Beautifully Perfect Sacrifice

Good Morning Beauties!

You’re doing so amazing!!! About this time, life takes over, and it’s just easier to quit and say, “I’ll try this again when I’m not so busy.” I completely understand, but I want to encourage you not to quit. You CAN do this! God will provide strength when you’re feeling weak, and He’ll bless your schedule when you prioritize Him.

I love the picture above. It looks like this sweet lamb is actually smiling. Take another look. Do you see him at rest, at peace, at ease? Do you notice the wood in the background? The photo represents Hebrews 12:2 to me. Jesus, the perfect lamb, was the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live. He paid the price for our sins by shedding His precious blood. Here’s the thing - He did so with joy, because He knew we would be together for eternity.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)

Where is your focus? On Earthly things or building His Kingdom through faith in Jesus? What part of your life is God asking you to have joy, though you may be see it as a humiliating sacrifice? Selah.

Let’s praise our Jesus, who is so worthy of all our adoration.

Worthy is The Lamb - Hillsong

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.”

— 1 Peter 1:18-19 New Living Translation

Worship Our Redeemer

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“He saved them from the hand of the foe; from the hand of the enemy he redeemed them.” Psalm 106:10 (NIV)

Today our journey takes us to one of the most significant attributes of our beauty - our redemption. Stay close to God for the next few days as He takes you deeper into an intimate relationship with Him. The truth revealed in these lyrics will surely kick the enemy in the gut, and the lies binding you will be defeated, thus allowing you to live a new level of freedom in Christ.

The word redeemed is sometimes misunderstood, so let’s take a look at the definition. “to free from captivity by payment of ransom.” Merriam Webster Dictionary. Here’s the perfect example of redemption found in Ephesians, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace  that he lavished on us.” Ephesians 1:7-8 (NIV)

There was a payment to be made to cover our sins so we could be reconciled to The Father. Jesus paid it with His precious blood - His very life. Do you know a greater love than this? How will you thank Jesus for redeeming your life? Perhaps you can write Him a personal letter in your journal, or take time to color the “redeemed” page in the back of the journal. (page 129) Selah

A great way to thank Jesus for saving your soul is to tell your story. Others are needing the same hope you found in Jesus. Please share how Jesus redeemed your life, and how He can do the same for them. Pray for God’s wisdom and guidance, and then take that obedient step to share the Good News! Do you have someone in mind? Selah.

We The Redeemed - Hillsong

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.”

— Psalm 107:2-3 New International Version

Godly Confidence is BEAUTIFUL

Good Morning Beauties!

Waking up this morning and coming before the Lord, He spoke the word confidence to me. Have you ever noticed a confident woman is beautiful? She is if she places her trust in Jesus and not in herself. In my pursuit of learning more about having confidence, I found a wonderful article by Kayla Ferris. I pray it will bless you as it has me.

“I’m discovering that self-confidence is a fickle friend. Sometimes I have it; sometimes I don’t. Sometimes it serves me well; other times, it misguides me.

Confidence in myself is unreliable because, honestly, so am I. Culture tells me I should invest in myself further, love myself better and believe in myself more. Those aren’t inherently bad ideas … but the results are inconsistent.

There has to be a better solution than me having greater faith in me.

And thankfully there is. Because, friend, what I truly need is God-confidence.

Trusting in God’s ability, faithfulness and love changes everything. God-confidence means I look to Him first, not myself. It means He fuels my faith (Hebrews 11:1), He quenches my fears (Psalm 27:1), and He alone stands unshakeable (Matthew 7:25).

Perhaps no one knew this better than a man named Daniel in the Bible. Attempting to conspire against Daniel, Persian officials decreed it illegal to pray. The penalty? The offender would become lion food.

But Daniel 6:10 says, “When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.”

Amazing. Daniel didn’t wring his hands, wondering what he should do. He had complete confidence that God was at work in the situation, and no matter the outcome, he would continue trusting God. We, too, can develop that level of confidence by growing in two areas that shaped Daniel’s entire life — knowing God and experiencing God.

Like Daniel, we can increase our knowledge of God. Daniel was constantly praying and studying God’s Word (Daniel 6:10; Daniel 9:2). The more we know about God, the more our confidence grows. Reading about God’s character strengthens our trust. Declaring God’s goodness builds our belief. We can soak our hearts and minds in His unshakeable Truth.

We can also experience God at work. Daniel personally witnessed God’s faithfulness, saw friends saved from a fiery furnace, and was held by God through worldly power struggles (Daniel 1:9; Daniel 3:26; Daniel 5:29-30). We can trust God enough to step into situations we feel called toward but don’t necessarily feel capable of navigating on our own. In places where we most need God, we experience Him at work, and our confidence in Him increases exponentially.

Knowledge and experience grow our God-confidence, and that kind of confidence will never fail us.

Let’s pray….God, You are powerful, faithful, loving and true. I want to build my confidence in You. Guide me toward the knowledge and experience I need to grow a God-confidence that will never fail, no matter what life throws my way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Confidence - Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.”

— Ephesians 3:12 New Living Translation

Righteous Praise

Good Morning Beauties!

Today is a day of celebration! We have been saved, sanctified, forgiven, and justified. We are righteous before Almighty God through the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Will you join me in bringing praise to our Awesome God? Will you praise Him for binging you new life?

The Psalms are full of adoration of the righteousness of our God and gratitude for sharing it with us through Jesus. The best way to get a glimpse is to use the concordance in the back of your Bible for the words righteous and righteousness. You can always google search as well. Biblegateway.com is a useful resource.

What verses speak to you most? Write them down and take time to memorize them. The Spirit will help you retrieve them when most needed. Selah.

Let’s bring our beloved King praise today as we celebrate all He’s done.

Raise a Hallelujah - Bethel Music

For All You’ve Done - Hillsong

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“May your priests be clothed with your righteousness; may your faithful people sing for joy.”

— Psalm 132:9 New International Version

Say YES to Jesus, Say YES to Life

Good Morning Beauties!

“Blessed are those  whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” Romans 4:7 (NIV)

We know that God’s kindness leads us to repentance, (Romans 2:4) and in that sweet place, we are forgiven. Forgiven of all sin past, present and future. All sin is forgiven. Only our beautiful Savior can do that!

Where do we see God’s kindness? Let’s take a look at His Word to find the answer. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 (NIV) God’s love for you is immeasurable! He knew all your mistakes and still sent His Son to die for you He knows you better than anyone and also loves you more than anyone. We have a remarkably kind Father. Where have you seen the kindness of God in your life? What was your response? 2025 is a new year. How will the reflection of your salvation and all of His continuing kindness create something new in you this year? Selah.

“…as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12 (NIV) Your sins are completely forgiven and forgotten. As humans, it’s almost impossible to forget when someone sins against us even though we’ve forgiven them. Perhaps this is why it’s hard for us to believe God is capable of forgetting our sins. The truth is, He is able, and He does! What are the sins you want to bring to Jesus today? What burdens do you still carry? He wants you to let go of anything that stands in the way of a deeper relationship with Him. Will you ask Him to forgive you? Will you forgive yourself? Selah.

Our loving God forgives us, and also justifies us. When brought before the Righteous Judge, we will be seen as innocent. Our faith in Jesus has saved us from the punishment due from our sins. I’m not sure where I first heard this explanation of “justification” but I like it. The statement says, “it’s just as if you’ve never sinned.”

Here’s what God’s Word says, “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 5:1-2 (NIV)

If you have never asked for personal forgiveness from God and turned your life over to Jesus as your Lord and Savior, today is the day. Why wait? What is stopping you? The enemy will do everything to steal, kill, and destroy the life God sent Jesus to give you. it’s time to listen to the Holy Spirit’s sweet whisper instead of the loud chatter of the enemy. Will you say YES to Jesus and begin your new life with Him today? Selah.

I Choose Jesus - Moriah Peters

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

— Romans 10:9-10 New International Version

Surrendered Heart

Good Morning Beauties!

Two beautiful words today that absolutely change your life. Saved. Sanctified. God transforms our lives in an instant with salvation and over a lifetime with sanctification.

In my study time with God this morning, I kept hearing the word surrender, so I changed my focus to how surrender plays a role in our salvation and sanctification. Here is an article I found…

Is surrender essential to salvation?

Let's begin with the simple Gospel message. Christ came to earth to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). Because we are sinful beings (Romans 3:20), we cannot have fellowship with God. In fact, because of this predicament we are in, we cannot do anything to earn God's favor (Ephesians 2:8-9). God, however, understanding our sinful state sent Jesus Christ to die in our place (Romans 5:8). He is the mediator between holy God and sinful humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). Once I exercise faith in the finished work of Christ, my sins are forgiven and I become a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

The Bible speaks about two wonderful theological truths that occur within the life of a Christian the moment she believes. First, the believer is justified before God (Romans 5:1). To be justified means to be "declared righteous." Before a person comes to know Christ, she is declared guilty of sin before God. This declaration of sin by God upon the sinner makes the person an enemy of God (Romans 5:10). The death of Christ upon the cross enables her to enter into a relationship with God where God declares the sinner not guilty of sin. The believing sinner, while still sinful, is reconciled with God and comes into a new standing with God (Romans 5:11).

Second, the believer is sanctified before God (1 Corinthians 1:2). To be sanctified means to be made righteous before God. It is the idea that since I have been declared righteous (i.e., justified), I am also made righteous (i.e. sanctification). You see, once a person becomes a Christian, God begins a work in her, enabling her to become more like Christ (Romans 8:29). It is God's will that each believer grow and become more and more like Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:3). God's role in the sanctification process is evident from Philippians 1:6, "…He (God) who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Personally, I do not see the word "surrendering" used when it comes to the salvation process. I see a similar idea with that of commitment, however. When I was declared justified before God, I realized that I was a sinner in need of Christ's provision of salvation. I made a commitment to trust Christ for the forgiveness of sin. I suppose one could use the word surrender in place of commitment. This one commitment, however, was just the first of a series of personal commitments I have made to God.

Because I am also sanctified, God is at work in me. Let me give you a personal illustration of God working righteousness in me. When I first became a believer, I drank alcohol on a regular basis, just like I did as an unbeliever. God was at work in me producing an ongoing righteousness and within a few months, I realized that my addictive behavior was not pleasing to God. So I quit drinking - just like that. I did not need 12 steps, extensive counseling, or other means to quit drinking. God was working in my life, I saw what He was doing, and I made a commitment to please Him in this particular area. All throughout my Christian life over time, I have made many different commitments to God. Again, if you would like to use "surrender," that is fine.

In summation, surrendering to God is essential for salvation, but it is not a one-time decision. Making commitments to God is an ongoing process throughout the Christian life, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).”

~ From the website allaboutfollowingjesus.org

I hope you receive truth from the article. Perhaps it will take some time to let these words sink in. You may even have a difference of opinion than the writer…that’s okay. Spend time with God seeking His wisdom, and He will gladly show you what He wants you to know.

I Surrender - HIllsong

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.’”

— Mark 8:34-35 New International Version

Freedom of Righteousness

Good Morning Beauties!

I’m excited to start our next few days as we look at the next attribute, RIGHTEOUS, and the truths God wants us to know. We will look at the amazing gifts from Jesus including salvation, and forgiveness. For those of you who are new to your Christian journey or are here to seek truth, these next few days are critical and foundational to your faith. If you are more mature in your walk with the Lord, you will still have the opportunity to solidify your beliefs and move deeper still with Jesus.

Righteous - Our faith has made us right with God. He sees us as sinless and guilt free because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Let’s read about this truth in the Bible.

“But now God has shown us a different way to heaven —not by “being good enough” and trying to keep his laws, but by a new way (though not new, really, for the Scriptures told about it long ago). Now God says he will accept and acquit us—declare us “not guilty”—if we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, by coming to Christ, no matter who we are or what we have been like.” Romans 3:21-22 (TLB)

Hallelujah! We no longer have to worry about doing all the right things or trying harder to make things perfect. God already sees us as perfect. We can simply be who we’re created to be and enjoy our relationship with Jesus. The days of striving to be good enough are gone.

It’s time to do a little self-assessment. What do you worry about most? How much time do you spend thinking you have disappointed God? Selah.

Another thing we need to discover is our need for other’s approval as we try to meet their expectations. Why is this so important? Who’s expectations is it viatally important for you to meet? What will happen if you don’t? Perhaps that person is you. Selah.

Let’s step into a new freedom today knowing that we are already right with God, and there is absolutely nothing we can do to make Him more pleased with us than He is right now. No longer do we have to balance the scales with more good deeds than bad. We can also lay down the need to please others. If we are pleasing and acceptable to God, nothing else should matter. Are you holding anyone’s opinion of you higher than God’s? Selah.

Run and Run (Christ is my Righteousness) - Matt Boswell and Matt Papa

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

Beautiful Inner Peace

Good Morning Beauties!

We’re half way through the 40 Day Journey. Can you believe it? You’ve made many sacrifices to be here, to meet with Jesus each day, hear from Him as He reveals truth, and deepen your relationship with your King. How AWESOME!!! Your hard work will be rewarded with the best gift ever - Jesus.

This morning, the Lord is impressing upon my heart to look at the beauty of peace - having a peaceful mind, heart, and life with others.

The most peaceful people are the most beautiful. Have you ever noticed? Think of someone you know who you think is absolutely beautiful. Now consider her level of inner peace, the peace that only comes from God, Himself. Who is she? How has her peaceful spirit inspired you? Selah.

Next, let’s take a look at what the Bible says about peace:
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” Isiah 26:3-4 (NIV)

“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Romans 14:19 (NIV)

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 (NIV)

In Ephesians 6:15 it refers to the Gospel as the “Gospel of Peace.” I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. The Gospel of Jesus is usually thought of as a Gospel of Love, right? It’s also the Gospel - the Good News - of peace. Why do you think it’s so important to Jesus we live in peace with Him, ourselves, and others? What area of your life do you need God’s peace? Make that your prayer today. Selah.

Give Me Your Peace - Gateway Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

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

— John 14:27 The Living Bible

Beautifully Selected

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

On this fourth day of looking at our royal status with God, He’s shown me that we, my beauties, have been selected into HIS Royal Family. We have been chosen by the King of Kings, Lord of Lords to join HIM and all the saints for eternity.

Google defines chosen as, “having been selected as the best or most appropriate..” WOW! You’ve been selected by God as BEST for His family. “…but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world,… John 15:19 (NLT) God has set you apart from the world to be true royalty.

What does “chosen” mean to you? Can you reflect on times when you were chosen and how it made you feel? What about a time when you were not chosen? What did that situation feel like? How did the enemy use that situation to harm you? Will you allow God’s truth of how He chose you to heal any wounds inflicted by the enemy? Are you ready to walk confidently in your royal status? Selah.

Chosen - Vineyard Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For many are called, but few are chosen.”

— Matthew 22:14 New Living Translation

The Beauty of Heaven’s Glow

Good Morning Beauties!

How do we know if we’re walking in the freedom Christ died to give us? Isn’t that what this journey’s about? So, how do we know if we’re making progress? Will we feel something? Will we look different? Will there be tangible results? Selah.

Today’s lyric is one of my favorite. God gave me a beautiful picture in my head of His warm golden glow coming from Heaven to live in and through us. As we uncover the lies of the enemy residing in us, Heaven’s glow (His truth and love) will illuminate the darkness and eventually overflow onto others.

I bet you’ve seen people you know appear to be glowing. Whether it’s new found romantic love, the fullness of an expected baby, or perhaps during worship, an overwhelming expression of love is surely the reason. God allows these intense moments on Earth so we may get a glimpse of how much He loves us.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Psalm 34:8 (NIV) When we have a taste of the goodness of God, all we can do is share it with others. Holding it in is selfish, and the love of God is anything but self serving. His love always serves others.

So, the answer is, yes! We WILL reveal our progress by the way we feel, look, and love others. How is your progress? Selah.

Reflect on His goodness today…

The Goodness of God - Jenn Johnson / Bethel Music

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

— Psalm 23:6 New International Version

The Beautiful Victor’s Crown

Good Morning Beauties!

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NIV)

There is so much to consider as we ponder The Victor’s Crown. I encourage you to dig into your Bible today and ask God what He wants you to know. He is faithful to reveal truth as you ask for wisdom.

Jesus is showing me in order to share in the victory, I must share in the suffering. We don’t really like to think about this reality, this requirement, yet it remains. When we persevere through hardships, we receive our victor’s crown. The Bible tells us, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” Revelation 2:10 (NIV) How will you approach difficulty with your life in Christ this year? Will you adopt this new attitude of boldness and perseverance? Selah.

We have a Savior who understands our suffering, our pain, our humiliation. The Book of Mark depicts Jesus in the hands of His captors, “They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him.” Mark 15:17 (NIV) Jesus was innocent, and yet led away as a criminal, mistreated, injured, and humiliated. He knows your pain first hand. How will this truth bring you even closer to Jesus during those hard times? What will you do differently as you walk in your new life with Him? Selah.

Here is the good news, the literal “Good News,” Jesus has overcome the enemy and wears the Victor’s Crown. The war was won when Jesus defeated the enemy at the Cross and at His Resurrection. The grave could not contain Him! He took our sin, paid our debt, and reconciled us with The Father. We Have Victory in Christ Jesus!!!

Victor’s Crown - New Hope (Darlene Zschech)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Blessed [happy, spiritually prosperous, favored by God] is the man who is steadfast under trial and perseveres when tempted; for when he has passed the test and been approved, he will receive the [victor’s] crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”

— James 1:12 Amplified Bible

God’s Royal Diadem

Good Morning Beauties!

Welcome to our new truth - You Are Royalty. Shall we look at this beautiful word, royalty? The root word, of course is royal. Do you see the beauty in it, or is it just me? What do you think of when you hear this word? How would you describe it in a picture? Selah.

My mind automatically goes to Kings and Queens of this Earth. The British family. Princess Diana. Then I think about the seen objects they possess - crowns, jewels, thrones, gowns, castles. They have treasure. Next I think about the fortress and guards protecting them around the clock. They have importance in their kingdom.

It makes sense to think about something of the world we physically live in each day. What about the spiritual world we also live in each day? Because we can’t see it with our eyes, it seems secondary, but in reality, it is the true primary place we dwell with God.

In the spiritual world, you are part of God’s Royal family. You have His love and devotion - the treasure that matters most. You also have His security and protection every moment you’re alive. He is there for your every need. Jesus - the King of Kings loves you and has saved you from a life of darkness. You are that important and valuable to Him.

This song is about transformation and the new life Jesus brings. Are you ready for change? Are you ready to rise up and take your place in His Royal Family? Selah.

Royalty - Francesca Battistelli

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.”

— Isaiah 62:3 New International Version

The Beauty of Long Life

Good Morning Beauties!

Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.” Entrust all your work and activities to God so that He may cause them to bear fruit according to His will. This morning, I’m feeling quite ill, but I’m committed to my journey and this blog to encourage all the Beauties along their journeys. I pray Jesus will speak to you through a blogpost I wrote back in 2020. It seems rather fitting.

I’m hearing from God to stay on the topic of joy another day. He reminded me of a beautiful proverb which speaks of how joy relates to our physical, mental, and spiritual health. We’ve already looked at how gratitude produces joy, today let’s look at how joy produces good health.

As we’ve discovered over the past few days, joy brings freedom and peace. Can you imagine how good it is for your body, mind, and soul not to worry and carry so much stress? It’s nothing short of miraculous! Doctors and experts inform us how detrimental stress is to our overall health, but we’ve known that before the medical journals told us so. Just look at the scripture below. God taught us this truth centuries ago.

Before we move on to our next attribute, please grab your journal and make a list of what still stresses you out. Beside each one write your prayer and release it to God. Ask for the freedom you need in that particular area and accept the joy that comes from getting rid of it. Selah.

I love the photo above. You know this beauty has experienced much in her life. I’m sure it wasn’t all glamorous for her, and yet, when she’s obviously an old lady, she is still laughing, still full of joy, and SO BEAUTIFUL!! Perhaps that’s the reason why she’s lived a long life.

Let’s get up and add some healthy years to our lives by singing, dancing, and praising our Awesome God!

Joy - Planetshakers

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“A cheerful heart does good like medicine, but a broken spirit makes one sick.”

— Proverbs 17:22 The Living Bible

Beautiful Joyful Gratitude

Good Morning Beauties!

“The root of joy is gratefulness...It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” Brother David Steindl-Rast, Jesuit priest.

The person who is grateful, who feels thankful for everything, will take joy in even the smallest blessings. Are you this person? Do you start your day with an attitude of gratefulness? Do you find yourself expressing your thankful heart during the day? How does this life of gratitude lead to greater joy? Selah.

Take a few minutes to look back on the last few days and reflect on your joy in light of your freedom in Christ, His gift of grace, and His peace that surpasses all understanding. How often do we need to add His eternal blessings to the list of temporal ones? Selah.

Here’s a song that will surely provoke a time of beautiful and joyful worship to our King.

Gratitude/Worthy of It All/You’re Worthy - Brandon Lake, Natalie Grant, Maverick City Music

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Always be joyful. Always keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

— 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 The Living Bible

Peaceful Beauty

Good Morning Beauties!

As I was researching “grace and peace” on the internet, a funny thing happened. I ran across one of my journal entries from my 2024 Fall Journey. How cool is that?

At first, I bypassed it and kept going on my search, but then I sensed the Lord wanted me to go back and read it. After my review and prayer, I believe this is the right message for today. We will never know the extent of God’s grace. Each day we live in the grace He says is enough for that day. The new supply is endless, it never fails, and this truth brings us peace - assurance like nothing else in the world.

“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 (NIV)

God’s favor given to us, though undeserved, provides our salvation, (through faith) but doesn’t stop there. God showers us with grace each and every day. His blessing is ours though we continue to make mistakes and falter. He sees our broken pieces, and in His great love and compassion, extends His amazing grace. Hallelujah!! Thank you, Jesus!

So the question is, if we live under God’s grace, why do we still live with anxiety? We’ve been given salvation - we will live and reign with Jesus for eternity, so why the stress and fear? 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)

It’s time to surrender our anxiety to God in prayer and live in the fullness of His grace and peace. Another way to say it is, we need to lay down all the lists, busy schedules, expectations, and demands, and give them to God in prayer, and then find His rest.

What do you need to surrender today? Is it activity or something internal? Make a list in your journal and then, one by one, hand them over to Jesus. Through His grace, He will bring peace, and rest. Selah.

Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace) - Hillsong Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“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 New Living Translation

A Heart Set Free

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them” Ezekiel 11:19 (NIV)

How often do you feel like your heart’s still divided? You know you’re a follower of Jesus, His death on the cross has given you new life, and yet still….still there’s fear, still there’s doubt, still there’s shame….still. Ask Him today what part of your heart needs His healing touch, still. Selah.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

This is the spirit you have received from Jesus! Power. Love. Self-Discipline. You have the Spirit of Christ living in you - there is no space to cohabitate with fear, doubt, and shame. You have been set free. Hallelujah!

Set Free - Hope Darst

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”

— Romans 8:1-2 New Living Translation

The Joyful Will Praise Him

Good Morning Beauties!

“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.” Psalm 30:11-12 (NIV)

Let’s talk about JOY! It’s true, you are joyful. You may not feel it everyday, but you’ve been given the spirit of joy. God has replaced your sadness and given you a new countenance of joy. It’s more than a feeling or emotion, joy is a part of who you are, it’s deep in your soul and a gift by the Holy Spirit. Your Spirit of Sadness has been replaced by a new Spirit of Joy!

What are your thoughts and feelings about this truth? Do you find it hard to believe? Pray for God to reveal any lies that prevent you from grasping this truth as your own. Selah.

Do you need a reminder of how joyful you were when you first gave your life to Christ? Jesus reached down and rescued you from the pit and placed you firm on the rock. He gave you the gift of abundant life and eternity. Does reflecting back to that time make your heart flutter a bit? Selah.

Do you want to shout the praises of Jesus from the rooftops? He’s so deserving of all our praise and worship. Let’s not be silent as we lift up our praise to our beautiful Jesus, the one who gives us reason to live our lives with joy.
Every Praise - Hezekiah Walker

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”

— Psalm 5:11 New International Version

Beautiful Praise

Good Morning Beauties!

“I will exalt you, my God the King;  I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.” Psalm 145:1-2 (NIV)

You are 10 days into your journey. Congratulations! You have dedicated yourself to growing closer to God, and I’m confident He has shown up and blessed you already. Is your heart responding with praise to Jesus as He transforms you? Selah.

I always like to reflect on the entire journey on this day. Looking back to Day 1, what’s changed for you? It can be something which seems insignificant or something substantial. Wherever you see growth, please write it down. These changes make up our “praise list.” We can use our lists to give God the praise He deserves for faithfully meeting us each day and giving us the strength needed to look at the lies - sometimes painful - and make a change.

I also like to look at the three areas of preparation. Expectations, obstacles with action plans, and motivation. Is the journey what you expected? Is God showing up and providing what you wanted? Is this process more work on your part than you thought? Selah.

How are you doing with your obstacles? Are your action plans working? If not, do you need all new plans or just some tweaking? Selah.

How is your motivation? Look back at your “why” you wrote in your journal on Preparation Day. Are you still excited and desiring the “newness” Jesus brings? Selah.

Let’s write and reflect on our praise list as we celebrate our Lord and Savior!

You Are Great - Darlene Zschech

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.”

— Psalm 145:3 New International Version

Strength in Our Loveliness

Good Morning Beauties!

How are you doing this morning? It was hard to get out of my warm cozy bed this morning, especially when I was up during the night with illness… it’s flu season here in Minnesota. How about you? Is your anticipation of spending time with God greater than your discomfort of leaving a warm bed?

The past two days we looked at the aspects of Majesty and Humility, and today let’s see how STRENGTH is a common denominator in both. Since Jesus lives inside of us, we’re strong in His power. We don’t rely on our our strength, but His. Humility takes enormous strength to put others before ourselves, especially the ones we believe are undeserving.

Reflect on times when you saw Jesus working in your life through His majesty and humility. Write them down in your journal as the Spirit brings them to mind. Selah.

Hopefully that reflection is bringing you confidence knowing you have all you need from Jesus. What still lingers? Where are the places you still feel insecure? Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 12:10 (NIV) “for when I am weak, then I am strong.” Where do you need the strength of the Lord today? Lovely woman of God, you’ve been hiding too long. Come out and move in power, humility, and strength to fulfill your wonderful purpose. It’s time for you to walk in the new fulness of life Jesus died to give you, Selah.

Strong Enough - Matthew West

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“My dove in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places on the mountainside, show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.”

— Song of Solomon 2:14 New International Version

Loving Others First

Good Morning Beauties!

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

The ultimate example of humility - Jesus. At this point in the story, Jesus had been wrongly accused, humiliated, tortured, and nailed to the cross. The Bible says he was silent throughout and the first words He spoke was a prayer for the people responsible. What is your response? What do you think and feel hearing this truth? Selah.

Jesus lives inside you, so you also have the power of this awesome humility. Most people don’t believe they are humble because the enemy does a great job of condemning us and allowing us to see our pride, mistakes, and failures instead. Take a moment and reflect on examples where, following the Holy Spirit’s prompting, you acted with humility. Let’s remember all those times and silence the enemy. Selah.

The newness of 2025 is growing in our faith and relationship with Jesus. Let’s pray part of that process includes being more like Jesus and thinking more of others than ourselves. True humility will have a lasting change that will please the Lord and help us serve Him with a generous heart. Hallelujah!

More Like Jesus - Passion

Love and Blessings,
Kemdra

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

— Philippians 2:3-4 New International Version