Called To Love

The definition of love differs from person to person depending on whom you question. For some, it's an obligation. It's a matter of reciprocation for others. Manipulation is at the other extreme of the spectrum. Whatever number you put on the scale, if it doesn't line up with Christ's idea of love, it's hollow and fake. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hope, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Unapologetically, G

  At the end of the fall, many people have prepared their gardens before winter sets in. They have pruned the plants and fertilized the soil in preparation for the Spring. God does the same type of preparation in the lives of his children, so that they are prepared for the next season of their life. This preparation is called Pruning. Pruning has two functions; the removal of branches that have produced no fruit and the preparation of branches that have been fruitful. Two purposes, one tool! As you go through your season, consider what season of pruning you are in... the one where God is removing the unnecessary things from your life, or the one where He is increasing your fruitfulness.  "He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." John 15:2 Unapologetically, G

How many of you who were are visually challenged,  the first thing you do is reach for your glasses. Sometimes I don't open my eyes before I put them on.  In my devotional time, God reminded me that just like our glasses, we must put on Christ before we do anything in order to see our day the way He intends. Our purpose is clearer, our way is clearer. With Christ, all the small print becomes legible and clear. We don't tend to trip over things the enemy  places before us to destroy us.  Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Putting God first in the begnning if your day makes all that you want to accomplish will be clearer and purposeful through Him. Unapologetic, G

There is such a contrasting dynamic from being in a room of people you know on the surface and being in the presence of someone you have a personal relationship with. The conversation is different . You reveal more of your true character, deeper thoughts and pure emotions. You feel safe exposing your true self. You feel protected, valued and loved. Time spent in Gods presence through prayer, meditation, and reading His word develops those feelings of safety, security, and love. Whoever dwells in the shelter  of the Most High  will rest in the shadow  of the Almighty.   2  I will say of the  Lord , “He is my refuge  and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. ” Psalms 91:1-2 introduces Gods promises that come from living in His presence. He assures us that it will provide us with  protection, safety, and shelter. Being in His presence will also give us a personal confidence in Him that He will protect us and supply what we need as well as the security that this relati

As we face the 2020 Pandemic, it is close to impossible on your own knowledge, courage, and strength not to become anxious and afraid. Daily updates on death tolls, frightening recounts of people dying alone, and so much more. As we shelter at home day after day, we are often left to the overwhelming reminders of how uncertain and different life is becoming. Those of us who know Christ are quietly struggling due to a lack of normalcy of worship and fellowshipping with other believers. Those of us whose families are spread out struggle with the lack of touch and affection. As I search the scriptures for strength, God reminded me in Philippians 4:6-7 how to strengthen our faith even in perilous times. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. His first instruction to us