Today’s Devotional

{Love}

{Love} Romantic Love

UYM

Written By: Hannah Kittle

L is for the way you look at me
O is for the only one I see
V is very, very extraordinary
E is even more than anyone that you adore can

Nat King Cole “L-O-V-E”

Romantic love is the kind of love that we most often think about and hear about in this world.  We see it in movies, TV shows, songs, books, magazines, apparel, and everything in-between. We imagine love as a cute guy handing us a bundle of roses, box of chocolates, and a hundred dollars of worth of gift cards, apparel, and shoes.  Nat King Coles’ song describes each letter of love as a different quality like a person’s physical appearance and how someone views that person and appreciates that quality about them.  While it is true that love does look like that, love also looks like loving a guy enough to let him go because you know it’s best not to be together.  Love looks like apologizing to your spouse first even when your pride doesn’t want too.  Love looks like waiting and trusting God that He does have a better plan for you than that cute guy who isn’t texting you back.

Sweet sister reading this, I’m not sure what stage of life you’re in.  You may be like me and single with absolutely no prospects on the horizon or you may be entering a relationship, in the middle of it, transitioning into an engagement, already engaged, or in whatever stage of marriage.  Whatever stage you’re in, know that while being in a relationship is an incredibly wonderful thing it often means living out tough love all the time.  Love doesn’t always mean that it’s a bed of roses, sometimes it simply means biting the bullet, swallowing our pride, and doing what God wants us to do.  Romantic love has clouded our definition of what love should really be.

Matthew 7:12 says, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them…” How does this apply to love? Sometimes loving someone means that we need to do what we know is best for them.  Sometimes that means breaking up with the guy that we think we love, but we know deep down that it isn’t right or best for both of us.  Sometimes that means saying “no” to that guy who asked you out because you know that, as wonderful as he is, he’s not the one that God has for you.  Other times it means loving your future husband enough to say “no” to the pressure of dating someone else now, of going out to “just have fun”, or to that friend who says she knows a guy she’s sure is right for you.

Romans 13:10 says, “Love does no harm to a neighbor.  Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.” To add to that, the famous passage about love that says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a) Wow.  Reading these two passages together is really, really powerful, sobering, and moving.  Not only does love seek to do the best thing for others it also exhibits patience, kindness, humility, honesty, and forgiveness.

How does this apply to romantic relationships? It may seem especially inapplicable if you’re single like me.  However, let’s unpack this.  As a single young woman, for me that means that I’m showing my love for my future husband right now by praying for him and resisting the temptation to simply give up because it’s too hard to wait.  It means that I’m honest with myself that it isn’t God’s timing or will for me to get into a relationship right now and honest with others that I’m not looking for a guy and thus not lead a guy on and give him false hope. It also means that from the beginning of our relationship, we will agree to have God as the first love of our lives and the foundation of our relationship and will challenge each other to keep that commitment.  We will also agree that our love for each other will come second to our love to God.

Is staying faithful to that commitment easy?  No. But in my life I know I’m loved by God Who gave everything for me, therefore I can love my future husband enough to make that commitment now and begin living it out now in this season of singleness.  Being faithful in any situation, single or in a relationship, is so hard. If we can trust that God will bless us for our love, then may God give us the right love for our guy so that we can truly love him as he deserves.  May God give us hearts filled with love and also wisdom so that we can “discern the times for the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16) and listen to the those who God has placed in our lives to give us honest counsel (making sure it is in agreement with scripture) about things we may not see and need to evaluate.  May God give us the love to love all people He places in our lives as we ought too, no matter the circumstances.

IMPORTANT NOTE: By saying that we need to love our guy even when it seems like he may have been unfaithful, I am by no means advocating that you sit back passively.  By all means, if you suspect this, please pray about this and talk to the appropriate people in your life to sort this issue out. I pray for each of you that you never have to experience this, but while you love this guy, you do need to do what is best for you and your relationship with God.

5-15-16-011Hannah Kittle is best described as a sinner saved by grace.  She currently is a high school senior taking dual-enrollment classes at two different colleges and is headed to nursing. She has a heart for the unsaved, seeks to serve God by serving others, and desires to shine as a light to others to draw them closer to God.  Her two life Bible verses are Joshua 1:9 and Jeremiah 29:11-14a

Hannah loves reading, shopping, and being with people whether it be young or old people. She has a calling upon her heart to serve others and to love others even when it’s tough. She believes that God is calling her into nursing or the medical field in general to best accomplish this purpose. She is waiting and praying for the man that God has for her and her heart’s prayer for her life is that others would see Christ through her, her words, and her actions.

Uncategorized

Hell on earth, yet the best year of my life?

UYM

Written By: Kerrington Sweeney

This year was hell on earth but, at the same time it was the best year of my entire life…go figure!

Celebrating and starting this year out, by arriving home, 12 minutes into the new year from the hospital for yet another strike of a tonsillitis infection. To top that, I was carrying a lot of emotional stress from a recent change in our extended family and I was truly having a hard time fathoming the change that was beginning to take place, right before me.

Coming from 2015, which I have named in my books “The Faithless defeat year” I truly didn’t want 2016 to be a repeat of that terrible year prior. I told myself, that I would do anything to see 2016 be a better year in my life. It was January the 4th, 4 days into a brand new year. A fresh start. Learning to trust in the good, bad, and ugly…that God was always there and He is always faithful.

The months started to get going and I couldn’t believe the amount of volunteer opportunities that came my way. I was truly surprised, because I felt like I was in such a battle-some season of my life, who would want me in any place of leadership at this stage? Well, God had other plans.

I began to “pick up the pieces” of what I felt 2015 had ripped away from me and just began to sit before the Lord and ask Him “Where do you want me? Lead me Father.”

Through volunteering and pursuing God’s heart on a deeper level, I fell in love with the man of my dreams. The one I had been praying for. The one who met everything on my little list of “I hope He has…” He was placed in my life for such a time as this…and as I look back I don’t think I could have went through this past summer without him.

The first step we took hand in hand as a dating couple…even if it was just around the block, we had no clue, we had just entered into a place of war in our lives. An unknown place. A place of finding a new balance. Filled with fears, emotional highs and lows. A place of finding pure love in the culture we live in.

It was…

10 Days of just two.

10 Days of joy.

10 days of sweet contentment.

10 Days without worry.

10 Days without fear.

10 Days without anyone “looking up” to us.

10 Days of just Joshua & I getting to know each other on new levels of vulnerability.

It was on the 10th day of our happily ever after relationship, I received a phone call on our first date night out at a local coffee shop. This call would make or break our relationship. This call would mould us into the people we are today. This call would change our lives drastically forever.

The very next day early in the morning, I was hired as a Children’s Pastor at a church, 2 towns away from mine at the age of 18. I left the church that day after being officially hired, with excitement and mounds of fear. Anxious thoughts, unsettled emotions and complete unrest, swirled around me as I attempted to ‘hold it together.’

Joshua & I were no longer, just Joshua & I.

We had just stepped into something so fresh. I had no words to describe the emotions I was experiencing through that time. All I could do was chain myself to the words of hope the Lord had given me: You were created to be fearless, by the fearless one.

The Giants would come, the many never ending expectations would come, the oppressing constant pressures would come, the corrupted voices of the enemy would come, and the twisted words and labels on us would come. But we knew, they were NOT our portion. We knew we didn’t have to be enslaved. We knew what we were getting into saying “Yes” to God. We knew the possibilities, we knew the stats, we knew that this could potentially ruin and fracture the foundational moments in the beginning stages of our relationship. Yet, we said yes. The calling of ministry God had placed upon us, we then turned around and placed it at His feet. Giving Him our all.

Exactly 50 days later, I had come home one night from a late night of working, prepping for our up-coming summer camps at the church and grabbed a hand full of mixed nuts (A common thing for me…with my love for very salty snacks) …it was then that I discovered how quickly you can go from breathing normally to struggling to breathe within seconds. I had never experienced this before.

It was then, that I began yet another difficult, searching quest with the medical system, to attempt to figure out what had triggered this anaphylactic reaction so suddenly.

2 months later…in one weekend I experienced 3 more anaphylactic reactions back to back, 3 more ambulance rides and 3 rounds of Epinephrine. My allergy testing that was scheduled for this coming February 2017 but, with the severity of my situation it got bumped up immediately, to the following Thursday after that terrifying weekend fighting for my life.

I can truly say after having these anaphylactic reactions, these were some of the most petrifying moments of my entire life. Realizing that I was beginning to have a reaction all I could think about was what happened previous times.

The moments those epi pens were jabbed into my legs, tears would roll down my face, as a shock went through my entire body and simultaneously the leg that was shot went instantly numb. I couldn’t feel my leg whatsoever. My breathing patterns didn’t really change and I began to hear sirens from up the road.

Hearing my Mom’s comforting words from last time began to be spoken over me once again: “They are coming for you honey, just relax.” Onto the ambulance stretcher I went multiple times, still struggling to breath and take a deep breaths. After receiving some oxygen and breathing treatments I was well on the mend.

It’s petrifying moments like these that you are reminded to love and live to the fullest every single second of your life. The moment that life flashes before your eyes, a new sense of gratitude is restored to full capacity.

After my allergy testing appointment that following Thursday, I finally had an answer as to what had been going on in my body. The Specialist had confirmed that I have Idiopathic Anaphylaxis. This type of Anaphylaxis is caused without any recognized external triggers. Basically, my reaction episodes were not caused by something I had eaten or was exposed to, but rather by my own immune system. He is very hopeful that these were isolated events and there is a 77% chance that they will never re-occur again. He has prescribed some very clear instructions as to how to keep my immune system in check, lowering the risks of another anaphylactic reaction.

Through it all, I cling to this verse so tightly:

“…when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” —Isaiah 43:2

2016, you sucked. Although, at times you rocked.

Here’s to a healthy and prosperous 2017. Thats a wrap.

Until Next Time,

~Kerrington

{Love}

{Love} But What About…?

UYM

Written By: Hannah Kittle

Love.  Such a simple, small, seemingly insignificant word.  Four letters that express many, many emotions.  We see love as something that is rosy, red, enjoyable, and easy to do.  While that is true many times, there are other times where we’re in situations or with people that we struggle loving.  The Bible talks about how we need to love people and “turn the other cheek.”  But what about that guy who says he’s gay or that girl who says she’s bisexual or that girl who’s not actually a girl or that Christian who’s living a double life?  How do we address those situations?  Furthermore, how do we address those people in love?  Dear friend, I know that when these situations happen, your first reaction is probably not, “Oh, I need to love this person despite their sin and let my life and words be a witness to them.”  I know that’s certainly not my reaction.  Mine is more along the lines of, “Oh my word, this can’t be happening, I can’t have anything to do with this person much less love them.”  Do you know what though?  The same Christ Jesus who hung on the cross for six hours of agony for my sins of lies, impure thoughts, hate, anger, and a multitude of other things is the same Christ who died to save those people as well.

What does God say about loving these people? It’s a really difficult line to walk between loving the sinner and hating the sin.  God calls us to love people, but not accept the choices that are against God and His Word.  That raises the question, “how do I differentiate between the person and their sin? They claim this sin as them and their lifestyle with no seemingly no distinction.”  Sweet sister, as I type these words, I know the pain, frustration, anger, and bitterness you experience when you go through those experiences.  It’s one of the hardest things you’ll ever have to go through.  “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways. (Isaiah 55:8)” God’s thoughts are far beyond what we can ever comprehend.  The way that He thinks about love and the definition He gives to it is far more broad, longsuffering, and forgiving than we can ever show to people.

Does loving these types of people seem impossible? Y.E.S! But is there anything such as mission impossible for God?  “For nothing is impossible with God.” (Philippians 4:13) Yes, it’s hard.  Yes, you’re going to have moments when you hear them talk about their sinful lifestyle and it causes your heart to bleed, your stomach to hurt, your throat to develop an unswallowable lump, and cry during or after.  But with God we can do it.  We can love these people and know that even though they’re living a life of sin God still loves them and thus gives us the love to be able to love them in return.  Love doesn’t mean that we say that their sin is okay and we simply accept them as being “born this way.” Instead we love them enough to tell them the truth and live out how God wants us to live our lives.  Sometimes, love means being tough and telling people the blunt honest truth even though it’s uncomfortable and painful and threatens to ruin our relationship with the person.

In God’s eyes, our sin is all the same.  He didn’t create a system of sacrifices that atoned for various sins like in the Old Testament. Instead he created a once for all system.  A system that once we accept Christ as the Savior of our lives all our sins, past, present, and future are covered for forevermore.  FOREVERMORE! No more will sin have dominion over us.  “IT IS FINISHED! Loud He cried, oh what love for me He died.  In my stead He bled on Calvary.”  (It is Finished) The love that was exhibited on Calvary was the ultimate show that allows us to love others and see them as sinners who need God.  We need to seek to look behind the curtain.  We need to see these people as sinners who need God just as much as we do.  Jesus’ blood covers all of these sins and demonstrates to us the ultimate love that seems impossible.  Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s an action.  Loving is hard, yes, but never impossible.  Let’s seek to look behind the curtain and see these people as fellow sinners who need Christ just as much as we do.  Let’s pray that God will move our hearts to have compassion and grace and patience with these people.  Pray that God will help us to live a life that honors Him and that through that example others would find Him.

5-15-16-011Hannah Kittle is best described as a sinner saved by grace.  She currently is a high school senior taking dual-enrollment classes at two different colleges and is headed to nursing. She has a heart for the unsaved, seeks to serve God by serving others, and desires to shine as a light to others to draw them closer to God.  Her two life Bible verses are Joshua 1:9 and Jeremiah 29:11-14a

Hannah loves reading, shopping, and being with people whether it be young or old people. She has a calling upon her heart to serve others and to love others even when it’s tough. She believes that God is calling her into nursing or the medical field in general to best accomplish this purpose. She is waiting and praying for the man that God has for her and her heart’s prayer for her life is that others would see Christ through her, her words, and her actions.

Melanie's Posts, {Worth}

{Worth} Immeasurably Beautiful You

UYM

Written By Melanie S. Pickett

Self-worth. Girls, this is so tough. This time of year sometimes brings on some painful feelings for many of us in this area. The holidays are a reminder of who’s in our lives, who loves us, who might not.

The Christmas cards arrive in the mailbox, but what if I get many and you only get a few? Or vice versa? Do you gauge your self-worth by that?

What about how many presents you’re able to put under your tree? What if this year your finances are slimmer and you have to be even more frugal than usual? Is your self-worth tied to the amount of money you’re able to spend or the number of gifts you’re able to give?

Party invitations come. But what if none come to you? Or if a dozen come to you? Does that mean you’re any more or less special based on how many Christmas events you’re invited to?

What if you’re living far away from home and can’t afford to travel back for Christmas? Are you less important because you might be alone come Christmas morning?

If you don’t get a bonus or a gift from your boss, does that mean you’re not a valuable employee?

And if the neighbors, your Secret Sister at church, your best friend, your roommate, or your significant other don’t give you a lavish gift for Christmas, does that mean you’re not a great neighbor, church member, friend, roommate or girlfriend?

Let me tell you this, lovely friends: No matter how many cards come…no matter how many presents you can afford…no matter how many super fun parties you’re invited to or not…no matter how much or how little your Christmas bonus is…or what those closest to you gift you with…or even if you’re alone on Christmas…

All these things…They don’t say one thing (not one thing!) about your worth.

Your value is not wrapped up in popularity. Or your financial abilities. Your value is not defined by what others in your life think it is. Your value isn’t about gifts you give or receive. Your value has nothing to do with how many people you’ll be surrounded by on any given holiday.

Your value is that of a Princess. You are a child of the One True King. Royalty. Priceless.

Nothing. No circumstance. No dollar amount. No person. No anything will ever determine or change your worth.

God knows your worth. He made you in His image with beautiful talents and gifts, abilities and special traits. He went before you to make a path for your life, and even if that path isn’t crystal clear just yet, it’s there…because He said so.

If you don’t get invited to one party, don’t get one card or gift, or even end up in your house or apartment Skyping someone on Christmas morning, your worth doesn’t change one iota. It will always be immense, immeasurable, priceless, and unchangeable.

…because God said so.

~ Melanie

Melanie’s blog

Hilary's Posts

{Sunday Mornings} Accepting God’s Grace

UYM

Written By: Hilary Cobb

This morning, as I was driving to work, I saw a sign that said: “Your life is based on the choices you make, always has been, always will.”

Now, as a counselor, I do believe this at some level. Often, there are consequences of the choices we make. Even in difficult situations that weren’t the result of your choices (for example, childhood abuse), how you perceive that situation will often have a significant impact on your life.

However, our pastor has also been speaking about God’s grace as we come up to Christmas. How God takes us in our shattered, sinful state and creates a beautiful new creation. I’m always inspired by 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” It is a powerful reminder that I am a new creation, not because I’m super awesome or I pray a ton, but because of God’s goodness and grace.

I started to think, what should my life be if it weren’t for God’s grace?

If it wasn’t for God’s grace, I would have had way more legal issues than I do based on bad decisions I made as a teenager.

If it wasn’t for God’s grace, I would be crippled by my mental health.

If it wasn’t for God’s grace, I wouldn’t have a spouse who loves me in spite of my negativity and criticism.

If it wasn’t for God’s grace, I wouldn’t have a group of people who love me in spite of my moodiness and selfishness.

If it wasn’t for God’s grace, my life would be completely and utterly different.

Because the truth is that while some of my choices have been good, many of them haven’t been. I’ve been cruel, sinful, gossipy, angry and impulsive.

And yet, God has blessed me with a life beyond my wildest dreams. Sure, I have difficulties (I’ve documented my struggles with mental health on my blog), but overall, my life is full of beauty. Full of people who love me unconditionally. Full of a beautiful family. Full of a job I love, a church I love, and a support network that rocks. I am not a slave to my sin and poor choices because Paul writes that: “For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14 NIV).

God’s grace means that in spite of my bad decisions and my sinful heart, I am truly a beautiful creation, in spite of being me.

For those of you struggling today, try filling in the blank after the statement: if it wasn’t for God’s grace, ________________________. Sometimes we become so focused on the day-to-day difficulties that we forget the big picture of God’s grace and blessings. So be honest with yourself. If it wasn’t for God’s grace, where would your life be?

~ Hilary

photosite

 

Hilary Cobb is a born-and-raised California-girl who now lives in beautiful Boise, Idaho. She lives with her amazing husband of 12 years and their two beautiful (but crazy-makin’) children. Hilary received her master’s degree in social work in 2008 and works as a therapist part-time, doing counseling with children, adults and couples. She is also the Family Ministries Director for her church, speaks at events and schools, and writes for her blog:www.blessedbyhislove.com. When she has some downtime, she loves coffee, running and crochet! Her life verse is Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up,” and she is grateful that God has allowed her to serve Him throughout her life.

Hilary's Posts

{Sunday Mornings} Why Is It So Hard to Ask for Prayer?

UYM

Written By: Hilary Cobb

Recently, a good friend of mine was going through something difficult. He is one of those Christians that is always just praying, loving and helping others. Yet, as he asked for prayer on Facebook, he prefaced his request with, “I hate asking for prayer, but…”

Of course, our friends were more than happy to pray for him and encourage him! He has done so much for others, so many people viewed it as a wonderful way to support him and give back.

It struck me though. How often do we feel that way? We are often eager to pray for others, but when it’s our turn, it can be so uncomfortable asking for prayer.

I am blessed to be part of a vibrant, praying church. We have prayer groups that meet throughout the week and an awesome prayer chain through email. When my dad had health issues several years ago, it was lovely to ask for prayer from those in my church and know that they were praying.

But when I had anxiety issues several years ago, I had asked for prayer from a few people. Somehow, an email got sent out to our prayer chain asking for prayer for me. And I was completely mortified. Of course, people were encouraging and prayed for me, but it still felt so much more awkward asking for myself than when I asking people to pray for my dad!

So why is it so difficult for ask for prayer? I believe there are several reasons.

  1. It’s difficult to be vulnerable. I’ve been so blessed to be part of a church that values authenticity. One of our core values is, “It’s okay to not be okay, it’s just not okay to stay that way.” It promotes being open and honest about our struggles, then seeking support to move forward and strengthen our walk with the Lord.

 

And yet, even though I’ve heard that value stated many times, it is still so difficult to admit when I am struggling. There’s a fear for many Christians that if they are struggling to the point of needing prayer, they will be perceived as not “holy enough.” And sadly, I’ve had experiences in the past at other churches where prayer requests were met not with support and love, but with comments about, “you wouldn’t have this problem if you just prayed harder or were a better Christian.”

Even though I’m now in an amazing supportive church, there is still that part of me that worries occasionally that a prayer request will cause people to judge me instead of love me.

  1. We feel selfish. There are so many terrible things in this world. On a global level, we know there are children starving in Africa, people being murdered in Syria, and Christians being killed for their faith worldwide. On a local level, there is homelessness, child abuse and all of us know someone impacted by cancer. It can feel “selfish” to ask for patience for our children or help with finding a job.

And yet, the Bible tells us, “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere” (Eph. 6:18, NLT). The Bible doesn’t say, “Pray only for people who are really struggling.” It doesn’t tell us to only “pray for believers with illness and persecution.” It tells us to pray for all believers everywhere on every occasion.

So, while it is crucial to pray fervently for those who are sick, persecuted and broken, I think it’s also okay to pray fervently for your neighbor who’s wrestling with loneliness, or the new mother who is lonely and overwhelmed. And if we are called to pray for all believers everywhere, do not feel selfish asking for prayer from those who love you.

  1. We don’t want to be a burden. We know that this we are a culture drowning in busyness. I know that at any given point, most of my friends are busy working, chasing children, cleaning, helping with church, serving their community or decompressing from all of those things. It can sometimes feel like asking them for prayer will be yet another task for them to do that day.

We have to get away from that mindset. The Bible tells us to pray all throughout the Scriptures. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 tell us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I love that prayer is sandwiched right between rejoicing and gratitude. A prayer request from someone should never be viewed as a to-do list task right between folding laundry and cleaning the cat box. It should be viewed as just another joyful part of our lives as we follow Christ, not as a burden.

The next time you are struggling and you ask for prayer, please don’t beat yourself up with that feeling that others will view you poorly, that you are being selfish or that you are being a burden. Prayer is one of the most amazing “tools” we have as Christians. Let us pray for others and allow them to pray for us. It will only strengthen our relationships with God and with each other!

~ Hilary

 

photositeHilary Cobb is a born-and-raised California-girl who now lives in beautiful Boise, Idaho. She lives with her amazing husband of 12 years and their two beautiful (but crazy-makin’) children. Hilary received her master’s degree in social work in 2008 and works as a therapist part-time, doing counseling with children, adults and couples. She is also the Family Ministries Director for her church, speaks at events and schools, and writes for her blog:www.blessedbyhislove.com. When she has some downtime, she loves coffee, running and crochet! Her life verse is Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up,” and she is grateful that God has allowed her to serve Him throughout her life.

 

{Life}

{Saturday Mornings} When the Struggle Ends, the Battle Begins

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Written By: Julie-Ann Sanderson

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

Throughout our lives we have struggles.  We struggle to make the right decision or choice in many things we do and sometimes say.  The search for the right answer can take a lot out of us as we umm and ah about every aspect.  Do I do this or do I do that?  What will happen after I make my decision?

No matter what the reasons we have for contemplate making a choice or decision, we go back and forth over the options we have.  Sometimes we will pray and seek God’s advice and hope that He shows us what He wants us to do.  Other times we seek advice from family and friends.  Or maybe we do both.  When we do arrive at the right decision, we feel relief that hard part is over.  Right?

Wrong!  Arriving at a decision is only the start.  The initial struggle can be nothing compared to the battle you now face, especially if the decision or choice is one God wanted you to make.  Your battle is now against those who wish to see your decision come to nothing or those who want you to change your mind.

The biggest opponent we have is Satan.  He doesn’t take much notice when we are struggling to make a decision or choice because that’s where he wants us to be – in a state of conflict, not knowing what to do or say.  Satan wants our lives to be in disarray and he doesn’t like it when we end it.  In particular, he starts paying attention to us because we are moving forward and not staying in one place.

It is at this point we need God the most.  During the battle, we will come up against anything and everything Satan throws at us.  We can’t battle Satan alone.  God tells us to be strong and courageous and that He will go before us and that He will be with us.  If we are doing what God wants us to do, then we should proceed with implementing the decision or choice we have made without fear.

Part of the battle may involve dealing with other people.  While we are struggling with our problem, our family, friends and other influential people will tell us what they think we should do.  What we do with their advice is up to us but if they are not happy with our decision then Satan will use them to make you doubt and possibly even change your mind.

When doubt enters, we are back to struggling.  In James 1:6, we are told that those who doubt are blown and tossed about.  God wants us to be firm in our choice and to put our trust in Him.  When we do that, then the battle is won because God already has the victory.

Whatever struggles and battles you face in the future, you can always rest assured that God is indeed truly with us wherever we go.

 

{Love}

{Love} How Do We Do It?

UYM

Written By: Hannah Kittle

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”  “Treat others like you want to be treated.” It’s some of the most iconic verses in the Bible and among the most quoted.  It seems like common sense that we treat others like we want to be treated, right?  But what about that girl who backstabbed us and told others what we told them in private or that guy who dumped you over a text and now is dating someone a week later?  Do we have to treat them like we treat our family, best friends, friends, co-workers, and people in general?  Do we still have to respect them and go the extra mile and show them love?  Dear friend, I know the pain, I know the struggle, I know the hurdles, but I can tell you from experience that the answer is yes.  We are called to love those who back stabbed us, lied about or to us, cheated on us, broke up with us, and hurt us.  Why?  Because the same God that calls us to love others even though they hurt us is the same God that died to save us despite the immense hurt we caused to Him.

So how do we love someone, anyone, even including those who have hurt us?  The absolute best example we have is in the Bible.  The example is that of Jesus the night He was betrayed and the way He treated Judas.  Since He is God, He knew ahead of time, before time in fact, that Judas would betray Him.  Yet, that night He still loved Judas and showed him that love by giving him the piece of bread dipped in sop that is usually given to the honored friend.  He even washed his feet when they first entered the room for the Last Supper.  Then, in the garden He didn’t fight, accuse, or lash out at anyone, much less Judas who had obviously been the one who betrayed Him.  Instead He looked at Him and said, “Will you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”  That is the kind of love that caused Jesus to go to the cross willingly and suffer the abuse of His tormentors.  He did this out of ultimate love.

There’s a passage of Scripture that says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) and also “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) We will not have to carry the burden and task alone of having to love the unlovable without help.  We are promised divine help by the Holy Spirit to do the impossible.  The temptation is to give up and say that it’s no use and it isn’t worth it.

To love isn’t meant to be a burden, even though our feelings may tell us otherwise.  Many times when we’re confronted with this situation, we allow our feelings to dictate the situation.  Our feelings are often good things as they help us to empathize with others which allows us to understand people even better.  Sometimes though our feelings aren’t good things to have involved when we’re having to love those who hurt our feelings.  Our feelings tend to be reactive rather than responding.  A very true phrase is, “react rather than respond.”  Sometimes we have to take our feelings and put them aside in order to truly love a person.  Sometimes truly loving a person means that we have to care about them, pray for them, and be kind to them even though our hearts are breaking and bleeding.

It often feels like a burden to love someone when we’re broken and hurting, but we’re promised help by the Holy Spirit.  1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”  It may often seem like we can’t bear the heartache and pain.  What if I told you that you’re right? What if I told you that outside of divine help you cannot love someone the way that you are called too?  God promises us and shows us by example that we will have trials in life.  But with every example of a struggle, He shows us the beauty, sustainment, grace, encouragement and love He showers upon us that we are to show others.  He will help us in every situation where it feels like it’s mission impossible.  “For nothing is impossible with God.” (Philippians 4:13) Saying that a task is impossible with God is akin to saying, “God, I believe that I’m better than You.  I believe that I should be God and be ruler of my life and guiding myself.”  Without God, everything is impossible, especially loving the unlovable.

When we trust God and rely on Him to help us love people, we will be able to love the unlovable.  Mission Impossible?  No, instead becomes Mission Possible.  Reliance upon God means that we surrender everything to Him and trust that through Him and His strength, wisdom, patience, and love we will be able to be witnesses before the world.  Through Him alone we will be able to love those who have hurt us and broken our hearts.  He is the Lover of our souls.  Not only can He help us love the unlovable, He can love us and give us the ability to love others again.  He can take our bruised, bleeding, broken, shattered hearts and not only fix them, but completely restore us and give us a bigger heart to love others.

Sweet friend, I know the pain and struggled of having to love even when It feels like you’re totally shattered and no longer can trust anyone.  However, let me tell you that through Him alone, my heart has been restored.  The pain isn’t gone yet, but the sting, bitterness, anger, and heartache is being replaced by love and eyes of mercy and grace.  My heart has been expanded by my heartache and pain and been given much more love and wisdom to care for others in the way that God wants me too.  He can do the same for you too.  Go to Him and ask Him to take your pain, bitterness, anger, confusion, heartache, and whatever other negative things are in your heart.  He will be able to take those things and exchange the ashes for something beautiful.  Trust Him with your heart! He will not fail you!

 

5-15-16-011Hannah Kittle is best described as a sinner saved by grace.  She currently is a high school senior taking dual-enrollment classes at two different colleges and is headed to nursing. She has a heart for the unsaved, seeks to serve God by serving others, and desires to shine as a light to others to draw them closer to God.  Her two life Bible verses are Joshua 1:9 and Jeremiah 29:11-14a

Hannah loves reading, shopping, and being with people whether it be young or old people. She has a calling upon her heart to serve others and to love others even when it’s tough. She believes that God is calling her into nursing or the medical field in general to best accomplish this purpose. She is waiting and praying for the man that God has for her and her heart’s prayer for her life is that others would see Christ through her, her words, and her actions.

 

Hilary's Posts

{Sunday Mornings} The Captivity of Activity

UYM

Written By: Hilary Cobb

I am currently in a Bible study called, “Breaking Free” by Beth Moore. It has been a powerful study and I’ve learned a lot. However, one of Beth’s phrases that impacted me the most was “the captivity of activity.” I read an article a few months ago that said that people today report the lowest rates of boredom in history and the highest levels of creativity. I remember thinking that was so neat. Smartphones, TV, access to Pinterest mean we have so many outlets that show us how to do more: more crafts, more recipes, more learning, more opportunities.

And yet, although many of my friends (including myself) are doing more – more homeschooling, more side jobs (like photograph, selling jewelry, etc.), more craft bazaars – there is an abundance of articles online showing how worn out and stressed we are as moms and as a culture. I recently presented on anxiety and stress for teens, and research shows that although teens are extremely busy with school, extracurricular activities and social media, they are also exhibiting the highest levels of stress and a rapidly increasing rate of anxiety disorders.

So even though we are doing more, the trade-off is we are exhausted and anxious. We are on a hamster wheel that is never ending and wears us out. There are nights when I lay in bed, after a long day of work, and instead of praying or reading God’s Word, I’m jotting down ideas about articles to write or people to talk to in my day planner. I fall asleep, then wake up exhausted and ready to start all over again.

Can any of you relate? Do you find yourself running around, doing more, but feeling anxious or exhausted at the end of each day instead of satisfied?

I feel like this endless cycle of do more, make more, and be more is a dangerous trap. I was at a conference and the speaker said that the word busy can be short for: Burdened Under Satan’s Yoke. At first, I was a little taken aback. The prideful part of me thought, busyness is good! It often makes me feel productive, like I can do it all. I can work, cook, craft, clean and be a good mom/spouse/Christian.

But recently, especially with the holidays coming up, I find myself wondering if I can do it all. Because honestly, falling into bed at the end of a long day, unable to spend time with my spouse or God leaves me feeling drained and empty. That temporary feeling of productivity and invincibility fades, and I just feel…empty.

The Bible mentions multiple incidents where Jesus took a break to rest and pray (Mark 1:35, Mark 6:31, Luke 5:16). At one point, the disciples were busy teaching and putting the body of John the Baptist in a tomb (how draining that must have been emotionally!). They came back to Jesus and “told him all that they had done and taught” (Mark 6:30, ESV). I love that Jesus didn’t simply say, “Good job! Let’s preach more to more people!” like an overly enthusiastic coach. Instead, Mark 6:31 tells us, “Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he [Jesus] said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’”

Jesus encouraged the disciples to rest before starting the next task. As we go through the craziness of the holidays in the next few weeks, please rest. And by resting, I don’t mean laying on the couch, playing on your phone and jotting down your to-do list. I mean, actually rest in Him.

Jesus tells us, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29, ESV). Retreat into a quiet part of your house, or if that doesn’t exist, find a quiet coffee shop or sit in your car. Focus on God, his peace and rest in Him. Not in your to-do lists, Pinterest or social media. Read His Word, pour out your heart, and find peace.

I hope that you all enjoyed Thanksgiving and time with your family. But as we go through the holidays, please remember to rest. Do not let activity and busyness take you captive and prevent you from enjoying your everyday life. I promise I will set aside my to-do lists and hope you will too!

~ Hilary

 

photositeHilary Cobb is a born-and-raised California-girl who now lives in beautiful Boise, Idaho. She lives with her amazing husband of 12 years and their two beautiful (but crazy-makin’) children. Hilary received her master’s degree in social work in 2008 and works as a therapist part-time, doing counseling with children, adults and couples. She is also the Family Ministries Director for her church, speaks at events and schools, and writes for her blog:www.blessedbyhislove.com. When she has some downtime, she loves coffee, running and crochet! Her life verse is Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up,” and she is grateful that God has allowed her to serve Him throughout her life.

{Worth}

{Worth} Our Worth is Not What People Say It Is

UYM

Written By: Melanie Pickett

We’ve all been the topic of unpleasant conversation. I know I have.

People unfairly judging me. Judging my life, my decisions.

They ask questions of each other about this or that, questions they should ask me instead. If they really want to know. (Sometimes people don’t want to know the truth. The speculation is much juicier, after all).

It’s probably safe to assume each of us has been talked about behind our backs unfairly.

Most likely each one of us has also been treated unfairly or unkindly, right out in the openness of life. I sure have.

I lived inside a marriage rife with domestic abuse for many years. I know he didn’t value me, not the way a human should be valued. I know he told me lies about myself: I’m not good enough, I don’t work hard enough, I don’t dress right, I don’t cook right, I don’t do…anything right.

We’re human and human beings sometimes assume the worst of others. We judge by what we see, not by what really is.

The cashier who’s rude? Maybe she was rude that day and not every day. Maybe her husband left her that morning. Or maybe her child is sick and she had to leave her baby with a neighbor and come to work because they need the money. And all she really wants to do is hold her sick little one, but instead, she has to deal with demanding customers.

And what about the haggard mom who gets snippy with her kids in the store and we all exchange judgmental glances as we witness this, assuming she’s a stern mother without a nurturing bone in her body. The reality just might be that she’s been up and running for twelve solid hours taking care of everyone else’s needs but her own and the kids were bickering, so she snapped at them.

We slap all sorts of labels and judgements on people without knowing many facts. Even those of us who try hard never to do this, sometimes do it in spite of our efforts. So as much as we don’t like to be viewed in a dim light, we should try hard not to do so to others.

Those labels we stick on others—and the ones they stick on us—aren’t always accurate. And they don’t define us. Someone else’s opinion of who we are doesn’t mean that is who we are. Pretty or not-so pretty. Stylish or frumpy. Mean or kind. Smart or ditzy. Friendly or aloof. Wealthy or less advantaged. Funny or lacking in a sense of humor. All labels and nothing more.

We get to decide who we are. We get to choose our characteristics. And God chose our worth, so very long along, even before we were a glimmer in the eyes of our parents.

He determined our worth, our precious, priceless worth. And no label, no opinion, and no judgement will ever—not for one second—change just how infinitely valuable we are. We are truly precious in His sight so we don’t have to be in the sight of the world.

We know we are immeasurably loved. It always humbles me to know that Jesus died on that cross of all of us, but the fact is, He would have died for just one of us. Just one of us. He loves each  of us, no matter what. And nothing we can do will ever change our worth in His eyes.