Intimacy

Good Morning Beauties!

Jesus Prays For All Believers:
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” John 17:20-23 (NIV)

My sweet Jesus gave me a crucial truth this morning. “The best picture of who I am in Him is painted in the presence of Jesus.” I find my true identity in light of knowing his true identity.

He also reminded me He is a gentleman and is patient to wait for my arrival each day. I must be intentional in my worship, prayer, and scripture meditation to build our intimate relationship. He won’t force me, or guilt me into seeking him. No, on the contrary, he says when I seek him, I will find him. Not sometimes, but each and every time. He is faithful and trustworthy.

I pray you will make time today to worship your Lord and Savior, commune with him in prayer, and learn from him in meditating on his Word. What is stopping you? Will you prioritize your relationship with Jesus above all else? Selah.

This song portrays my sentiments perfectly. Please listen and allow it to take you into his presence.

The More I Seek You - Kari Jobe

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you. ”

— James 4:8 Amplified Bible

Display of His Splendor

Good Morning Beauties!

You are Righteous! Is it sinking in? What have you heard from God about your justification, salvation, and sanctification? Are you still processing just how miraculous this gift is? Selah.

Jesus came to make us right with God, so we can enter His presence, and be changed by His Love and Goodness. This change makes it possible to be an example to others, so they too might be changed. I think this transformation by God is the true “circle of life.”

Who in your life is God prompting you to be a Godly example? A friend? A co-worker? A family member? You don’t have to be perfect to be used by God, just willing. Are you willing to make a difference in someone’s life today? Selah.

I’m in awe thinking about how God loves the broken and creates strong and capable Ambassadors to build his Kingdom. Who could do that but God? Let’s praise the greatness of our beautiful God today.
How Great is Our God - Darlene Zschech

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

— Isaiah 61:3 New International Version

Free From Condemnation

Good Morning Beauties!

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” Romans 8:1 (NIV)

Praise be to God that we are forgiven and justified. Hallelujah!

Let’s look at these two words for a moment. Forgiveness is pretty easy to understand, but what about justified? In my quiet time this morning, I found a great article on the Seth Lezon website about the difference between the two. I pray it builds your understanding of what Christ has given us with his sacrifice on the cross.

“What is the difference between justification and forgiveness? Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. Does that mean that, since we have been forgiven, that we are justified before God? No. Forgiveness wipes out all debts, but we’re not rich. In other words forgiveness means we are free to go, but it doesn’t bring us close to God.

The definition of justification is: someone who is declared or made righteous. A helpful way to explain justification is that God looks at you and me ‘just if I’d never sinned.’ Justification is what brings us close to God.

Forgiveness in Christ means we are no longer under the punishment of death, but our hearts are still bent toward sin. Justification in Christ means we are now Children through the resurrection of Jesus, and we are being purified from sin.

Jesus has given forgiveness to everyone. He took the sins of the world on Himself (1st John 2:2) so that everyone could have the opportunity to be justified, but only those who accept His forgiveness can be justified. But if we don’t accept His forgiveness and His justification, we have denied the Son of God and are back under judgement (Hebrews 10:26).

In Matthew 22, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a King who prepares a wedding feast for His Son. Everyone was invited into the banquet but some chose not to come in, others tried to come in but weren’t wearing the right clothes (so they were kicked out), and others were wearing wedding clothes and were able to stay.

In ancient culture, the king would provide clothing for his events, in this case he would have provided wedding clothes. In this parable the wedding clothes represent Christ’s righteousness. If someone wasn’t wearing the right clothes they were either a wedding crasher or they thought their clothes were better (they worked hard to be righteous) and therefore would have been kicked out. If they were wearing the clothing provided by the King that means they would have been justified to be there (made righteous).

Justification comes from life changing faith in the resurrected Jesus.”

Do our lives reflect both His forgiveness and justification? What are the key points the Holy Spirit is speaking to you about? How does he want you to take action? Selah.

Prayer:
Father, thank you for sending your son to die on the cross for each of our sins. We are so grateful for your forgiveness, may your forgiveness lead us to deeper faith in you so that we can put on your righteousness and enter into your banquet. In Jesus name, Amen.

No Condemnation - Anthony Evans

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.”

— Romans 4:25-5:2 New International Version

He’s Calling

Good Morning Beauties!

“'Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:22 (NIV)

Let’s talk salvation. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. More than reciting a simple prayer, we repent of our sins, turn from our sinful ways, and find new life in him. Take a few minutes and remember when you first answered the sweet whisper of the Holy Spirit, calling you into communion with Jesus. You may want to journal about where you were, who was with you, what was happening in your life, and how you felt. How often do you think of this glorious time of your salvation? Do you express your gratitude on a daily basis for being rescued from death and eternal damnation to abundant life and eternal glory with our Heavenly Father? Selah.

“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

Let’s talk sanctification. I heard a term recently, “Harsh Judge”. It’s meant to represent the negative self talk we all have that torments our minds. The strong Christian women leaders I know expect perfection from themselves. “I should be over this by now. Why am I dealing with this sin again? I love Jesus, why am I still acting this way?” Let’s silence those lies right now. Jesus is NOT a harsh judge! In fact, he declares in the Bible he came to love and not judge us. He is for you, not against you. Do you believe it? Selah.

The Holy Spirit’s work in us is our sanctification. He brings us from glory to glory. It’s a precious process while we’re here on Earth to become holy as God is holy. We will never reach perfection until we are with him - the King of Glory. So, in the meantime, be kind to yourself. Look back from the day of your salvation to today. Where are all the places you’ve grown? How far has the Holy Spirit taken you thus far? Where are your victories? Selah.

Let’s praise God for calling us to himself, saving us, and making us holy.
Glory to Glory - William Matthews

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world.”

— John 12:47 New International Version

Innocent

Good Morning Beauties!

“Blessings crown the head of the righteous” Proverbs 10:6 (NIV)

There’s no better blessing than to know we have a right standing with God and will dwell with him forever. We don’t have to earn it, work harder for it, do everything perfect. We already have his complete approval through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. We will be found innocent on Judgement Day. Hallelujah!

We’re a society of earners. We earn our wages, we earn respect, we earn a good reputation. This way of thinking is temporal and not eternal. I still find myself, at times, trying to earn my righteousness. In these times, I catch myself and stop what I’m doing to ponder on the fact that I am already righteous because of what Jesus did for me, and there’s nothing I can do to change it. Working harder and behaving better will not change it. Failures in my life will not change it. Jesus has already completed the work so we can simply receive his gift.

What does today’s verse stir in your spirit? Can you relate to my struggle to try to earn righteousness? What message does the enemy tell you? Does he tell you to try harder, be more this or be more that? Can you identify areas in your life where you’re trying to earn God’s approval? Selah.

This song perfectly captures the truth about our righteousness. Perhaps listen to it a couple of times throughout the day to let this truth sink in.

Who Am I - Casting Crowns

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

— 2 Corinthians 5:21 New International Version

We Are His Masterpiece

Good Morning Beauties!

Regal - that’s the word I heard from the Lord today. I guess he wants us to stay on the topic of our royalty for one more day. When looking up the definition, I was excited to see a truth right from God. “suitable for a King.” Beauties - do you see it?

We won’t approach our King Jesus because lies of shame and guilt make us believe we are unsuitable - unworthy - to be loved by God. Nothing could be farther from the truth. He sees us as perfectly acceptable and showers his love on us. Please Beauties, approach his throne with confidence and boldness in knowing that the creator is in love with his creation.

I love Psalm 139. It has special meaning for me and my growth with Jesus. I’ve included the entire Psalm for you. There are numerous truths in this one Psalm. I’m going to write them down and pray about the ones that stand out. Will you please join me? What verse is the Holy Spirit shining his light on for you? Selah.

1 “O Lord, you have examined my heart
    and know everything about me.
2 You know when I sit down or stand up.
    You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
3 You see me when I travel
    and when I rest at home.
    You know everything I do.
4 You know what I am going to say
    even before I say it, Lord.
5 You go before me and follow me.
    You place your hand of blessing on my head.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
    too great for me to understand!

7 I can never escape from your Spirit!
    I can never get away from your presence!
8 If I go up to heaven, you are there;
    if I go down to the grave, you are there.
9 If I ride the wings of the morning,
    if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
    and your strength will support me.
11 I could ask the darkness to hide me
    and the light around me to become night—
12     but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines as bright as day.
    Darkness and light are the same to you.

13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
    and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
    Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
    as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
16 You saw me before I was born.
    Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
    before a single day had passed.

17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
    They cannot be numbered!
18 I can’t even count them;
    they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up,
    you are still with me!

19 O God, if only you would destroy the wicked!
    Get out of my life, you murderers!
20 They blaspheme you;
    your enemies misuse your name.
21 O Lord, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you?
    Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you?
22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred,
    for your enemies are my enemies.

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 Point out anything in me that offends you,
    and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Royalty - Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation!”

— Psalm 139:14 The Message Bible

Received Royalty

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” Isaiah 62:3 (NIV)

Can you picture it? You are a crown, adored by God, and placed in his hand. What does that placement mean to you? Selah.

For me, it means I’m safe and secure, protected, and blessed with God’s provision. It also means I share his attributes as I receive and wear the crown he has for me.

Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He rightly is the embodiment of Royalty. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus as our Savior, he comes to dwell within us. His attributes become our attributes.

With Easter drawing near, I’m thinking more about Jesus as a human here on Earth and all he endured as the Son of Man. I’ve pulled some descriptions from the song “ROYALTY” and it brought to light how Jesus truly knows our sufferings. He is not without understanding of our pain and temptations. (Hebrews 4:15)

Take a look at these attributes and see how they can be said of Jesus, but also of ourselves. Which particular words is the Holy Spirit illuminating for you. What are the similarities you have with the life and sufferings of Jesus? Are you willing to accept the descriptions of royalty as your own? Journal about what he’s showing you. Selah.

Who we are:
From rejected to accepted
From forgotten to remembered
From victim to victor
From abandoned to exalted
From broken to beloved
From darkness to light
From death to life

Royalty:
Worthy
Wanted
Chosen
Redeemed
Crowned in dignity
Heirs to majesty
Made for victory
Given authority

He’s holding your crown in his hands. Will you receive and wear it? Is something preventing you from taking this life-changing step? Don’t let lies of unworthiness and shame hinder you from accepting all Jesus has for you. Selah.

Royalty - Francesca Battistelli

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”

— James 1:12 New Living Translation

Good Morning Beauties!

“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.” Exodus 34:29 NIV

When we ignite our spirit with the spirit of God, we are changed and we radiant His light and love, and isn’t that just like God. He blesses us and fills us with His love so we may go and bless others. This continuous blessing occurs as long as we connect with our source of light; otherwise, we will walk around in the dark inspiring no one.

Light also extinguishes darkness…Truth uncovers lies. What lie does God want to illuminate for you today?

Radiant God - Hannah Ford

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

— John 8:2 New Living Translation

Victorious Surrender

Good Morning Beauties!

“But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NLT)

We have the victory! Jesus has already won! The enemy is at his feet! Do you believe it? Are you walking in victory? Why not? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what’s hindering your victorious walk with Christ Selah.

I have days when uncertainty and anxiety fill my mind, and it frustrates me. When I look back the next day and assess what happened, it’s usually because I’ve not brought Jesus into my battle. I’ve gone it alone.

“If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.” Matthew 10:39 (NLT) When we live this surrendered life, we can enter any battle with courage, strength, and bravery, knowing Jesus has already won the war. He is our conquering hero!

Victor’s Crown - Darlene Zschech

In view of the precious gift of life from Jesus, let’s bow before him in complete surrender.
I Surrender All - Carrie Underwood

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”

— Revelation 2:10 New International Bible

Royal Servanthood

Hello Beauties!

“‘And to Him (the Messiah) was given dominion (supreme authority), Glory and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and speakers of every language should serve and worship Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion which will not pass away. And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed.’”
Daniel 7:14 (AMP)

Today we begin discovering truths about our next attribute - Royalty. What is your definition of this word? What do you immediately picture in your mind? Journal your response. Perhaps, draw a picture. Selah.

On previous journeys, I’ve thought about my ancestors who were pig farmers in East Germany and settled mostly in the farmland and small towns of Southeast Kansas. Do you think about your family of origin too? (where they came from and what was their contribution to society) Do you compare your family to that of the British Royal Family perhaps? What do make of this attribute, Royalty? Selah.

In my quiet time with God this morning, he showed me about Jesus’ authority in his leadership. What a beautiful picture he gave me. Jesus has been given Authority over all things, (Ephesians 1:20-21) He is definitely in charge! Despite his Supremacy, Jesus is the epitome of a servant leader. His care and concern for the lives of others above his own is incomparable. His love for those he served created devoted and loyal followers. His close disciples followed him, served others in his name, and died tragic deaths for the name of Jesus. WOW! Now that’s a picture of leadership!

How will his example cause you to lead like Jesus? No longer do you need to believe the lies of the enemy. You can break free from feeling inadequate, overwhelmed, or anxious. From the truth of your royal status, you have the ability to lead with confidence, boldness, humility, and compassion…just like Jesus. Selah.

Here I Am Send Me - Darlene Zschech

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

— Isaiah 6:8 Amplified Bible

Intimacy

Good Morning Beauties!

“God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9 (NIV)

I have so much peace about my beauty today…and that’s not always the case. The Lord showed me as my intimacy with him grows, so does my beauty. Fill up and overflow. Simple.

If a stranger on the street were to say to me, “you’re beautiful,” I’d receive it and respond, “thank you so much.” Again, that’s my countenance today, and I’m grateful to God for it.

I was reminded of a powerful video I’ve shared a couple of times on this blog, and I want to share with you today. Please pray before viewing it that your heart would be open to all the Holy Spirit wants to reveal. How has the enemy been lying to you? What truth does God want you to know? Selah.

I must insert a disclaimer - you will hear a couple of people use fowl language, (two words). I apologize for this offense, but believe it’s a manifestation of their pain and still worth watching the video.

25,639,365 views • May 27, 2015
“I created this project for an art class at my high school in Chicago. I wanted to capture the beauty I saw in my peers, but it turned into an experiment about our perception of self halfway through when I realized my classmates were having a variety of reactions; reactions that made me smile and made me sad. I hope you enjoy. And I hope you can see the beauty in yourself as well as others.” - Shea

I think you are beautiful - social experiment

Please journal your response and what you believe about your beauty today. Selah.

I’m highly recommending you spend an extended time with Jesus today and listen to all he wants to share with you. I’ve included a beautiful “soundtrack” for your time together.
Golden Winter Dawn - Tim Janis

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’”

— Matthew 22:36-37 New International Version

Shout For Joy

Good Morning Beauties!

“Oh, come, let us sing to the Lord! Give a joyous shout in honor of the Rock of our salvation!”
Psalm 95:1 (TLB)

The Lord gave me a beautiful picture this morning of the momentous sound joy makes when freedom, grace, and peace collide. What a glorious shout of joy! Can you see it?

I then turned to the concordance in my NIV Bible and looked for scripture with “shout for joy.” Would you believe I found 37 times this phrase was used? There’s something to the action we are called to do in praise of our brilliant King, Jesus!

What if you don’t feel joy and certainly don’t feel like shouting for joy? Is this you right now? The truth about joy is that it goes way beyond your feelings. It’s foundational. Think of it as living underneath your feelings as a support to strengthen you. Selah.

In light of our salvation and all Jesus has done for us, there is plenty to sing and shout about. Please join me in doing a little “shouting” today. “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” Psalm 100:1-2 (NIV)

Shout For Joy - North Central University Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.”

— Psalm 27:6 New International Version

Prayer + Grace = Peace

Good Morning Beauties!

Grace, grace, God’s grace…..can’t you hear the melody in your mind? Many sweet songs have been written on the subject of God’s grace. I think the simplicity yet complexity of it compels our hearts to know and understand this beautiful gift even more.

“Through God’s marvelous grace sinners are delivered from their sins and brought into a saving relationship with a holy God by the work of God on their behalf completely free of charge. This grace does not cease with salvation from sin’s penalty, but continues on as the foundation of the believer’s life with God throughout all eternity.” Bible.org

During my time with Jesus this morning, he brought an equation to mind. Prayer + Grace = Peace. Though we have been given our salvation through grace, this gift continues. It’s not a one and done, right? So, we all can agree our entire lives are covered with God’s gift of grace. Here’s the question - is there a need to “activate” grace? Can we simply rest on the fact we’ve been given God’s favor and take no action? Through prayer, I believe, we ask for a portion of God’s grace to meet our daily needs.

I picture God’s grace as the gift he’s given us. We must receive it and then open it to ignite his power. Have you received this precious gift of salvation and favor? Are you in the habit of opening your gift of grace through prayer? Are you willing to ask for what you need in prayer instead of trying to handle things on your own? Selah.

“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.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

“Grace always brings benefits and one of these benefits is reflected in the word “peace” which the Apostle Paul always associates with God’s grace. In fact, the order is significant. First grace and then peace. Until we know and appropriate grace, we can’t experience peace.” Bible.org

Are you experiencing any stress or anxiety right now? Are you willing to ask God to reveal how the enemy is destroying your peace? Are you ready to ask Him to cover the issue with his amazing grace and silence the enemy? Selah.

Jesus has given each of his followers the gift of amazing grace. Let’s worship our Lord and King for this life-changing blessing and the peace it provides.
Amazing Grace - Reawaken Hymns
Peace - Bethel Music

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

— Ephesians 2:8-9 New International Version

Joy of Freedom

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 (ESV)

The subject of our freedom found in Christ is deep and wide, just like his love. Today I have some questions to begin your thought process on what you currently believe about your freedom. Please take time to dig into the Holy Scriptures and pray with God, then journal your responses and allow the Spirit to bring new information to ponder.

What is freedom? Just how does Jesus provide your freedom? What exactly has he set you free from and set you free to? Can you loose your freedom? In light of your answers, what lies have you uncovered about your freedom? Selah.

Here’s a powerful song to spend time in worship with a grateful heart. Let’s thank Jesus for the freedom He’s given us.
Found My Freedom - I Am They

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

— Galatians 5:1 English Standard Version

The Father’s Imparted Joy

Good Morning Beauties!

“May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah. That your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. Selah. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us. God shall bless us; let all the ends of the earth fear him!” Psalm 67 (ESV)

I absolutely love this verse, especially as we begin our third attribute, Joyful. I’ll admit, it’s one of my favorites because it’s foundational to our life in Christ. More than a feeling, it’s our underlying support system given as a gift from God.

We know the enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. Where has he stolen your joy? Will you allow the Holy Spirit to reveal some of those places so you can bring them to the Lord? Selah.

Those lies of the enemy can be replaced by the truth of God’s word today. Let’s look at a few verses to bring you encouragement on your journey.

“Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgments against you; he has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall never again fear evil. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: ‘Fear not, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.’” Zephaniah 3:14-17 (ESV)

Do you believe God looks upon you with great joy? It’s true. This is the good news, found in God’s Word. You have been forgiven, your enemies have been defeated, the Lord is with you, his perfect love has taken away all fear, he has given you strength, and he rejoices over you with singing. Now that, my Beauties, is a reason to sing and shout!!

Let’s get on our feet and give all our praise and adoration with a joyful spirit to the One and Only, Jesus!
Every Praise - Hezekiah Walker

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“ I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!”

— John 15:11 New Living Translation

Beautiful Loving Arms

Good Morning Beauties!

“He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Psalm 91:4 (NLT)

Today as we return to our main theme, You Are Beautiful, let’s check in and assess how our journey is progressing.

I like to go back to my notes from the Day of Preparation to see how I’m doing. You may want to try this practice as well.

Are your expectations being met? Is there something more you want or need? More from you, more from God? What adjustments will you make? How are your action plans working to destroy any obstacles keeping you from a successful journey experience? Do you need to make any tweaks to them, or perhaps create a new one? Are you staying motivated? We’re 10 days into the journey. Are you feeling excited to meet with Jesus each day or has it become another item you check off your “to do list”? Please take time to ponder these questions to ensure you make any needed adjustments as you move forward on your journey.

This morning I felt a great need to just stop and be held by Jesus. An intentional time of resting in his arms and being loved. His love is an outpouring of his beauty and I needed time to rest in that beauty.

What are you needing from Jesus today? Selah.

Arms of Love - Vineyard Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You are beautiful, my darling, beautiful beyond words. ”

— Song of Solomon 4:1 New Living Translation

Strength + Humility = Loveliness

Good Morning Beauties!

How are you processing the truth of your loveliness today? What has the Spirit revealed, perhaps as a something you weren’t expecting. What lies have been uncovered? Selah.

I’m still reflecting on the dichotomy of Jesus’ character - he’s all powerful - like a lion, and at the same time he’s a humble servant - tender as a lamb who laid down his very life for us. He provides all the strength we need for any situation and shows us the way to lay down our lives to serve others in all humility.

I’ve included two passages of scripture describing the beauty of Jesus. Please take time to read through them a few times to get to know Jesus on a more intimate level. What is the Spirit illuminating for you? Pay careful attention to all he wants to reveal to you. Selah.

The Majesty of Jesus

“1 Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
    in the heavens.
2 Through the praise of children and infants
    you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
    to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
    the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
    which you have set in place,
4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
    human beings that you care for them?
5 You have made them a little lower than the angels
    and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
    you put everything under their feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
    and the animals of the wild,
8 the birds in the sky,
    and the fish in the sea,
    all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Psalm 8 (NIV)

Imitating Christ’s Humility

“1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.”
Philippians 2:1-11 (NIV)

We are a reflection of Christ who lives in us. How do you see yourself in relation to strength and humility? Are there any lies you can immediately identify? Are you uncomfortable with surrendering your strength for his? Is serving others too humiliating to consider? Where is the enemy keeping you from the freedom Christ has for you? Selah.

Let’s celebrate this awesome and beautiful Jesus!
Isn’t He (This Jesus) - Natalie Grant

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.”

— 1 Chronicles 29:11 New International Version

Posture of Humility

Good Morning Beauties!

“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” Luke 23:34 (ESV)

There will never be a more perfect example of humility. After humiliation, rejection, and torture, with a pending undeserved death on a cross, Jesus had his persecutors (us) on his mind. His selfless love asks God the Father to forgive those who had sinned against him…once again that means us.

Could we ever be so humble? It’s surely something we can strive for with the help of the Holy Spirit. Scripture shows us the way in Jesus’ two commandments. “‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:36-39 (NIV)

A simple definition of pride is, “Continual thought on self” When we focus our lives on our love for Jesus and our love for others, we relinquish the focus on ourselves and grow in humility.

How are you doing in this area of your life? Take a moment to assess the amount of time you spend each day thinking of Jesus, others, and yourself. What are those percentages? How will you intentionally move more of your time thinking of yourself to the other two categories? Selah.

I was once moved by a song with the lyrics, “I want to leave a legacy, how will they remember me? Did I choose to love, did I point to you (Jesus) enough?” The words motivated me to make my whole life about Jesus, so once I was gone, people would say, “Kendra really loved Jesus and lived her life for him.”

A new song has replaced this way of thinking for me. “Only Jesus” by Casting Crowns contains a deeper message of humility. “And I, I don’t want to leave a legacy. I don’t care if they remember me, only Jesus.” See the difference? Let’s go deeper in our desire to lay down our lives, so we vanish and people will see only Jesus. Are you in? Selah.

Only Jesus - Casting Crowns

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“ I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

— Galatians 2:20 New International Version

Majesty, Worship His Majesty

Good Morning Beauties!

“On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” Psalm 145:5 (ESV)

Majesty, what a beautiful description of our one and only God. It’s a little hard to define, much like the word “glory”. Write down your definition of Majesty. You may even want to draw a picture or write a poem.

Let’s take a look at a Biblical definition. “Greatness of appearance; dignity; grandeur; dignity of aspect or manner; the quality or state of a person or thing which inspires awe or reverence in the beholder; applied with peculiar propriety to God and his works. It’s root word comes from major - greater.”

When I hear the word “majesty”, I think of God’s strength and power. It’s a word I use for God alone because no one else can possibly compare to the absolute greatness of Almighty God. Being clothed in his power and strength makes me feel safe and protected. What about you? Has there been a time when you needed God’s protection and he was right there for you? Though it may not have seemed like it at the time, can you look back and know that he was there for you? Selah.

As I pondered this very question today, God brought me back to times in my life when I needed his protection, and he was there - always there. Even though there have been times when I’ve cried out, “where are you, God?” I held firm to the truth “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) Can you relate at all?

We have a loving God, who in his awesome splendor and majesty is with us in every moment of our lives. Let’s praise him today as we meditate on this truth… “Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 (NIV)

Remember - Lauren Daigle

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty and splendor; The Lord has clothed and encircled Himself with strength; the world is firmly established, it cannot be moved.”

— Psalm 93:1 Amplified Bible

Sweet Surrender

Good Morning Beauties!

“How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” Psalm 84:1-2 (NIV)

Today we begin our next attribute, “Lovely.” What do you believe about this truth, that you are lovely? What thoughts and emotions does this word stir in you? Do you think of physical features or do you consider your internal nature and self? What stories from the past does this word, lovely, cause your mind to recall? Selah.

For me, Jesus continues to reveal more and more about this truth each time I take another journey. He has shown me I don’t always have to be strong and fierce; I can trust his strength and be the tender and sweet woman he’s created. I’ve used my strength as a protection mechanism in the past, and he’s shown me it’s not necessary any longer. He’s my strength and protector.

Today, the Holy Spirit revealed even more truth; I equate strength with control. With this revelation, I asked myself, “have I completely surrendered my control to God?” The honest answer is no. There are still parts of my life that I’m controlling and not surrendering to God. The next question, “why?” The quest for the answer led me to the Bible. Psalm 136 reminded me how God’s love is never failing, and I can fully trust him with every single nook and cranny of my life. He is the very center of the word lovely. Sometimes it’s so obvious, right?

I pray this Psalm brings truth to you today as well. Reflect in your journal all the Holy Spirit reveals to you.
Psalm 136:1-26 (CEV)
1 Praise the Lord! He is good.
    God's love never fails.
2 Praise the God of all gods.
    God's love never fails.
3 Praise the Lord of lords.
    God's love never fails.
4 Only God works great miracles.
    God's love never fails.
5 With wisdom he made the sky.
    God's love never fails.
6 The Lord stretched the earth
over the ocean.
    God's love never fails.
7 He made the bright lights
in the sky.
    God's love never fails.
8 He lets the sun rule each day.
    God's love never fails.
9 He lets the moon and the stars
rule each night.
    God's love never fails.
10 God struck down the first-born
in every Egyptian family.
    God's love never fails.
11 He rescued Israel from Egypt.
    God's love never fails.
12 God used his great strength
and his powerful arm.
    God's love never fails.
13 He split the Red Sea[b] apart.
    God's love never fails.
14 The Lord brought Israel safely
through the sea.
    God's love never fails.
15 He destroyed the Egyptian king
and his army there.
    God's love never fails.
16 The Lord led his people
through the desert.
    God's love never fails.
17 Our God defeated mighty kings.
    God's love never fails.
18 And he killed famous kings.
    God's love never fails.
19 One of them was Sihon,
king of the Amorites.
    God's love never fails.
20 Another was King Og of Bashan.
    God's love never fails.
21 God took away their land.
    God's love never fails.
22 He gave their land to Israel,
the people who serve him.
    God's love never fails.
23 God saw the trouble we were in.
    God's love never fails.
24 He rescued us from our enemies.
    God's love never fails.
25 He gives food to all who live.
    God's love never fails.
26 Praise God in heaven!
    God's love never fails.

Let’s praise him today for being all the strength we need.
Strength of My Life - Vertical Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”

— Isaiah 12:2 New International Version