We R S.H.E.Talks

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.” 

“The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” 

John 1:1-5, NLT 

Devotional 

When I was a child the darkness frightened me because I couldn’t see. I stumbled around in the dark as if I were blind. As soon as I’d find the light switch it was like I’d been saved from the creatures that lurked in the darkness. 

As I got older, I faced another kind of darkness that a simple light switch couldn’t fix for me. The darkness of evil, which lurked around every corner; racism, injustice, hatred, bondage to sinful ways.This kind of darkness can only be  overcome by ‘The Light’—Jesus. 

He is the Light of Love—the Word of God. Jesus is that LIGHT from the beginning. A beginning where everything made was created through Him. Sadly, not everyone has revelation of this yet. That is why those of us that know of Jesus must tell of His great Love and sacrifice for the world. 

John the Baptist was born to tell about this Light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John would tell about the LIGHT of the World—the true LIGHT, the long-awaited Savior of the world; the Son of God, the Creator of life and eternity.  

He is fully God and fully human. His life is the light to all humanity. His love is greater than anyone could ever put into words. But—I still try. I can describe Jesus as ‘Love’ personified. A love that gave His life for those He loved.Jesus was and is the perfect sacrifice for a sinful world.  

The truth is; I could not know how to love without first knowing Jesus who IS love. I didn’t realize how much God loved me until His Word became a part of my living, moving, and being. 

Jesus can teach you how to love. You love your neighbor as—yourself! Do you love yourself? If so, then love on others, but if not, get to know Jesus—He’ll help you with that. 

In all that Jesus embodies you learn how much God truly loves you. Then you can pass that love onto others.  

And let’s face it, the world needs love. That love is God. He is that lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Jesus —the Word. 

God’s WORD anchors you to the source of all that is good. I find Jesus when I read the Word of God. He IS the Word made human. His WORD carries power, strength, direction, peace, healing, revelation, grace, and truth.  

And you’ll see what you couldn’t see before when stumbling in darkness. For those of us that follow Him, Jesus lights our path as we walk through life and difficult times.

In general, most people agree that America has come a long way since the Civil Rights Movement. We've had a black president for goodness sakes. For that reason, many of our white brothers and sisters don't think racism exists anymore. But black people face some form of racism on a daily basis. Now, you may wonder, what does the 'heart of man' have to do with racism in America? Well, the 'heart of man,' correlates with one’s beliefs about other ethnicities and cultures. But first, let's look at the definition of racism so that we are all on the same page. 

What is racism 

According to Merriam-Webster, racism is racial prejudice or discrimination. Dictionary.com defines racism as follows. It is a policy and/or system of government. And sadly, hatred and intolerance of other races is the driving force behind racism. Therefore, a racist believes the ideology that one's own racial group is superior to others. Those definitions are  

For instance, if a man thinks he is superior to another person based on his skin color--then he is a racist. So, after seeing what racism is, self-reflection is so important. Because when most people know better, they aim to do better. But that all depends upon a person’s heart.  

I really like what the Holy Bible says about race in Acts 17:26 New King James Version. “And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,” 

The heart of man 

So then why does racism [hate and intolerance] exist? The Holy Bible well answers that question. Genesis 6:5 New International Version says, “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.”  

Mark 7:21-23 New Living Translation says, “21 For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. 23 All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.” 

Now from those two scriptures, we can see why racism is easy for some people. Hence, the title and discussion of this podcast episode; The Heart of Man—Racism in America. 

The world at a standstill revealed the truth about racism in America 

In the wake of COVID-19, the coronavirus pandemic forced the world to be still. During that time, people around the world were home on their devices. Thus, when the video of the arrest and murder of George Floyd posted, it sent shockwaves around the world. Because a racist white police officer pressed his knee in Floyd's neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. The world saw the life leave George Floyd as he and by-standers ...

Lady V’s Devotional Episode 

“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. 

May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God.” 

Philippians 1:9-11, NLT 

Devotional 

America—a land filled with many intricate doorways that lead to opportunity, and yet some are a revolving door to the past. The cries of the ‘blood of people’ murdered for the color of their skin reach heaven to GOD, the ONE, who created them. 

And as God looks at HIS creation, in which all are made out of LOVE, I imagine, HE must shake HIS head to say, “What have you done with what I have given you?” For the Breath of LIFE is given for HIS purpose, HIS plan, and HIS glory. 

So, to everyone on earth that takes a breath, what really matters is that everyone has a heart of unified love. That kind of LOVE can only come from knowing God.  

And as I stay in constant prayer, it is my heart’s cry that every heart would KNOW LOVE, HAVE LOVE, and SHOW LOVE to all. 

It’s a prayer that humanity can benefit from—that is to know Jesus. Once you have a relationship with Jesus—LOVE is the fruit of your tree. If you don’t know God, you cannot fathom the power of LOVE. 

In Philippians 1:9-11, the Apostle Paul had a message within his prayer for the Philippians. It was a prayer for unified love and demonstrating the character of Christ. It is a prayer needed even for today. Paul knew the importance of the condition of the heart. God looks at one’s heart as it reveals the truth of who one truly is. 

Through the lens of unified LOVE, life has value beyond what we see, think, or feel. Humanity has value because God created us in HIS image. We were made special. 

Fellow Christians, each day we rise as the Body of Christ—WE ARE ONE. Therefore, we know the importance of having a heart united in LOVE, and a character that displays that grace. And as Christians, it is our mission to show the world, and each other the love of Christ. 

Moreover, it is proven that hearts divided will always produce disruption and destruction. But a heart filled with God’s love will always stand unified with God’s Son—Jesus Christ. 

Rightly so, a heart that knows Jesus sees the world through the lens of Jesus’ love—for without it there is ‘no justice’ and ‘no peace’. JESUS is the ‘Prince of Peace’.  

HIS love is for ALL of humanity that’s why HE died on the Cross for the sins of the whole world.

Generally speaking, a promise is a promise is a promise. Most people agree with that statement. Merriam-Webster defines the word promise as follows. A promise is a declaration that one will do or refrain from doing something specified. It is also legally binding. Now, The Word of God as written in the Holy Bible is filled with promises from God. The question for some people is are those promises relevant today? Well, the answer to that question is yes. And not only that, but there are equal promises of God made readily available to those who would but receive. 

Prayer and the equal promises of God  

Even though there are equal promises of God, there are prayers that go unanswered. Now the reality is it is hard to then see others get their prayers answered or receive miracles. For that reason, some people question whether God's promises are true for them. And the answer is a resounding yes! 

You see God cares about His children. And that is evident in the following scripture. 1 Peter 5:7 The Passion Translation says, “Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.” 

Now we can see the key to answered prayer in Mark 11:23-24 Amplified Bible -- it reads as follows. “23 I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea!’ and does not doubt in his heart [in God’s unlimited power], but believes that what he says is going to take place, it will be done for him [in accordance with God’s will]. 24 For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you.” 

God always keeps His promises 

As mentioned earlier, the Holy Bible is filled with equal promises of God. And the beautiful thing is, God always keeps His promises. Numbers 23:19 New International Version says, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” 

So, why did God make those promises? The answer is because He loves us. It is written in John 3:16 The Passion Translation,  

“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.” 

Therefore, the most important promise is everlasting life through Christ Jesus. 

And so, if there is any doubt about the equal promises of God, the following scriptures are a loving reminder. Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,

Lady V’s Weekly Devotional 

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed, that I would see the goodness of the LORD, in the land of the living.” 

“Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” 

Psalm 27:13-14, NKJV 

Devotional 

I recall growing up hearing the older folks singing about life’s troubles, and getting to the sweet ole by-and-by. It gave me the impression that the only time God would show HIS goodness was after death and not in this life—which is simply not true. 

In Revelation chapter 21, we read a description of the New Jerusalem, which is the new city of God and HIS future home for HIS people. It is, no doubt, the goodness of the LORD for the FUTURE.  

And, in John, chapter 14, Jesus says, “Do not let your heart be troubled (afraid, cowardly). Believe [confidently] in God and trust in Him, [have faith, hold on to it, rely on it, keep going and] believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places. If it were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and I will take you to Myself, so that where I am you may be also” (John 14:1-3, AMP). 

Now, that’s Good News! The Word of God lets believers know that Jesus is confirming that eternal life with HIM, is secured by believing in HIM. And not only that, there is special preparation going into our joining Jesus in eternity. 

But, let’s look to HIS goodness for TODAY. In Psalm 27:13-14, here we find David, going through some type of trouble.  

David had plenty of experience with the trials of life. He had a father that didn’t think he would amount to anything. His first child by another man’s wife—died. He had a best friend whose father was trying to kill him. He had people that were always jealous of him. 

He had a rebellious son named Absalom who gathered troops against him in pursuit of power. You get the idea—the list is long.  David knew about troubles. 

Yet, through it all, David learned something about God. He learned that God would remain faithful to fulfill His promises. David also learned that if he waited on God—His goodness would show up in the midst of trouble.  

In fact, David waited patiently believing for a turn around with a touch of God’s goodness. No doubt, David BELIEVED God!  His experience with seeing the goodness of the LORD established confidence in God.  

And, as a result, God’s goodness followed David, and people took notice of it. 

Of course,

In uncertain times, anxiety can cause some people to lose peace of mind. That's why finding peace in uncertain times is so important. For instance, in January 2020 we wouldn't have expected that by March our way of life would change. 

In a matter of a few months, COVID-19 has made its mark on countries around the world. And as a result, families have experienced devastating losses. Such as the loss of a family member, a business, a job, or finances. 

Naturally, people are anxious about the future. And for that reason alone, anxiety can void one of his or her peace. Hence, the topic of discussion--Finding Peace in Uncertain Times. 

Peace comes from the Prince of Peace 

No doubt, finding everlasting peace is the goal when it comes to keeping sane in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. But one must first know from whom peace comes. The Holy Bible tells us exactly where to find true and lasting peace. One will find it in Jesus Christ. For the scripture introduces Jesus in the Book of Isaiah.  

Isaiah 9:6 The Passion Translation says, 

"A child has been born for us; a son has been given to us. The responsibility of complete dominion will rest on his shoulders, and his name will be:  

The Wonderful One! The Extraordinary Strategist! The Mighty God! The Father of Eternity! The Prince of Peace!" 

Also, Isaiah 26:3 Modern English Version says, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." In other words, when one chooses to trust Jesus, anxiety won't be able to consume him/her. John 10:10 Amplified Bible says it like this, "The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]." 

A future and a hope 

Despite the uncertainty of the times, God has made promises to those who would yet trust Him. 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." In fact, He knows what’s best for each of us. 

Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version says, 

"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." You see, finding peace in uncertain times is just a prayer away. First, invite Jesus into your situation. Likewise, meditate on the promises of God in His word. 

Worship Video: Situation by Jonathan McReynolds 

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Lady V’s Weekly Devotional 

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” 

John 14:27, NLT 

Devotional 

When you lose someone you love it is often devastating. The uncertainty of life going forward can seem unbearable to face. You need peace.  

People want to comfort you. But who knows what to say? Your peace is stolen and your heart is broken. In actuality, you’re tuning every word out anyway. In fact, you want to go back to yesterday before it all happened.  

So, you may ask; “How does one find peace in this?”  

Well, in John 14:27, we find Jesus talking to His disciples, preparing them for His departure here on earth. Jesus knew he was about to face death and He wanted to leave the disciples with words that would impart in them—the gift of perfect peace. 

When Jesus told them about the gift of peace, it was something they could never experience from the world. This gift of peace would not be something that they could explain because it only comes from God.  

Peace would show up and give them the courage and strength to go on when facing the difficulties of life. Peace would be theirs—it belonged to them! 

And, although Jesus knew His death was near, He also knew He would always be with them through His Holy Spirit. 

They would not be alone! Peace would now live within them in a different way. It would be a still small voice that speaks within their spirit to say, “I’m still with you, you are not alone in this. I will help you.” 

It would be that calm that would come over them that surpassed all understanding. It wouldn’t make sense! I mean, how could one have joy in the midst of sorrow? With God—it’s possible! 

How could one laugh, when they should be crying? With God—it’s possible! 

How could one see brighter days ahead when feeling like hiding in a dark room and never coming out? With God—it’s possible! 

The gift of peace is in the Prince of Peace—His Name is JESUS! And, Jesus is saying to anyone that believes in Him, they can have PEACE in the midst of every circumstance.  

Those that have faith in Jesus can receive the gift that keeps on giving. The gift of Salvation through JESUS shed Blood on the Cross ensures that anyone that believes in HIM has access to HIS PEACE. 

Peace comes in knowing that God is with you. You’re IN Christ! 

Peace comes in knowing that God loves you. You’re HIS Child! 

And, Peace comes in knowing God IS Faithful! You can trust HIM!

In the wake of COVID-19, the government has set forth certain stipulations. And social distancing guidelines play a vital part in preventing the spread of the virus. Hence our topic, Surrendered to the Process—Doing Our Part. 

Of course, when some people hear the word surrender, they view it as a negative action. No doubt in some cases that may well be true. But in other circumstances when one is surrendered to the process it could well save his/her life. Such as, in the case of COVID-19. 

The process of saving lives 

Specifically, for COVID-19, surrendering to the process means to follow simple instructions. For instance, don't leave home unless it is necessary. Next, wash your hands and disinfect surfaces frequently. Also, don't gather with more than ten people and stay six-feet apart in public places.  

Now in the grand scheme of things, those are simple things to do. And that process is saving lives. Truth is that's why doing our part is so important. 

Respect authority and surrender to the process 

Although most people respect authority and the laws of the land--let's see what the Holy Bible has to say. Romans 13:1-2 New Living Translation says, 

“1 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.” 

For the most current information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) go to CDC.gov/COVID19

In other words, with the COVID-19 pandemic, we should follow the government guidelines mentioned earlier. Because if not, one runs the risk of either getting the virus and/or passing it to others. That's why we must be surrendered to the process by doing our part. You see, lives are depending upon our cooperation with governing authorities. 

Now, as a Christian I must note, that scripture does not include laws that force believers to reject Jesus. In those cases, one must have an ear to hear God’s direction through His Holy Spirit. 

Conclusion 

Naturally, surrendering to the process is more difficult for some people than others. So, join Lady V and me as we go deeper on this subject in this week's episode, Surrendered to the Process—Doing Our Part. You won’t want to miss it. 

 Helpful Information 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 

Previous episodes you may enjoy 

Don’t Succumb to Fear – S2E11 

Faith Throu...

Lady V’s Weekly Devotional 

The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” 

Lamentations 3:22-24, NLT 

Devotional 

Do you have moments where you feel hopeless? Does it seem like you’re in a dark tunnel and you can’t see your way out? Who hasn’t had a moment like that? 

It may surprise you, but in the midst of those dark, places we CAN find hope. That hope is in Jesus. 

Truth be told, the love of Jesus is faithful and does not end. He specializes in freeing people from dark places and lights the path to a fresh start. 

Let me tell you about a man who was in desperate need of a fresh start. Folks in town called him the ‘blind beggar.’ He was homeless, blind, overlooked and deemed as insignificant to people. He knew what it felt like to feel hopeless. 

 No doubt, he needed a breakthrough. Suddenly, the day came when his life changed dramatically. He met Jesus and Mercy showed up!  

In Luke chapter 18, verses 35-43, it tells the story of how Jesus healed this blind beggar. The blind man awakened that morning to darkness and had no idea that before the day’s end, he would see the light.  

Jesus was coming through town. The blind man was sitting beside the road asking for handouts. When he heard the rustle of the crowd, he asked what was going on. They told him, ‘Jesus the Nazarene is going by.’ So the blind man yelled, ‘Jesus! Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!’

Those ahead of Jesus told the man to shut up, but he only yelled all the louder, ‘Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!’ Jesus stopped and ordered him to be brought over. When he had come near, Jesus asked, ‘What do you want from me?’ The blind man said, ‘Master, I want to see again.’ 

(Luke 18:35-41, MSG). 

Then Jesus said to the blind man, “All right, receive your sight! Your faith has healed you.” And instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. (vs. 42-43, NLT) 

Much like this story, Mercy will show up for you too. Jesus is the God of Mercy. He hears our cries for help and when we call on Jesus, HE WILL ANSWER!  

When you call on Jesus, it is an invitation for HIM to step into your life. He’s the God of GRACE and of miracles. 

Even when it looks like your situation is impossible, WITH GOD NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE.

 

Fear--how can one emotion grip people in such a way that it paralyzes certain areas of their lives? Well, to answer that question we must first look at fear for what it is. Fear is a distressing emotion that stems from a threat. And that threat may be real or perceived. But the truth is, either way--you don't want to succumb to fear.

Fear of loss can bring about feelings of worry and apprehension for the future.Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash 

Of course, fear shows up in different ways. But one fear that most people have in common is fear of loss. For instance, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has us all living life differently. Of course, to stop the spread of the virus, the government has mandated social distancing laws. Although necessary, this has devastated the lives of so many people. Because many have lost businesses, employment, finances, loved ones, and/or their health.  

No doubt, people are afraid. But the problem there lies when one allows fear to bring him/or her to the point of hopelessness. You see, this happens because feelings of worry and apprehension come along with fear. Hence the title of this podcast episode, Don't Succumb to Fear. 

Don’t give into the spirit of fear 

I don’t know about you but I have often heard that a little fear is healthy. Well, let's see what the Holy Bible has to say about that.  

2 Timothy 1:7 New King James Version says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." We can see that according to this scripture fear does not come from God. For that reason alone, believers in Christ Jesus should not allow fear to control their lives. 

In other words, when fear comes to paralyze, one must resist it and 2 Corinthians 10:5 The Passion Translation is a reminder. It says, 

"We can demolish every deceptive fantasy that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One." 

An example of paralyzing fear in scripture is in Job 3:25-26 New International Version. Job said "25 What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. 26 I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” So, let's not be like Job--don't succumb to fear. 

Trusting God when faced with fear 

Trust God in the face of fear.Photo by Ümit Bulut on Unsplash

From my own experience, I have learned to trust God when facing the unknown. 1 Peter 5:7 New Living Translation says, "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." And Proverbs 3:5-6 Modern English Version says, “5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,