Beautiful Righteous Legacy

Good Morning Beauties!

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” Matthew 5:6 NIV

The past couple of days we’ve reflected on our blessings. We have been given the gifts of salvation and sanctification - nothing we could do except receive these gifts. We’ve also been forgiven of all our sins: past, present, and future. Lastly, the Lord has justified us. He wiped the slate clean, as if we never sinned - spotless and blameless because of God’s grace and mercy.

You are blessed, and you are righteous, but are you hungry? Have you remained thirsty? Have you accepted these gracious gifts but finished seeking God? Is the desperation that once drove you to your knees now gone? Selah.

Isaiah 61:1-3 beautifully speaks of the reason Jesus came to Earth. He came for the broken, sick, and lame. He came to transform our lives - take what the enemy had stolen and tried to destroy, and bring an abundant life of freedom and purpose. I particularly love verse 3, “They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” NIV Our transformed lives are to be on full display for others to see the magnificent love and power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus.

The next generation needs your witness. What will you show them? Will they see a content woman, with a crown filled with God’s blessings, or will they also see a hungry and thirsty woman still seeking the Lord with all her might? Selah.

Hungry (Falling On My Knees) Kathryn Scott
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Blessings crown the head of the righteous...”

— Proverbs 10:6 New International Version

The Forgiven Forgive

Good Morning Beauties!

“Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight!” Psalm 32:1 NLT
Do you live as a forgiven follower of Jesus Christ? Have you truly repented of your sins and accepted this free gift of forgiveness? Is there anything holding you back? Selah.

“He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.” Psalm 103:12 NLT
Not only does Jesus forgive us, He forgets our sins as though they never existed. Jesus doesn’t suddenly remember a forgiven sin and ask you for more repentance. He forgives and forgets. Hallelujah! Do you live in the freedom of this truth? Selah.

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” Romans 5:1 NIV
Jesus provides a “clean slate” for us. Our justification allows us to live just as if we have never sinned. Take a few moments to wrap your head around this truth. The enemy will torment your mind with lies saying, “you’re damaged and dirty. How could a good God ever want you?” Will you believe the lies or the truth? Selah.

“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:9 NLT
Just as Jesus forgave us, we too are to forgive others. Forgiveness maintains a healthy close relationship - just like yours with Jesus. It allows you to give what you’ve been freely given and didn’t deserve. Who do you need to extend the olive branch? What healthy relationship needs repairing? How will your leadership teach others to forgive? Selah.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT
This scripture goes into more detail of how we are to forgive others. Words like bitterness, rage, and anger tell me that the offense may have been severe, and yet, we are still called to forgive. You may have been abused, betrayed, or abandoned, and still - you must forgive. You must make a decision with your mind to forgive the person, and believe your emotions will one day catch up. “But it’s too hard,” you say. In your own strength, you’re right, but you have the power of almighty God through the Holy Spirit who lives inside you. You can forgive! You must forgive as Jesus forgave you.

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Romans 12:19 NIV
”But they must pay for what they did,” you say. Yes, they will pay, but the vengeance belongs to the Lord. You can let go of the offense and find freedom. You can let the Lord deal with the person, and you can simply walk away with your peace and freedom in tact. Remember, forgiveness with the Love of Jesus doesn’t mean you must stay in relationship with the person who is harmful. Forgiveness doesn’t require you trust the person again, it requires letting go of the offense.

Are you in this situation? Has someone deeply wounded you so that there is no repairing the relationship? Has Jesus told you to walk away from the person for your own health and safety? How will you forgive and let the Lord deal with the necessary consequences? Selah.

Is there someone your’re leading who finds herself in this situation? How will you guide her through this pain with God’s grace and the love of Jesus? How will you show her how to do the hard work? Selah.

This song has a beautiful message of forgiveness that will inspire you in your time of prayer.
Forgiveness - Matthew West
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.”

— Acts 13:38-39 New International Version

Beautiful Witness to Others

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV
Do you know this salvation? Do you believe Jesus was born of a virgin, suffered and died for our sins, and on the 3rd day rose from the grave and now sits at the right hand of the Father? As mothers, leaders, mentors, do those you lead follow Jesus or do they follow you? Do they have their own belief in Him? Selah.

“Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I ever did.’” John 4:39 NIV
What is your rescue story, and how does God want to use it? People are just waiting to hear your testimony so they will understand the truth about Jesus. They need to know the hope He brings and that is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Do you have your testimony ready to share at any time the Spirit prompts you? Selah.

“When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.” 1 Cor 2:1 NIV
Beauties, you don’t have to be a Bible scholar to share your testimony. Simply share what your life was like before you knew Jesus and what it’s like now. Share about what Jesus has saved you from and what your life is like now in Him. Share about how you are being sanctified (being made holy) by the Holy Spirit, and that you don’t have to be perfect to be saved. Share how He has taken your brokenness and is making something glorious. Are you ready to share? What’s holding you back? Have you prepared those you lead to share their stories? Selah.

“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” 1 John 5:11 NIV
Though our stories are made to share, don’t forget the most important testimony - Jesus, the messiah, came to save us and give us eternal life. Share Bible scriptures that are most impactful to the story of Jesus and how they too can be saved. What scriptures live in your heart and are ready to share? Do you need to open your Bible and find the right ones? Will you do it today? Selah

Let this song energize and motivate you to share your rescue story today!!
My Testimony - Elevation Worship
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

— Matthew 24:14 New International Version

Beauty in Your Own Eyes

Good Morning Beauties!

“This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” Romans 3:22 NIV

You have a right standing with God, Himself. Jesus has provided this great gift on the cross. Do you believe it? Do you believe you can stop trying to do enough and be enough for God? Selah.

Here’s a question to ponder - do you have a right standing with yourself? Do you see yourself as a righteous saint, saved by Jesus, and being sanctified by the Holy Spirit or as a sinner filled with guilt and shame, not measuring up to your own expectations? Selah.

How do you think others see you? It may just surprise you. Today, I have another insightful video to share. Though the intention is not of a spiritual nature, I think we all can still learn something from it. Selah.

Dove - Real Beauty
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Anyone can be made right with God by the free gift of His loving-favor. It is Jesus Christ Who bought them with His blood and made them free from their sins.”

— Romans 3:24 New Living Translation

Beautiful Faith

Good Morning Beauties!

“Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.” Mark 10:15 MSG

This beautiful scripture verse is where we hear about having child-like faith. It’s a simple knowing that whatever God says is true. He is trustworthy because He’s proven His love for us over and over. Do you have this kind of faith? Or do you believe only after you’ve seen evidence? My sweet beauty, that’s not faith. Faith is knowing what He says is true and waiting for it to come to pass. Believing what we cannot yet see is another way of saying it. What has the Lord told you about your beauty that you’re not quite believing yet? Selah.

As we reflect on our beauty once again today, I found this video to encourage you. Enjoy!

Young girls talk about their beauty - Allure
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.”

— Luke 1:45 New Living Translation

Beautiful Inheritance

Good Morning Beauties!

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.” Psalm 33:12 NIV

Blessed, Blessed, Blessed are we Beauties! We are also CHOSEN as God’s very own inheritance. Can we just sit here a minute and take that truth into our brains and hearts? Selah.

When you hear the word inheritance, what do you immediately think of? Generational distribution of wealth and special possessions? Have you been the recipient of an inheritance? How did you feel receiving the blessings of another’s hard work? Selah.

In looking at the idea of inheritance, you may be on the other end of it. You may be the giver. What does it mean to you to be able to bless the next generation with the fruit of your labor? How does it bless you? Selah.

What is the best possible inheritance?

“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

In this beautiful scripture, Paul encourages the Ephesians with the truth about what happens now that they are believers in Christ Jesus. The same is true for you and me. We are saved, we have the Holy Spirit living inside of us, and we are guaranteed His inheritance. What does that mean to you? Do you think about it much? Sharing the inheritance of God? Selah.

Here are a few more scriptures that speak about our inheritance in Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you new revelations hidden in these gems.

“… and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.” Colossians 1:12 NIV

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

“For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” Hebrews 9:15 NIV

Now is a time for reflection of the immense blessing we have in our Lord, Jesus Christ, and the inheritance we have the opportunity to pass to future generations. Hallelujah!

The Blessing - Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, Elevation Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.”

— Psalm 103:17-18 New International Version

Beautiful Glow of His Glory

Good Morning Beauties!

It's time to have a heart check - how's your glow?

In Matthew 5, Jesus gives us a description of who we are and the action to take because of it.  I love the Message Bible's version of Matthew 5:16 and how it describes our "Heaven's Glow."

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven."

Your Glow - it matters to The Kingdom!  So, I’ll ask again, how’s your glow? How is it impacting others? Are you spending time with Jesus and reflecting His love, peace, and grace to all who see you? Selah.

Shine a Light - Elevation Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Men and women who have lived wisely and well will shine brilliantly, like the cloudless, star-strewn night skies. And those who put others on the right path to life will glow like stars forever.”

— Daniel 12:3 The Message Bible

Beauty of Victory

Good Morning Beauties!

“The victor’s crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes, and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8-19 ISV

Paul, knowing the time of his death was near wrote these faithful words to Timothy. He speaks of receiving the crown of victory - the crown of righteousness. Paul writes these words to encourage Timothy to continue the difficult work of serving the Lord because the reward is great. All the hardships and persecution will be worth the glory of the Lord that will be ours at the returning of Kiing Jesus.

Many pastors have used a saying, (so many, I forget who originated it,) “you can be a victim or a victor, but you can’t be both.” I love it! It’s so true! Beauties, there are some of us who have truly been victimized by another person or people. It is true; however, there is complete healing through Jesus Christ who allows us to live a victorious life.

Sometimes it’s easier to stay trapped in the victim role because it’s familiar and familiarity makes us comfortable. Have you found yourself in this position? Are you there now? Are you ready to leave that darkness behind with all the lies and torment of the enemy? Are you ready to walk in the marvelous light of the Lord, into the freedom He has for you? Selah.

Have you already made the transition from victim to victor? How will you help those God has brought into your life? How will you help bring them into the victory waiting for them? Selah.

Let’s lift our voices to King Jesus who has shown us the way to wear our crown of thorns here on Earth, which will one day transform to a glorious Victor’s crown.
The Victor’s Crown - Darlene Zschech

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then, when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the victor’s crown of glory that will never fade away.”

— 1 Peter 5:4 International Standard Version

Beauty of Humble Service

Good Morning Beauties!

“You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 NLT

Let’s look closer at this word, ROYALTY. The Biblical definition is, “Either belonging to a king (kingdom) or having kingly power, dignity, authority.” Beauties, I believe it’s both! We belong to the King - King Jesus, and through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we have access to His power, dignity, and authority.

Are you able to grasp who you are and who’s you are? What does it mean to you to be part of God’s royal family? What do you picture in your mind? Selah.

“Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example.” 1 Peter 5:3 NLT

There are many versions of a royal family here on Earth. Some are prideful and see themselves as better people than those they rule, while others truly serve their people with humility and love.

Jesus has given us the ultimate example of how to lead people - through humble service. How will you lead those God has put under your authority? What examples of Jesus have impacted you most? What lessons have you learned in your life’s journey? Selah.

Royalty - Tasha Cobbs Leonard
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You will also be [considered] a crown of glory and splendor in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem [exceedingly beautiful] in the hand of your God.”

— Isaiah 62:3 Amplified Bible

Beauty of Joyful Praise

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 NIV

I’m compelled to stay on the topic of JOY another day as we reflect on our beauty.

Do you know the story found in Nehemiah 8? It’s a beautiful depiction of how the people who were the returned exiles in Jerusalem found deep understanding of God’s Word as Ezra preached from the Holy Scriptures. They began weeping and fell to the floor worshipping God.

Here is the entire chapter where we learn their story:
Nehemiah 8 NIV

Does the Word of God move you to tears? Does it provide both correction and elation? Is the Bible the first place you run to when you need help? Is it your most prized possession? Selah.

Can’t you just tell when someone has spent time with the Lord? There’s a joy, peace, and grace to their countenance that’s quite noticable….it’s BEAUTIFUL! Contrast them to another you know who is worried and anxious. It’s like they bring fear into the room and weaken the group without saying a word. Do you know what I’m talking about.

Do you need strengthened today? It begins with Joy. Where do you find it - with Jesus! Is the Lord calling you to Himself, to a special time of building your relationship? Run, don’t walk into His very presence. He wants nothing more than that precious time with you. Will you make time today? Selah.

Joy Of The Lord - Maverick City Music

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”

— Psalm 28:7 New International Version

Beautiful Rejoicing

Good Morning Beauties!

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4 NIV

Paul is a wonderful example of experiencing joy in all things - even persecution. He wrote the book of Philippians while in prison.

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 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 4:5-7 NIV

Paul continues his instruction to ensure we know how to remain joyful during such difficult times. He teaches us to remain gentle in spirit, know Jesus is with us, give God our anxiety in prayer, remain thankful, ask God for what we need, and to allow God’s peace to guard our hearts and minds. How else can we rejoice always? Thank you Paul!

Of course, there is no better example and no wiser counsel than that of Jesus. The Sermon of the Mount expresses Jesus’ love and personal care for each of us when he says, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.  Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12 NIV

We may not know the persecution of imprisonment and physical torture like Paul, but we all have been wounded by the actions of others. Are you able to quickly forgive the person who hurt you? Do you pray for that person and ask God to reveal Himself to them? Do you remain joyful and focused on Jesus? Selah.

Maintaining joy through hardship is an indication of a mature Christian. How are you doing with your joy? Do you still feel anxious as life’s unfair difficulties come your way? Are you recognizing the attack from the enemy and putting on the Armor of God as your defense? Ask the Lord to reveal what you need to know about any lack of joy in your spirit. Selah.

Just as Paul emplored us to rejoice always, so we too must bring this vital truth to others. Especially now when the darkness is getting darker and people are needing hope like never before, you have the answer - Jesus. They will believe what you say because of your actions, not just your words. Do they see joy? Selah.

Joy - Rend Collective

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“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 12:2(b) New International Version

Graceful Peace

Good Morning Beauties!

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 NIV

Oh what a gift we’ve been given - God’s grace. He didn’t wait until we earned or deserved our salvation, He freely forgave us and blessed us with eternal life. Can you grasp the truth of this gift? Selah.

Who in your life has shown you grace? What was the situation, and how did it feel to receive their favor though you didn’t deserve it? Write down anything you can remember. Selah. Now, thank the Lord for their Godly example.

God’s beautiful peace is found in His amazing grace; both receiving it and extending it to others. There’s nothing you can do to earn His acceptance, you must only receive His gift. Once our hearts are filled with gratitude, we can’t help but share His wonderful gift with others.

Who do you need to show unmerited favor? You say, ‘yes, but they don’t deserve my love, my business, my support.” Aren’t you glad Jesus didn’t say that to the Father? No, He showed great compassion, forgiveness, and favor. Hallelujah, thank you Jesus!

Grace Greater Than Our Sin - Reawaken Hymns

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 Living Translation

Free to Serve

Good Morning Beauties!

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 NIV

Freedom. It looks different for everyone. Some are free from addiction, free from an abusive spouse, free from bondage. What has Jesus set you free from? Write your complete list in your journals. Selah.

Jesus also sets us free to. Free to pursue our purpose, free to serve the one true God, free to share the Good News and make disciples of Christ. Make another list of all the things Jesus has set you free to.

What wells up in your heart as you reflect on each list? For me, it’s immediately gratitude. I’m in awe of God’s awesome power to transform my life from broken to flourishing. What about you? What are you thinking and feeling as you review your own personal transformation? Selah.

Lastly, what will you do with your freedom? How has God asked you to serve others now that you’re free? What’s stopping you? Selah.

Freedom - Jesus Culture

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

— Galatians 5:13 New International Version

Beautiful JOY

Good Morning Beauties!

You’re doing GREAT! You’ve worked your way through the first 10 days of your journey. I’m so proud of your commitment and tenacity to keep moving forward, even on those days when it’s hard. Bravo!!

Today we begin the third attribute, JOYFUL. As christians, we often hear the saying, “joy is more than emotion, it’s more than happiness.” What do you think about this statement? Do you believe it? If joy is not an emotion, what is it? How would you define it? Selah.

The Bible is full of scriptures about joy. Do some digging today in your Bible or Bible app with Jesus. What aspect of joy does He want you to better understand? Selah.

This is my prayer as you spend time with Jesus, “may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 NIV

Let’s raise our voices and get our bodies moving and have a praise and worship dance party. Express your soul’s joy in a time of praising your beloved Jesus.

Praise - Elevation Worship

Every Praise - Hezekiah Walker

JOY - For King & Country

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.”

— Psalm 95:1 New International Version

It Is Well

Good Morning Beauties!

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 NIV

This verse is a promise of God's presence, strength, and help to those who are facing fear or hardship. It highlights the personal relationship and covenant God has with His people - with you. God promises to provide you the strength needed to face challenges. He also assures His help and active intervention. 

What a beautiful testimony it is when we go through difficulties and hold fast to the promises of God; therefore thwarting the plans of the devil. Though we may be broken for a time, our fabulous beauty remains because our souls are steadfast with His love, grace, and peace.

What hardship are you facing right now? Are you fully trusting God and laughing at the enemy and his schemes? Do you know this kind of peace and confidence found in Jesus? How will your testimony effect those around you? Selah.

Invite Him into a special prayer time with you today. Accept all He has to offer in order to carry on in His radiant beauty.

It Is Well - Kristene DiMarco

Love and Blessings ,
Kendra

“... and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”

— Isaiah 61:3 New International Version

Stairway to Paradise - Thomas Kincaid

Good Morning Beauties!

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 NIV

So, in other words, “think of JESUS!” Is anyone or thing more lovely than our dear Savior? What competes for your thoughts? Cares of this world? Enticements of this world? Selah.

Beauties, what are we teaching our children, mentees, the next generation? Do they see your life consumed with Jesus or matters of this world? Do they see your faith or fear? Selah

I love that God gives us free will. He shows us what’s BEST and allows us to choose. Read the scripture above once more. How would your soul feel and what would your life look like to others if your truly kept your thoughts on these things - the attributes of Jesus? Selah.

I find that having an eternal perspective helps me stay my mind on Jesus and things of Heaven. It helps my focus to remain on loving Jesus and loving others. Our temporal problems seem to dissipate when we have an eternal perspective. Do you need to shift your focus? Selah.

One day we will be face to face with Jesus and live with Him forever. What a day that will be! Let’s take time to celebrate the gift Jesus died to give us - an eternal life with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Better Is One Day - Matt Redman

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“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 New International Version

Beauty of Repentance

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” Proverbs 22:4 NIV

Just as the Spirit dwelling in us allows us to share in Jesus’ majesty, we also share in His humility. Thank you Lord that we gain riches and honor and life when we live in true humility.

Of course, Jesus provides the best examples of humility we’ve ever known. He, the Messiah, taught servanthood as He washed His disciples feet. And truly the best example of humility was when Jesus said nothing as the Roman guards humiliated, tortured, and nailed Him to the cross. His first words spoken, “Father forgive them for they know not what they are doing.” Luke 23:34 NIV By following Jesus’ example, we too will put others before ourselves no matter the cost. How are you doing with that part of humility? Do you have yourself or others on you mind during the day? Are you concerned about your life or sharing the Good News with others? Selah.

Sometimes it helps to have an actual person to look to for an example because we know that Jesus was perfect - He was sinless and we, in our humanness, are sinful. King David provides such an example. He shows us that humility comes from repentance, turning away from sin towards God’s righteous path. Please read Psalm 51 and listen to the beautiful song below. It’s based on King David’s repentance after he sinned with Bathsheba. It’s a great example of a man who’s heart was devoted to God, yet sinned. David repents as he comes before God to confess his sin. He asks for forgiveness in all humility. A beautiful example to us all.

Humility - Malkah Norwood

What emotions did the scripture and song evoke? What did the Holy Spirit say? Is He calling you to repentance? Will you humbly obey and ask His forgiveness? Selah.

We can no longer lead people to the saving grace of the Gospel without the truth. Repentance must come before receiving the forgiveness and grace of salvation.  “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” Acts 3:19 NIV.

How will you lead others in the importance of turning from their sin and following the ways of Jesus? Selah.

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because...
God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble.”

— 1 Peter 5:5 New International Version

Worry-free Beauty

Good Morning Beauties!

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.” Matthew 6:28 NIV

Despite this clear instruction from Jesus, many of us still worry about clothes? I believe in the scripture verse He was referring to worry about having enough clothes. In our American culture, we worry about having the “right” clothes. We have closets full of clothes and say we have nothing to wear. Am I right?

Take some time to reflect on this phenomenon. Is your image found in the way you dress? Do you carefully plan your outfits each day? Do you buy additional clothes for a special occasion or wear something you already have? Do certain clothes make you feel more confident? Please know that I have nothing against beautiful garments and fashion - in fact I have a certain style of my own, but we can’t find our identity in them. What role do clothes play in your life? Selah.

The Bible tells us, “On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” John 14:20 NIV

You are in Christ, and He is in you. Okay, we can sit on that truth for hours and still have a hard time comprehending the gravity of it all. As difficult as it is to believe, it is absolutely true. What does that mean to you? Selah.

So, let’s apply this truth to today’s lyric, “clothed in His majesty.” Because we are one with Jesus, we are also clothed with Him in His majesty - His power, His glory. Why do we worry about how we look to others when we have the One True God shining His light through us? No clothes can ever effect another person like the light and presence of the Holy Spirit. Agreed?

A great example of this truth is Taya Smith - Gaukrodger singing “Oceans” in Israel. She is strikingly beautiful and has the voice of an angel. In this particular video, she’s wearing a baggy tshirt, jeans, and has shaved her head. It’s as if she’s saying, “don’t look at me - look at Jesus.” I love it!

Will you find your confidence in Christ living in you, and not your clothes? Will you point people to Jesus through His light and love? Selah.

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) - United featuring Taya Smith - Gaukrodger
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Praise the Lord, my soul. Lord my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty.”

— Psalm 104:1 New International Version

Beauty of Transformation

Good Morning Beauties!

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NIV

My true identity was stolen since the days of my youth. At four years old, it was clear, my sister was the feminine princess of the family, and I was the tomboy. I was assigned this role and it came with a name, Poncho Pete.

Though it was not meant with any malice, the damage was done. I became tough, strong, and sharp around the edges. I protected myself and relied on no one. So when I thought of the word “lovely,” it surely didn’t describe me, because I equated the word with femininity, softness, and weakness.

My loving Jesus brought a beautiful and transforming truth to me as a thirty-five year old adult. He tenderly spoke the words of Song of Solomon 2:14 (see below) to my heart. I believed Him, and it changed my life! He showed me I didn’t have to be so tough; that I could rely on Him for my strength and protection. I could become the feminine and beautiful woman He created. It’s so FUN - I actually LOVE wearing PINK!

What do you believe about your own loveliness? Is that a word that readily comes to mind when describing yourself? Has the enemy stolen this part of your identiy too? What is Jesus wanting you to know about your loveliness? How does He want you to use this truth for others? Selah.

Let’s take time to praise Jesus for changing us into the lovely, beautiful women we are today.
Changed - Hannah Kerr
(I do not own the rights to this video)

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

Beauty of Fearlessness

Good Morning Beauties!

“Her children arise and call her blessed…” Proverbs 31:28 NIV

Yesterday we focused on the beautiful women in our lives and the attributes of their character. You made note of who she is and how her Godliness has blessed your life. Hopefully, you even reached out to her and thanked her for the positive influence she’s been on your life’s journey.

Today, we’re going to look inward. How would you describe yourself? What Godly attributes do you possess? Have you taken what you’ve learned to advance your own Godliness? How are you using the gifts and talents given you to help lead those around you? How would they describe you? Selah

I bet they would say, “she’s beautiful, strong, faithful, loving, and kind.” Do they call you fearless? To live and lead in these dark times, it takes an absolute fearless attitude; one that depends on Jesus every step of the way. In the picture above, (from The Chronicles of Narnia) Lucy faces a massive army on the other side of the bridge, but she bravely pulls out her small dagger and smiles confidently at the enemy. Without looking behind her, Aslan walks up right beside her. She’s knows he will be there to fight the battle, there’s no doubt in her mind, so she gives a brave smile. Here’s the video clip. (I do not own the rights to the video.) I pray it inspires you.

Are you fighting your battles with this same confidence? Are you leading the next generation in truth - we do not fear the battles of the enemy when we have faith in the strength of our God? Selah.

Fearless - Jasmine Murray
(I do not own the rights to this video)

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”

— 2 Timothy 1:7 New Living Translation