Endurance of Faith for the Journey

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” 

- Matthew 14:27-31, NIV

My love language predominantly revolves around acts of service, especially when it comes to maintaining a welcoming environment within my home, including a clean yard and garage. The feeling of walking into a sparklingly clean house fills me with an overwhelming sense of energy and joy, empowering me to face any challenges that life may throw my way. However, I cannot help but recall a series of instances where my husband, displaying a heartfelt gesture, took it upon himself to clean either the garage or the kitchen for me, only to have his efforts met with criticism due to overlooked areas or failure to meet my cleaning standards. Reflecting upon this, I find myself questioning why I would respond in such a manner. It is evident that my husband embarked on these cleaning endeavors with an inherent belief that he could replenish my emotional well-being; yet, unfortunately, my appreciation for his actions fell short. Over the course of our three-decade marriage, I have undergone an embarrassing realization regarding the inadequacy of my words when it comes to expressing my genuine appreciation. As time has passed, I have come to understand the magnitude of my husband's disappointment, lingering within his heart as he courageously stepped forward in faith, seeking to replenish my love tank and to speak love into my heart. 

This brings to mind the story of Peter, a figure known for his audacious act of stepping out of the boat and placing unwavering trust in Jesus. In his courageous stride, Peter was hopeful for a response filled with deep affirmation and encouragement. Nevertheless, he encountered a rebuke from Jesus, who admonished him for his lack of faith. This particular situation makes me think of my reactions to the endeavors of my beloved husband as he goes above and beyond to please me and ignite a sense of joy within my heart through his cleaning efforts. In these heartfelt actions, he anticipates a specific reaction from me - one brimming with resounding approval and appreciation. Walking on water and cleaning a house are definitely different acts of faith on many levels, but the emotions they evoke in me are surprisingly similar. Reflecting on Peter's experience, I can only imagine how he must have felt when he did not receive approval from someone he was trying to please.

When Peter first mustered the courage to step out of the boat, he did so with an unwavering gaze fixed upon Jesus. This bold and audacious act of faith enabled Peter to actually walk on water, defying the furious winds and tumultuous waves that fiercely enveloped him. It was a stormy sea, yet Peter fearlessly ventured into the heart of it, determined to reach his Lord. God has a way of summoning us to undertake seemingly impossible tasks, whether it be navigating the treacherous path of grief, a new job, financial uncertainty or embarking on a new and uncharted journey. . . or even trying to please your spouse. Yet, it is in those moments when our focus should remain firmly tethered to the Lord, so we can find our footing and our steps in unwavering stability.

Sometimes, in the midst of walking on these new paths filled with uncertainties, we may find ourselves filled with fear and anxiety. It is in these moments that we need not despair, for Jesus extends his hand to lift us up from the depths. Unknown journeys, with its torrential waves, can sometimes overpower us, causing us to sink into the depths of fear and anxiety. Similarly, the fear of failure that accompanies uncharted paths can overwhelm us, leading us to sink into the abyss of perfectionism. However, when we redirect our gaze towards Jesus and anchor our focus upon him, he empowers us to stride through the raging winds and crashing waves. With every surmounting wave, our trust in Him blossoms and flourishes. Indeed, it is a choice we must make every day - to fix our eyes unwaveringly upon him. However, it is crucial for us to be cognizant of God's timing in our situations. Indeed, God's timing typically diverges from our own personal timelines. Inevitably, we tend to succumb to feelings of despair and disillusionment when our circumstances remain unaltered within the confines of our preferred schedule. Consequently, our faith dwindles and becomes feeble, lacking the strength and conviction it once possessed.. . having little faith in our lengthy struggles. 

Little faith is a state that goes beyond a mere deficiency in belief; it is a complex interplay of doubt and the unyielding passage of time. In the dictionary, one can discover an array of meanings associated with the word "little". Among these, it is worth noting that one can find a definition that pertains specifically to something being short in duration and instances where something is characterized by its concise and fleeting nature. It can be helpful when studying Peter and reading the bible to gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of the words, such as "little", and the various contexts in which it can be applied. In the case of Peter, his initial display of faith was unmistakable when he took that first courageous step out of the safety of the boat. However, as the circumstances surrounding him persisted for a longer duration than anticipated, the waves of doubt subtly infiltrated his mind, diverting his attention away from Jesus. It was an accidental shift, yet its consequence was profound. Peter's faith began to falter and waver, revealing his fragile human nature. His momentary faith proved to be short-lived, and in this fleeting vulnerability, we caught a glimpse of the little, short-lived, faith within him. This brief encounter between Peter and Jesus encapsulates the intricate dance between belief and uncertainty, shedding light on the delicate waves we all fight in moments of trial and tribulation.

Life’s journey is about endurance. .  I find it quite intriguing to reflect upon my own journey as a wife. After being married for three decades, one would assume that I have already mastered the art of being a spouse who chooses her words and actions with care. However, the truth is that I am still on a continuous quest to discover the delicate balance between maintaining high standards without falling into the trap of perfectionism, especially when it comes to my husband. It is truly a blessing that my husband has not allowed my occasional lack of appreciation to diminish his faith in our relationship or our marriage. His unwavering commitment to us is a testament to the strength and resilience required to endure the ups and downs that inevitably arise throughout life's journey. In order to navigate these challenges, it is crucial that both of us remain steadfast and resolute. We must keep our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus, drawing from His wisdom and guidance to prevent weariness from seeping into our hearts over time. For it is through this steadfast devotion to our shared values and beliefs that we can press forward, knowing that our love and commitment will withstand any trials that we encounter along the way. 

What circumstances have you been grappling with for a longer duration than you desire? Are you noticing a gradual diminishment in the strength of your faith? Have you encountered a situation where you mustered the courage to step out in faith, only to face criticism? When you find yourself facing discouragement due to the prolonged nature of your struggles or the seeming absence of answers to your prayers, do you persist in praying without ceasing? When you encounter disappointment from others, do you retreat into isolation or allow yourself to become disheartened in your endeavors?

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” - Jeremiah 29:11-14, NIV

Jesus, our ever-present companion, stands alongside us through every season of life. In the unending journey of faith, it is vital to maintain a continuous conversation with Him through prayer. Trust that God will respond at the most opportune moment, aligning His answers perfectly with your purpose on this earthly plane. Rest assured that God, the master orchestrator, has meticulously devised a plan for your ultimate good and the manifestation of His magnificent glory! Even if circumstances render you seemingly disappointed and isolated, remember the powerful words from Jeremiah 29:11-14, which need to resonate deeply within our souls. Take joy in the fact that this very moment is the ideal time to fervently pray and diligently seek God for the answers you are seeking. Embrace this season of prayer as a profound opportunity to draw closer to God, finding solace, guidance, and profound insight along the way. 

“Rejoice always,  pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Do not allow yourself to be discouraged by the prolonged period of exile, but instead find solace and strength in embracing the hardships that accompany it. In fact, let these adversities become sources of great joy, for they provide valuable opportunities to deepen your faith and nurture a closer relationship with God. By actively engaging with the challenges posed by exile, you can seize the chance to develop a more profound understanding of yourself and your spirituality. Embrace the transformative power of suffering, knowing that it has the potential to cultivate resilience, wisdom, and a profound sense of connection with Your Creator. 

“Not only so, but we[a] also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” -  Romans 5:3-5, NIV

Our Fairy Tale World: Society's Moral Compass on this Side of Heaven

As you read this book, you'll immerse yourself in a collection of devotionals designed to nurture and expand your heart and mind. It begins with a thought-provoking devotional that leads to a deep dive into revelations about fairy tales. Explore the realm of Little Red Riding Hood, uncovering evidence of how our moral compass has evolved. Through this fairy tale, I shed light on shifting values and their impact on society. Within these pages, discover my imaginative retelling of a classic, offering a contemporary perspective. I provide moral lessons for meaningful family discussions. Afterwards, we return to devotionals, guiding us to engage with God's Word.

Visit me on Facebook at Faithfully Unashamed 

for more inspiration. 

 

Birthday Celebration Devotional . . . Everyday We Should Celebrate Our New Life In Christ

So he gave us new life because of what Christ has done. He gave us life even when we were dead in sin. God’s grace has saved you. Ephesians 2:5

Birthdays hold immense significance in our lives, as they tap into a multitude of emotions and carry profound symbolic meaning. In our formative years, the anticipation leading up to our birthdays is tinged with an unparalleled excitement and an unrestrained eagerness. The mere thought of growing another year older fills our hearts with joy, granting us the opportunity to revel in this extraordinary milestone by throwing lavish birthday parties and relishing the delightful company of our cherished friends. Nevertheless, as time effortlessly slips through our fingers, our perspective on birthdays invariably undergoes a transformative shift. The once effervescent enthusiasm we once felt gradually wanes as we mature, causing us to shift our attention away from the external aspects of aging that we used to perceive with unbridled exuberance. It seems as though our bodies, ever so slowly metamorphosing, serve as constant reminders of the passage of time and the profound changes that accompany it.

When we reflect on the experience of our new birth in Christ, it becomes apparent that it is a truly remarkable and awe-inspiring event. Our spiritual birthdays, in many ways, should hold the same significance and value to us as our physical birthdays. While some of us may not have the precise memory or knowledge of the exact date of our spiritual birth, we often have a general idea or approximation. However, it is important to note that the specific date is not of primary importance; rather, it is the sheer excitement and joy of having Christ as our Savior for yet another year that truly matters. As we journey through the passage of time in our walk with Christ, there is no cause for apprehension or anxiety regarding our growing age in Him. On the contrary, our relationship with Christ only deepens and grows richer as life unfolds before us. This is not to suggest that we will be exempt from the trials and tribulations of life. Yet, through His infinite grace and boundless love, Christ equips us with the strength and perseverance necessary to navigate these challenges as we progress in years. One cannot help but marvel at the undeniable thrill of knowing that with each passing day, we draw nearer to the eternal joy of being united with Christ in heaven. The anticipation of this incomparable union intensifies as we age, filling our hearts with ever-increasing delight and wonder. It is truly a remarkable blessing that accompanies the process of maturing in Christ. As we contemplate all that Christ graciously bestows upon us when we embrace Him as our Lord and Savior, an overwhelming sense of gratitude and adoration envelops our souls. The depth of His love, the magnitude of His forgiveness, and the richness of His presence are immeasurable gifts that we receive upon becoming His cherished children. Let us, therefore, celebrate and rejoice in the abundance of blessings that accompany our spiritual journey with Christ.

Birthday Gift – Christ gives us the incomparable gift of eternal life through His divine grace. This profound gift, given with boundless love and compassion, encompasses salvation, forgiveness, and the promise of an everlasting union with Him. It is a gift that transcends the boundaries of time and space, shaping our present existence and guiding our future aspirations. Within this gift resides the transformative power to reconcile our sins and renew our spirits, enabling us to embrace a life with purpose, meaning, and divine fulfillment. Christ's birthday gift, symbolic of His selfless sacrifice on the cross, serves as a testament to His unwavering devotion and desire to grant humanity the ultimate blessing of eternal communion with Him. As we celebrate this sacred occasion, let us pause and reflect upon the magnitude of this extraordinary gift, cherishing the eternal hope it brings and embracing the profound significance it holds in our lives. Through Christ's gift of eternal life, we are invited to partake in His divine love, bask in His endless mercy, and find solace in His eternal presence, both in this earthly realm and beyond. May this precious gift forever serve as a constant reminder of our unwavering faith and the immeasurable depth of Christ's love for all of humanity.

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Birthday Balloons – Christ grants us the Holy Spirit to enrich our lives. Symbolized by a birthday balloon, the Holy Spirit is a divine presence that empowers and uplifts us in profound ways. As we celebrate the miraculous gift of life, we acknowledge that Jesus Christ himself bestows the Holy Spirit upon us, with the purpose of guiding and comforting us on our spiritual journey. Similar to a balloon signifying freedom and joy, the Holy Spirit fills our hearts with a sense of liberation and gladness. The Holy Spirit serves as a constant companion, ever by our side, ready to provide divine inspiration and wisdom. This force propels us forward, enabling us to overcome earthly challenges and obstacles with renewed strength and resilience. The guidance of the Holy Spirit extends beyond a singular day or moment, permeating every aspect of our lives as an ongoing process. The influence is felt in moments of joy and celebration, as well as in times of uncertainty and despair. Like a gentle breeze caressing a balloon, the Holy Spirit offers solace and comfort, enveloping us in its compassionate embrace. In addition to uplifting and comforting us, the Holy Spirit also grants us a sense of influence and embracing the transformative power it brings to our lives.

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us,by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Titus 3:5

How be it when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine,and shall shew it unto you.

John 16:13,14

Party Plate and Cup – Christ generously offers us His word, a magnificent feast for our minds and souls, replete with precise instructions on how to navigate the labyrinth of existence and fully embrace the gift of life. Just as we are invited to partake in a grand banquet, where each delicacy tantalizes our taste buds and satisfies our physical cravings, so too are we called to immerse ourselves in the divine teachings bestowed upon us by Christ. These spiritual delicacies not only nourish our innermost being but also provide invaluable insights, guiding us towards righteousness, love, and eternal fulfillment. The metaphorical palette before us is not to be underestimated, as it encapsulates the transformative power inherent in the teachings of Christ. Just as a beautifully arranged party plate and an enticing cup captivate our physical appetites, His word serves to nourish and satisfy our spiritual hunger. Through this abundant feast of knowledge and understanding, we are equipped to live purposeful lives, guided by wisdom and fortified by unwavering faith, actively embracing the virtues championed by Christ Himself. In essence, the party plate and cup embody more than mere food and drink for our bodies; they represent the nourishment required to sustain our souls. This divine toolkit, graciously imparted to us through Christ's boundless grace and love, holds the key to unlocking the full potential of our existence. It is within this sacred feast that we find the coveted secrets, enabling us to harmoniously align ourselves with God's divine plan, allowing us to flourish in every aspect of our being.

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. 1 Peter 2:2

Birthday Party Hat – In the realm of Christ's abundant and inclusive family, each individual is granted an intricately crafted hat that not only serves as a symbolic adornment, but also signifies their unique role within this collective. As we delve deeper into the spiritual journey, we discover that these hats are not merely ornamental, but rather, they serve a purpose in fostering a sense of belonging and kinship among members. Additionally, as partakers of this divine community, we are bestowed with an array of talents and gifts tailored to our individual abilities and propensities, affording us opportunities to actively contribute and play a significant role in shaping the Body of Christ. These talents and gifts, like finely woven threads, seamlessly intertwine and harmonize to create a vibrant tapestry, further illuminating the unity and collective strength that emerges from our shared faith. Thus, through the multifaceted symbolism of the birthday party hat, we are reminded of both our unique place within the family of Christ and the imperative nature of utilizing our bestowed talents and gifts for the betterment of the whole.

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the self same Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, andhath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.1 Corinthians 12:7-14

Streamers and Cans of Silly String - The vibrant and playful world of streamers and cans of Silly String serves as a vivid metaphor for the transformative power of Christ in our lives. When we embrace the teachings of Christ, our existence is imbued with meaning, purpose, and a newfound sense of vitality. The excitement and wonder that accompany our new life in Him cannot be overstated. It is through this rebirth that we are granted a promising future, full of hope and possibilities. Indeed, by accepting Christ, we embark on a journey of spiritual growth and everlasting fulfillment.

…I come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us,that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:1,2

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. 1 Peter 1:3,4

Goody Bag - In our journey with Christ, we are blessed with a collection of precious promises, akin to delightful goodies that we have the privilege of carrying with us not just from a joyous party, but throughout every facet of our lives. These promises stand as remarkable benefits that come alongside our newfound life in Christ, serving as constant reminders of His endless grace and unfailing love for us. Such a goody bag of promises graciously bestowed upon us ensures that we are constantly equipped with encouragement, hope, and assurance, allowing us to navigate the various challenges and triumphs that we encounter along our spiritual path. Truly, it is through embracing these precious promises that we are able to fully immerse ourselves in the richness and fulfillment that comes from having a personal relationship with Christ.

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 2 Peter 1:4

Party Horn – Christ brings us news worth sharing! We cannot contain this newfound life in Him. It is our calling to spread the good news far and wide, like a joyous melody that resonates in the hearts of all who encounter it. As believers, we have been entrusted with a divine message, one that has the power to transform lives and bring hope to the weary soul. It is our sacred duty to proclaim this message with passion, conviction, and unwavering faith. Just as a party horn unleashes a burst of exuberance and celebration, so too should our testimonies of Christ's love and redemption resound with an irresistible magnetism, drawing others into the embrace of God's grace. Our words and actions should harmonize to form a symphony of compassion, kindness, and truth, in which the melody of the gospel lingers long after it has been shared. When we speak of Christ's redemptive work, let our voices be filled with the warmth and vibrancy of a thousand sunsets, illuminating the darkness of the world with rays of hope and salvation. Let our every encounter become an opportunity to unveil the extraordinary story of how Christ's love has transformed our lives, infusing them with purpose, meaning, and boundless joy. For when we truly comprehend the profound impact that Christ's sacrifice has had on our existence, we cannot help but share this profound revelation with others. So let us seize every moment, wielding our words and actions like instruments of love, for in doing so, we become agents of divine transformation, igniting sparks of faith in even the most hardened hearts. Together, let us make our lives a testament to the wondrous news of Christ, not by selfishly hoarding it within the confines of our hearts, but by joyfully heralding it to all who will listen. The world awaits the symphony of salvation, and it is our privilege and responsibility to play our part, ensuring that the melody of God's love reaches the farthest corners of the earth. So let the party horn blast forth its triumphant noise, announcing the arrival of Christ's kingdom, and beckoning all to join in the eternal celebration of grace.

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15

The wise words of Abraham Lincoln continue to reverberate through time, as he astutely remarked, "And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." This insight resonates deeply within our souls, prompting us to pause and reflect on its undeniable truth. As followers of the Christian faith, we are blessed with the gift of a renewed existence in Christ, a transformative experience that bestows upon us immeasurable possibilities. Yet, in the midst of this abundant new life, it becomes imperative for us to question and examine our actions. How do we choose to utilize this incredible opportunity? Are we actively striving to live in a manner that is pleasing to the Lord, mindful of the responsibility that comes with being a part of His divine family? These introspective inquiries serve as a reminder of the significance and purpose infused within us, compelling us to navigate our earthly journey with the utmost care and intentionality.

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:24

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

Our birthdays in the Lord are truly extraordinary moments that hold deep significance. In these moments, we come to realize the immense love that He has for each and every one of us. It brings us immeasurable joy to be part of His divine family, knowing that we are cherished and chosen by Him. As a result, our lives should radiate this profound truth - that we are indeed His beloved children. It becomes crucial for us to grasp the magnitude of this reality and make conscious efforts to live in accordance with it. We are called to contribute to a greater purpose and to make our lives count for Him. It is not enough to merely recognize and appreciate His love; rather, we must actively demonstrate it through our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. By doing so, we embody the essence of our new life in Christ. So, as we commemorate the anniversary of our spiritual rebirth, let us reflect upon the ways in which we can honor and glorify God. Let our celebrations of our new life in Christ be a testimony of our gratitude and commitment to live as His faithful disciples. May our hearts be filled with boundless joy and our lives be a living testament of His abundant love.

Are you celebrating and reflecting on the transformative journey you have taken in embracing your new life in Christ?

God Has Given Us New Life Through Christ

Ephesians 2 You were living in your sins and lawless ways. But in fact you were dead. 2 You used to live as sinners when you followed the ways of this world. You served the one who rules over the spiritual forces of evil. He is the spirit who is now at work in those who don’t obey God. 3 At one time we all lived among them. Our desires were controlled by sin. We tried to satisfy what they wanted us to do. We followed our desires and thoughts. God was angry with us like he was with everyone else. That’s because of the kind of people we all were. 4 But God loves us deeply. He is full of mercy. 5 So he gave us new life because of what Christ has done. He gave us life even when we were dead in sin. God’s grace has saved you. 6 God raised us up with Christ. He has seated us with him in his heavenly kingdom. That’s because we belong to Christ Jesus. 7 He has done it to show the riches of his grace for all time to come. His grace can’t be compared with anything else. He has shown it by being kind to us. He was kind to us because of what Christ Jesus has done. 8 God’s grace has saved you because of your faith in Christ. Your salvation doesn’t come from anything you do. It is God’s gift. 9 It is not based on anything you have done. No one can brag about earning it. 10 We are God’s creation. He created us to belong to Christ Jesus. Now we can do good works. Long ago God prepared these works for us to do.