy.

Thanks and praise forever and always. Amen.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

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