Author: jamie

By Posted on Posted in newsletter

>>> he delights in you

This verse caught me off guard when it appeared on my daily Bible verse app a few weeks ago. You delight in my way, Lord? What does that mean?

I checked to see if the verse meant to say that a person delights in God’s way. A few translations of the Bible state it that way, but most present it as I initially read it.  You delight in me, Lord?

Why is this so hard to believe?

We tend to be so much more critical of ourselves than God is of us. I know this because as I press in and listen to Him, the Holy Spirit whispers compassionate and affectionate things to me far more than correction. And often, the word of correction is about how I need to be more patient and gentle with myself.

We tend to focus on our weaknesses and failures, thinking those things disqualify us from being delightful to Him. But He doesn’t focus on those things.

He sees His very image embedded in you. He sees the seed of faith growing in your heart. He sees the desire to be in agreement with Him rising up in you. He sees your willingness to keep walking with Him.

Beloved, He delights in you!

 

>>> giveaway coming tomorrow, 9/18!

I’ve teamed up with some INCREDIBLE CONTRIBUTORS to bring you a giveaway packed with resources to fuel your spiritual growth, and healing journey, and strengthen your family and relationships!

Our giveaway boasts over 20 generous contributors and 35 prizes, including books, devotionals, courses, jewelry, coaching sessions, artwork, and more! 

Here’s how to enter:

Click this SUPER SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY link that will go live on Monday, September 18th: 

Super September Giveaway: Spiritual Growth, Healing and Family Prize Bundles (kingsumo.com)

Enter your email using the link to win one of these fabulous prize bundles:

???? Prize Bundle 1: 6 books, devotional coloring book, 3 scripture paintings, a free Spiritual disciplines/Joy coaching session, Children’s Christian magazine, personal growth course, bracelet, bookmark, scripture cards, and stickers.

???? Prize Bundle 2: 6 books, Marriage Course & workbook, a free Confidence coaching session, bible highlighters, water bottle, Children’s Christian magazine, and an Alex and Ani Butterfly Bracelet.

???? Prize Bundle 3: 7 books, Identity workbook, audiobook, Children’s book, a free Spiritual Growth coaching session, Children’s Christian magazine, and stickers.

Don’t forget to increase your chances of winning by following, liking, and subscribing to each of our amazing contributors! 

Forward this to someone who could benefit from these incredible resources for spiritual growth, healing, and strengthening family bonds! 

Important Details: 

???? The Super September Giveaway runs from 9/18/23 to 9/25/23.

???? We’ll announce three lucky winners via KingSumo on 9/26, who will be notified within 48 hours. 

???? By entering, you agree to receive emails from the contributing authors (you can always unsubscribe). 

✨ No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. 

 

 

 

blessings,

By Posted on Posted in discernment, schedules

It’s that time of year when we are settling into busy routines: maybe a new school year, new bible study sessions, rejoining clubs and activities, or renewed projects at work now that summer is over. We are also discovering that the fall plans we made in the summer might have been too ambitious. We were a bit too optimistic in anticipating what we could truly squeeze in a week and we’re feeling the crush of this new schedule. Am I right?

In Philippians 4:13 we read, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” We quote it as though it is empowering, but in reality, how many of us are using that verse to push ourselves into doing too much? We think, “The Bible says that I can do ALL things, so I better do ALL the things!”

Somewhere in my growing-up experience, I developed the core belief that I was responsible for everyone and everything around me. When I came to faith in Jesus at 16 years old, I immediately spiritualized this core belief. It became my Christian duty to take care of everything. Can you relate?

Let’s pause for a moment. Do you notice that it says that I CAN do all things in Philippians 4:13, but it doesn’t say that I MUST do all things?

When God revealed this insight to me, I felt so relieved! So empowered! So free to do only what He called me to, and nothing else.

It also challenges me to come to Him each morning and confirm what He wants me to focus on for the day. I am learning to ask Him to show me what my priorities should be for the day, so I know what to prioritize and what to let go of.

What are you feeling responsible for? What are you taking on that is not a part of what God has called you to? Stand in the truth of this scripture and remember that you CAN do all things, but you aren’t required to do all things. Be free, my friend!

By Posted on Posted in newsletter

>>> when scripture is used against your body

Bible verses are sometimes taken out of context to create spiritual standards for body size. This week, I started a series on social media to discuss passages that have been used against larger-bodied believers. Here’s the first one:

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Perhaps these verses have been used to call into question your spirituality or your ability to honor God in your body. However, the context of 1 Corinthians chapter 16 is sexual immorality, not diet or body size. The Bible states no preference and makes no requirement for body size, not in 1 Corinthians, or any other passage. When choosing people to serve Him, even in leadership, God says that He looks at the heart, not at outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).

The world—and some Christians—clearly despise and dishonor fat bodies. However, God values every body. Believers of all sizes can honor God in the bodies they have right now.

 

>>> read my article in salt + sparrow‘s online publication

This week I was featured as a contributing writer for the inspirational and encouraging publication Salt + Sparrow. You can read my devotion here: “When God Asks You to Surrender Control”.

I would be so blessed if you visited Salt + Sparrow to read the article and left a comment for me!

 

Have a wonderful weekend!