My Heart Shines On

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“Poppa,” sobbing uncontrollably, “this heart of mine. It loves too deep, too pure, without bounds. Those aren’t good things in this world today. It breaks too often until I am broken and crying out at your feet. Not new tears, but recycled tears from a heart that cares too much.” I then sat and listened for my Father’s voice. Daughter, your love comes from me and my likeness. Your pure heart is from the blood of Jesus that flows through you. Just as My love knows no bounds it freely streams out from you. The world needs that love, that purity. You are not broken. I have mended you together, beautifully woven in my likeness. Those stitches can be pulled, but never separated. I am you Father, you are my child. All that you long for can be found within me. The world seeks what you have because my light shines through you. Let it shine. Wow. I sat in silence. The tears may fall like the showers of May, but the Son continues to shine through it all. And just when I think my heart can’t handle anymore, a rainbow breaks through the clouds. A reminder that my heart has not been forgotten and it will shine on, drawing others to Christ. 💛 ~ Chelle

“13 For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:13

He Lives

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I went out this morning and was greeted with a beautiful view of the sun shining through the trees. Jesus has risen and is alive. He lives to free us from the sin that this world tries to bind us to. He lives so that I don’t have to face life’s trials alone. He lives so that I can face whatever is thrown at me knowing He will hold me up when I can’t hold myself up. Yes, He lives. I ran into issues refilling my migraine medication, this has caused me to have them for days now. I have been overwhelmed and stressed to the point I cannot get through the days without breaking down into tears at least once. Poppa, I’m tired. My eyes are now sore from the headaches and dizziness has the world swirling around me. I’m not okay and that is okay for now. Jesus lives to lift me, some days even carry me, when I’m not okay. Yes, He lives.

I have my first appointment with a counselor since being home tomorrow. While it is okay to not be okay, it is not okay to stay there. I recognize I need help. Emotional abuse does damage that the eyes can’t see. A typical Dr. may not see signs of it on an X-ray, but the wounds are there. They go deeper, leaving gaping wounds that turn to scars. If your not careful scar tissue can form and attempt to suffocate the life right out of you. The memories, the mind games played start to affect you in ways you didn’t even realize were still there. Current relationships become guarded as you fear no one could love you or think you are just enough. So, getting help doesn’t make you weaker. No, it makes you stronger. It doesn’t mean your crazy. No, it means some truly crazy person manipulated your head and you are getting it right.

As I write this, the Lord brought back to my memory what He had showed me in a dream and showed a sister about me. My mind, the damage done is like a twisted and knotted rope. He’s unraveling that rope, smoothing out the twist, undoing the knots and the end result is beautiful. He lives (**** smiles ****). What are you facing? What are you going through? You aren’t alone, Jesus lives! His Holy Spirit lives within the believer. His presence is forever dwelling right within you. On those days you feel like your not okay, He’s already there holding you up. He knew you were going to have that not okay day before you had it. It’s okay to not be okay, lean into you Father during those times and let Him just be your Poppa! Happy Resurrection Day my friends. How awesome, He lives! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Swimming through Life

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Turning 40 something, I looked in the mirror at the worry lines on my face. I also noticed a thinner me, thinner than I’ve been in a very long time. I’m not where I want to be, but 60 pounds lighter than I started and I’ve kept that 60 pounds off. I took a selfie and studied the woman in the image. If you’d told the younger me the things I’d go through I probably would have laughed at you. Now here I am. I’d like to say I’d learned from my mistakes, but that heart of mine. It still takes me into troubled waters, but my Poppa never leaves me there. He gently lifts me out and draws me close to Him. I continue to learn from every inch of water I tread, I grow from the currents I fight, and I am able to share what I’ve been through as I wade out of each lake, river, or ocean that has challenged me. So many times the waters of life have threatened to overtake me, but my Poppa has never allowed me to drown in them. A lot of those waters I jumped into freely and others I was pulled in, but the weight of the situation was not allowed to pull me to the bottom. I’m not sure what waters you are treading or how you found yourself there. I don’t know the size of the body of water or the weights pulling on you, but I do know your God. None of it matters, reach up and He’ll extend His hand down. He will never allow the waters to overtake you. Thank you for swimming through the waters of life with me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5

April 2019 Chronological Bible Reading Schedule

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April 1, Judges 6-7

April 2, Judges 8-9

April 3, Judges 10-12

April 4, Judges 13-15

April 5, Judges 16-18

April, 6, Judges 19-21

April 7, Ruth 1-4

April 8, 1 Samuel 1-3

April 9, 1 Samuel 4-8

April 10, 1 Samuel 9-12

April 11, 1 Samuel 13-14

April 12, 1 Samuel 15-17

April 13, 1 Samuel 18-20; Psalms 11, 59

April 14, 1 Samuel 21-24

April 15, Psalms 7, 27, 31, 34, 52

April 16, Psalms 56, 120, 140-142

April 17, 1 Samuel 25-27

April 18, Psalms 17, 35, 54, 63

April 19, 1 Samuel 28-31; Psalm 18

April 20, Psalms 121, 123-125, 128-130

April, 21, 2 Samuel 1-4

April 22, Psalms 6, 8-10, 14, 16, 19, 21

April 23, 1 Chronicles 1-2

April 24, Psalms 43-45, 49, 84-85, 87

April 25, 1 Chronicles 3-5

April 26, Psalms 73, 77-78

April 27, 1 Chronicles 6

April 28, Psalms 81, 88, 92-93

April 29, 1 Chronicles 7-10

April 30, Psalm 102-104

Keep Pressing

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Fluffy girl down! I just completed my first treadmill workout in well over a year (mine had broke) and oh my goodness. My goal was 30 minutes/ 1 mile, I made it to 20 minutes and .86 miles. I was forced to stop when my body insisted on throwing up and an asthma attack kicking in, but not bad for my first time back at it! A goal is just that, a goal. I’ll get there and back to where I was. I’m still down 60 pounds from where I started, that came from hard work and self discipline. Now it’s time to focus and get over this hump I’ve been on, having a treadmill again is a huge step in that direction (thank you mom and Uncle Robert). Some things take time my friends, but don’t ever quit. Keep pressing and you will get where you want and where you are supposed to go. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Shine Anyways

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The last 24 hours have been extremely emotionally exhausting. I think I’ve worked more hours than I’ve slept this week (and anyone who knows me knows sleep is crucial in my world), but last night I started to experience harassment as I never have before. I try to be compassionate and understanding, but these are threats against my life and those I love the most. I can only describe the person as a monster as she details past things she’s done to the man and children I love as I read in pure horror. I realize more than ever evil exists and the devil and his minions have me and those I hold dear as their targets.

After a 12 hour day, I took April out for a walk. My mind was still spinning. So much left on my desk undone. This evil person trying to overshadow my happiness. I didn’t even realize I wasn’t really aware of my surroundings until something caught my eye. What’s that? Tiny purple flowers all around me. Gracefully kissing the grass, seemingly springing up from nowhere. I looked around and they were everywhere, little happy spots smiling on the ground. Their very presence brought a smile to my face. The harshness of winter is breaking off and the newness of spring is arising.

I came back in and soon forgot about those flowers. The harassment once again started and I thought about the work on my desk. Before I knew it, I was swimming in an ocean of overwhelmed emotion. Then I talked to two of my favorite people for awhile and was reminded that love does indeed conquer all. When we hung up I remembered those purple flowers. Stop daughter, smell the flowers. Watch how their beauty stands out. Evil can’t prevail, I came to conquer it. When you standout people will criticize and even hate, shine anyways.

I’m listening Poppa! My circle sure is small, but it is filled with the absolute best people. Don’t worry about who’s against you, who doesn’t like you, or even those that play both sides. You keep being true to yourself and God and you shine anyways! 💛 – Chelle, #f8ithgal

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Breathe Daughter, Just Breathe

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As tears filled my eyes and irritation mounted, I looked outside and saw the beautiful sun rising. It was time for a little protecting my peace time with my Poppa. I watched the golden hues of the rays spraying out over the clouds above it and heard my Poppa whisper breathe daughter, just breathe; it’s all going to be alright. I’m not sure what you are facing today, but your Father is shining through the clouds. A ray of sunshine when it seems darkest. Just breathe, it’s going to be alright! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

The Enemy Will Be Utterly Destroyed

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“And the Lord said unto me, Fear him not: for I will deliver him, and all his people, and his land, into thy hand; and thou shalt do unto him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon.” Deuteronomy 3:2 As I read the verses after this, I was amazed at the mighty power of our God. Verse 4 says they took all of the cities and verse 5 says these cities they took were “fenced with high walls, gates, and bars…” Verse 6 declares, “And we utterly destroyed them…” Wow. Has the enemy created a fortress up that you think can’t be breached. There is no wall too high, no gate too gate too secure, or bar too solid to withstand the army of The Lord and you my friend aren’t fighting alone. His angels go before you and His Spirit surrounds you. The warring in your spirit is the enemy trying to steal your peace. He knows he is defeated so he wages a battle in your head. Fight back with praise and the Word. Fear not the battle before you because it is not yours, but your Father’s. You’ve got this, don’t doubt for even a second that you don’t! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

God’s Light Will Break Through

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This morning as I stood outside enjoying my “protecting my peace time” the sun broke through the clouds and it’s warm rays washed over me. I came inside and began to reflect on the goodness and mercy of God. Oh how many times the clouds of life had completely overwhelmed me and I saw no way out when suddenly God came busting through the clouds with His love shining down upon me. Many of those times my own choices had caused the storms, yet He didn’t abandon me there. Many others were beyond my control and His light busted through with hope. In either case, His glorious rays washed over me. There He was cleansing me, guiding me, encouraging me… never leaving me lost in the dark storm clouds of life. I’m not sure what cloud is hanging over you today, but look up. Your help comes from the Lord and is already with you in the midst of whatever you are facing. His light will break through and He will cause the rains that have been plummeting you to fertilize the ground for what He is about to do. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:2

He’s Already There

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“Then I said unto you, Dread not, neither be afraid of them.” ~ Deuteronomy 1:29 Verse 30 goes on to say, “The Lord your God which goeth before you, he shall fight for you, according to all that he did for you in Egypt before your eyes;” Wow. How many reading this know God can still do that today? We don’t have to fear what the future holds because our Father is already there. He knows every twist and turn that lies ahead. He even knows every single way we will react to it. His mercy and grace covers us, His Spirit leads us. He goes before us clearing paths and fighting battles we aren’t even aware of to make bearable the ones we do face. “Dread not, neither be afraid” your Father is already there, I don’t care what your situation looks like He IS ALREADY THERE. Rest knowing your Father has gone before you. Listen for His voice to guide you. Don’t be discouraged by circumstance, trust He’s fighting for you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

March 2019 Chronological Bible Reading Schedule

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March 1, Numbers 14-15; Psalm 90

March 2, Numbers 16-17

March 3, Numbers 18-20

March 4, Numbers 21-22

March5, Numbers 23-25

March 6, Numbers 26-27

March 7, Numbers 28-30

March 8, Numbers 31-32

March 9, Numbers 33-34

March 10, Numbers 35-36

March 11, Deuteronomy 1-2

March 12, Deuteronomy 3-4

March 13, Deuteronomy 5-7

March 14, Deuteronomy 8-10

March 15, Deuteronomy 11-13

March 16, Deuteronomy 14-16

March 17, Deuteronomy 17-20

March 18, Deuteronomy 21-23

March 19, Deuteronomy 24-27

March 20, Deuteronomy 28-29

March 21, Deuteronomy 30-31

March 22, Deuteronomy 32-34; Psalm 91

March 23, Joshua 1-4

March 24, Joshua 5-8

March 25, Joshua 9-11

March 26, Joshua 12-15

March 27, Joshua 16-18

March 28, Joshua 19-21

March 29, Joshua 22-24

March 30, Judges 1-2

March 31, Judges 3-5

Grow Where You Are Planted 💛

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“Grow where you are planted.” I’ve heard that many times, but today when I took April out the Lord once again showed it to me. These beautiful yellow flowers were not only growing at the edge of the woods, but down deeper into them. They were surrounded with briars that prevented me from even getting too close, yet here they were flourishing. I’ve been questioning a lot lately and a lot have been questioning me. My heart has never been fuller, my love has never reached further. Grow where you are planted daughter, continue to flourish and trust me above all else. Oh this journey of life. I have not always made the best decisions and they have many times led to heartbreak, but my Poppa has always picked me back up and used those things as stepping stones to reach out to others. I’m thankful for a Father with enough mercy and grace for every step and even misstep I take on this path. Not only does the Lord allow me to grow where I’m planted, but I leave behind seeds that He allows to grow in the hearts of others as they grow on their journey. How awesome is that? Thank you for growing on this journey with me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.” 1 Chronicles 16:34

Be Still Daughter, Be Still

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“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 I love it when the Lord leads you to the right Word at just the right time. I started a short 5 day study called “5 Psalms for 5 Days” and it began with Psalm 46. Oh how many times has my Poppa told me to be still and let Him work, be still and listen to His voice, be still and let Him fight for me, be still… and here I find myself again. Be still daughter, be still. I smile as I sit in the silence of my room listening to the hum of the fan and allowing the stress of the day to simply melt away. Be still daughter, be still. I read verse 1 making it personal, “God is MY refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” It doesn’t matter what is going on around you. Your world can be shaking, you can be knee deep in water, but God is still in control. I LOVE verse 9, “He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.” There is nothing that is beyond His control. All we need to do is be still and know He is God! ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.

6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

A Light That Can’t Be Hidden

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My Poppa’s light shines through me. I was in bed the other night when I heard Him say you have a light in you that cannot be hidden, it was not meant to be. I love when our Father speaks to us in the stillness of silence, speaking into our situation and needs. I began to reflect on what He was telling me. My Poppa’s light shines through me to penetrate the darkness in corners of minds and hearts everywhere. He uses me as a vessel to offer a beacon of hope to a lost world, a safe haven to those suffering from abuse, and encouragement to the downtrodden. I’ve been there so I get it on the most real and personal level. God lifted me up when I thought there was no hope. He pulled me up from a pit of despair when I saw nothing but mire surrounding me. I was lost in complete darkness when His light broke through. He filled me with a light so bright, a testimony so large it was meant to be shared and illuminated to draw others out of the darkness and into His light. Someone needs to know there is no pit too deep, no mire too thick, no darkness too black for his love to penetrate. You have found a safe haven here. My Poppa loves you and so do I. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

Don’t Allow Your Judas to Hold You Back

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“A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:8 It hasn’t been that long ago I blogged about that verse and here am tonight with that verse on my heart again. As I’m talking to my Heavenly Father this evening I say, “Poppa, Jesus became man. He felt the emotions and things we felt. He knew Judas was going to betray him, did it break His heart? He had been one of “the” trusted twelve in His circle. Did it hurt His feelings?” We all know I’m a crybaby, I would have been crushed! I thought on this all evening. I was coming from a place myself of disappointment and discouragement. I could recognize it was an attack of the enemy, yet I was still having a hard time letting it go. There are some people in some positions that should be above reproach. Oh really, was Judas? He was one of “the” twelve.

My Poppa lead me back to that chapter in James, “19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. 26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. (James 1:19-27)” They are deceived daughter. Walk with me, hear and do as I lead. Rest under the shelter of My wings. Don’t give thought to those that hurt you, I have ordered your steps and I have the final say. My friends, I don’t know what Judas you may be facing in your life, but don’t be discouraged. Keep pressing, keep seeking God, and keep moving into the destiny He has for you. Yours may be different than mine, but He has something just for you and don’t allow anyone or anything to keep you from walking into it. Be blessed. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Is Fear Holding You Back?

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“Behold, the Lord thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 1:21 I read this verse and began to think over my own life. How many times have I been discouraged thinking I’m not good enough, strong enough, versed enough to walk into the calling God has for me. When I read through the Scriptures I find God calling the “unqualified” in man’s eyes and qualifying them with everything they need for His calling on their life. Are you and I any different? God’s Word is the same yesterday, today, and forever. What He did for the old time saints He will do for you and me. “…fear not, neither be discouraged.” What has the Lord set before you that you are allowing fear to hold you back from obtaining? Vow today to possess all that the Lord has for you. Poppa, I’m ready to walk into the destiny You have for me with You. No fears, no worries, no discouragement. A new chapter, Holy Spirit give me the words as I write the pages. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithfal

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” ~ Hebrews 13:8

About My Father’s Business

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“And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” Luke 2:49 The Lord woke me earlier in the week reminding me of the story when a twelve year old Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem as His parents moved on without realizing it. When they turned back they were “amazed” to find Him “…sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. (Verses 46-47) His worried mother said, “…Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. (Verse 48)” Jesus tells her, “…wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? Verse 49)” The Lord has had that verse on my heart ever since He woke me. Life is hectic and it’s so easy to get swallowed up in it. Slow down daughter. It’s time to be about MY business. I have been so preoccupied with “things” inside of my life they have been taking all of my time, wearing me down. Slow down daughter. It’s time to be about MY business. I’ve had little time to read, study, and pray. Ahhhh, that is one of the tricks of the devil. He keeps us so busy our Spiritual connection dulls, our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit is not as sharp. Slow down daughter. It’s time to be about My business. I’m listening Poppa, I’m listening! Are you about your Father’s business? These are perilous times we live in, it has never been more important than now to be about your Father’s business. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

The Colors of People

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The Lord has been showing me the colors of people lately and I’ve really been struggling with this. Poppa, why am I having such a hard time with this? Help me to understand and let the bitterness go. Then He gave me an illustration of colors. Once the color has spilled out from a bottle it leaves a stain behind. The liquid that has “leaked” out can be carefully placed back in the bottle, but the stain doesn’t easily lift from the surfaces it touched. Once a person’s true nature has been revealed it’s hard to see them as you did before. That doesn’t mean you don’t practice forgiveness when the situation calls for it. It means you practice awareness. You now know their true nature and you don’t try to paint it another color. As I was writing this I was wondering, “Do people who talk out of both sides of their mouth even know it?” As I was thinking that thought I was reminded of James 1:8, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” Tonight, I am thankful for discernment. Admittedly, I haven’t been handling it in the best way. Forgive me Lord as I let the hurt go. Thank You for showing me colors. Help me to leave a beautiful stain of honesty and integrity, not dark smudges of double mindedness and doubt from those that know me. In Jesus name Amen! I am so thankful God loves me in the middle of my imperfections and still speaks to me in those moments I’m struggling to understand life’s little “hard” things, even when I’m facing them with a frown. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

February 2019 Chronological Bible Reading Schedule

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February 1, Exodus 7-9

February 2, Exodus 10-12

February 3, Exodus 13-15

February 4, Exodus 16-18

February 5, Exodus 19-21

February 6, Exodus 22-24

February 7, Exodus 25-27

February 8, Exodus 28-29

February 9, Exodus 30-32

February 10, Exodus 33-35

February 11, Exodus 36-38

February 12, Exodus 39-40

February 13, Leviticus 1-4

February 14, Leviticus 5-7

February 15, Leviticus 8-10

February 16, Leviticus 11-13

February 17, Leviticus 14-15

February 18, Leviticus 16-18

February 19, Leviticus 19-21

February 20, Leviticus 22-23

February 21, Leviticus 24-25

February 22, Leviticus 26-27

February 23, Numbers 1-2

February 24, Numbers 3-4

February 25, Numbers 5-6

February 26, Numbers 7

February 27, Numbers 8-10

February 28, Numbers 11-13

Fear Not, the Battle is Not Yours

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“And the Lord said unto Moses, Fear him not: for I have delivered him into thy hand, and all his people, and his land; and thou shalt do to him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon.” ~ Numbers 21:34 It had been such a long day. This heart of mine. I take things so personally because I care so much, maybe too much, about people. Because of this, I replay conversations and I take things too personally. I carry the world on MY shoulders. You were never meant to carry it on your shoulders daughter. It’s not YOURS to carry. I opened up my fear study and read today’s verse. It resonated with me on a profound level. Stop fearing daughter. I’ve already gone before you and cleared the way. Don’t believe what you see, trust what I’ve told you. “Fear him not: for I have delivered him into thy hand,” Whew, that is a promise right there. I sat back and pondered over verse 34 and the comfort in it. I could feel the days cares melting away. I continue to be amazed at how my Poppa gives me just the right Word at just the right time. Fear comes in all shapes and sizes. It invades our day in so many ways, but above all it seeks to destroy our peace. It ate at mine all day long. It’s not yours to carry daughter, let it go. How often are you carrying something that isn’t yours to carry too? What are fearing because of what you see instead of trusting what God has promised you? My Poppa sure put it into perspective for me today and I’m so thankful for His gentle chastising. This battle isn’t mine, it’s His. I needed that reminder. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear, What the Lord Promised Will Come to Pass

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“Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not.” Numbers 14:9 As I read this verse, I heard the Lord tell me you only need to remain steadfast in Me. I marveled as I read the verses before this one. Here you have the children of Israel who were brought out of Egypt by the mighty hand of God. He has parted the sea and given them manna to eat and still they say, “1 And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. 2 And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! 3 And wherefore hath the Lord brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? 4 And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.” How quickly they had forgotten God’s promises and how close they were to them. Joshua and Caleb spoke up and their words fell on deaf ears, “6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes: 7 And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.8 If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. 9 Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not. 10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.” All they had to do was remain steadfast in the promise of the Lord. Friends, there is no fear when we are walking in His promises. Whatever He has promised you, it WILL happen. Don’t doubt it, you only need to believe in Him and what He has told you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

A Lesson in Patience

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Oh how I lack in the area of patience and my Father knows this! Like a precious stone in a making, He often allows me to experience extreme pressure, heat, and cutting to bring out and polish the virtue of patience within. Today I was so excited to pick up a package a dear friend had sent me, but my mom’s car door was frozen shut on the driver side. She had started it from the passengers side and we waited. I had went out a couple of times and the door was still frozen shut. Somehow on one of these trips (by being inpatient) I managed to lock the doors, with the car running. We could find no local locksmiths. I called local wreckers, one was busy and another was an hour away at the time (but very kind and helpful). At this point, I am in tears. My mom prays, “Lord, you can open open that door with one switch…” She goes out and comes back in and said, “The door is open.” My Uncle pulls up at the same time and had just prayed the same prayer. I just burst into tears. My Father had given me a lesson in patience, but in His merciful awe inspiring love He had also given me grace and unlocked the door. I am both thankful and amazed. God is so good to us. I don’t know what you are trusting Him for, but I am here to tell you He unlocked a locked, running car for me today. Just trust Him. He’s got you, He’s got you! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

In Due Season…

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“And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land.” Leviticus 26:6 “Afraid” in this verse means, “to shudder with terror; hence to fear; also to hasten (with anxiety): – be (make) {afraid} be {careful} {discomfit} fray ({away}) {quake} tremble.” I have chewed on the this verse and the verses just before it all week. “4 Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. 5 And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely. (Verses 4-5)” Wow. Those three verses filled me with so much hope and encouragement. Things were rough going into the new year, yet my Poppa kept saying hold on. I’m turning things around for you. The new year hit and He began to pour out His blessings over me, “Then I will give you rain in due season…” Our timing is not Gods. I was facing some things, some “worries.” Daughter, what are you afraid of? Did I place the stars in the sky? The moon you love to watch, did I place it there? Nothing is too hard for me. In due season, I bring increase. Friends, stop and feel the Holy Spirit raining down. Allow Him to fill you up. He’s cleansing and making the grounds fertile for increase. Nothing to fear, no worries. Everything in God’s hands, God’s timing, what you need is coming in due season. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Recap of January 2019 Chronological Bible Reading Schedule

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January 1: Genesis 1-3

January 2: Genesis 4-7

January 3:Genesis 8-11

January 4: Job 1-5

January 5: Job 6-9

January 6: Job 10-13

January 7: Job 14-16

January 8: Job 17-20

January 9: Job 21-23

January 10: Job 24-28

January 11: Job 29-31

January 12: Job 32-34

January 13.: Job 35-37

January 14: Job 38-39

January 15: Job 40-42

January 16: Genesis 12-15

January 17: Genesis 16-18

January 18: Genesis 19-21

January 19: Genesis 22-24

January 20: Genesis 25-26

January 21: Genesis 27-29

January 22: Genesis 30-31

January 23: Genesis 32-34

January 24: Genesis 35-37

January 25: Genesis 38-40

January 26: Genesis 41-42

January 27: Genesis 43-45

January 28: Genesis 46-47

January 29: Genesis 48-50

January 30: Exodus 1-3

January 31: Exodus 4-6

Fear Not, You Have a Direct Line to Your Father

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“And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not.” Exodus 20:20 Two different types of fear are used here. The fear we have been discussing in “fear not” and a fear of “reverence” for God in the second part of the verse. In verse 19 the people are afraid to speak to God, “And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.” I started to think on that this morning and just how blessed we are. Jesus came and died, but left the Holy Spirit that allows us direct communication with our Father. We pray to God directly. He longs for a one on one relationship with YOU and ME. WOW. He still proves us, He mold us into the men and women He wants wants us to be. He refines us and guides us into our destiny, but we do it with NO fear. That’s just an awesome blessing. The line of communication should be free and clear with your Father, if it is clogged open it today. He is waiting all you have to do is call on His name. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Journaling and Leaving Your Fears Behind

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I found the perfect little journal at Michael’s for $5.00! The front of it said, “Leave Your Fears Behind,” “How perfect,” I thought! This is how I’m using it: I write a Scripture about fear at the top of the page (with the day’s date). I then write something I fear and a prayer to God about it and release that fear to Him. If He speaks to me about that fear I also include that with date. This allows a physical way for me to see what I am fearing and how I have released it to God. I can journal about overcoming the areas I have feared and see God working in my life. I encourage you to give it a try. If you can’t get a journal it is okay, a notebook or even loose paper will do! Over the years I have found journaling to be therapeutic in my life and journaling with God has brought me closer to Him! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear Not, God Before and Follows After You

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“13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. 14 The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.” Exodus 14:13-14 I read this last night in preparing for today’s blog post. Early this morning the Lord spoke to my heart and said I not only go before you and prepare the way, I follow behind you ensuring your safety. Here we have the murmuring Children of Israel in the verses before saying, “And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt? (Verse 11)” Our loving merciful Father doesn’t leave them in their place of doubt. Instead He has Moses tell them to fear not and verse 14 says “The Lord shall fight for you and ye shall hold your peace.” Our Father goes on to part the sea in a miraculous way. The children cross over unharmed and then sea comes crashing down in verses 27-28, “27 And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. 28 And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of them.” This spoke so much into my present situation as the Lord told me I go before you and I follow after you. Friends keep pressing, no one can touch you in the middle when God’s hand of protection has the water stayed on both sides. That is worth a praise shout! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

No Fear, He’s Waiting to Nourish You

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“Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.” Genesis 50:21 In my last post on fear, Joseph had told his brothers and father not to fear saying, “for am I in the place of God?” (Verse19). Now he again tells them not to fear, he will nourish them and their children. He then went on to comfort them and speak kindly to them. Reading this made my heart smile. He didn’t puff himself up for coming to their rescue. He didn’t say, “Remember that dream I had when the day would come that you would all serve me, today is that day.” No. The Scripture says he, “comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.” I found that humbling. In a world where people are striving for recognition and to be better than another, we find the story of Joseph who had so many reasons to be angry and hurt. So many reasons to say the Lord lifted me above you because of what you did, yet he was kind and merciful. Lord help me to be like Joseph. We also continue to see there is no fear in Jesus. “Now therefore fear not…” God brought Joseph’s family out of a famine and long before it ever took place he had arranged to meet their every need knowing the horrible things (and using the those very things) his brothers had done to do it. Look at God. It doesn’t matter what you have done, he knew you were going to do it before you acted on it. He’s willing to forgive you. Just ask, He will nourish, comfort, and lift you up. He’s waiting. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Declare If Thou Knowest It All…

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“Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth? declare if thou knowest it all.” Job 38:18 Our Bible Reading this week brought us to the book of Job. I found myself reading ahead and almost cheering for God to come the rescue of Job from the discourse of his “friends”. I woke tonight and finished the book, I could feel my excitement as I read God’s response. I found myself pondering verse 38:18, “… declare if thou knowers it all.” I sat quietly in peaceful reflection. These “wise friends” of Job were really completely clueless and in the end the Lord had him praying for them for their misguided words. Listen to my voice daughter, I felt my Poppa urging. Your path may be different from mine. Who knows why God leads us down certain ones, but if you are following His voice that’s all that matters. He has something for you or a way to use you there. Don’t shy away from it because of the views of others. Another important thing to note, God can allow bad things to happen to strengthen us. These things do not mean we are bad. Twice in the book of Job he says to satan, “Hast thou considered my servant Job,” (Job 1:8 and Job 2:3) If you know you are in the right place with God in your heart, don’t listen to those “friends” in your ears saying rough times mean your out of His will. He may be allowing the ground to be tilled for your future. “So the Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses.” Job 42:12 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?” Job 1:8

“And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.” Job 2:3

No Fear When You Rest Where God Has Placed You

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“And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?” Genesis 50:19 Joseph had been through a lot to get where he was. Now his brothers, who had sold him into slavery many years ago are at his feet. Could you imagine what was going through their minds? Joseph had seen a dream that even his father rebuked him when told him of it (“And he told it to his father, and to his brethren: and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?” Genesis 37:10). Now here it is coming to pass and Joseph is telling them not to fear. Why? God brought him to that place to save them all. Things looked bleak for his father and brothers with the food supply diminishing, but God had a plan in place. Now they were in this strange land and God’s plan was still in place. Through it all, Joseph listened to God and because of that his brothers had nothing to fear. What are you facing today? Are you facing it with God or trying to do it on your own accord? I encourage you to seek Him because when you are resting in His will there is nothing to fear, I’ve heard my momma say many times “my seed is promised” when one of her children were straying from God. We all came back to Him. I feel like someone needs to know that this morning. No fear when you are where God has placed you, keep praying for those that wander. God brings them home, He brought me home. You keep trusting from the place God has placed you with no fear!💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Humility, We Need More of It

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“Humility” is a modest or low view of one’s own importance; humbleness. I’ve been thinking on this a lot tonight. I want my importance to rest in God. I strive (too much) for perfection in areas I’m probably never going to achieve it, but I am THANKFUL for the growth and knowledge my Father has allowed me to gain for where I am at this point in my life. I am BLESSED by the opportunities He affords me due to the knowledge He has given me. Nothing I have or have done is through my strength, but my Father that works through me. Each word I write is the Holy Spirit guiding me and moving within me. When God uses me, it is to HIS glory. I read through my Facebook page this evening and my spirit was vexed. I look around and see heads blowing up with power, feelings scorched because you deflated their big heads, and just out right cut throat in every direction. The word humility just kept filling my spirit. There really isn’t enough of it today. Help me Poppa to stay true to you; in the world, but not of the world. As you move me into my destiny, don’t ever allow me to lose the humbleness you’ve instilled in me. Humility. We need more of that today. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Peace Be Still

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Yesterday I had so much “I” needed to get done, but a migraine prevented me from doing any of it. Worrying about not getting it done only made the headache worse. This morning I looked up from writing my blog on fear and was greeted with the most beautiful sunrise. It’s time for a little protecting your peace time with your Father I heard Him whisper. As I walked out and gazed at the sky I was in complete awe, “Oh Poppa!” It was absolutely beautiful. Our Father always knows what we need and when we need it, it was such a peaceful way to start a Monday. “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 No matter what the day holds God is in control, He has already gone before us paving the way. When it start to get too much to bear, be still. Just close your eyes and be still in that moment knowing and reminding yourself HE IS GOD. I needed this today and thought someone else might too. I love you guys and I’m praying for everyone reading this. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Do Not Fear the Plans God Has For You

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“And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation:” Genesis 46:3 Israel has just learned his son who he thought was dead was alive. Now God was telling him “fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation.” Wow, what a promise. I read this verse in awe this morning and reread it several more times. What is God moving me and you to do that our fear is holding us back from? It’s something to think on today. I want to be solely in the will of God and I want ALL that He has for me. I don’t want fear to separate me from His purpose for my life. Fear has no place in a child of God because the blood of Jesus has already set us free! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear Not, The Lord Has Given You Your Treasure

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“And he said, Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon out unto them.” Genesis 43:23 I can only imagine the fear Joseph’s brothers were feeling. They thought they were about to be accused of stealing the money and putting it back in their own sacks only to find it was the brother they had sold sold into slavery and now here he is telling them, “fear not.” God’s ways are higher than our ways. Many years before Joseph had a dream that angered his brothers, but God was bringing that dream into focus. God used him to save his family. From the pit to the castle. It doesn’t matter where you started or where you have been, it matters where you are with God. Fear not, the Lord has given you the treasure in your sacks! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear Not, God is in Control

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“And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also.” Genesis 35:17 In the verse before we learn Rachel was in “hard labour”. When I read this I imagine the fear that must have overwhelmed her. So much so the midwife could see it and reassured her “fear not: thou shalt have this son also.” She names the baby in the next verse as she is dying. As I was reading this, I said Poppa she died and He said but her baby lived. Before she died she had the reassurance that her baby was okay and she got to name him. “And it came to pass, as her soul was in departing, (for she died) that she called his name Benoni: but his father called him Benjamin.” Our story doesn’t always end the way we envision it, but when we trust God we can walk into it with no fear believing it will work out according to His will and purpose for our lives. I almost skipped over this verse this morning, but God said not so. Rachel’s baby lived and she named him. There is an awesome blessing in that. Fear not. God is in control. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear Not, God is With You

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“And the Lord appeared unto him the same night, and said, I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake.” Genesis 26:24 Here we find God Himself telling Isaac not to fear AFTER he had lied about Rebekah being his wife out of fear. “And the men of the place asked him of his wife; and he said, She is my sister: for he feared to say, She is my wife; lest, said he, the men of the place should kill me for Rebekah; because she was fair to look upon. (Verse 7)” God’s forgiveness reaches beyond comprehension and His blessings extend beyond our dreams. Isaac’s fear caused him to sin in lying and not trusting God. But God. He met him at the point of that fear and said, “fear not, for I am with thee.” What is God speaking to you about today? What is that thing you fear? Give it to the Lord. Tell Him all about it and fear no more. He is with you as much today as He was with Isaac. That deserves a praise shout! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Fear Not, He Hears When You Cry Out

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“And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.” Genesis 21:17 Hagar had just been cast out by Sarah. Abraham had given her bread and a bottle of water, verses 15-16 tells us it was spent and she was certain her child would die, “15 And the water was spent in the bottle, and she cast the child under one of the shrubs. 16 And she went, and sat her down over against him a good way off, as it were a bow shot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against him, and lift up her voice, and wept.” But God! The angel said said, “fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.” Are you calling out to the one that formed the world? He meets you right where you are so fear should not and cannot overtake you. God heard that child crying out right where he was. He hears us too, when we cry out. Oh child why are you cast down and disquieted? Put your hope in me. That was ringing through my spirit again this morning. “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 42:11 💛 Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 43:5

January 2019 Chronological Bible Reading Schedule

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January 1: Genesis 1-3

January 2: Genesis 4-7

January 3:Genesis 8-11

January 4: Job 1-5

January 5: Job 6-9

January 6: Job 10-13

January 7: Job 14-16

January 8: Job 17-20

January 9: Job 21-23

January 10: Job 24-28

January 11: Job 29-31

January 12: Job 32-34

January 13.: Job 35-37

January 14: Job 38-39

January 15: Job 40-42

January 16: Genesis 12-15

January 17: Genesis 16-18

January 18: Genesis 19-21

January 19: Genesis 22-24

January 20: Genesis 25-26

January 21: Genesis 27-29

January 22: Genesis 30-31

January 23: Genesis 32-34

January 24: Genesis 35-37

January 25: Genesis 38-40

January 26: Genesis 41-42

January 27: Genesis 43-45

January 28: Genesis 46-47

January 29: Genesis 48-50

January 30: Exodus 1-3

January 31: Exodus 4-6

Let’s Read Through the Bible This Year

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I’ve read through the Bible in the year several times, but I’ve never read it it through in chronological order. I’ve decided to do that for 2019 using a plan from Blue Letter Bible and would like to invite you to read along with me. I will post monthly and weekly reading schedules. You can also download the Bible app and read from your phone as well. I look forward to reading God’s Word with you! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Taking Power Over Fear

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The Bible tells us over and over not to fear yet it’s something I find myself struggling with. Fear is clearly not of God, it’s a weapon used by the devil to cripple our faith and leave us powerless. God started speaking to me fear and showing me I wasn’t alone. This year it’s time to put the devil in his place and bury fear once and for all. How? Let’s learn what the Bible says about it. I’ll share my fears and I invite you to share yours. We can’t defeat what we sweep under the rug. No, it’s time to call out those fears and say no more. In the name of Jesus I will not fear because my God is with me, He has gone before me and cleared my path. fear cannot and will not abide in me from this day forward.

The first verse I found telling us not to fear came to Abram in Genesis 15:1, “After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” God then goes on to give him a promise of his seed being compared to the number of stars in verse 5, “And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.” Verse 6 says, “And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” Abram BELIEVED Him! You can’t read those verses and not get excited.

The Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance tells us fear in this verse means, “A primitive root; to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten: – {affright} be (make) {afraid} dread ({-ful}) (put in) fear ({-ful} {-fully} -ing). (be had in) reverence ({-end}) X {see} terrible ({act} {-ness} thing).” To make afraid, put in fear. Fear not, (insert your name). Just as the Lord instructed Abram not to fear then, He’s instructing us not to fear today. I don’t know what He has called you to do, but He’s equipping you to do it. I don’t know what He’s bringing you out of, but He’s giving you what you need to bring you out. Don’t give way to fear, He has all you need to conquer whatever is before you! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 31

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I believe every woman of God is familiar with this last chapter in Proverbs. Being the “Proverbs 31 Woman” is something my heart desires to be and it is something we can each do through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. “She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. (Verse 17)” It’s not through my strength, but through Him that is in me. It’s the desire God has placed within me. I pray you have enjoyed reading the Proverbs with me this month and that God has given you new nuggets of wisdom through it. Thank you for taking this journey through Proverbs with me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 31

1 The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

2 What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?

3 Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:

5 Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

6 Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.

7 Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.

8 Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 30

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I love the bits of wisdom God has hidden within the verses of Proverbs. “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. (Verse 5)” It doesn’t matter where you are in life or what you are going through, God has a Word to cover your situation and He is your shield through it. All you have to do is place your trust in a Him. His written Word is full of instruction for every day life. The Holy Spirit will also guide you to passages specific to your need when you are seeking Him. All we have to do is ask. In a world full of deception and evil, we need that purity and guidance. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 30

1 The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, even the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,

2 Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man.

3 I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.

4 Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son’s name, if thou canst tell?

5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

7 Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:

8 Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:

9 Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.

10 Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty.

11 There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.

12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.

13 There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.

14 There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

15 The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:

16 The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough.

17 The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

18 There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:

19 The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.

20 Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.

21 For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four which it cannot bear:

22 For a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with meat;

23 For an odious woman when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

24 There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:

25 The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;

26 The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;

27 The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;

28 The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings’ palaces.

29 There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:

30 A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;

31 A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up.

32 If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.

33 Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 29

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“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. (Verse 18)” Do you have a vision for your future? Is it aligned with God’s will for your destiny? As the year draws to an end, it’s the perfect time to step back and take a look at our lives. Don’t spend it beating yourself up. I didn’t lose as much weight as I wanted (even gained a little back since my move), but I still lost about 50 pounds. Reassess where you are now and where you want to be this time next year. Form a plan to make it happen. Don’t get discouraged along the way if it doesn’t happen as fast or exactly according to plan, God’s ways and timing are different than ours. The important thing is not to lose sight of the vision God gives you. If you don’t know what that vision is after reassessing the year, ask God. Talk to Him, He wants that one on one relationship with you. You aren’t going to find a fulfilling happiness until your vision aligns with His. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 29

1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.

4 The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.

5 A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.

6 In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

7 The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

8 Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.

9 If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.

10 The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.

11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.

12 If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.

13 The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the Lord lighteneth both their eyes.

14 The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever.

15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

16 When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.

17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.

18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

19 A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.

20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

21 He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length.

22 An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

23 A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

24 Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.

25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.

26 Many seek the ruler’s favour; but every man’s judgment cometh from the Lord.

27 An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 28

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You tend to your garden and I’ll tend to mine. Sometimes we spend too much time looking in other people’s garden and not enough in rooting out the weeds of our own. People are so busy trying to out perform the other person they forget to till their own land. Verse 19 says, “He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.” I read that several times this morning while examining my own life. God has shown me my worth. He’s working on me and my garden so that my “produce” feeds people with encouragement as I draw closer to Him. I don’t have to compete or strive to show that worth, it shines through the fruit of my spirit. Daughter, you are trying too hard to please others and all you need to do is please Me. Keep your eyes in your garden. Water it with My Word, till it with what I instruct, and prune it with what I convict. Don’t be concerned with the one across the way or how they got it. Tend to your garden and leave the rest to Me. Wow. Look at God. He sends THE Word you need just when your spirit needs it. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 28

1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

2 For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

3 A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

4 They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.

5 Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the Lord understand all things.

6 Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

7 Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

8 He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.

10 Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession.

11 The rich man is wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

12 When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

16 The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

17 A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him.

18 Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

19 He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

20 A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

21 To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.

22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

23 He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

24 Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.

25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.

26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

28 When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 27

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” Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (Verse 17)” We are to “sharpen” one another. Too many times you see the dulling of people. Belittling, ridiculing, and coldness keeps a person in a place of defeat. Encouragement, Godly edifying, and a warm heart of understanding helps pull them out of that pit of despair. Use the wisdom God gives you to sharpen the countenance of a friend, family, or co-worker. There is enough light to go around, you should be trying to brighten someone’s instead if worrying if they will outshine you. I love verse 23, “Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” Be diligent with what the Lord has given you. Study His Word and manage your prayer life. Be bold enough to ask Him for the wisdom of Solomon. Be equipped to have something to “sharpen” your friends with as God moves you to where He wants you to be. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 27

1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool’s wrath is heavier than them both.

4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?

5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.

6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

7 The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.

8 As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.

9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.

10 Thine own friend, and thy father’s friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother’s house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.

11 My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

12 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished.

13 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

14 He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.

15 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.

16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

18 Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

20 Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

21 As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.

22 Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

23 Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

25 The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

26 The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.

27 And thou shalt have goats’ milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 26

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Chapter 26 tells us a lot about fools and talebearers, one in the same on many levels. As I read through the chapter a second time, I realized there are some people you will never convince of right or even something that could assist them in life because they fall under fool. Have you ever met someone who is right, even if they are wrong. Don’t argue it, just let it go. Verses 4-5 tell us, “4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.” Walk away. I’m sure you have known someone who falls under talebearer as well. They tell everything they know and may just add to it, you know it’s their commentary or opinion wrapped in what they perceive to be true. Don’t engage it, don’t take part in it. Verse 20 tells us, “Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.” Again, walk away. Your peace isn’t worth arguing with a fool and grieving your spirit with gossip from a talebearer. Just walk away. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Chapter 26

1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.

2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.

3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool’s back.

4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.

7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.

8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.

9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouths of fools.

10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.

11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.

12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.

14 As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.

15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.

16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.

17 He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,

19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?

20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.

22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

23 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;

25 When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.

26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.

27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Jehovah-jireh, My Provider

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Will God do it? Oh yes He will! I can’t even count the times God has met a need for me and He just keeps doing it. Saturday evening I was going over in my head what I needed from the store and what I had in my account. I was praying, help me use it wisely Poppa to last until payday. I checked my account and there was more than I expected. What?! That doesn’t happen! I had received a bonus that brought tears to eyes. Thank You Poppa! I share this with you so because He is Jehovah-jireh, my Provider. Friends, He is your Provider too. I didn’t expect it, but God. But God! He knew what I needed and He had already taken care of it. Philippians 4:19 tells us, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” My friends I’m here to tell you that promise is so true.

I’ll share something else, He goes beyond meeting our needs. A dear friend sent me a message yesterday asking for my address because she saw something special and is having it sent to me. Yes, I cried. My heart was overwhelmed. This Christmas was so incredibly hard for me. My first year home and I’m still recovering from my move so I couldn’t do much of anything and here I’m being blessed! When I gave April (my dog and baby) her three toys this morning she was more interested in love from momma. God knew what He was doing when He blessed me with her. I want you to have hope today. I don’t know if you were surrounded with family and lots of gifts under the tree or sitting alone with very little, but God sees everything. He really is all you need because He will provide the rest. (Ps you are never alone, He’s right there with you) 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Merry Christmas ❤️

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I can’t allow the day come to an end without wishing y’all a Merry Christmas. Thank You Father God for sending your only Son for us. A baby born to save a world that was in sin. He is never more needed than today and all we have to do us call upon His name, Jesus. He is the meaning behind Christmas and when you have Him in your heart you are more blessed than words can express. If you don’t have Him, He’s waiting to be ask in. It’s a gift that’s priceless and it’s free. It will give you peace that the mind can’t imagine and more joy than the natural eyes can’t see. All you have to do is open the door and allow His love for you to touch your very core. Merry Christmas! ❤️💛❤️💛 ~ Chelle, f8ithgal

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 25

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Who are you depending on, who are you trusting? I began to think to think on verse 19 this morning, “Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.” Who allowing your life is huge. When you place your confidence in the wrong person or people it can have devastating consequences on your life. This is why seeking God in everything we do is so essential. He is always faithful and will never fail us, trust Him to guide you into the right relationships in all areas of your life. I also spent a lot of time reflecting on verse 28, “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” I believe whole heartedly this takes the help of the Holy Spirit. I am weak, my heart is soft, and I too often make misguided decisions. The devil is constantly throwing darts that he knows will prick our spirit and lead it astray if we let him. Help us Lord to have rule over our spirit. Give us wisdom that comes from you and eyes too see when we are not acting according to you. In Jesus precious name. Amen 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 25

1 These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.

2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

3 The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.

4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

6 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:

7 For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.

9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:

10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.

11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

13 As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

14 Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.

15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.

16 Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

17 Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour’s house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.

18 A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.

20 As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.

21 If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

22 For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee.

23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

26 A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

27 It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.

28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 24

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Have you fallen from God and think there is no way back? Take heart! Verse 16 of today’s chapter tells us, ” For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” What do you do after you have fallen? You get back up! You say Father forgive me and you get back up. Sound too simple? Read the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11:32. All you have to do is call on your Father, His arms are wide open. Verses 13-14 tell us, “13 My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste: 14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.” When you come back and you partake of what the Lord has to offer “thy expectation shall not be cut off.” Line your will with your Father’s will, glean from His wisdom and your reward will be greater than earthly treasures and He will keep you under the shelter of His wings. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 24

1 Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

2 For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.

3 Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:

4 And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

5 A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

6 For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.

7 Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.

8 He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

9 The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.

11 If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain;

12 If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?

13 My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:

14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

15 Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place:

16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

17 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

18 Lest the Lord see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

19 Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked:

20 For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

21 My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:

22 For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?

23 These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

24 He that saith unto the wicked, Thou are righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:

25 But to them that rebuke him shall be delight, and a good blessing shall come upon them.

26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.

27 Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.

28 Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.

29 Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

30 I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

31 And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.

32 Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction.

33 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

34 So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 23

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Oh my Poppa, He can use His Word in so many ways! While I understand verses 1-3 speak on a serious note, my Father used it to tell me to put down the milk duds. *** Smiles *** Verse 4 is key for me, “…cease from thine own wisdom.” Oh boy. I don’t know about y’all but I cannot get through this “life thing” alone. I certainly can’t do it relying on my own wisdom, I need the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Truth time, things have been stressful. My reward to myself to get through the day: milk duds. This is BAD and I can see it in my face (and feel it in my stomach). My wisdom here was not wise at all. *** Sighs *** That brings me to verse 12, “Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.” God had already started to speak to me about what I was eating, today He said apply it. Wow. Don’t put God in a box. He just used a Proverb on Wisdom to speak to his daughter about what she is eating and her weight. Why? He cares for me and YOU! This one wasn’t an easy one to share, but it’s what God gave me. Open your heart to God while you read these chapters and He will meet you at the point of your need too. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Chapter 23

1 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:

2 And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.

3 Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.

4 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

6 Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

8 The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.

9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:

11 For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

12 Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

13 Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.

14 Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

15 My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

16 Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.

17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long.

18 For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

19 Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

20 Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

21 For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

24 The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

25 Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

26 My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.

27 For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.

28 She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.

29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?

30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.

31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.

34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.

35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

Walking Fearlessly into 2019

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Fear, it’s something I really struggled with as I was coming out of an emotionally abusive relationship. It’s tried to overtake me in other areas of my life as well. The devil still uses it to try to pull me under, but he is a liar and it’s not happening. I’ve been praying about what direction to go in after I finish up in Proverbs and God has been speaking to me about blogging on fear. The Bible mentions “fear” 501 times and “afraid” 189 times. I’ve been studying each time it’s mentioned and the way it’s mentioned. As of today, I have completed through the Book of Ecclesiastes and have found 64 of the times fear/ afraid have been mentioned directly relate to instruction not to fear or be afraid. That is powerful. Starting January 1 I am going to share the verses I am studying on fear that instruct us not be afraid. Theses are wonderful, encouraging nuggets to remind us when God is in control we don’t have to be moved by fear. My prayer verse for this series is Psalm 34:4, “I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” I look forward to walking fearlessly with you into 2019 with God guiding us every step of the way. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 22

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I am continually amazed at how God speaks to me and my situations through these Proverbs. It is quite simply Divine Wisdom from so many years ago that has withstood the test of time and is just as meaningful today as the day it was penned in the 10th century B.C. As I read through the verses in today’s chapter, I reminded the evil will not go unpunished and God sees it. Don’t partake it in and don’t except it, “10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease. 11 He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend. 12 The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.” You keep pressing into God. You keep doing right, God sees it all, “17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. 18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. 19 That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. 20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,” God knows every single thing you are going through and every single person you face. He has you covered. Don’t give into the situation, trust your Father’s wisdom, “24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” Don’t even submit to the gossip about it. Just give it to God and watch Him work for you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 22

1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

2 The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

4 By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.

5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.

6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.

9 He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.

11 He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

12 The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.

13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.

14 The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the Lord shall fall therein.

15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

16 He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.

19 That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.

20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

22 Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:

23 For the Lord will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.

26 Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.

27 If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 21

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This chapter made my heart leap for joy! I have been going through some things and I could hear my Father speaking to my situation in almost every line! This chapter speaks a lot about the ways of man verses the ways of someone seeking God. It speaks of the proud and slothful verses the wise. Verse 8 tells us, “The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.” Knowing you are right and doing “right” isn’t always easy in a world dominated by sin, but take heart. Verses 30-31 tell us, “30 There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the Lord. 31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.” Seek your counsel from the Lord and keep pressing. He has prepared you and everything you need for the battle you face and you are safely resting in Him through it. How awesome is that?! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 21

1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

3 To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

4 An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

6 The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.

7 The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.

8 The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.

9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

10 The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.

11 When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

12 The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.

13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.

15 It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

16 The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.

17 He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.

21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.

22 A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.

23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

24 Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.

25 The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.

26 He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

28 A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.

29 A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.

30 There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the Lord.

31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 20

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I read chapter 20 twice this morning and verse 5 just speaks to my heart, “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.” So many things we face are issues that run deep into our hearts. The Word of God provides a standard or guideline to help us face every single thing we could ever encounter in life. We only need to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to bring the answers to light. We are praying for wisdom as we read these chapters, are you allowing Him to draw it out? 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Chapter 20

1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

2 The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.

3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.

5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

6 Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

8 A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.

9 Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?

10 Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the Lord.

11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the Lord hath made even both of them.

13 Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

14 It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.

15 There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

16 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

17 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.

18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

19 He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

20 Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.

21 An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.

22 Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.

23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; and a false balance is not good.

24 Man’s goings are of the Lord; how can a man then understand his own way?

25 It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

26 A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.

27 The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

28 Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.

29 The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.

30 The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 19

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Who are you listening to to? Who do you seek advice from? Someone who the world considers wise may not seek the counsel of the Lord, someone who is not of God may think themselves wise but be a fool. Verses 20-21 of this chapter say, “20 Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. 21 There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.” I would encourage you to look at the person’s “fruit” you are seeking counsel from. Would you want to partake of it in your life? If not, perhaps they are not the best person to give advice over your own. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 19

19 Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

2 Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

3 The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord.

4 Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.

6 Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.

7 All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.

8 He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.

9 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.

10 Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.

11 The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

12 The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.

13 A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.

14 House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.

15 Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.

16 He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.

17 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

19 A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.

20 Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.

21 There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.

22 The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.

23 The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

24 A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

25 Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

26 He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.

27 Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.

28 An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.

29 Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 18

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I have read these Proverbs so many times over the years and it never ceases to amaze me how my Father continues to speak to my heart about something just when my life needs it most. Lately I’ve felt separated from everything as I feel the Lord drawing me closer to Him. Right out of the gates of chapter 18 verse 1 says, “Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.” *** looks up and smiles*** In verse 10 we are reminded, ” The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” *** looks up and says thank You Poppa! *** And verse 16 encourages, ” A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. *** looks up and smiles, giving praise! *** I don’t know what your situation is or what you are facing, but I do know WHO your God is. Take some time to seek His wisdom, run to Him and remember He IS your strong tower, and praise Him for the gifts HE has given you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 18

18 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

4 The words of a man’s mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

5 It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.

6 A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

7 A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

11 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

20 A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.

23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 17

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When I read chapter 17 one of the things I take away from it, are some things are better left unsaid. If it’s going to cause contention and strife why open the flood gate? Proverbs 17:14 tells us, “The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.” And verse 28 says, “Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.” Lord help me to keep control of my mouth during those times I’m hurt and those times when I’m angry. Give me strength to just be still and allow you to work for me. In Jesus precious name! Amen 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 17

1 Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.

2 A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.

3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the Lord trieth the hearts.

4 A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

5 Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.

6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.

7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.

8 A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.

9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

10 A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

11 An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

12 Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.

13 Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

15 He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord.

16 Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?

17 A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18 A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

19 He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.

20 He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.

21 He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

23 A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.

24 Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.

25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.

26 Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity.

27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 16

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Today’s chapter and the wisdom contained in it are confirmation to the Word the Lord gave me earlier this morning. This chapter expands upon that. While telling me it was not my strength but His, He also reminded me of how important my mindset is. Where is your mind centered? Admittedly, the devil gets into my thoughts and there’s where the “I can’t do this” thoughts start to talk hold. Verse 3 says, “Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established,” and verse 9, “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.” With verse 25 cautioning, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” I MUST commit my ways to the Lord for my thoughts to be established. This heart of mine has gotten me into some messes, I need the guidance of The a Holy Ghost to direct my path. I don’t want the “goodness” of my heart to lead me out of my Father’s will. Isn’t it awesome how He gives us something and then confirms it? He loves us so much! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 16

16 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.

3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.

4 The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.

7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.

9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.

11 A just weight and balance are the Lord’s: all the weights of the bag are his work.

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

15 In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.

21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.

31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.

Not in My Strength, but His

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You were never meant to face things alone that is why Philipppians 4:13 says, ” I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” It doesn’t say I can do all things of my own strength. We do them through Christ who strengthens us. God spoke to me this morning and dropped this into my spirit. (That tension in my shoulders, that’s me trying to do it all… alone.) He went on, when you try to do things in self you fall short, it is through me that you excel. Let me back up. I had prayed a familiar prayer, “I’m disappointed in myself Poppa. I make bad decisions. My weight seems to almost never be in ‘my’ control and too often I feel like I’m frowning in life.” In a Father’s love He responded and in His response He reminded I’m not starting over, I’m resuming the path He has for me.

My Father has a winning mindset, He sees the bigger picture. The devil tries to plant seeds of doubt and misbelief, a losing mindset. My Poppa reminded me not to water those seeds and they will dry up. They need to then be rooted out and discarded. My (and your) success lies with the Lord. Water the seeds He has planted and watch them flourish. Not in self, but a dependence on God. My garden is beautiful and flourishing, look again He encouraged me. The devil is deceptive, weed out his lies and carry on. Detours provide pivots of learning and encouraging nuggets for others. Keep pressing my friends, keep pressing. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” Proverbs 16:3

My Grace is Sufficient for YOU

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Hey YOU, His grace is sufficient for YOU and ME! I am my own worse critic. I tend to push myself harder than anyone possibly could. I also tend to replay my failures and bad decisions over and over in my mind. What if I’d done this? How did I allow myself to fall prey to that? If only I’d changed my response to him… instant replay in my mind on never ending pause. Early yesterday morning my Poppa woke me saying that same grace I give others I give to you. He didn’t stop there. He went on to say that the forgiveness I give others and that the grace He gives me, I don’t give to myself. I’ve thought on this for two days. This isn’t something new my Heavenly Father is telling me, but a gentle reminder. A co-worker recently made a jab about the tension in my neck and shoulders being caused by me carrying the weight of the world on them. It’s not too far from the truth, only I’ve been carrying the weight of so much more than even she could have imagined. My grace is sufficient for you daughter. Why are you weary, why are you disheartened? Oh Poppa! It all seems too much to bear. “8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 2 12:8-10 Daughter, your shoulders were never meant to carry it all. My grace is sufficient for you, it is sufficient for all you encounter, and it’s because of what you have been through that they will see this. Rejoice because I brought you out. Rejoice because you were lost and are found. Rejoice because my grace IS sufficient for you. Rejoice. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 15

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We are about to the half way point through the book of wisdom. Today’s chapter doesn’t disappoint, it is full of Godly wisdom and starts from the very first verses, “1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. 3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. 4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” Oh that tongue! It contains so much power. I mentioned in an earlier post that the word “mouth” is used 50 times in the book of Proverbs. The word “tongue” is used 19. With only 31 chapters this is a good reminder to watch what we speak. Our words have power and it’s up to us how we we use that power. I pray you are gleaning nuggets of Wisdom as we read through this incredible book of knowledge and I share just a few of my favorites from each. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 15

1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10 Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12 A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

13 A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24 The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 14

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I read verse 12, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death,” and think back over my own life. There were so many times, so many decisions that I just knew were”right” for my life. Those same decisions may not have brought about a physical death, but they brought a lot of pain. Whether it was emotional, financial, or physical I’ve made decisions that I could have avoided some uncomfortable and sometimes life altering changes had I consulted my Heavenly Father first. But my gracious loving Father already knew the turns I’d make on this journey and He had them written into my story so that He could lift me up and give me a testimony to share. What a blessing that He expands our understanding as we grow and increases our wisdom. I have a long ways to go, but I am a long ways from where I started. I’m guessing many of you can say the same. Isn’t God good?! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 14

14 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the Lord: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

5 A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

10 The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

23 In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of people is the king’s honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

32 The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king’s favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

Three Times, He Listens ;)

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Things have been really tight since my move. My mind has been all over the place, headaches surging, weight fluctuating. At times the devil has been having a field day with my mind and going off my medication certainly didn’t help. I’m back on it now and I feel like I’m trying to win back lost ground, this is overwhelmingly frustrating. I’ve been working really long hours this week on top of it. Yesterday morning I prayed, “Poppa I need to see you in nature today.” I knew in my spirit I just needed lifted up, He knew it too. I turned around and the sky had turned pink. (God the Father)

A little later I heard a bird singing the prettiest song, I looked up and he was right outside my office window singing to me. (God the Son)

I took a break just before dark to take April out and was greeted with most beautiful sunset. (God the Holy Spirit)

Three times throughout my day my Poppa reminded me I’m not alone. You know what? You are not alone either. I don’t care what your going through, He’s there with you. I don’t care how far you’ve ran, He’s saying come home. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. I take great comfort in that this evening. Life is full of little bumps that frustrate and discourage. The devil likes you to think they are completely overwhelming you, but he is a liar. They are only making you stronger. Set backs, prepare you for the testimony of your comeback. Hold onto God and He will hold you up. I’ve got this, you’ve got this, because God’s got us. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.” Psalm 91:15

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 13

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We read in Chapter 13, verse 1, “A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.” And the chapter draws to an end with verse 24 saying, “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” I was thinking on this in terms of our Heavenly Father this evening. Have you felt the Holy Spirit’s conviction in something? Our Father corrects us when we steer off path because He loves us. Sometimes a gentle nudge back on and sometimes it takes something a little more drastic to grab our attention. He doesn’t try to “break” us to “hurt” us. His correction is done out of love to bring us in alignment with His will for our life. Too many times I’ve wondered off the path my Poppa has planned for me. He knew I was going to do it, He still worked it out in my favor for His good but oh how much smoother things would been if I’d just listened. I’m a work in progress and so thankful He’s patient with me. I want to drink of the fountain of life guided there by the law of the wise. Help me Poppa, I surely can’t do it on my own! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 13

1 A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.

3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

5 A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.

6 Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.

7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.

8 The ransom of a man’s life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.

9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

13 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

15 Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.

16 Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.

18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.

20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

23 Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.

24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 12

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I was meditating over the beginning of verse 5 in chapter 12, “The thoughts of the righteous are right…” A lot of things take root in our thought life. The devil likes to attack us there because he knows this, so it’s important to be guarded and protect our mind from those attacks. Fight him with the Word. Verse 25 makes my heart smile, “Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.” No matter the problem, sickness, conflict, or demon you face The Word can defeat it. The Word can lift the heaviness. The Word can make you glad. If the Scripture says it, it must be! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 12

1 Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

2 A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

3 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

7 The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

9 He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

10 A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

12 The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

13 The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

16 A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22 Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.

23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

24 The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

26 The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

27 The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

28 In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 11

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That mouth! Verse after verse speaks of it. It can destroy or it can build up. How are you using the words you speak? So much wisdom in Chapter 11, verse 2 is so good too, “When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.” Poppa, never let me become too big for my britches! It sounds funny to say, but I never want to be consumed by pride and arrogance. I’ve seen it and it is a picture I never wish to become. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 11

11 A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight.

2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

4 Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

5 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.

6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

7 When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.

8 The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.

9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.

11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

18 The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

19 As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

20 They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

21 Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

22 As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall; but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

31 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

Just a Cardinal?

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It’s in the little things that I find so much pleasure and love. I was incredibly busy today, I had to adjust to changes that made my heart weep, my head was hurting, yet through it all God was saying I’ve got you daughter and it’s going to be okay. Out of nowhere this fluffy cardinal showed up at my window, as I looked back through the pictures he was a friendly lil guy. That little bird made me smile, for a few moments in a hectic day he lifted my spirits and brought a smile to my face. It’s those moments I lookup and say, “Thank You Poppa.” Yes, it’s the little things. Some see just a bird. I see a beautifully made creature, this cardinal brought smiles from my Poppa with him. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:8

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 10

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Chapter 10 speaks a lot about the mouth, whether it be from the wise or the foolish one should take note of its importance. “31 The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 10

10 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.

3 The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.

4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

6 Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

7 The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.

8 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.

9 He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.

10 He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall.

11 The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.

13 In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.

14 Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

15 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.

16 The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.

17 He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.

18 He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.

19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.

21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.

22 The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.

23 It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

24 The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted.

25 As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.

26 As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.

27 The fear of the Lord prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.

28 The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.

29 The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

30 The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.

31 The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 9

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Help me Poppa to be teachable. Chapter 9 tells us to forsake the foolish and reprove not a scorner. Have you ever met someone who is always right? I wonder how they ever learn. Verse 8 says, “…rebuke a wise man and he will love thee.” If I am wrong, tell me so that I might grow. Verse 9 says, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” I want to be like a sponge that just continues absorb more and more of everything Jesus. More of Him and less of me! Teach me Holy Spirit, open up my understanding in a way that only You can. Verse 10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” I don’t want to be the foolish or the scorner this chapter speaks of. I seek to be the wise woman God has called me to be. Another great Proverbs, steeped in wisdom. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 9

1 Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:

2 She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.

3 She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,

4 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

5 Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled.

6 Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.

7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.

8 Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.

9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.

12 If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.

13 A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.

14 For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,

15 To call passengers who go right on their ways:

16 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

17 Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.

18 But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 8

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Almost the entire chapter of 8 cries out in wisdom and is written with such eloquence. We are told wisdom is better than rubies (verse 11) and better than gold (verse 19). Verses 22-36 speak of Jesus Himself and harkens for us to use wisdom, keeping His ways and following instruction, “32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. 33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not 34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. 35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord.” This book has so many gems hidden within in it I find it hard to choose a favorite. As I have struggled with somethings today, I took comfort in verse 14, “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.” My Poppa always knows just what I need and when I need it. *** smiles **** I pray these daily Proverbs are blessing you this month. As many times as I have read them, the Lord still continues to use them to teach and bless me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 8

1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?

2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.

3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.

4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.

5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.

6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.

7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.

9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.

15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.

16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.

17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.

19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:

21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.

22 The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.

23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.

24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.

25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:

26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.

27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:

28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:

29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:

30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;

31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.

33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.

35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord.

36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.

Treading Softly

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Let’s talk medicine. Let’s also talk about listening too much to the voices of other people instead of THE One that matters. Depression often causes a chemical imbalance in your brain that can be treated with medication. Can God cure this? Absolutely! Is there anything wrong with taking medication to treat it? Absolutely not. I realize this is a touchy situation and many people have told me I share too much. “You don’t have to share everything,” they say. I take my leading from God and He woke me early to share this. It’s early, it’s Saturday, it’s too personal… someone needs to know they are not alone. So I am up writing, yet again sharing a personal experience. (“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1”)

I remember I was about to travel back to WV for a visit once and Billy had made the comment that I’d better get my head right before I returned. He didn’t tell me he was a huge part in messing with my head. When I returned I decided to see a Dr. and was placed on medication. God gave my Dr. the wisdom to know what my body needed. Amazingly, as that chemical imbalance equaled itself out I began to feel normal in some ways I hadn’t. Now, I was still in an emotionally abusive relationship and needed to get out. But God had used the medication to help begin clearing my mind. It took many more months, but the wheels of motion were in progress. As my mind cleared, the Lord began to speak to my heart and show me things about my relationship that I had been too clouded to see before.

Recently, someone close to me told me I should not be on that medication. It dulls your connection to God they said. You cannot hear the Spirit of God clearly while on it. So, when it came time to pick my script up I didn’t. I don’t need it, I thought. I don’t want to vex the Holy Spirit or cloud out His voice. Big mistake. I found my thoughts clouded, crying, bad decisions followed. I prayed and God said clearly, did I tell you to stop taking that? No. Was I speaking to you while you were on it? Yes. (Our Father chastens who He loves, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” Hebrews 12:6″) Ouch. What do I do now Poppa? Over and over He has told me to tread softly (of course I have started the medication again). Some people aren’t going to understand or agree with my decisions. That’s okay, as long as I’m looking to my Poppa I’m okay.

I try to do so much from within and feel like a failure too often. Tread softly daughter. All that I have and all that I do comes from my Poppa. All I need to do is claim it and walk in it. He didn’t rescue me from a pit of despair for nothing. No, He saved me for His divine purpose and I’m walking into it. I might me treading softly at the moment, but I’m treading. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.” ~ Psalm 62:5

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 7

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A wise man not only keeps the commandments of the Lord, but writes them upon the table of his heart. I just love how Proverbs 4 opens up. “7 My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee. 2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye. 3 Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.” I haven’t always followed this wisdom, but oh how much smoother my paths would have been had I done so! #realtalk 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 7

 My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.

2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.

3 Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.

4 Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:

5 That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.

6 For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,

7 And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding,

8 Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,

9 In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:

10 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.

11 (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:

12 Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)

13 So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him,

14 I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.

15 Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.

16 I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.

17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

18 Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.

19 For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey:

20 He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed.

21 With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.

22 He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

23 Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.

24 Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.

25 Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths.

26 For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her.

27 Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 6

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Oh that mouth! Chapter 6:2 says, “Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.” In fact, the book of Proverbs goes on to mention the mouth 49 more times. A stark reminder to watch what we say and rich wisdom in the importance of what we speak. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 6

1 My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,

2 Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.

3 Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.

4 Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.

5 Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.

6 Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

7 Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,

8 Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.

9 How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?

10 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

11 So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.

12 A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.

13 He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers;

14 Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.

15 Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.

16 These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

18 An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

20 My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

21 Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.

22 When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.

23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

24 To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.

25 Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.

26 For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adultress will hunt for the precious life.

27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?

28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?

29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour’s wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.

30 Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;

31 But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.

32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.

33 A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.

34 For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.

35 He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 5

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Today’s chapter starts with sound advice, “1 My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding: 2 That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.” The Chapter later tells us in verse 7, “Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.” Sound advice from a true book of wisdom. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 5

1 My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:

2 That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.

3 For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:

4 But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword.

5 Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.

6 Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are moveable, that thou canst not know them.

7 Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.

8 Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:

9 Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:

10 Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;

11 And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,

12 And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;

13 And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!

14 I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.

15 Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.

16 Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.

17 Let them be only thine own, and not strangers’ with thee.

18 Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.

19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.

20 And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?

21 For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth all his goings.

22 His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.

23 He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 4

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Chapter 4 has wisdom steeped in almost every verse. I have read the Proverbs countless times over the years and it never ceases to amaze me the new bits of wisdom my Father shows me as I read it. He continues to unearth hidden treasures within the lines just when my heart needs them the most and He will do the same for you. Verses 5-9 speak highly of the value of wisdom in such a beautiful way that I think of a princess as I read it, “5 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. 6 Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. 7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. 8 Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. 9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.” This is truly a book of instruction, filled with Devine wisdom from above. I pray you are gleaning some of it this month as we read the chapters together and I share my favorite nuggets with you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 4

1 Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.

2 For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.

3 For I was my father’s son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.

4 He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.

5 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.

6 Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.

7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

8 Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.

9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.

10 Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.

11 I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.

12 When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.

13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.

14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.

15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.

16 For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.

17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.

18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

19 The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

20 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.

21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.

22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.

23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

24 Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.

25 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.

26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.

27 Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 3

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Proverbs 3 tells us, “13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.” It then goes on to tell us about life for those who have found her, “16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace, 18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.” Everything you need to find that wisdom is found in the Word of God and we have been given the sweet Holy Spirit to help us understand it. All you need to do is seek Him and He will reveal the hidden treasures within the pages. That is an awesome power we have right in our fingertips. That is worth a praise shout! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 3

1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:

2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.

3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:

4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

9 Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

11 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction:

12 For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.

15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.

16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.

17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.

19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.

20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.

21 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:

22 So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.

23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

25 Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.

26 For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

28 Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.

29 Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

30 Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.

31 Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.

32 For the froward is abomination to the Lord: but his secret is with the righteous.

33 The curse of the Lord is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.

34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.

35 The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 2

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The nuggets of wisdom in Proverbs two are rich. It starts the chapter with instruction in the first 4 verses, “1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; 2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; 3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; 4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;” With the result of that instruction in verse 5, “Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” Followed by a promise in verse 6, “For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” Our wisdom comes from our Father, we only need to look to Him and He will open up our knowledge and understanding. I find that to be just awesome and hope it blesses you as much as it did me. Have a great day my friends, stay encouraged in Christ, and remember you are not alone. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 2

1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;

3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;

4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;

5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.

6 For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.

8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.

9 Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.

10 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;

11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:

12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;

13 Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;

14 Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked;

15 Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths:

16 To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;

17 Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.

18 For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead.

19 None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.

20 That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.

21 For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it.

22 But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it.

A Book of Wisdom: Proverbs, Chapter 1

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The book of Proverbs is known for its wisdom. The Old Scofield Study Bible says it is a “collection of sententious sayings is divine wisdom applied to the earthly conditions of the people of God.” Many years ago I was at a Women’s conference when a missionary pointed out there are 31 chapters in the book of Proverbs. Most months have 31 days (7, while 4 have 30 days), making it the perfect book to read each month gleaning nuggets of wisdom. You would be amazed at what the Lord will continue to teach you from this book. As the year draws to a close, I thought I’d share a chapter a day and a verse or two (maybe more) that is my favorite from each one.

I put in bold print several verses that are my favorite in chapter one, but this chapter is really packed with so many. Verses 20-23 are sheer poetry to me in the very way they are written. The whole chapter ends with an awesome promise, “33 But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” I pray you enjoy a Proverb a day this month to end the year. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Proverbs 1

1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;

2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;

3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;

4 To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.

5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:

6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.

10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.

11 If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:

12 Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:

13 We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:

14 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:

15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:

16 For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.

17 Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.

18 And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives.

19 So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.

20 Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets:

21 She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying,

22 How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?

23 Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

24 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;

25 But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:

26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;

27 When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you.

28 Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:

29 For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord:

30 They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

31 Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.

32 For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them.

33 But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 29-30

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As the month and year draws to an end, I am thankful for the progress I’ve made over the last year. I still have a long ways to go, but I have come even further. I’m learning to have patience with myself. It’s okay to break down as long as I don’t stay down. It’s okay to cry, those tears are cleansing. It’s even okay to make wrong decisions, that’s how I learn and grow. The important thing is not to quit and never again give someone so much control that I lose voice, I lose myself. I am truly a work in progress. #11.29.18

Finally, for day 30 I am thankful for all of you. Thank you for taking this journey with me. I remember when the Lord led me to start my blog on Facebook I had one follower, then two… some of you have been with me since I first started that page, others have joined me along my journey. Many have come and gone. I am truly grateful for those that have stayed and who continue to support me. We need each other in this thing called life. It is my hope and my prayer that my blogs lift and encourage you wherever you or on your path of life. I am thankful to you for joining me on mine. #11.30.18 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Free Indeed

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Yesterday I reached a milestone for me. Most know the Lord rescued me from an emotionally abusive relationship just a little over a year ago. I have been paying on the iPhone (that he lost shortly after getting over a year and a half ago) that I had gotten him this whole time. Yesterday I made my last payment. It represented my last tie with him being completely severed. My mind is still healing, but he doesn’t have a hold over me any longer. When the devil tries to apply those oppressing thoughts to my mind I can throw them back at him and tell him I’m healed, set free. There’s hope if you are still in a relationship like this, you can be free too. Don’t allow that person to manipulate you into thinking you can’t get out, you CAN. I don’t care if they have deleted every single person from your life, you are still not alone. Look up, your Father is reaching His hand down ready to lift you out of the hell the person has created. It’s not all in your head, allow God to free your mind. He did it for me and He’ll do it for you. I watched another blue jay yesterday. When I went to look at the pictures I took of her I was amazed at what I saw. I think she’s a pretty good representation of my milestone, the ties severed, and being free. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36

This Heart of Mine ;)

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There is a battle between my heart and mind. There is a profound sadness when you want something so much more than someone wants it for themselves. When you see them not only for who they are, but as the the man or woman God created them to be. You except them as they are, but you recognize the God given potential that lies within them. Yes, just a profound sadness. Oh this heart Poppa. You know, that conversation I’ve written about time and time again, that conversation me and my Heavenly Father have had in great lengths. Yes, that conversation. It falls in love too easily. It wants to fix and help everyone she meets. It cries over the silliest of things, yet the smallest things causes it to soar. It too often gets broken over and over in the process of it all. Oh this heart Poppa.

I sat, tears streaming. My Poppa gave me a heart for everyone, not just my brothers and sisters in Christ. He reminded me this morning that my heart draws the lost, downtrodden, oppressed, lonely, depressed… I just want to wrap my arms around them and say it will be okay! He also reminded me because of this I need to draw closer to Him. This heart of mine causes me to depend on my Father as never before. That enemy has really been up in my head with condemning thoughts the last several days. Then I thought back on yesterday. Twice throughout the day my Father allowed me to get pictures of birds I had been wanting forever to get. Seemingly unimportant to others, but He didn’t just give me pictures. He showed me them spreading their wings. *** smiles **** I’m just now getting the lesson from those pictures. Thank you Poppa, thank you. I’m spreading my wings, my heart continues to reach out and love. Treading softly, but solid in Christ. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Perfectly Broken

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Watching the clouds move across the sky this morning I was listening to “Beautifully Broken” and pulled out my iPad to write. I have no words Poppa. I’d just finished today’s study I’m working on called “I Do Hard Things” and it was about setting boundaries. I’m not doing too good with that either Poppa I mumbled. 🤦🏻‍♀️ Perfectly Broken. I looked back up and the clouds had turned into pretty pinks followed by a glow. You are perfectly broken. I couldn’t help but smile. I’m amazed at how the Lord could use me and then I look at some of the great men and women of the Bible. He doesn’t use perfect people. He uses those no one would have ever expected, those fallen from grace and redeemed, those who weren’t even qualified, and the broken. Not just broken as He reminded me, perfectly broken for HIS plan. It’s that brokenness that draws others to Him, that brokenness allows others to see they are not alone, that brokenness… it does so much in my Master’s hands. Yes, I am perfectly broken. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 26-28

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Every day I am on this mountain I am more and more thankful for the peace and beauty that surrounds me in the middle of life’s chaos. Monday was a stressful day and when I looked up there were three deer. One was just beautifully marked, it was as if God was giving me peace right in the middle of the storm. #11.26.18

I’m learning a lot from my birds. I’m thankful to be able to feed them and to be able to hear them sing. I’m thankful for the lessons God teaches me through them. They are peaceful to watch and I am blessed to see so many different kinds every day. #11.27.18

I am thankful for a God that answers prayers. It doesn’t matter how little, small, or what the significance may seem to others… if it matters to us, it matters to God. Last night my iPad would not come on. I let it charge all night, this morning still nothing. I said, “Poppa, I need you to breath life into this thing.” During my first break it suddenly came on. But God!!!! He hears our every prayer. #11.28.18 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

He’s On Time

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It’s a beautiful snowy morning on our little mountain. I was watching it quietly falling as I pray and prepare for the day ahead. I’m reminded watching my birds and even my lil chipmunk we are never alone. Watching a gust of wind come and swirl up the snow, the birds scattered to their safe places, the chipmunk scurried away. A few minutes later, they were all back. Eating in complete harmony. It made me smile to know the Lord was using me to feed His creatures. You may be facing an impossible situation, but we serve a God that specializes in impossibilities. Look to Him for your help, you never know what the angel He sends to you will look like. But one thing I promise, He will come through on time. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.

3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.

4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.

6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.

8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

~ Psalm 121

I Can’t Fix This…

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The Lord showed me a progression of clouds while I was praying this morning. The clouds were moving fast and He had told me to watch for awhile. As I watched, I saw the clouds pass and the sky open to a huge clear space. This too shall pass He whispered to my spirit. The loneliness, the heaviness… lean into Me. The clearing is coming, the clarity is coming. Who is the King of glory? I AM THE KING OF GLORY. Open the doors and I WILL come in. My Poppa knows me so well. What’s more, He knows the days events and prepares me before they occur. I received an email right after watching the clouds that broke my heart. You can’t fix this daughter. I am the King of glory, you must give it to me.

A person has to look inside and see change is necessary, you can’t do that for them. Walking away doesn’t mean you love them any less, it is loving yourself enough not to be destroyed with them. Many times the best place to leave it is with God. He is the only one that can change hearts and transform lives. I know, He did it to mine. I looked back up and there was a break in the clouds that gave way to beautiful blue in the sky. God is the King of glory. I’ll keep praying and trust Him to do the rest. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 10 Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.” ~ Psalm 24:7-10

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 23-25

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The Lord always sends a life preserver when we need it. For day 23, I am so thankful for Mountain Life and the family I have found there. When I found them on Facebook it was truly by the grace of God. I sent Pastor Manny a message, he had me call his wife Pastor Cheryl and that was it. She found me a ride to church that Sunday from Craig and Kathleen and I continued there until I moved. The days before that, I would lay in the floor and just cry out to a God. My heart was crushed, my life was in pieces. I knew God was the only one to fix it, but I didn’t even know where to start. I don’t think anyone ever believes they will fall prey to abuse of any kind. I was disappointed in myself, embarrassed that I had allowed it to happen, there were times I begged God to just take me from this world. I felt nothing but love from the moment I entered those church doors. I will be forever grateful for the love and guidance I found there. I went from having no one in Colorado to having an entire church family, one I will cherish forever. #11.23.18

Ahhhh, those Cripple Creek Donkeys. I am so thankful for each of them. God used them to heal my heart. I can’t even tell you how many times I looked up from a bad day to see a herd coming to greet me. They were my friends when I had no one but April. Trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic man is one if the worse places to be. Who do you turn to? You can’t tell your family, you’ve shut almost everyone else out. But God. He sends a herd of donkeys that listen and brays back. Ha! Only God can do that. Day 24, I am so thankful for those donkeys. #11.24.18

Today, day 25, I am thankful for the transforming power of the Holy Ghost. As I posted earlier, I’m not the same woman I was this time last year. I still struggle with many things and my Poppa knows this. All day I have been surrounded with doves, a symbol of the Holy Spirit. It’s His reminder to me that I’m not alone, I’m not doing this alone, and everything He has promised me will come to pass. What a loving Father. He knows me so well, He sends flocks of doves to reassure His daughter His Word will come to pass. I just have to allow that life changing power to keep working through me. #11.25.18 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

No, I’m Not The Same Person I Was

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“You’ve changed, your not the same person I met in the beginning.” Those words stung for a moment and then I began to think on them and pray about them. I was reminded of this conversation when I saw a Facebook post this morning that said, “I’m not the same soul I once was. A lot has changed. A lot had to change. So you shouldn’t expect out of me what I embodied in the past. For that part of me no longer exists.” I’ve continued to change drastically over the last year. Back then, I was a shell of a person who was barely existing. I was completely broken and the Lord continues to heal me every day. I was also reminded while writing this of a Word spoken over me, I had seen it in a vision and a sister was given it in prayer, of my mind being unraveled like a cord or rope. The Lord is freeing me, untwisting and undoing the years of emotional abuse. No, I’m not the same person I was.

Patience. The Lord has His hands full here, but more than anything I think I have a lack patience with myself. I want that “rope” in my mind to be instantly unraveled. The tears to just go away, the hurt to just seemingly be a lifetime away, and the damage from the kinks that were bound so tight to be instantly smooth. Those kinks and those knots took years to form and God is using the unraveling, the smoothing to strengthen me and encourage others. The crevices from the kinks and knots are deep and old mindsets try to resurface. For awhile, I tried to dull the pain with medication and even marijuana. I tried to rely on people and unhealthy relationships. All of those things merely prolonged the process, added kinks, tightening knots. The change had to come from within me through the power of the Holy Ghost. There is no way I could remain the same. No, I’m not the same person I was.

Grace and mercy. My Father, my sweet loving Father. He continued to pour His grace and mercy over me. He had His hand over me and He wasn’t letting go. He continued unraveling that rope, pressing out those kinks. I’m refining you daughter, moving you into where you need to be to take the position of your destiny for My Kingdom. Unraveling, pressing… unraveling pressing… unraveling pressing. No matter what I do, where my mind “tries” to take me, my Poppa keeps at it. The Holy Ghost sticks to me. By the time it’s over, the rope will be unraveled, beautiful flowing knot and kink free. Shining with my testimony, gleaming with the grace of God that carried me through. I am a work in progress. I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my past, but God already knew I was going to make each one. He already had it in His plan to use them in my work for Him. No, I’m not the person I was. I am finally becoming the woman of God He created me to be. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Downy Woodpecker ❤️

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I had to share a visit from my downy woodpecker. She came right after I posted my last blog. She is so little and so cute. Clinging right to the feeder. It’s a windy, rainy day on the mountain, filled with peace. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

High Winds and the Woodpecker

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My Poppa was giving me the reassurance that just as I feed His birds for Him, He is taking care of my every need. The winds are pretty high up here today and I got to noticing a woodpecker clinging to the tree pecking away, up from him was his mate doing the same. They weren’t moved by the wind and they weren’t alone. They were together. God used these woodpeckers to speak to me on a couple of different levels, but I wanted to share one with you. When we cling to God NOTHING can move us. The winds of life can’t shake us and troubling storms can’t move us. The winds simply shift our atmosphere while the rains cleanse our souls. Whatever you are going through, cling to Jesus. Your spiritual muscles are growing through these winds. The tighter you hold, the closer you draw to God. That’s the safest place to be in the winds of life. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.” Deuteronomy 10:20

Never Alone…

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Today has been a day filled with much needed quietness. Peace broken only by April’s barking. The Lord has been dealing with me on fear so I spent much of the day reflecting on this and studying Scriptures about it. As night set in, the enemy took to his normal tactics. He was quick to remind me, you are doing this all alone now. You have no one to depend on, no one to turn to, no one to even vent to. I sat for awhile reading through Facebook, the TV on but not really watching it. Finally, my Poppa said shut it all down and draw into me.

It is so easy to believe the devils lies in these moments. In the natural eye, I am doing it all alone. But that sweet Holy Ghost, resides within me and I’m not alone. My Father is the King of Kings and has more than enough to meet my every need. The devil is the father of lies. My Father, is the giver of life and he doesn’t want me to just survive, but to be a living testimony for Him. Jesus died to give me life and give it more abundantly. There is no way I’m letting the enemy steal, kill, and destroy what Jesus died to give me and make no mistake about it, that is his intent. “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” ~ John 10:10

Alone, in my peaceful little have, I smile through the tears. By now anyone who follows me must know I’m a certified crybaby. It’s the heart God gave me. I have come such a long way in the last year and I still have so far to go. This evening I find hope in Isaiah 58:11, “And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” My Poppa is “watering” me as I go. Those places in my mind that were overwhelmed with weeds of emotional abuse choking the life out of me are being pulled out by the roots and the Holy Ghost is filling that space with His Word, His seeds, everything of Him. I’m pressing on through Him, in Him. His living water is running through that “soil” and those waters will not fail.

What have you been through? What do you need healed from? What God’s done, what’s He’s doing for me… He will do for you too. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: 19-22

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I am so thankful for my family. When my world fell out from under me a little over a year ago I was hundreds of miles away from home and everyone I knew, my mom prayed me through. #11.19.18 My Aunt Lisa had many long tear filled conversations with me that helped me refocus and get me back on track. #11.20.18 Once I knew the Lord was moving me back home, my Uncle also listened to His voice and provided a safe, peaceful haven for me to come home too. #11.21.18 My brothers have been there every step of the way, supporting me, loving me, and encouraging me. #11.22.18

It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since God set me free from an emotionally abusive relationship. If you are in one, I encourage you to get out. Do not believe the lie that you are all alone. You didn’t do anything to deserve it. You CAN recover. You CAN take back control and rebuild your life. Through God, the damage done to your mind can be healed. I know because I thought I was alone, but God showered me with so much love. He is rebuilding my life and restoring everything the devil stole. You deserve better, don’t settle for anything less. I’m so happy I didn’t. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Who is This King of Glory?

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God never disappoints! My morning reading led me to one of my favorite passages and I was so encouraged as I read it that I had to share it with you this morning. “8 Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. 10 Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.” ~ Psalm 24:8-10 Verse 8 asks “Who is this King of glory? Then answers, “The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.” Verse 9 goes on to give instruction WITH a promise, “LIFT UP YOUR HEADS, o ye gates, even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the KING OF GLORY SHALL COME IN.” You have to get excited about that. Verse 10 then reaffirms, “Who is the King of glory? The Lord of host, he is the King of glory. Selah.”

The battle you are facing may look impossible, but you have the King of glory on your side. Lift up your head! Be encouraged, the battle is not yours but God’s and it’s already won. Don’t approach it from a posture of defeat. Believe in The God of impossibilities, the miracle working God. What He did for the Old Testament saints He can still do for you today. Put your trust in Him. Who is the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty and He’s ready to show up and show out for you today! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Be Vigilant

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The devil doesn’t play and 1 Peter 5 tells us he seeks to devour us. One definition I read said to consume someone or something destructively. We are that someone, our faith is that something! 1 Peter 5:8-9 cautions us, “8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” This is a warning to be taken seriously. The devil knows his time is limited and he is set on dragging as many souls as he can to hell with him. He’d like nothing more to take you and if he can’t, he’ll do the next best thing. He will try to destroy your testimony and force you to live in a place of defeat, but I’ve got good news for you. He is the father of lies and he doesn’t have that power. Jesus already defeated him on the cross, you’ve already been forgiven and it’s time to rise up and take your place as the son or daughter God has called you to be. I don’t care where you’ve been, what matters is where you are going. Don’t allow him to control you from a place of defeat. Be vigilant, recognize his tactics and shove him back out the door. You should start to feel a righteous indignation rise up from these attacks and fight back. Start speaking life over your situation, stand firm on your faith and the Word of God. He may seek to devour us, but we are going to grow stronger with each attack just as the great men and women of the Bible did. Someone is watching you and the attacks your are encountering. Those faith building encounters may be what draws them to Jesus. Keep pressing my friends, keep pressing. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Girded With Strength

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There are many battles we must face in this life, but when you walk with Jesus not one of them is alone. Psalm 18:19 tells us, “For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me.” That is not a strength that comes from within ourselves, it is a God given strength for the battle you are facing. I don’t know what or who your Goliath is, but I do know they are subdued under you because God tells us so in His Word. His Word is the same yesterday, today, and forever. What He did for one He will do for you. God has you through whatever battle you are facing. It doesn’t matter the size or number of the enemy, your Father has you. Stand on His Word, speak it, trust in it. Go forward knowing the battle is yours and give God the praise. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 17 and 18

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I clocked out of work early on Friday not feeling well, not something I do very often. I still didn’t feel well Saturday morning as I prayed. I as the Lord to bless my day and looked up to two does looking back at me. My heart smiled, thank You Poppa. The momma stomped her foot at me and I was certain she’d run, but my Poppa had given me grace in her eyes and they stayed. It was the most amazing thing for me to watch and was even more special that I had just prayed and my Poppa responded in such a tender way. He truly delights in giving us those things that make us happy. That morning encounter blessed my whole day. I am so thankful to serve a God that hears our prayers. #11.17.18

During my quiet time with God this morning, there was an incredible peace and awesome reverence for Him. I was in awe as I watched the fog rise up and the sun move in. Word can’t even express the peace and beauty of the moment. What an awesome God we serve, I am so thankful for the great I Am. #11.18.18 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And God said unto Moses, I Am That I Am: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.” ~ Exodus 3:14

No Condemnation

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I’ve been meditating on Romans 8:1 the last couple of days, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” This verse is a weapon in spiritual warfare that I think some people miss or overlook. The devil likes to attack our minds and he likes to remind of us of who we were before we came to Christ. What’s more, he likes to remind us of the mistakes we’ve made since coming to Christ. This might come as a surprise to some who sit a little higher than others, but Jesus knew we weren’t perfect when He gave His life for ours and God knew and knows every sin we would make before we made the decision to make it. The price Jesus paid on the cross gave a cleansing blood that sets free. It’s not a free pass to sin, but it cleanses a person who is convicted from sin. The devil wants you to live in the mental space of that sin and a no forgiveness mentality because he is facing a life sentence. Don’t buy into it. If you’ve taken it to Your Father, the blood cleanses and forgives. It is time to learn from it and move on. The next time the devil tries to remind you of your past, remind him of who you are in Christ and repeat Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

His Glory

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I’m certain I saw the glory of The Lord descending over our mountain this morning. I was in complete awe as I saw the fog arising and spreading through the atmosphere. There was a quietness as if nature too was in awe of His Majesty. “Oh Poppa!” I exclaimed with tear filled eyes. These protecting your peace moments set the tone for the entire day. I wanted to share some pictures from this morning, I hope was able to capture the serenity God provided in that time with Him. I can’t encourage you enough to take a little time with Him each day and watch the peace in your life magnify. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 15 and 16

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Almost a year ago The Lord told me my “circle” would get small, really small. On a superficial level this was no surprise. When the emotionally abusive relationship I was in ended all of my ties were cut with “his” friends. It didn’t take long to learn they weren’t my friends. However, as I grew closer to The Lord and I changed I noticed my circle was indeed shrinking. I began to hear, “You’ve changed.” I even had “family” delete me from Facebook. “Friends” who had supported me started dropping off, “unliking” my page. Some didn’t like my change, others didn’t think I was making the change fast enough, still others thought I was still making too many mistakes during the change (because, I still have this human side to me). “Poppa, I don’t understand what I did to them personally. It hurts my feelings to the core of my heart. Why could they not just support me?” What I heard was, how did they treat Jesus? He was truly innocent and yet hated. The more He did, the more He was despised. How humbling. Yes, I have changed. I am not the same shell of an emotionally abused woman I was a year ago. I am my Father’s daughter and I am walking into all He has created me to be. For day 15, I am thankful my circle is small because it is true and customized by God. The Holy Spirit moves in those meant to be part of my destiny and He causes anyone that will hinder it to exit it. #11.15.18

I am so thankful for a God that is ALWAYS true and faithful in a cold world filled with betrayal and hypocrisy. I see it everywhere I look. It is another reason I am thankful for my small circle above. As each day passes, I learn more and more we can be acquainted with a lot of people, but those same people are quick to talk behind your back or not catch you when you fall (or worse kick you while you are down). But praise The Lord HE IS EVER TRUE AND FAITHFUL. We can go to Him with anything and He listens, He responds, He cares, He is a Father, and He is a friend. He will never hurt us and never betray us. He always picks us up when we fall. I’m just so thankful on day 16 that the world may be cold, but our Father never will be. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.16.18

Resist The Devil and He Will Flee

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Yesterday me and my Uncle had an interesting conversation about the devil fleeing. We know James 4:7 tells us “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” So why does it sometimes feel like minutes later he is right back at you, God’s Word doesn’t lie. What is happening here? He offered a perspective I had not considered. The devil sits from afar throwing his darts telling you he has never left, telling you that you have no authority to make him leave. He is the father of lies. Fire his darts right back and tell him the Lord stands in front of you as protection. You are a child of the most high God and with the authority of the blood of Jesus he has to and has fled. Stand firm on God’s Word and who you are in Christ. Once he’s fled from that battle don’t let him convince you he’s still there. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. RESIST the devil, and he WILL flee from you.” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Claiming Power of the Enemy

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The battle is not ours, but it’s real! I want to give you some verses over the next couple of days to help equip you against spiritual warfare. I got up this morning so angry with the devil I re-anointed my whole home oil, every window and door. I dealt with a skunk earlier in the week and now I’m dealing with a dead “something” (mouse maybe) today. I just felt like the enemy was trying to take the comfort from my home and I’m not having it. It may seem like silly attacks, but ahhhh he is attacking my peace and he knows it. So I want to share these verses with you too. Today’s it is from Luke 10:19, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Pray it out loud and claim it in Jesus name. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: Days 13 and 14

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It’s taken me a long time to get to Days 13 and 14. I think it’s human nature to want to hurt someone that’s hurt you. For day 13 I’m thankful to have the weight of vengeance lifted. I don’t want someone to suffer like I’ve suffered. The Bible says in Romans 12:19, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Yowsers! That makes me pray for them even more. I’m The Kings daughter, I would not wish that wrath on anyone. Think about it, what would you do if someone hurt your child? Now read that verse again and imagine that being you and God is avenging the wrong against you. Woe to the person who comes against a Kings kid.

Day 14 goes hand in hand with it. You must forgive as you have been forgiven. Ephesians 4:32 says, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Just as you should not seek vengeance, you should forgive and let it go. Holding onto it really hurts you more anyways and if Jesus died on a cross to forgive everyone of us the least we can we can offer is forgiveness. I don’t have to walk back into that same situation that hurt me, but I can forgive the person. I can even pray for them and then let it go. Seeking vengeance and holding on to something that needs to be forgiving causes a wound in you and it’s not worth it. Let your Heavenly Father heal those sores and you will be a happier person. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.13.18 #11.14.18

It’s in the Stillness

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Yesterday morning my Poppa had me reading in 1 Kings 19 where He reminded me He often speaks in the stillness. Sometimes we get so caught up in life we don’t hear His voice. We rush from one thing to another, one problem to the next. One of the devils biggest weapons against us is time. There’s just never enough, I say this over and over. I also tell myself I’m too busy to take my scheduled breaks. God recently spoke to my heart and told me to give those break times to Him and He’d make my work time more productive. What you say? Getting quiet with God is a necessity that the enemy wants you to think you don’t have time for. He will calm the troubled waters, unravel the chaos, and bring peace to the storm if you just quiet yourself to hear His voice. Once again, I look up and there were my doves, His Spirit all around me. I’m listening Poppa. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: 12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” 1 Kins 19:11-12

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 12

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There are many things I don’t understand and one of them is the gift God has given me to smell sickness or death. Many times I have questioned as to whether it is a “gift” and it’s certainly not something I would have ever prayer for. I’ve had many conversations with my Poppa over the years about this gift and why I have it and what I’m supposed to do with it. Intercession. Standing in the gap, when more times than not, I don’t even know whom it’s for. At times the smell is so overwhelming, I become physically sick and yet on day 12 I am thankful my Father trusted me with this gift. I’m only now realizing the importance of that intercession and urgency that comes with it. It is my prayer I become stronger in acting on it and how to pray when it occurs. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.12.18

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 11

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Freedom has a price. Many men and women have paid that price with their lives. Others are still paying that price by enduring complications that will never go away. Yet others are still sacrificing time from their families and risking their lives to ensure we stay safe and maintain the freedoms that we just assume will always be there. No, freedom isn’t free and I’m thankful for those who have served, those who are serving, and those who will step up to serve. You are our true hero’s of this nation. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.11.18

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 10

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What about those prayers God doesn’t answer? Our Father is all knowing, He sees things in the unseen realm that we can’t see, He answers with our best interest in mind. Sometimes we ask selfishly. Others we ask from our heart, but it’s still not what’s best for us OR it’s not in line with God’s will. Looking back, I’m so thankful for many of the prayers He didn’t answer. He saved me from myself. On day 10, I am thankful for those prayers that God didn’t answer. He could have given me my hearts desire, but chose to protect me. There were other times He allowed me to be broken and grow from my bad decisions so I know a “no” was truly for my protection. Don’t see a no as a bad thing, it could be just a delay or it could be your Father looking out for His child with that no. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.10.18

“14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” ~ 1 John 5:14-15

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 9

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Today after work I was blessed to watch 5 deer, 2 were still so very young. I could feel the stress of the week melt away as I watched them enjoy the corn my Uncle had set out for them. I am so thankful for these peaceful moments in a world full of chaos. It’s comforting to know we can find that peace by turning to our Heavenly Father anytime we feel overwhelmed. My Uncle had been watching these 5 all afternoon and had called me to come over after work to see them. I have no doubt my Poppa kept them there long enough to give me a special blessing tonight and my thankful picture for day 9. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.9.18

“The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.” ~ Psalm 29:11

Momma ❤️

He’s Waiting

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I woke to a beautiful golden glow this morning. Harsh winds had brought down a lot of the leaves and I had already started speaking to The Lord about this heart of mine and the kind of people it seems to draw to me. I smile now, He is God and gave me this heart so of course He gave it to me with a purpose and knows very well what kind of people I draw. At the end of our conversation the beautiful glow lifted and it began to rain, a cleansing rain. My friends, I just wanted to remind you God is listening. Go to Him with whatever is on your mind, your heart. Sure, He’s God and He already knows but He wants to hear it from you. He longs for that one on one relationship with His children. Have you talked with Him today? He’s waiting. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 8

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I am the kind of person that hates change, yet I am thankful for it because it forces me outside of my comfort zone allowing me to grow. I don’t want to become complacent in my life leading to a stagnant place that leaves me unsatisfied or unsettled. I want to constantly be learning and growing. This last year has been loaded with changes on just about every level of my life. I just may be ready for some level of normalcy, but never again do I want to fear change so much that I stay in something that is hurting me. Never again do I want to be complacent. I welcome change and I open the door to the growth it offers. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal 11.8.18

His Love Never Fails

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I overslept this morning. I failed You Poppa (not getting up as early as I should have for our prayer and study time). I came in and was watching the beautiful sky and as my doves showed up “Your Love Never Fails” began to play. There was one dove perched in the “Y’ of a tree facing me. “Is that a dove Poppa” I said as I tried to focus closer, “it is!” *** Smiles *** A reminder that even when I fail, He never does. The Holy Spirit is still right there watching over me. Friends, it is a reminder for you too. I continued to watch a dove land on a limb. It appeared feeble, the limb wavered and looked as if it could break. The dove however didn’t even move. It stayed rooted where it had landed. Some time later it flew off and that limb bobbed up and down as his weight released. God said stay rooted in me and do not be moved by the cares OR the things of this world. I will never leave or forsake you. He continued to speak to my heart and when I looked up the dove had moved to a branch closet to my window. I continued to write and looked back up to find three doves were on that same branch (The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost). I’m listening Poppa, I’m listening. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:6

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 7

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I am thankful that God is always watching over me. Today was a little rough and when I went to the window I saw doves (a symbol of the Holy Spirit) descending from everywhere. They were settling on the branches of the trees, the ground, all looking towards me. It was as if they were watching over me. The precious Holy Spirit was surrounding me in perfect peace. It was one of the many awesome things I’ve experienced here. Friends, you don’t have to go through anything alone. God equips you with the Holy Spirit to weather the storms of life with you. The rains, the winds, the snow, the hails of life… you can have perfect peace through it all when your mind stays on Him. I started to forget that today, but God sent a flock of doves to remind me His Sweet Spirit is right here and He’s in control. He’s there with you too! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.7.18

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” ~ Isaiah 26:3

Be Encouraged 💛

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Sweet Holy Spirit breath on us today. It’s a beautiful morning here on the mountain and I just wanted to take a moment to remind you of how special you are and that you are loved. It doesn’t matter what you are facing in the day ahead, you are not facing it alone. The devil would sure like for you to think you are, but your not. Jesus is there ready to meet you at the point of your need, all you have to do is ask. I started my day praying for you and commissioning angels to stand watch around you. This is your reminder: you are loved, you are precious, you are a one of a kind God original, and He created you with purpose. Spend a little time drawing closer to Him today. Jesus loves you and so do I. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 6

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I am thankful for my fur baby, April. God knows what we need before we even realize it. He knew I was going to have to have a life changing surgery, he knew I was going to move to Colorado and be abandoned by the one person I trusted more than anyone else, and He knew just how much I was going to need April in my recovery of it all. It wasn’t just the abandonment, it was the emotional abuse that tore me down and left a shell of who I used to be. God could not have blessed me with a more loving dog or a dog with a personality so much like mine! He handpicked us for each other and she has been a special part of my recovery process. I thank God everyday for bringing us together. A dog you say? Friends, God can use anyone or anything in your recovery. Lean into Him and trust Him through the process. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.06.18

“5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 5

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I am thankful for that precious peace that surpasses all understanding. It doesn’t matter what is raging on the outside I can have peace on the inside. The flesh in me has not mastered this in all situations. I put a lot of pressure on myself and I find the Holy Spirit quickening me to stop and take a moment to pray when I get overwhelmed and turn it over to Him. When I do that, His awesome peace washes over me. I don’t have to do it alone and neither do you. When things get too difficult to handle give it to your Father. Our shoulders weren’t made to carry it all, but His… His can handle it all and more. He already has it worked out anyways, He’s just waiting for us to come to Him. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.5.18

“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:7

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 4

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I am thankful for the valleys. Without them, I would not have known the value of the climb to the top. It took climbing out of those valleys to know my strength. God has used each of them to teach me, solidify me in His Word, and draw me closer to Him. The view from the mountain top is beautiful, but it took a climb from the valley to truly appreciate it. There will be more valleys, that’s where we grow. I’m okay with that. I’ll savor the view from the mountaintop every chance I get. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.04.18

Vapors Rising

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One of my favorite things about living on this mountain is protecting my peace early in morning while the fog is still rising from the valley up through the mountains. The precious time with my Poppa sets the tone for my day. No matter what happens throughout it, there is a peace that I can draw back on from these quiets moments. This morning I could see the fog moving through the woods consuming everything it touched. As I write this, I am reminded of my prayer in those early hours for the Holy Ghost to fill my atmosphere with His presence. Just as God causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth (Psalm 135:7), He shows up in our midst when we call on His name. Ours prayers rise like vapors and fills our hearts, minds, even our very atmosphere like the fog that was consuming our mountain this morning. How awesome is that?! If you don’t take a little protecting your peace time out of your day, you should try it. A little peace goes a long way with the things that we face in these days. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings for the rain; he bringeth the wind out of his treasuries.” ~ Psalm 135:7

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 3

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I am thankful that The Lord moved me back home to West Virginia after 14 long years. I’ve been blessed to live in New York, Florida, Louisiana, Colorado, and now back home to West Virginia. There have been many times I have strayed from God, but He never left me. He never gave up on me, He never stopped calling me, and never stopped drawing me to Him. I needed to learn and someone else may need to know, when you have a calling on your life you can’t outrun God. This time He grabbed hold and said it takes complete surrender. This time there is no turning back and no running. This time you will walk right into your destiny with Me. Complete surrender, I’m all in. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #11.03.18

“11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:

12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.

26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.

27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.”

~ Luke 15:11-32

Be Encouraged

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I’m watching the leaves blow in the wind as the sun rises on our beautiful WV mountain. It’s such a peaceful thing to spend time with my Poppa first thing in the morning, He keeps reminding me to just be still. I tend to want to control of every little detail of my life and I don’t have to because The One who made world controls it all. I don’t know what you are facing today, but when it starts to get out of control and when you start to feel you can’t handle anymore… I want to encourage you to take just a moment to be still and give it to the one who already knows. I promise He can do more with it than we can anyway. I hope this encourages your day. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

‘Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” ~ Psalm 46:10

Knowing Your Worth

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It’s taken me years to know my worth and I didn’t realize until this evening that sometimes I try to overcompensate in certain areas. I strive to do better, be better, achieve more… I sit here reflecting on those things this evening and not one of them have a thing to do with my worth. My worth is rooted in who I am in Christ. He knew me before He formed me in my mother’s womb (Jeremiah 1:5) and God already had a plan for my life (Jeremiah 29:11). He not only had a plan for my life, but a calling on it. He goes before me and makes my path straight (Isaiah 45:2; Deuteronomy 31:8) I believe and I know He will perform all that He has promised me, “And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. (Luke 1:45)”

What is your worth tied up in? It doesn’t matter who you please or don’t please. It doesn’t matter who acknowledges you or doesn’t. Look at that person in the mirror, God created YOU with a purpose and it wasn’t to please other people. Find that purpose in Him. How awesome will it be to someday hear our Lord say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant…” God is so good. Even through the more painful things in life He reminds us He is God. Daughter, know your worth. *** Smiles *** If no one has reminded you today, you are sons and daughters of Christ. That makes us royalty. I just wanted to remind you of who you are in Christ! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal #knowyourworth

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” ~ Jeremiah 1:5

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11

“I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron:” ~ Isaiah 45:2

“And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:8

“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” ~ Matthew 25:21

Nothing is Too Hard For God

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God reminded me this morning that NOTHING is too hard for Him in Jeremiah 32:27, “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” I wanted to pass that reminder along to you. Sometimes life starts to get busy and overwhelming and we lose sight of this. That’s one of the enemy’s biggest tricks in trying to defeat us. But it doesn’t matter how big, how hard what we are up against us because our God is bigger. Hold on to that today my friends. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Just Call Upon Him 💛

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It’s a little dreary here today, kind of fitting for a Monday morning. As I began writing this I could here my Poppa saying, why are thy downtrodden my daughter? *** smiles *** He knows me all too well. I love our morning time together. This morning after prayer I continued to read in Jeremiah. As I started off I said to myself, “I could really use some encouraging words today Poppa.” Ahhhh, He NEVER disappoints! “11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. 13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13. My friends, all we have to do is call upon Him and He listens! Seek Him and He’s there! He’s already with us, He wants us to call upon Him!!!! How awesome is that. I found that to be an awesome and comforting reminder this morning, I pray you did too. Have a great and blessed day. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Focused and Centered

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I’ve been spending a lot of quiet time with my Poppa lately. Someone recently told me, “You don’t call Him that.” It bothered me for a long time, causing me to question if perhaps I was wrong. I wasn’t wrong. I’m very thankful for the relationship I have with my Heavenly Father and the closeness we share. Some of the same people that have tried to cause questions like that or similar ones, are the same ones that have my number on speed dial for a call or text when it comes to a prayer request. Why is that? They must believe that on some level God hears and honors my prayers. If only they understood they could have that relationship with God too.

God is teaching and revealing so much to me during my morning time in His presence. There has to be a thirst for that knowledge that most don’t have. That makes me sad, why wouldn’t you want more of the One that gave His life for yours. I want to be like a sponge that continues to absorb, soaking up every bit of wisdom, knowledge, anything, and everything the Lord has for me. People say, “You’ve changed.” I hope so. I’m not perfect, but I am forgiven. I’m focused on my “Poppa’s” business. I’m centered on my destiny at hand. Higher in Him means a decrease in me and the things of the world. I’m okay with that. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Good Morning 💛

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It’s a crisp beautiful morning here on our little mountain. The sun is shining in so brightly here. When I took the pictures and then looked at them I was just amazed at the beauty and presence of God. I know today will be okay because He’s already with me and, child of God, He’s with you too. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Just a Reminder

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Powerful prayer time this morning as my Poppa reminded me I am His daughter and He is my God. As my “circle” gets smaller He reminded me Jesus was betrayed, beaten, and hung on a cross all so that I could live and be His child.

Perhaps someone else needed this reminder this morning too. It doesn’t matter who exits your life, there is one who never leaves. Some people just weren’t meant to stay. Jesus is the one who will love you like no other. Have a blessed day. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

Th Battle is Real

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I’ve been reading “Let Us Pray” by Watchman Née. I have been on the last 35 pages for 2 days. Last night, I could not hold my eyes open. Earlier today I tried to read it on my break and my phone rang constantly and things kept popping up distracting me on my iPad. This evening I think my phone has rang more than it has since I got it connected. I have no doubt the devil did not want me finishing that book since the ending was all about praying against him. Even as I write this, I am fighting almost everything I type, I am reminded our fight is not with this world or the people in it, it is with the enemy. Although the he does a really good job at wearing us down and pitting us against each other. He even sets Christians against one another and family members on opposite sides. He’s really good at being the puppeteer and pulling those strings. I bet some people don’t even understand the decisions they’ve made, they don’t even realize the devil is in control. If you get a chance read this book by Watchman Née. I have learned a lot and I’m excited to watch my prayer life grow and the enemy tremble! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12

Thank You

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Today I posted my 50th blog on my new forum. I just wanted to take a minute to thank those who are following me and reading my blog. I remember when I started on FB with one person, that was scary enough. When the Lord started moving me out onto WordPress I was terrified, but fear is it of God so I stepped out on faith and did it anyways. I said Poppa I don’t know who will read it or how it will grow, but it’s in Your hands. You will draw who You want, You will bring and encourage who You want. To His glory, I’ve placed it in His hands and I’ve watched it touch people in ways I had never imagined. I am blessed by each and every person that has read, liked, shared, followed, and even those that have unfollowed my writings. We are not alone on this journey of life, we are here to encourage and lift each other up. There is a lesson even from those I lose along the way. I pray you are encouraged as I share my journey. It’s been far from perfect, full of twist and covered by the grace of God. Thank you again for being a part of my journey. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” Psalm 28:7

A Lesson From Doves

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I woke to a cleansing rain falling. It was more representative to the work The Lord was doing on the inside of me than outside of my home, funny how God works that way. Some of the things I’ve been through make it very hard to trust my “inner” voice. Earlier in the week I heard The Lord tell me someone close to me was manipulative when it came to my emotions. I had felt this for a long time, but feared I wasn’t seeing it clearly. “Lord, if this is you I really need confirmation.” I continued to get ready for work and then went in and began to watch a single dove. It was the first day that it was really cold here. She was on a tree limb, all alone and her feathers were ruffled to keep warm. I studied her for the longest time. As I watched her, all alone on the bare tree (exposed to the wind and cold) The Lord brought to my memory a Scripture in Matthew. “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves,” Matthew 10:16. I sent my sister, Jennifer, a message and The Lord quickened the same verse to her. There was my confirmation.

Later in the day, I was sharing this encounter with my manager and as I did, I realized I had been seeing this lone dove for a couple of weeks. My Uncle had been telling me it was odd because there were always more. They usually had a mate and traveled more in flocks. His deck would be full when he feeds them in the winter. Yet, all I had been seeing was my lone dove. The very next day after The Lord revealed this to me, I got up and there were three. By the afternoon, I had a tree full. He had showed me what I needed to see. Now, He was showing me I was not alone.

His lesson with the doves continued. He reminded of something He had already taught me. I had learned that doves only focus on one object at a time because of the narrow shape of their head, giving them singular focus. http://www.marklake.org/eyes-of-a-dove/ I want my focus at this point in my life to be fully on God and where He wants me to be. Any distractions pull me away from the destiny He has for me. Once God started opening up these things to me, the enemy started attacking. If he was scared enough to send a “legion” to try to pull me down I’m on the right track. *** smiles *** One final thought, doves also represent the Holy Spirit in Scripture. This is perhaps the best part, yesterday He began to fill my trees with doves. He was reminding me, I’m filled, surrounded, protected by His presence. Every time I see a dove I am reminded of His sweet Holy Spirit. That is worth a praise shout! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:” Matthew 3:16

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26

He Keeps Us in Perfect Peace

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“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 It has rained here most of the day. I lost power several times, the first couple were during work. The power went off for mere seconds, but sheer panic swallowed me. I lost connection with my main work office, I grabbed my cell phone and had no signal. I have not yet bought a phone you plug in so my cordless was useless. I felt helpless. I was on this mountain just miles from people, but I felt hundreds of miles from the world. I was reconnected within minutes, but it was long enough to spawn a migraine and fear that gripped out of nowhere. I had a mountain of work and every second counted. Peace daughter, peace be still…

After it came back up, I called one of our wonder IT guys and came up with a game plan for reconnecting in the future when it happens (because of course it didn’t come up as fast as I wanted) and I’ll go buy a phone to plug in this weekend (something my mom had already told me to do), but this whole power outage was more of an exercise in faith (that I did not do to well in). After work, the lesson continued when a friend “reminded” me to lean into my faith and Scriptures and stop working so hard and stressing. I stood outside for a long time and watched the clouds. I came in and kept hearing peace be still. I fell asleep with April in the chair watching the trees sway in the wind and the leaves fall (one of my favorite pastimes these days).

When I woke, I looked through the pictures of the clouds. A storm was trying to blow in. There was peace in the storm, a beauty in the midst of it. Even a light shining through it. We are not alone in the storm. The enemy likes us to think we are, but we aren’t. In Mark 4 the disciples thought there were going to perish “37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?” That was me today. #realtalk

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26 He brought that Scripture to my remembrance today, I find that awesome. He cares so much about us that He reminds us of His Word and His promises to us. How awesome is that?! Continue to help us Father God to claim that power of the Holy Ghost and bring to our remembrance the things You’ve taught and are teaching us. Help us to keep our minds, our hearts, our eyes fixed on You. In Jesus precious name we pray Amen. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” ~ Isaiah 26:3

Daughter, Less of You and More of Me

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I sat and watched the rain quietly fall in unison with the leaves this evening, the wind seemed to be carrying them both gently through the air. I listened to the birds sing their chorus while my wind chimes carried their own melody through the breeze. I still had the nightmare on my mind from earlier in the week, so much weighing heavy on my heart. Poppa, are some people just evil? Do I try so hard for nothing? You already know the answer you seek. It doesn’t really matter anyways because what you do, you do for Me. If not one thing comes from it on this earth, do not be discouraged, do not be disheartened; the things of this world aren’t what you seek after anyways. Your true reward is in heaven. I see everything, the just and unjust. Nothing goes unseen. Just rewards will always be given in due time, in due season.

The leaves peacefully falling, the rain seemingly cleaning the atmosphere. “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 42:11 The birds chirping away. “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 43:5

Daughter, less of you and more of Me. “He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30 Praise Me daughter, rise up, draw to Me. I didn’t say it would be easy. It’s time to pull away from the world and retreat unto Me. I’m grinding, refining, molding, smoothing, moving you into position… all for such a time as this. Will you listen as Esther did or will run and cower in fear? “For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

I don’t know exactly what God has in store for my “such a time as this” but I’m not about to “cower.” No, I fully want whatever He has for me. So, I’m drawing closer to Him. I’m excited to see what He has in store for me. Any fear in me has to go. The devil is a liar and the power within me is greater than any lie He tries to put in my head. I’m excited for this new path I’m on, it’s leading right into my destiny. Thank you so much for taking this path with me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

I’m Stronger Now and I’m Not Going Back

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There is a lot weighing on my mind and while my knee is painful and nauseating (from a fall last night), it is the least of them. Some blogging time is coming (get ready). It has been a little over a year ago this month that God rescued me from an emotionally abusive relationship. The scars left are deeper than physical ones, but I’ve learned my worth over the last year. Manipulation and control aren’t weapons that can be used against me anymore. I’ve grown in my relationship with The Lord and The Holy Spirit quickens me when something is wrong. No, I’m stronger now. I have a long ways to go, but when I look at the absolute broken place I had come from… I have no doubt that Jesus Himself pulled me up from a place of complete despair and started piecing His daughter back together again. I won’t go back to that place again! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

You’re In Good Company

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“Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” 1 John 3:13 I was mediating on that verse this morning. There are many times on this walk that people are not only going to disagree with our walk, they are going to vehemently oppose you. Some are going to feel so strongly that dislike turns to hate. It’s okay. They don’t even realize it’s not you, but the light within you that they hate; so love them anyways. Jesus gave His life knowing He was hated, we can pray anyways. No one said it would be easy, but hanging on that cross was the hardest part. We can handle the dislike for His light that shines through us. For years I’ve had endured hate that I just could not understand from a person, it was the conflict in our spirits. Now it saddens me and I pray. But, I’m in good company and I marvel not. There are going to be people in the world that hate the light that shines from within me. I’ll shine anyway and pray without ceasing that my light will start to invade their darkness. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Overcometh…

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This morning God woke me early to pray and read. You need to prepare for the day ahead, He then lead me to the book of 1 John. I began reading it and before I realized it I had finished the entire 5 chapters. Tonight, I went back through the entire book. I got to the end and found great hope in chapter 5 verse 4, “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” There is a lot to shout about in that verse and I hope it lifts you up as much as it did me. The whole book of 1 John is full of encouraging nuggets and rich with wisdom for these difficult days. I just wanted to share a glimmer of it with you. Have a blessed night my friends. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Chase After God

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Wow, look at God. When He shows up, He does it in the most amazing ways. I have been struggling financially since my move. Increased stress in several areas of my life has lead to an increase in migraines. I’m drowning Poppa. Still I keep pressing. I keep trusting. I keep believing. He did not bring me this far to leave me. Last week He miraculously helped me close 19 accounts in 5 days to reach my goal of 25. That was God, without a doubt. Yesterday my Uncle moved my bird feeders to the backyard and I anointed them with oil. In the evening I had noticed small birds in my backyard. This morning I had the most amazing experience.

I went out to take April for her morning walk and heard what I thought was a squirrel. I said, “Good morning squirrel, I can’t see you but I hear you.” I went on to say, “Good morning birds. I will be feeding you this winter.” Then I began to pray, I continued to pray in my prayer language. As I prayed in the Spirit, birds began to come out in the trees from everywhere. All sizes and kinds. They flew up high from one tree to another and chirped away. It was the most awesome thing I have ever seen or experienced. It’s like they were praising God. I just continued to pray and talk to them, they continued to just chirp the most beautiful melody. I have no doubt that was God.

I came back in and watched the leaves peacefully fall. Those birds are going to be okay this winter and I am going to enjoy feeding and watching them. You know what else? I am going to be okay too. Is God going to allow me to provide for them while not providing for me? Of course not. Daughter, you put too much pressure on yourself. Draw into me during this season. Chase after me, not the things of the world. I will give you peace. I will give you rest. Even as I type this I am watching my precious birds chase after each other through the air. That’s the confirmation I had prayed for as I started this. Our God is so good. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?” ~ Matthew 6:6:25-27

“My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.” Psalm 63:8

Blessed Beyond Measure

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My Facebook Blog Page hit 300 likes today. I am humbled by and thankful to God first and my friends, family, and so many people I’ve never even met for taking the time to like my page. I remember when I first started it with just a few likes and so scared that it would never grow, never touch anyone’s heart, never make a difference. But God!

I pray my post here and on FB will continue to lift you on this journey of life and encourage you along the way. It is God that has brought me this far and God that sustains me. The Holy Ghost works through me, My Poppa’s light shining for the world to see as a beacon of hope in a wayward world. I’m not at all perfect, just forgiven. My path has not been straight, but full of grace. I’m here to let someone who needs it know, you are not alone. Thank you for allowing me to do that. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

This Heart of Mine

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This heart of mine, I say that a lot. My heart is so soft, the silliest things hurt my feelings. Everyone says, don’t take it personal. That approach doesn’t seem to work for me. My “hurt” feelings seem to reach into the very depths of my heart. This morning I realized my circle had gotten smaller. You would think one would grow used to it at this point on my journey, but it still hurt. It hurt more than it came from a sister in Christ. I heard my Poppa say, I told you your circle would be small. Not everyone can go where I am taking you. Draw into me.

I sat on my bed looking out the window, watching leaves peacefully fall. There appeared to be a gentle breeze blowing through the trees. You are never alone; I am all around you. I dwell within you my Poppa whispered. Then I saw something in the trees, I thought it was a bird at first, but it was a squirrel. He was frolicking on the branches. He appeared to be all alone, but enjoying the morning air. You need to be more like that squirrel. Stop focusing on hurt and what you don’t have. I will supply your every need. Those leaving your circle are doing so because I am moving them out and more are to come. I have placed you there for such a time as this. It is time to draw unto me as WE walk into your destiny.

Wow, that’s heavy. God blessed me with this heart of mine. He has instilled in me a love for everyone, the lost and saved. What good is it to be a light to only God’s people? No, He wants His light to shine so bright through me that the lost are drawn to Him. He wants me to encourage others through the paths I’ve taken. I may have went off path along the way (okay, I took a lot of detours), but He always draws me back. It’s those detours and His grace that gives me the fuel to tell others you can get through this. I can say His grace is sufficient for me and you because I’ve seen it on those detours. Yes, my circle is smaller this morning. Jesus’ circle got pretty small too, so I’m in the best of company. No matter how small my circle, Jesus is in the middle holding in those that should be there and sending out those that shouldn’t. That overall plan makes my heart smile even when it feels broken. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

My view this morning…

Drawing Close to Him

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Wow, I love it when God tells me something and then confirms it. My stress level and headaches have been out of control. Yesterday He told me to “Be still and know I am God.” He went on to tell me to draw into Him this weekend. I was filled with His perfect peace for the rest of the day. This morning I woke to the Reminders from God and it said, “Seek a silence of spirit-understanding with Me then all will be calm and at peace.” Confirmation! Our God is so good, so patient. I think He is especially so with me. When I opened my eyes I was thinking, “I need to do and this and that today.” My Poppa knows His daughter. The reminder was quietly saying, Hey what did I tell you yesterday?! I’m listening Poppa, I’m listening. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Lean Not Unto Thine Own Understanding

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Two days in a row God has called my attention to Proverbs 3:5-6, “5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” It took almost everything I had to make this move home. I’ve had a migraine for the last several days. Poppa, it’s just too much. How do I climb out of this financial drought? Trust in me. Lean not unto thine OWN understanding. Where is my focus? Is it on my bank account? Is it on how much I have to do and not enough hours to do it? It’s time to shift my thinking and allow my faith in God to pull above all else. He is directing my path. That path may not be paved on an easy road, but it is etched and already recorded in God’s book. He knew what I’d think, what I’d do before I knew. He already has a plan in place, I just have walk close to Him and listen to His voice.

Listening to Pastor Swaggart this morning, he prayed against migraines. I know that specific prayer was for me. Overtime has been approved while we work with a skeleton crew due to Hurricane Florence. I’m teaching you to trust ME, lean on ME. Your help comes through Me, I am meeting your needs as they arise. I’m listening Poppa. We don’t always understand in our natural mind, but when we draw close to our Father we can understand and see things more clearly in the spiritual realm. I just wanted to share that this morning. You may be facing seemingly impossible odds, but your God is able. Draw to Him, don’t lean unto your flesh, don’t be tricked by what you think you understand. Draw to Your Father, when He is directing your path you can be assured it will all work out according to His plan. No demon in hell can stop what your Heavenly Father has for you, how comforting is that?! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

I’m Ready

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Unpacking and setting up my home office, I found at least 10 journals. I think that might be a sign of a born writer. I have journals in almost every room of my home so that I’m always ready when God gives me a Word. He has planted me here to walk into my destiny so it’s time to focus on Him and His plan for my life. This means my writing is about to blow up and flood timelines. It is my prayer that through me, God will encourage, enlighten, and save people across the world. I am so excited for you to take this journey with me. 💛 😉~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

My Journey Continues

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A new leg on my journey, 1,421 miles from Cripple Creek, Colorado to my new home in Mount Olive, WV. At this stage in my life, it is a move I could never have imagined making alone. Amazingly, after what I have been through in the last year, I had grown into a comfortable place and had to fight the fears of moving. In fact, I had put off scheduling my move until some recent changes forced me to set a date so that I could request the vacation time off. What am I going to do Poppa? I don’t have money for an almost 22 hour move. Where am I going to live when I get there? I’m doing this all alone. Ahhh, but my Heavenly Father! He said, you are going to set a date and trust Me. So, I did just that.

When it came time for a place to live, he opened the door to a beautiful home on Mt. Olive. How am I going to get there Poppa? What about the things I’d like to take with me, like my fireplace. He said, leave them. I am doing a new thing and you have emotions attached to those things. I called my mom and Uncle to tell them what The Lord had said and found the place I was moving in to was completely furnished. A dear friend from home offered to ride out and pick us up. Poppa, I can’t even afford the U-Haul home. A friend stepped up with his truck to come and get me and April. So, the end of August I fit everything I owned into a Chevy Silverado and came home to WV.

When I got here, I found God had blessed me with a huge yard, with beautiful trees. He provided a furnished home where the furniture seemed to be handpicked just for me. I had used my internet money (that I needed for work) just to get here and had no food, still a week from payday. My Uncle and mom stepped up and helped me get it on and provided the food and personal supplies I needed for the week. God has met each and every single need I’ve had on this new leg of my journey. Still, I am human and fear started to kick in when I got my check and started paying things. The Lord spoke clearly to me and said Be still and know I am God!

I got reverse altitude sickness when I went to moms and required a trip to the ER for IV fluids and nausea meds. I was so sick I could barely stand, but my brother got up after working a midnight shift and took me to the ER. I can’t even express how much and to what degree God has carried me through the entire last year. I didn’t know anyone a year ago when I was abandoned in Colorado and He gave me a whole church family that watched over me. Now He has transplanted me onto another mountain and positioned me to walk into my destiny. This one is Mount Olive. The symbolic significance of that name doesn’t escape me. Jesus often went to the Mount of Olives to pray. He has placed me here to draw me close to Him; He has placed me here for a time such as this. I can’t wait to see His awesome outpouring over me through this leg of my journey and I can’t wait to share it with you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

His Grace Is Sufficient for Me

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I didn’t realize how bad the depression had gotten until I cleaned my house yesterday. Goodness Poppa, how long had I been riding the waves of depression? I cleaned and cleaned, cleaning out the old to prepare for the new. The dates have been set for my move back to WV. I can’t help feeling a little like the prodigal daughter returning home. I left home in 2005, 15 years later I am returning. I am coming up to 2 years here in Colorado. Before even making my way back to God, He had told me this would be a place of healing for me. He’s still healing me, the last couple of weeks were proof of that. This morning cleansing tears are flowing as my Poppa teaches me to let go of things I thought I’d released over 7 months ago: hate, hurt, and bitterness, while He replaces them with love, healing, and His promises.

Poppa, I thought I’d already been down this road and moved past it. Now the painful words and what was done to me is bombarding my thoughts. I feel alone and I’m finding trust so very hard to do. Help me Poppa. Daughter, you can’t do this alone, but my grace is sufficient for you. Lean into me instead of running. I have paved the way before you. All you have to do is walk on it. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged. Your wounds are still gapping, allow me to heal them. The bleeding has stopped, but the wound is tender and open. The pain you are feeling is a healing pain, soon itching will set in as the wounds heal and excitement for what is ahead of you will take root. I’m bringing you out of the tears and into your destiny.

I was emotionally abused for years. I am learning it is okay to allow time (and more importantly God) to heal those wounds. Years of damage takes a little time to be unraveled and that’s okay. God is using every hurt, every deception, every tear to propel me into my destiny and to allow me to use those things to encourage others! Growth is not easy, but necessary on this path. Soul wounds. God is healing mine and He can do the same for you. We all have different paths to walk and different demons to conquer, but we all have Jesus interceding at the seat of His Father on our behalf. If we look to Him and keep our eyes fixed on Him we will come out pure gold. We are being refined, processed for the shine that is to follow. That is worth a praise shout! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“ And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9

My Poppa Supplies My Every Need

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What an awesome and loving Father we serve! I have been REALLY struggling with depression the last couple of weeks. So much so that a couple of the ones closet to me started to notice. Last Sunday at church the Preacher had a word for me, God wants to heal my heart. Only me and God knew the things my mind was struggling with the last couple of weeks so this was enormous for me. This morning I found a new work time off policy was forcing me to schedule my move. I was overcome with fear. As I was requesting prayer from my precious sister, I heard The Lord tell me it was Him that was forcing me to set the date because I wouldn’t do it any other way. I said, if this is Your voice give my sister the same word, show me Poppa. He not only gave it to her, but my other sister! She also had a word from The Lord that confirmed I’m on the right path, again just enormous for this lady!

God knows where you are and where you’ve been. You know what else? He knows where you are going. He knew what was in my head and my heart and after I had stepped out on faith and scheduled the move, He confirmed and reaffirm that I’m doing as He wants. He knows His daughter very well and has continued to reaffirm it the entire day. My Uncle is set to close on the place I’m moving into at the same time I’m coming home. We have a holiday around the same time I’m moving, giving me three extra days (because it falls on a Monday). The place I’m moving into is right on top of a mountain and is completely furnished all the way down to dishes and a coffee pot! My Poppa has planned every detail for this move. I’m not sure how He is going to provide the money, but I KNOW He will. I can’t wait to see how He does it!

Friends, our God truly cares about every need we have. Emotional, spiritual, physical, financial… He doesn’t leave anything out. He knew I was struggling and He met me at the point of my need. He gave me an awesome word, comforted, and reassured me. His love knows no limits. If you are struggling or have a need, take it to you Poppa, I promise He will not leave you alone. Silly devil, he thought he was breaking me but he was simply making my testimony stronger! God can use whatever you are facing to do the same thing for you! 💛~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

It’s Okay To Walk Away…

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The hardest thing in the world for me is understanding some battles aren’t mine to fight and letting them go. Sometimes the battles people face are coming from within and I can’t fix people, they have to fix themselves. I’m still learning how to do this. I tend to just want to fix everything and make everyone happy. I’m learning how to step back and give them to God, not an easy lesson.

Some people don’t even want to get out of the mess they are in, they almost thrive by trying to pull others under. I’m like a magnet that attracts these people and my efforts to help almost always end with a knife in the back. Do I stop trying? I’ve pondered that for a long while tonight. No, I press on and pray for a discernment in these situations and that God protects my heart from those that aren’t genuine.

These people really need Jesus almost more than anyone; however, their demons aren’t mine to fight. It’s okay to walk away when it starts to hurt me emotionally or spiritually. Perhaps my seeds of kindness and God’s love will take root and God will water it. It’s okay to put it in His hands and walk away. ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Walk With Him…

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On my walk this evening, I saw a flower all by itself growing in the rocks. I feel like that flower Poppa, all alone. Look at the flower again daughter, it is thriving right where it’s planted. Poppa, I can’t do anything right, help me. Tears streaming, I began to pray “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.” How many know when you call on His name He won’t leave or forsake you? “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.” He met me at the point of my need and spoke directly to my heart…

Going ahead of me, lagging behind me; neither will work. Daughter, you have to walk with Me and seek Me in everything you do. You have been so hurt you’re afraid to live, trust, or love; but when you give everything to Me I go before you clearing the way. You’re not the flower standing alone because I’m with you, My Spirit lives in you. You are the flower thriving in the environment it has been planted. Your biggest mistake right now is trying to do it all alone. Stop running before Me in search of happiness. You will find it through me and our daily walk.

As for this man, he is a good man but your validation can’t come through him. I’ve made you in My image and it will take a special man to handle your heart. Allow Me to work in and through you both. You’ve been running in the wrong direction, run to Me not away. Allow Me to be the glue that binds your relationship. Give it to Me daughter, put your heart in my hands.

Wow. I don’t know what you’re going through or where your at in life, but I hear God saying slow down. Walk with Him. Talk to Him. Lean on Him. Stop running and give it all to your Father. He knew the plans He had for you before you were even formed. When things get really difficult do what I did and call on the name of Jesus. I promise He won’t leave or forsake you. He hears every prayer and catches every tear. Don’t rush ahead and don’t lag behind… walk with Him and allow Him to be your guide. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” ~ Jeremiah 1:5

“Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?” ~ Psalm 56:8

FB Rewind

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So many family and friends are struggling right now. I want you to know God hears every tear you cry, every obstacle you are encountering and He’s got you! 💛 😩~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Two Are Better Than One

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Big verses little, one against two, raven verses magpies… this is what I saw as I walked April this evening. I smiled as I watched the trio. The raven was clearly annoyed by the tenacious magpies who eventually won as the bigger raven finally flew away in defeat. The three were atop the Post Office roof. The raven didn’t want to give up his perch, but two against one proved to be too much. The magpies were little in comparison to his stature, the two probably made one of the bigger bird. Even though smaller, they had something the raven didn’t. Teamwork. They were almost tag teaming him. The Lord spoke to me as I watched them, two are better than one. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, “9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

You try to do everything alone, you against the world. You have Me to draw on and I’ve surrounded you with a circle to lean on. You’re shoulders weren’t meant to carry it all, no one can handle that. What is happening in the unseen will eventually come to light. Use those I’ve placed in your path. Matthew 18:19, “Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.” The prayers of two people are more powerful than the magpies against the raven. Whatever mountain you are trying to conquer has to crumble when you have a strong, praying circle behind you. I’m not alone, you are not alone. Whatever you are struggling with, trust your inner circle to pray you through, and give it to a God. He will show up and show out on your behalf. Don’t think you have a circle to form that threefold cord? Send me a message and I’ll pray with you.

I couldn’t help but smile at the bird showdown. It amazes me how God speaks to us in the little things around us. Too often we miss conversations with Him because we are immersed in self. Too upset, too happy, too mad, too sick… all we have to do is silence ourselves and listen. He may speak in that still small voice, He may have someone call you, or even have someone post something that speaks directly to your situation. Are you watching and listening for your Father? Poppa remove any blinders from my eyes and unstop my voice, I want to hear from you today! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

1 Corinthians 4:5

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“ Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.”

He Sustains Me

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I was taken aback by the flowers I saw on my evening walk with April. They were growing in what appeared to be rock. I’m sure they had dug into the soil, but they were surrounded by rock. I had a long day full of upsets and hurt feelings. I was reflecting on that when the flowers came to my mind. Poppa, how do they do that? I sustain them, they grow where planted. It was a simple answer, yet packed with meaning,

These flowers grew where their seeds fell. They dug into good soil beneath the rocks and were flourishing. I didn’t see any grass over this area, yet little pretty patches of white flowers spotted the brown, rocky terrain. Then God showed me, there were no weeds to choke out their life. They had obstacles to over come, but once they dug in they flourished.

I am being refined, prepared for all the Lord has for me. Through the process, the weeds must go. People that choke the life out of my dream must be weeded out. Others that twist and grind against me preventing me from taking root must be excavated. Those that condemn and judge without merit must be pulled up and tossed out. This is why my Poppa told me my circle would be small. It takes a select group of Godly people to help encourage, support, and propel one to the next level. Yes, my circle got a little smaller today; but my roots dug in deeper and God is sustaining me through each stage of my growth. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.” ~ Psalm 54:4

Renewing My Mind

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The mind is a crazy thing. You can be all smiles, things moving along great and bam! Tears overwhelm you and you sit there like Poppa, where is this coming from? Old soul wounds, I’m still healing them. You were cut deep. It wasn’t a surface wound, it cut to your very core. He wounded your loving, giving, gentle spirit. I’m giving that back to you, replacing everything that was stolen. Healing mind and soul.

Tears are cleansing, but how much cleansing could one mind and soul need? I caught myself reverting to my old thinking, that is why the renewing of one’s mind is a daily thing especially when recovering from a narcissistic relationship. Romans 12:2, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Yes, after 6 years it was going to take time, a whole lot of God’s grace, and a daily renewing of my mind to heal me completely. Last weekend I took a little time to do me. No more hiding behind what other people wanted, it’s time to step out and step up. It’s past time to do what’s best for me.

God is healing me, but I must do my part. Oh that devil, he knows where to hit and how hard to bring on blows that almost transcend me back in time. But I have the Holy Ghost to quicken me to his tactics and help bring the Word back to remembrance, I am armed and ready. It doesn’t mean tears won’t overwhelm me at times, it doesn’t mean there won’t be moments where I am teetering on the past. It does mean I’m whole and healed through Jesus. I walk in that reassurance and face each day as it comes. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Trust God Through the Process

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I sit here listening to music and smiling. A real, genuine smile that I couldn’t hide if I tried. Sometimes life has to take you through twist and turns to get you where you need to be. All of the tears and struggles, they are simply tilling the ground and preparing the soil for the growth that is going to come from it all. It’s not an easy process, but you are being refined, shaped, and molded for something bigger. All you have to do is stay the course. However, any detours only delay the inevitable (they don’t end the dream). If God has promised something over your life He is faithful to see it through. Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”.

I’ve had a lot of tears lately as the refining process shifted out roots within me that were not of God. Many tears as people exit my circle, but God held me close through the process. The town donkeys dropped by today and that just made my heart smile. I was reminded I’m not as alone on the journey as I think. My Poppa will never leave me, the Holy Spirit comforts me, and the blood of Jesus sustains me. Whomever exits my circle simply wasn’t mine to keep, they were seasonal. But as people exit, God moves others in that will give me the support on this journey I need. My Father’s love knows no bounds, I just have to give way to the process and trust Him. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Less of Me and More of Him

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When you’ve cried so many tears that no more come, you just sit in silence. When you don’t even know what to pray, you just sit there and mutter, “help me Poppa.” When you just feel like giving up, yet God is still there. I could feel the presence of the Holy Ghost as I sat, not even able to cry another tear. This storm was knocking the wind out of me, clearing people and things in its path. The winds of change were sweeping through my life and seemed to be taking my world away with them. Less of me and more you Father, help me…

When God set me on this path to my destiny, He told me my circle would be small and the path would get lonely. I have a tight yet awesome circle, but at times the loneliness is almost too much to bear. Poppa, why am I too much for the people I tend to care about the most. “Less of you and more of Me.” While not answering my question, that has rang through my spirit since a conversation I had on Sunday. I came to know the Lord at an early age, but I guess you could say I’m the prodigal daughter. I’ve wandered away several times and came back. This time the Lord got a hold of me and said I’m not letting go. After being baptized with the Holy Ghost, He set me on the path to my destiny and there is no turning back.

God took control and it forever changed me. My outlook changed, my appearance changed, the way I thought changed… it all had to change. “Less of you and more of me.” Poppa, people think I’m crazy because of how I communicate with You. They say You can’t speak to me that way. He brought me to Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” How did He communicate with people in the Old Testament? In some Scriptures, He spoke directly to His servant. What He did then, He can still do today because He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I’ve never heard God’s voice in an audible way, but I have heard Him in the stillness of my heart. How do I know it’s Him I hear? John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:” I am human, I tend to question what I’ve heard. “Poppa, show me I am hearing you correctly.” He confirms and re-confirms, He never leaves any room for doubt.

These storms will pass and give way to His will. Once again the storms are cleansing me, saturating the ground, removing anything that will hinder my walk. The rains are watering the ground the Lord has planted me in so that I will grow. Somethings have to be purged out of me creating a painful death to self. It is a process that must happen for me to grow, less of me and more of Him! I finally looked the Scripture up. John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” This lonely, painful process is me decreasing so that my Father can increase within me. This must come to pass in order for me to fulfill my destiny, but I’m not as alone as I feel. My Poppa is watching over me and the Holy Ghost is walking with me every step of the way. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Shine Anyways

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Your light is too bright for some to handle. Shine anyways. The devil doesn’t like that shine that draws people to God and he will seek to destroy it. He will send people to discourage and move you off course, no one is off limits. Some of the very people you love might be moved by his ploy and not even realize it. It’s tempting to give in to them when this happens. I almost caved today, but God has placed the “right” people in my circle to lift me back up. I realized the importance of who’s in my circle too. After I realized this, my Poppa sent me one message after another as confirmation. He showed me several months back that my true circle would be small, but powerful. I am so thankful for their guidance and encouragement when I have tears streaming down my face and need help seeing the bigger picture.

When I look back to 7- 8 months ago, I am amazed at the change in me. Spiritually, emotionally, and physically, I have completely changed in all areas. It’s a true statement to say I’m not the person I was back then. Today I thought I needed to find “me” when the truth is, I know who I am and where I’m headed. I know the plans and destiny God has for me. How do I know? I’m walking closer to Him than I ever have before. Yes, He talks to me. It’s not an audible voice, but I still hear Him deep within my spirit and He confirms everything He tells me. John 10:27-28 says, “27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” My heart was grieved today because I have some people in my life that want no part of Jesus while others don’t believe He communicates with us in a real and tangible way. How then does He guide us? I want everyone to have that closeness I have and it just breaks my heart when they don’t.

A lot of tears today. I fell asleep early, but when I woke God placed this word in my heart to share and moved me to get up and write. He also spoke to me. The power within you is great and it’s too much for some people to comprehend. My closeness with you is real, it’s not in your head. It comes from seeking me. I’m drawing you closer, pouring my spirit out into you. Soak it up. Dust your feet of those that don’t believe it or can’t comprehend such power. Write what I give you and allow my light to shine from within. It’s going to be too bright for some people and that’s okay. You serve me not them. Wow, that was an on time Word for me. I scrolled through my FB and listened to one sermon after another confirming what He’d shown me. My heart still hurts, my Heavenly Father made it a little soft (alright, a lot soft). It’s okay to cry, it’s not okay to let anyone question who you’ve grown into. When God is shining through you, let that light shine through. Yes, you will be too bright for some to handle. Shine anyways! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Keep Pressing

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My favorite shirt is officially too big and hangs on me! I don’t have a full length mirror in my home. When I go out and walk past one, I am amazed at the change in me. “Who’s that?!” I say to myself. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you! No matter the goal, press into the Lord and keep going. I promise HE will see you through. I just wanted to remind someone of that today. NOTHING is too small OR too big for God! Press into Him my friends and keep moving forward. If you are moving forward you are making progress, the speed is irrelevant.💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” ~ Philippians 4:13

Staying the Course

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When God moves on your behalf, He moves mightily. Yesterday He answered something huge for me! Today He has placed one thing after another before me telling me to keep going and not to detour from the path He has me on to my vision. He’s also shown me that “thing” I want the most in my heart can still come to pass if it’s what I’ve chosen. We have free will, but when we align ourselves with God’s perfect will we can’t go wrong. He says in Jeremiah 29:11-13, “11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. 13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” This is exactly what I’m doing right now. I’m staying before His throne and asking Him, “Poppa, align my thinking, my will with Your perfect will for me.” You know what I’m finding? He’s doing just that and He’s working behind the scenes to give me the desires of my heart. Psalm 37:4, “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”

This morning when I took the April out, the dandelions once again caught my attention. They were closed up, protecting themselves from the night elements. The Lord said, protect your dream. Just as the flower closes itself from the elements, you must protect yourself and the dream I’ve given you from the world. In the shower, I was praying and saw myself become very small as I lifted my hands toward Heaven. The world wants to swallow you up and take the dream I’ve planted within you. Draw to me, seek me, and it will come to pass. That was a Rhema Word for me, on time and needed! Habakkuk 2:2-3, “2 And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”

I am standing on the promises of God. I was discouraged for a minute, I couldn’t see a part of the dream anymore. But I turned to God, “show me Poppa” and He did just that. Not only that, He started to open doors moving me in the direction of His will, reassuring me I was on the right path. Stay the course daughter, stay the course. My spirit needed that renewal and He gave it to me. He never leaves us wandering and will always nudge us on course. We are human, stumbling is part of that. Becoming discouraged is also a part of life, but when you take it to your Heavenly Father He will lift you up. He wants so much more for us than we even want for ourselves, we just have to stay on course with the vision He has for us. When we do this, we walk right into our destiny. Acts 26:19, “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

From the Valley to the Peak

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“Where did all of these dips and crevices come from?” I kind of mumbled as I walked through the field yesterday morning. They appear to have popped up over night. In truth, they had always been there. Perhaps the brown grass made it all blend in and now the green grass gave way to its appearance. Whatever the reason, the field was certainly full of dips. I had walked that field so many times, not really paying attention. This time I was watching not to fall or twist my ankle in a dip. The Lord spoke to my heart and said life is full of peaks and valleys.

There was an awesome glow from the sun, so awesome that when I came in I could it’s rays shining though the window right into my living room. This had never happen before, I was mesmerized by it. I heard God say, MY light guides the way. I started reflecting on my own life, so many twist and turns followed by ups and downs. The one constant was God seeking me. It didn’t matter how far I strayed, He was always pulling me back. I learned a lot in those valleys, but He always cleared my path to the peak. He continues to do just that.

God teaches me in the valley how to soar when I reach the top of the mountain. All the dips and crevices along the way help to shape who I am and equip me for the journey ahead. Regardless of where I’m positioned, God’s light still shines down on me. It guides me every step of the way and draws me back when I get lost. It’s a beacon of hope when I feel helplessness overcoming me. Are you in a valley? Look to the light, He’ll draw out and help you on the climb back to the top. He will never leave you in the valley alone. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Deuteronomy 31:6

Deserving of So Much More

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Moments of tears still overtake me. I spoke to my Heavenly Father about this as I was getting ready for work. Poppa why do I still cry for him? Help me. I shouldn’t still be crying, I feel so stupid. It’s your heart, it’s so full of love and concern it makes it difficult to just let go. In my hands is where he needs to be. I will heal your heart and replace it with a love like you never knew. I began to think on this. God wants so much more for me than my mind can fathom. Know your worth daughter, He told me that days ago.

I deserve someone that celebrates my weight losses with me. I deserve someone who encourages me along my dream and destiny. I deserve someone who is proud of who I am and excited for where God is taking me. I deserve someone who thinks I’m beautiful with or without my makeup, with short or long hair. It’s taken me too many years to know my worth to settle for anything less.

What are you settling for? Do you know who you are in God? Do you know your worth? God created you in His image, your worth to Him is more than you can even imagine. I stayed in one relationship after another that diminished my self worth when God had so much more for me. He has so much more for you too. Don’t settle, ever. Know your worth. I’ve finally learned mine and I’m not going back. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis 1:27

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11

“The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:” Numbers 6:25

In His Hands

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Today was a rough day

This silly heart is always getting in the way

Tears rolling down my cheeks

Trying to be strong when I feel so weak

Poppa, I thought I heard you so clear

About the one my heart was holding so dear

You both have the freedom to choose

My daughter you didn’t lose

You’re learning your worth

And spreading my light throughout the earth

I know it was hard letting him go

But I have more for you than you know

The players changed your hand

But walk with me through this land

Your dream and destiny I promised will take place

Just follow my pace

When you feel weak I’ll carry you through

And I will bless all that you do.

~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

5/7/18

Knowing Your Worth

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Ugh, my first thought when I looked in the mirror lately. My weight loss is on track, but my face is broken out and when I look in the mirror I just see blah. My child, know your worth whispers my Father. Stop seeking it from others and know I formed you and cherish you. You are beautiful and I created you in my image. Last night at an event the speaker and author Sharon Patrick commented on my smile. This morning I was called beautiful. Once again Poppa, you have my attention and I’m listening!

Yesterday I bought myself some pretty yellow flowers and said sometimes you just have to spoil yourself! I didn’t even realize it at the time, but I’m worth it. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in helping others that I lose myself. I definitely become so focused on “fixing” people that I tend to neglect myself and it’s not even my job to fix them. I can’t “fix” them, only God can do that. So here I sit this morning, reflecting on my worth.

God reminded me of Psalm 139:14, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” I am wonderfully made, you are wonderfully made! God took great care in making us, we are beautiful in His eyes. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” I usually stop there, but today the Lord took me to verses 12-13, “12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. 13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” Are you calling upon me when you feel unworthy and ugly so that I can repair those thoughts and show you your worth? Are you calling on me daughter? The answer was no, I was just struggling inwardly.

My vision gets swayed by wrong thinking. My perception of myself causes me to waiver and feel inadequate. God doesn’t want that, know your worth daughter! Seek me, stay close to me. It’s so awesome how He knows what we struggle with before even telling Him and how He meets us at the point of that need. It may not be what you see in the mirror, you might be struggling with something else. Whatever it is, God already knows. He loves you and He wants you to know your worth. My worth is found in Him and the destiny He called me for. I am precious in his site and so are you! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Leaving the Past Behind, Trusting God to the Future

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Hail and rain hit us earlier this week, followed by snow the next day. I was curious to see how my dandelions had faired. I went out and they still had ice on them and looked a bit ragged. Will they make it Poppa? I came back in and continued through my day. That evening I went back out, the sun had been shining and all of the snow and ice had melted away. I was excited to check on the dandelions. They had sprung back to life. Some looked a little tired, but most had sprung forth shining bright above the ground. Wow Poppa, look at that!

I think life does that to us. The rains of trouble and hails of life pelt us, while the snows of too many issues tend to bury us. It’s during those times we have to draw on our Heavenly Father, His light shines down on us. Melting the snow and ice and energizing us for the rest of this journey. I’ve heard so many times, He doesn’t promise us everything will be easy, but He will sustain us through it. We just have to trust in Him. Nahum 1:7, “ The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.”

Trust can be so difficult when the storms of life have beat you down. Oh Poppa, help me to trust You completely. Remove any blinders from my eyes and unstop my ears. During the remainder of the week, my timeline was overwhelmed with post about leaving the past in the past. The Lord led my precious sister to send me one directly. It read, “Don’t stumble over something behind you.” My devotions over the next couple of days led to the same place! I’m listening Poppa! The past traumas, hurts, broken hearts, it’s all behind me and behind you too! Our Heavenly Father will heal any brokenness and piece us back together. Not only that, He’ll turn it around and use it as a testimony to His faithfulness, goodness, and mercy. How awesome is that? 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Grow Where You Are Planted

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I noticed flowers are starting to spring up here. I was so excited to see the tiny yellow ones just above ground, but hidden in the still turning grass (it’s mostly still brown and yellow). Just a couple of days later I started seeing the dandelions pop up. This made me smile, it’s already May and our flowers are just coming out. Late bloomers compared to most places, but here they bloom on their own schedule. I got to thinking about the dandelions I saw, they weren’t growing in the field but by the road. How odd I thought, then I noticed in the pictures the grass was also greener there. They had grown where their seeds had planted themselves and were thriving, more so than my tiny yellow flowers in the field.

The field has many more obstacles for the tiny flowers to overcome. They had to sprout up in a place with a lot of growth pulling for nutrients. It’s harder for the sun to reach these little guys too. Yet here they were, popping up. It’s a little harder for them to flourish because of where their seeds were planted, but in a few weeks I will start to see tiny yellow all throughout the field. It reminded me of us. Sometimes the things in life make it hard for us to grow, but when we lean into the Lord instead of the world we too overcome those obstacles and start to flourish. It may be delayed like my little yellow flowers, but when God is watering what He has planted we will grow.

Earlier in the week I read Psalm 133:3, “As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” I had it highlighted and written beside of it, “Powerful there, God commands His blessing.” That is pretty powerful indeed, the verse says God commanded the blessing. I had been meditating on that verse when I saw the dandelions. Lord, I want to be in the right place to receive the blessings you are commanding over my life. Grow where you are planted. Not only will you flourish, but you will plant seeds that will last long after you are gone. I will continue to water those seeds so that they can flourish in the hearts of those you touch.

We live in a world that is looking for a quick fix, but it takes time to grow. It takes time for heart wounds to heal, but God is faithful and He won’t leave you in the same condition He found you in. When I moved to this little town, God told me it would be my place of healing. A lot of turmoil ensued, but I’m finding now it was necessary for my growth. Now I’m in a place to receive the blessings the Lord is commanding over me. He holds tomorrow and wherever He moves me, but today I am growing where He has planted me. Where has the Lord planted you? Ask Him if you are where He wants you to be and if you are, grow there. Spend time with a Him in prayer and His Word, let Him water the grounds there and watch with anticipation for the blessings He has commanded over you. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Roots

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The clouds bellowed through the skies much like the PMDD was screaming within my body. If you’ve followed my Facebook blog you know this8s something that can be severe. Today I was doubled over in pain, the irony didn’t escape it. A surgery took my uterus, but left my ovaries- the source of the pain. I know there are many health reasons for leaving them, but I as it felt like my ovary was twisting and being squeezed like washcloth I couldn’t help but think my Dr. missed the mark. She took away the “bigger” problem and left the root of the condition there.

The Lord spoke to me through that pain and said isn’t that what people do in life? I started reflecting on my own life. For years I stayed in an emotionally unstable and abusive relationship. More times than I can even count, I treated the symptoms of the problem, yet stayed in it. It wasn’t fixable my way, yet I tried for 6 years. I was more stubborn than the children of Israel! God couldn’t start the healing process until the root was cut out. That meant dealing with some major emotional baggage and a heart that wasn’t just broken, but shattered. But God. Once the root was dug up and thrown out, my Father went to work. I just realized that root had little tiny roots dug into me and latched in. He has started pruning me and cutting away those harmful roots that were invading the very areas He needed to make changes in me.

I’m still a work in progress, I have so far left to go. Poppa is working in me and teaching me to address things at the root in so many areas of my life. That’s where my healing takes place, that’s where my growth occurs. As those negative roots are uncovered and dug out, the roots God is planting in me can grow. If they are left, they risk choking out the roots God is planting. What kind of roots are buried within you? Are treating the problems with quick fixes and trying to fertilize grounds that need rooted up? Don’t be discouraged by them, ask God to help you dig them out. With God ALL things are possible and He would love to help you weed out your life so that His roots can flourish! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.”

Mark 10:27

Mediate on The Word

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The beautiful rays were shining down on me as I went to bed and there they were again when I woke. God’s light illuminates our path at all times. It is a beacon of hope through the storms of life, lighting the way in the midst of the world’s darkness. When we start to feel troubled or like the darkness is in control, we need only quote His Word and pray to chase it away. When things are great, His light shines as a reminder that all good things come from Him. He never leaves us in the darkness and doesn’t forsake in the day’s light. I’m finding it important to mediate on God’s Word to keep my mind from straying into the darkness.

The Bible tells us to mediate on God’s Word day and night. Joshua 1:8 says, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” It says to do this “that though may observe to do…” God already knew how easy it could be for us to fall away so we are instructed to mediate on the Scriptures so that we stay on the path He has for us. His path is prosperous, straying from it delays our destiny and can cause unnecessary pain. How awesome that He loves us enough to instruct us in His ways! Have you meditated on His Word lately? 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Bring in the Sheaves

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Earlier this week I went out and there were clouds over the mountain, blocking the sun. It could be seen beneath the clouds, but was covered. I came in and read my morning Scriptures and something with Psalms 126:5-6 really resonated with me this time. I had a pretty rough week and I would usually focus on verse 5, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” You read and see that verse a lot, it’s a comfort when tears are falling, but this time God kept bringing me back to verse 6, “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Those tears your crying, I see them; those prayers your sowing, I hear them.

Not even an hour later, I walked back by the door and the clouds had already almost cleared and the sun was shining bright. Your timing is not like mine. We want things right now, God moves when it is right for us. Patience is a fruit that is still growing in me, but my precious Father nurtures it and continues to show me He hasn’t forgotten me or the things He’s promised. Now when I see or read verse 5 my mind will immediately go to verse 6 because it’s a promise that my harvest is coming in. What are you sowing? If God has you planting it, you can believe your harvest is coming in too. It’s not a matter of “if” but “when”. It’s in His hands and His timing, that ensures the harvest with be rich and plentiful! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” ~ Psalm 126:5-6

He’s Working in the Unseen

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I looked at the mountain as I took April out this morning and didn’t see the sun coming up as I usually do. We headed back in and I heard God say take a picture, but there’s nothing there I thought. I went ahead and took the picture and was amazed to see the sun. I couldn’t see it with my natural eyes, but it was there and so beautiful. God whispered I am working in the unseen. That renewed my spirit like you can’t even believe and put a huge smile on my face. Talking about a praise shout, I wanted to tell everyone what He’d shown me all day!

I tried to focus in on the sun with my phone, but the more I focused the more it seemed to disappear into the sky. I’d take another picture and it was still there, shining with such a beautiful glow. We focus on our problems like I was trying to focus on the sun. Everything else becomes a blur and we miss the bigger picture. We become discouraged and forget our Father sees it all and is always working behind the scenes on our behalf. Just as I couldn’t see the sun, we can’t always see Him in the midst of a storm. However, He’s there and still in control.

I was so grateful for the pictures and the Word my Poppa gave me this morning, I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you. I pray you are as encouraged as I was. Whatever you are going through or praying for, God hears you. Just because you can’t see it yet, doesn’t mean He’s not working on your behalf. He has a plan and it’s in His timing, it’s also so much better than we could have planned for ourselves! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

2 Corinthians 4:17-18, “17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

He Listens

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Wow look at God! That’s all I could really say and of course thank You Poppa for knowing just what my heart needs and answering my prayer! From my morning devotion by Joyce Meyer to the Reminders from God to checking my email and reading the KLOVE’s Scripture for today, He used all three to directly speak into my situation. I love it when He does that!

“I’m listening Father, You’re daughter is listening,” I looked up and smiled! 1 Corinthians 16:13, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” I just sat and reflected on that verse for awhile. This was my prayer in the early hours without even reading the Scripture and then there it was in my inbox from KLOVE! The Reminders from God today said, “Rise above your fears into My Joy. It will heal your sores and wounds.” Do you see a pattern here? These are the things I posted about yesterday and that I’ve been praying about!

My devotional today spoke just as loudly! John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Joyce Meyer wrote, ““His peace is a spiritual peace, and His rest is one that operates in the midst of a storm—not in the absence of a storm. Jesus did not come to remove all opposition from our lives, but rather to empower us to go through times of opposition peacefully.” (Excerpt From Power Thoughts Devotional) Wow, that spoke right into my spirit man.

Oh my friends, He listens. I prayed about these things and He just confirmed what I knew, but needed to hear again. He knew what I needed and He provided it; not once, not twice, but three times. He is so good. He loves us so much and He doesn’t want us to struggle, He wants us to take it to Him! I told Him, “Poppa, I’m struggling. Strengthen my faith, forgive me for any lack that causes any unbelief.” I woke with the same peace I went to bed with, He’s holding me in His perfect peace. That’s awesome. Not only did He give me peace, but reminders that I so much needed. Yes, He listens, we just have to take it to Him. Mark 9:23, “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Evening Rambles: Fear Can’t Abide Here

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No tears, not to today. I sat on my bed just gazing at the snow falling silently listening to praise music. This morning in my Bible reading the Lord took me to Philippines 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” He has given me a vision and a dream and the devil can’t have it. He has started a good work in me and He will complete it.

The enemy loves to try to fill your mind with the negative thoughts and this would be where he whispered, you should be crying now. I continued to watch the snow fall, I’m not opening that door. Fear can’t abide here, God is in control. Philippines 2:13, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” It’s not His pleasure for me to live in worry and fear causing unbelief. No, the vision and dreams I have aren’t just mine; God instilled them in me so He will give me what I need to fulfill ALL of them.

My thoughts are focused, God has heard my prayers and it is finished. I just have to do my part, that includes casting out worry, fear, and ultimately unbelief. Philippines 4:6 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” He knows my heart, my desires, and He planned my destiny. My prayers are in His hands and aligned with His will. Philippines 4:7-8, “7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” I will think on these things and devil will have to flee.

I continue to watch the snow fall. No tears, not today. I draw my strength from my Father and things of this world can’t detour me. Philippines 4:13, “ I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” As I gaze out the window, that precious peace that passeth all understanding covers me. 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Who Do You Trust?

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I don’t trust “me” Poppa. You don’t have to trust YOU, you have to trust ME. I have went over and over that it my head today. I know in my heart what God has told me, but my thoughts start to cause me to second guess. Perhaps I didn’t hear Him right, maybe I missed something, what if I’m wrong about everything? Early this morning, before ever even getting out of bed, the Lord told me to go back and reread about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendnego. I read it and then read it again this evening.

The unwavering faith and trust these three men had in God is amazing. In verse 17 – 18 of Daniel 3 they say, “17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.” They trusted God completely with their lives and had faith he would bring them out of the fire and if He didn’t they still would not submit to the king’s demand. They believed with no doubts that God was in control and if you’ve read the story, you already know He was. Once cast into the fire, the king saw a fourth person in the fire (verse 25) that was “like the Son of God.” They were not alone in that fire! When the men were brought out in verse 27, “And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.” The fire had no power!!!! That made me want to shout, I had to read it again.

Trust is so hard for me. Finding it difficult to trust myself has a lot to do with what I’ve been through, but God is sifting that out of me. “The fire had no power.” My past has no power, the attack on my mind has no power. God spoke it over me, God spoke it to me, that seals it. Are the attacks going to stop? No. With a high calling on your life comes a high probability of attacks; however, I’m equipped in yet another way. The fire, those attacks can’t harm me! Jesus is with me (and you) in the fire. Has God promised you something? What fires are trying to harm you? It may not be trust issues, addictions, financial issues, emotional hurdles, or even health problems. Don’t let these things steal your peace and rob you of your joy. Jeremiah 20:11 says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Trust Him! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

“8 Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.

9 They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever.

10 Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image:

11 And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

13 Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.

14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?

15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.

17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.

18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

19 Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

20 And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

21 Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

22 Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.

25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire.

27 And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.

28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.

29 Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon.”

~ Daniel 3:8-30

He Prunes Us

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The snow crunched beneath my feet with each step. The fresh snow from the two days before had frozen solid. The sun was just coming up over the mountain and glistened beautifully against the frozen white layer that was still covering everything. As I walked April my back was to the sun, but I felt it growing brighter and brighter until I turned around to see it’s shining glow spraying out over the mountain. It’s beautiful Poppa!

The storm had passed and it wouldn’t take long for the bright sun to melt away the pretty snow. I started thinking about my post yesterday. The snowy frozen grounds kill off the the harmful things. The storm passes, the grounds thaw and that snow turns to the water that is essential for life. The ground absorbs that water and makes it fertile for new life to spring up. It’s the same way for us! When that storm hits, the frozen ground that you think has you trapped, is killing off the toxic things in your life. When you give it to God, He’s with you through the storm and when the grounds thaw and melt, His water flows through you and around you. He’s making it fertile for your growth. You start to see new fruit sprout from within you.

When you draw close to Him through His Word and prayer, when you seek Him, He starts to prune and weed out the things that will hurt your growth. The process isn’t easy, but it’s done in love. Sometimes these storms purge and help that process. When you find yourself in them, seek God. He will not only help you through it, but you will be amazed at the changes in you once the storm passes. Then His beautiful sun will come out and you will be left with a testimony that draws others to Him. That is amazing process done out if love! John 15:1-2, “1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

Why Do You Weep?

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Daughter, why do you weep? Get up from this bed, wash off your tears of weariness.  Have I not promised you, why do you worry so?  About that time the messenger alert went off on my phone, it was my prayer partner and sister. Talk about God’s timing, always perfect.  Within minutes, I was smiling through the tears.  Sometimes you just need reminded who you are in Christ and she did just that!  I am truly blessed that God has placed her in my circle.

These are difficult times we live in and you have to guard your mind. The devil is out to destroy anyone that is a vessel for God. His destiny has been cast and he is set on dragging as many souls to hell with him as he can. If he can’t take you there, he will do the next best thing. What’s that? Destroy your testimony so that you can’t draw people away from his darkness into God’s light. The higher your calling, the more intense the attacks. You have to stay prayed up and in God’s word because the devil is out to devour you. 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

I have an incredibly soft heart, some may say it’s too soft. I fully admit to being a crybaby. Commercials, movies, it’s insane.  With the soft heart, comes feelings that are easy to tread on. I guess this heart of mine is my weakness and my strength.  I’ve ask God about this so many times and He says, I have His heart.  I’m made completely in my Poppa’s image, how can you not smile at that?! Unfortunately, the devil also knows how to manipulate the strings on my heart and this is where I must be wiser and grow in the Lord. I’m so thankful to have a Heavenly Father who said get up! Hebrews 12:6, “ For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” But He didn’t stop there, He went on to remind me of His promises to me.  My awesome Father didn’t want me worrying about something He has control of, wash off your tears He said. 

The weariness was not something I needed to carry.  What are you carrying that should be left in your Father’s hands?  When He says to trust Him, there is no other person in this world you can trust more.  When He says not to worry and those thoughts come up, cast them out. He takes care of the fowls in the air and the lilies on the ground, He can handle whatever you and I face.  Sometimes we just have to get out of the way and let Him! Matthew 6:26-29, “26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

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You Are Not Alone

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Abandoned, rejected, left completely alone. I guess that’s probably one of my greatest fears. Some would say this stems from my daddy dying when I was three months old. Unfortunately it is a fear I’ve never really overcame and was only solidified in every adult relationship I’ve had. Most know my last relationship was extremely toxic and he played on this fear very well. The Lord is working on repairing this in me, thankfully He will never leave me and always hold me close. Those old wounds were once again opened this week and this old soft heart has really been in turmoil. I have cried out to Him and cried and cried. I don’t know how many of you face this particular struggle, but it can be overwhelming. There have been times this week that I thought this storm was going to overtake me.

Then right in the midst of it, God would show up and pull me under His wings. At times it would be a whisper asking why I weep, reminding me He was in control and to trust Him. Other times I would wake to encouraging post or songs from friends directly to me! He has blessed me with a prayer partner that understands, I mean really understands where I am. He flooded my timeline with post that spoke directly into my situation. He has put people in my circle to encourage and lift me so that I keep working on me and the destiny God has for me. Only my God can do these things. This wasn’t an easy week, the tears are still falling as I write this, but it was necessary for me to grow and maybe to encourage someone else going through it or something similar. You are NEVER alone, I want you to know this.

Do you feel like the storms are about to overtake you? Perhaps they are purging you in preparation for better days. Is snow falling at a steady pace? The frozen ground kills off the toxic things in your life in anticipation of the best that is yet to come. Do you feel like the snow is flying from every direction? The clouds may fill the sky, but the Son is still in heaven and your rainbow is promised in the end. Keep pressing, keep believing. We are in this together! 💛 ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

The Journey Begins

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Thanks for joining me!

Life can be tough all on its own.  When you add depression, abusive relaltionships, addictictions, whatever you are facing, it’s important to know you are not alone.  Each of us have our Goliath to conquer and our mountain to climb, let’s to it together! ~ Chelle, #f8ithgal

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