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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!

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>>> 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!

>>> new podcast episode

This week, you can listen to part 3 of the mini-retreat webinar I hosted in early August. Episode 2.13 explores the need to ask God hard questions like, “Where were You when this happened to me?” We’ll talk about how these questions aren’t disrespectful to God; they’re a necessary process that builds our trust in Him. We‘ll press into God’s presence through a spiritual writing exercise, and close our time with a song of worship led by Brynn Goodwin.   You can listen here: pressing in podcast

Have a wonderful weekend!

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>>> He sees you

That mistake you keep revisiting— forgive yourself the way I have already forgiven you.

That thing you need— I haven’t forgotten. You can trust Me, beloved.

That doubt rising up in you— I can increase your ability to trust Me if you ask.

That loved one you are so worried about— I love them and I will never let go. Release them into My care.

That longing in your heart— I am working on it. Are you willing to wait on Me?

That fear regarding the future— I go before you to make a way. Put your hope in Me and my love for you.

>>> my next book

I’m excited to share news about my next book! Some of you know that I have been doing research for a body image devotional for almost a year, but God has asked me to set that aside for now. (No worries, we will get back to that!)

This summer, God ignited a passion in me to help people connect with Him in tangible ways. At the end of my recent webinar, I felt very strongly that the material I shared during that two hours was the jumping point for a new book that will help people open the door to Jesus in life-changing ways. A few days later, a friend who attended the webinar online texted me and asked if I was writing another book. I explained how the Lord had been leading me, and she replied by saying that during the webinar she thought that the teaching and exercises I shared should be in a book. It was the confirmation I needed to start moving forward. Please pray for me as I work on the manuscript, that the Holy Spirit would do the writing!

>>> new podcast episode

This week, you can listen to part 2 of the mini-retreat webinar. Episode 2.12 explores how we often believe that we’ve been disconnected or distanced from God when in reality, we’ve only been disconnected from the awareness of His presence.  But we’re not just talking about these things! We‘re opening our awareness to God’s close presence through a spiritual exercise, and closing things with a song of worship led by Brynn Goodwin.  You can listen here: pressing in podcast