Category: 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,

>>> 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!

 a note from your heavenly father

Beloved,

I am compassionate and merciful.  When you cross the lines of sin, I am patient with you. When you struggle against Me, I stay with you—guiding, convicting, and transforming you through My spirit.

I do not constantly criticize you, nor do I hold a grudge.

I do not punish you for your sins as you might deserve. In my mercy, I temper justice with peace.

Can you measure how high heaven is above the earth? My wide, loving, kind heart is greater than that. Especially for those who trust in me.

You see, I take all your sins and failures—and I remove them.  As far as the east is from the west, that’s how far I remove them from you.

A good earthly father expresses love for his children; it is no different with me, your heavenly Father;

I show my love and compassion to you.

For I know what you are made of; I know your frame is frail, and I remember that you came from dust. But you are mine, and I love you.

Psalm 103:8-13 inspired by the Voice version, written from the Lord’s perspective.