We R S.H.E.Talks

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

Isaiah Chapter 30, verses 19-21 states, 

“O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. He will be gracious if you ask for help. He will surely respond to the sound of your cries. Though the Lord gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, He will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes. Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.” 

Isaiah 30:19-21, NLT 

Devotional 

It is ultimately impossible to go through life without battle scars from life’s many lessons. And although, some difficulties are great and some small; God’s mercy, grace, and love are interwoven in those ups and downs. 

You see, when God allows certain things to happen, there’s a plan in action to make things good in the end. And there’s something to gain from the experience. And even though we don’t see the benefit of our difficulties as we come face to face with them—adversity is a part of our victory. 

When you cry out to God in prayer, the tears are heard as they are collected in a special place. And with every prayer, and each tear, there’s a message to God that says—I NEED YOU!  

God hears and God sees! You do not go unnoticed nor are you ignored.  

Beloved, when you call on Jesus, He hears you. And because JESUS is our Savior, His name has granted us the confidence to receive strength, the confidence to receive peace, and the confidence that when we trust HIM—He is still able to save.  

So lay aside your plans of how to fix life’s difficulties, and take a hold of HIS hand as Holy Spirit shows you the way. Not only will you see HIS goodness in the land of the living, but you will be a witness of HIS mercy, HIS grace, and HIS love for you. 

So go to God in prayer and take the promises in HIS Word with you. Then—be in expectation for change. 

Be still and KNOW that HE IS GOD!  He WILL answer when we call! 

Let’s Pray-- 

Father God, we come to you in the Name of Jesus. We lift up every burden, every challenge, and every difficulty in our lives to YOU. We thank you that your WORD tells us that we can come to you when we are weary, and you will give us rest.

We thank you that your Word tells us that your yoke is easy and your burden is light. We thank you that your Word promises that in ALL THINGS, YOU cause EVERY circumstance to work together for the good of those who love YOU; And Abba  Father, we LOVE YOU.

So we thank you for the promise that when the righteous cry for help, you hear us and rescue us from all our distress and troubles. So with your Word, let it be so,

Season 2 Finale Episode 

The holiday season is now among us. And 2020 is quickly coming to an end. Of course, it is always good to do some reflection before entering a new year. But what does it mean to let it go and receive God's best? Well, I'm glad you asked. You see, it is always good to take some time for reflection. 

So, before 2021 comes in, take a moment, and think about your life. When you see or hear the phrase 'Let It Go,' what comes to mind? Are there any mistakes or bad decisions you regret? Not only that, but have you found yourself unable to move forward because of them? 

Besides that, are there people who tend to always seem to remember those errors of judgment you would like to forget? Well, whether others refuse to let go of your past missteps -- it is time for you to let it go and get ready to receive God’s best. 

Your mistakes don't define you 

It is possible for someone to learn from his mistakes and then live an honorable life. Now of course, I am referring to a life that honors God. And a perfect example is Saul of Tarsus in Acts 9:1-22 New Living Translation. Saul's sole mission was to arrest or kill anyone who chose to follow Christ Jesus.  

But on the road to Damascus he had an encounter with Jesus that forever changed the course of his life. Even though he changed his past behavior--his reputation preceded him. Thus, Christians were very much afraid of Saul. 

Saul later changed his name to Paul. And he preached the gospel of Jesus Christ to the gentiles [none-Jewish people]. In fact, he wrote much of the New Testament. You see, God used the Apostle Paul mightily despite his past. 

You can't move forward looking backwards 

‘

Philippians 3:13-14 New King James Version says, 

13 “...but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” 

I personally love how The Message Translations says it. 

Philippians 3:12-14, “I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” 

Listen to me, God wants His children to have His best in every area of life. How do I know that? Well, Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified Bible says, “For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” This is one of God’s many promises to His children because He cares about what matters to us. 

Following this further, 

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

The LORD said: “Forget what happened long ago! Don’t think about the past. I am creating something new. There it is! Do you see it? I have put roads in deserts, streams in thirsty lands.” 

Isaiah 43:18-19, CEV 

Devotional 

We all have a past. And past mistakes and bad decisions can hold us captive. And much like the children of Israel, those former things tag along for the ride as we travel into what’s next. So, it can keep us going in circles. 

In fact, it’s those mistakes of the past that can hinder us from seeing what lies ahead—something new. 

Thus, God wants us to forget past mistakes, and look to those new mercies which are available each morning. And not only that, He is working on something new.  

For that reason, we must let go of the chains that have bound us to our failures. Our failures do not dictate who we are, but they can keep us from seeing what God is doing. 

God is making a way where it seems there is no way. And God is providing when it looks like there’s lack. 

Open your eyes! 

A job lost—means you’re free for God to position you somewhere better where you will prosper. 

A failed relationship—means God can order the steps of the “right” one to grace your path. 

As well as, a relocation of where you live—mean God can upgrade you to something better. It’s all in how you view what’s ahead. But you can’t see what’s ahead while rehearsing what’s behind. Open your eyes! God is doing something new! 

Beloved, whatever you’ve faced in life that has kept you bound, let it go and let God give you His best.  God’s best is always perfectly prepared for success. The works of His hands are a masterpiece.  

And, GOD has done things that have never been done before! He makes all things new! 

Have faith in God! Only Jesus IS LORD!  

Grace and Peace to you! 

Lady V 

Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast 

Use web player above blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform. 

More devotionals you may like    

Set Free for a New Start    

JESUS is the Faithful Love   

Rest in the Secret Place of GOD 

Check out these links   

spreadinghopeeverywheretalks.com   

Gone is life as the world knew it   

When New Year's Day 2020 came in, the resolutions began and planners made their plans for the year. Some people already had dates in 2020 scheduled well before 2019 came to an end. Most people in America had no idea that in March 2020 everything would come to a screeching halt. Because COVID-19 changed life as the world knew it. So, with all that is happening daily, there are those who are searching for peace in stressful times.  

Sadly, many people have lost their lives and others have lost loved ones to the coronavirus. In May of 2020, The Harvard Gazette published the article, ‘The lesson is to never forget,’ by Liz Mineo. And in it, Olga Jonas, a senior fellow at the Harvard Global Health Institute, compares COVID-19 to the deadly influenza pandemic of 1918.  

A new normal 

Now, generally speaking, one's daily responsibilities can cause a great deal of stress. For many, that is their norm. But there is a new normal. And the change is harder on some than it is on others. Thus, in the wake of COVID-19, stress is at an all-time high. 

No doubt, the quarantine, and loss of jobs have some people worried about the future. Because they can't pay their rent/mortgage or any other bills they may have. Moreover, some can't provide their families with the essentials for daily living. And let's not forget the parents who now find themselves homeschooling their kids. And this, as some parents are also working from home. 

Searching for peace 

To have peace in the midst of stressful situations can make all the difference in how one handles them. According to Dictionary.com, peace is freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, or anxiety. In particular, everyone knows someone who seems ‘at peace’ no matter what's going on around them. But how is that even possible, smack dab in the middle of chaos? Well, let's see what the Holy Bible has to say about that. 

Peace that transcends human understanding  

Isaiah 26:3 Amplified Bible says, 

“You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both [inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]." 

In other words, when life overwhelms you, first pray--ask God for His help. Next, listen for His directions. And last but not least, read His word as written in the Holy Bible. I am a witness, if you ask, He will give you His perfect peace. But know this, His peace only comes through Jesus Christ. In fact, it is, a peace that transcends human understanding.  

Jesus explained peace to His disciples.

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” 

Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) 

Devotional 

People long for peace. Yet, anxiety and stress can steal one’s peace of mind with overwhelming success. So how do we deal with troublesome times? 

When we look to Jesus, THE WORD, we are reminded of how He always turned to Father God in prayer. His prayer life was constant, and His trust in God never wavered.  

Even though, Jesus had a moment where the stress became so overwhelming that His sweat was like great drops of blood; His response to that troublesome time was—Father not my will, but YOUR will be done (see Luke 22:39-46). In other words—God have your way. 

Thus, the Peace of God that surpasses explanation comes when we turn our focus to God. 

In a like manner, the Apostle Paul redirected his focus in stressful situations. He knew the only way he could keep peace in his heart and praise in his mouth was by staying focused on Jesus. 

The Peace of God came by believing in Jesus, and His bountiful grace. Paul had to remain planted in the truth of God’s Word. This is why Paul could be content when everything around him seemed in utter disarray. 

Likewise, as believers, we are like trees planted in the richest soil of God’s Word. It is a never-ending supply of what we need. We don’t have to worry because our lives are in the hands of the Almighty and All Powerful God! 

He’s the Greatest God of ALL Time and Eternity.  

And—it’s in God’s Will that in stressful times we can have the Peace of God that comforts our hearts and minds.  

So Beloved, keep your focus on the Prince of Peace. Take rest in Jesus and bathe in the PEACE of His presence. Pray and let the Holy Spirit guide your day as you watch God direct your time.  

It’s a new day dawning! Glory to God! 

Have faith in God! 

JESUS IS LORD! 

Grace and Peace to you! 

Lady V 

Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast 

Use web player above blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform. 

More devotionals you may like    

Set Free for a New Start    

JESUS is the Faithful Love   

One can't even begin to discuss a safe place to lay your heart without first discussing trust. Trust plays an essential role in our decision making. According to Dictionary.com trust means to rely on the integrity of a person or thing. For instance, have you ever given anyone the benefit of the doubt? Of course, we all have. And did you later regret it? Yep, been there too.

Well, according to Dr. Phil, we owe no one the benefit of the doubt. He said humans are the only species to sense danger and run headfirst into it. That includes various aspects of life. But, all other species trust their instincts and run in the opposite direction of danger. In other words, as humans, some of us trust too easily when we must be mindful in whom we place our trust at all times. 

Follow your heart 

People of a certain age have heard the saying, "Follow your heart." But when they followed their hearts, they found themselves disappointed and betrayed. And, when one's trust is betrayed, it can leave a lasting effect. Especially if several people have betrayed that trust. In fact, betrayal of trust causes a person to view life through the lens of mistrust. Without a doubt that also includes personal relationships. 

Broken trust and heartbreak 

So, this is why we all need a safe place to lay our hearts. Because as a part of the human experience most people have or will encounter a heartbreak of some kind. Most likely at the hands of someone they trust. Sadly, that broken trust and heartbreak changes the trajectory of some lives for the bad. In particular, one can become overtaken by feelings of depression and low self-esteem. And that emotional damage, if not handled properly, can set one on a path of utter destruction. 

That’s why Proverbs 4:23 The Passion Translation says, "So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life." 

Who can you trust? 

The Holy Bible tells us in whom we should trust. Proverbs 3:5 The Passion Translation says, “Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make.” Psalm 62:8 The Passion Translation says this, “Join me, everyone! Trust only in God every moment! Tell him all your troubles and pour out your heart-longings to him. Believe me when I tell you—he will help you!” Moreover, Jesus is a safe place to lay your heart. 

JESUS – a safe place to lay your heart  

You may be skeptical about even trusting Jesus. But believe it or not, there is one thing that is sure, Jesus is the only man who never lied. Thus, He is the ultimate picture of trustworthiness. When you place your heart in the hands of Jesus and trust His Holy Spirit to guide your decisions--you can't go wrong. He heals the broken-hearted and leads you in the best direction for your life. 

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

“Jesus went across to Mount Olives, but he was soon back in the Temple again. Swarms of people came to him. He sat down and taught them.” 

“The religion scholars and Pharisees led in a woman who had been caught in an act of adultery. They stood her in plain sight of everyone and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught red-handed in the act of adultery. Moses, in the Law, gives orders to stone such persons. What do you say?” 

They were trying to trap him into saying something incriminating so they could bring charges against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger in the dirt. They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, “The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone.”  

“Bending down again, he wrote some more in the dirt. Hearing that, they walked away, one after another, beginning with the oldest. The woman was left alone. Jesus stood up and spoke to her.” 

“Woman, where are they?” Does no one condemn you?”  

“No one, Master.” “Neither do I,” said Jesus. “Go on your way. From now on, don’t sin.”  

John 8:1-11, (MSG) 

Devotional 

You ever got caught doing something you shouldn’t have? Yep, we all have. But when you’re caught in front of a live audience—it’s embarrassing!  

Much like the adulterous woman we’ve all had and/or have hidden secret sins. And when judgmental people find out—they are ready to point fingers and put up picket signs as if they are perfect. 

The story of the adulterous woman shines a light on how we should treat others as Christians. Jesus had compassion and grace for the adulterous woman. And the Good news is the same grace is still available to all that will receive it today. 

Jesus does not condemn you yet; He doesn’t condone sinful conduct either. Jesus wants to deliver you from those old desires that tend to lead you down a dark road of sin.  

Beloved, Jesus doesn’t want you to get stuck on a mistake, and stay trapped in the land of regret and shame. If you’ve fallen—you can get back up again. There are new mercies awaiting you every morning. 

Jesus is the God of another chance. Put your heart in the hands of GRACE. Have faith in Jesus! 

Jesus Is LORD! 

Grace and Peace to you! 

Lady V 

Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast 

Use web player above blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform. 

More devotionals you may like    

Set Free for a New Start    

JESUS is the Faithful Love   

Have you ever thought about where you will spend eternity? Of course, there are those who do not believe there is life after death. They deny the concept of one going to either heaven or hell at the moment of death. And you know what—that’s their right to do so. But to those of you who are the least bit curious, this podcast episode is for you because—eternity awaits.  

Eternal life  

Generally speaking, there are three main religions that believe in eternal life. And those religions are Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. When looking at it from a Christian perspective, the Holy Bible is very clear about eternal life. John 17:3 Modern English Version says, "This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent."

And John 3:16 Modern English Version says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” 

The rich man and the poor man 

Again, as mentioned earlier, there are those who do not believe in the existence of heaven and hell. Well, the Bible is also clear about that. And it paints a vivid picture through the following scriptural text. Luke 16:19-31 English Standard Version, 19 “There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 

20 And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. 

22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 

24 And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. 

26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ 27 And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house— 28 for I have five brothers—so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’  

29 But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’” 

So, believe it or not, eternity does await.

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise.”  

“The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.” 

“At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ 

“‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.” 

“Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ 

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” 

Matthew 25:1-13, NIV 

Devotional 

For the wise, preparation is an essential ingredient in all areas of life. For the ‘Kingdom of God’, it’s essential for—eternity.  

A relationship with God is spiritual preparedness that will ready us for life after this one. When Jesus returns for His people, our time spent in God’s Word and in His presence will have made all the difference.  

And like the story of the ten virgins, only the five, prepared, wise girls—reaped the benefits. The wise took His return seriously. 

Meanwhile, the foolish five were preoccupied with other things.  For the foolish—HE was not a priority. 

Another way to look at it… 

When you’re looking for Jesus to return, not only do you want to be ready, but spiritually prepared. His arrival is not something you take for granted. 

Spiritual preparation is learning His voice, His Word, and His ways, so we are not led astray by wolves in sheep’s clothing claiming to be HIM.  

After all, His sheep know His voice.  

The sheep cannot recognize who to follow, without time spent with, the ‘Good Shepherd’. When you‘re focused on Jesus, and His Word, wisdom imparts in you for the right time, and the right season. Then you will be ready. 

Without a doubt, it is in our spiritual relationship with God, Jesus, and His Holy Spirit that awakens us to hear the call—He’s here!  

So, don’t be like the foolish five, that didn’t seem to believe He was coming. If they had, they would have prepared for His arrival.  

The Bridegroom, Jesus, knows the ones that are waiting for Him.

To begin with, I pose this question. Have you ever wondered what people say about you when you're not around? Generally speaking, most people have heard the saying, “I wish I could have been a fly on the wall.” Of course, only long enough to see and hear how people feel about you. So, who do people say you are? Are their perceptions of you formed from a personal relationship with you? Or are they formed based on the opinions of others whether true or false? 

First-hand experience 

In the Holy Bible, we find a perfect example of the question "But who do you say I Am?" Jesus asked His disciples that question. 

Luke 9:20 New English Translation, reads like so,  

"18 Once when Jesus was praying by himself, and his disciples were nearby, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" 19 They answered, "John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others that one of the prophets of long ago has risen." 20 Then he said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "The Christ of God." 

You see, the disciples walked with Jesus. Therefore, they had first-hand experience of His character. 

The opinions of others 

For instance, people with best friends would know if someone was misrepresenting them. Why would that be the case? Well, the opinions of others would not change what one knows to be true about a best-friend. Because most people are close enough with a best-friend to know his or her character. So, if someone was to say something false about their best-friend one would know if the statement was true or not.  

Now of course there are exceptions to that, especially if the best friend is leading a double life. They show one face to their family and friends and another face to others. But that would never apply to Jesus. Because He was and is the Son of God, the second person of The Trinity, and the Savior of the world.  

Try Jesus for yourself 

Despite what some people think and say, Jesus is awesome. A true encounter with Him will change one's life forever for the better. He is the perfect representation of God’s love for the world. John 3:16 The Passion Translation puts it like this, "For this is how much God loved the world—he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life."  

John 1:12-14 New Living Translation says, “12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. 

14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.” 

Now no matter what you've heard about Jesus Christ, don't just take the opinions of others. Moreover, please don't judge Jesus by the negative behaviors of some Christians. I implore you to try Him for yourself.  

Conclusion