Tag: Elevation Worship

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THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY | Surrender

REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES OFFERS FOUR TOPICS FOR CONTEMPLATION EVERY MONTH. EACH TOPIC IS A 12-MONTH STUDY ASSIGNED TO A SPECIFIC FRIDAY OF THE MONTH. IN MONTHS WITH FIVE FRIDAYS WE REVIEW INSPIRATIONAL CHRISTIAN MEDIA.

On the third Friday of each month in 2022 we’re focusing our life recovery work on The Twelve Laws of Life Recovery: God’s Wisdom and Guidance for Your Journey with Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. This powerful study will take our life of recovery to a level of freedom most of us haven’t yet experienced.

THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY 

Each month we’re looking at a requirement that guides us to a specific result which will ultimately fill our lives with love, gratitude and the serenity we desire.

THE LAW OF SURRENDER

REQUIREMENT: SURRENDER
RESULT: VICTORY

SURRENDER: a decision to no longer rely on our own wisdom and strength but instead to allow God to help us—both directly and through others—so that we can accomplish good things. If you cannot find it within yourself to take this giant step toward healing, you will not be able to move forward in working the Twelve Steps.  (The Twelve Laws of Life Recovery)

The wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. ~ James 3:17

In the verse above, James is describing surrender through the humble act of yielding ourselves to others. Our willingness is joined with our surrendering when we say to God that we accept His will versus our own will. Ultimately, our surrendered life will become a celebration of our victory in Christ that others will witness.

Fools think their own way is right,
    but the wise listen to others. ~ Proverbs 12:15

Surrender is critical to a victorious life of recovery. This cannot be overstated. If we continue to follow our own will and ways we will most certainly repeat our past mistakes and failures.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. ~ James 4:10

We must make the tough decision to fully surrender to what God’s Word says about how life should be lived. It’s not about our opinion of whether it is right or wrong. It’s about being blessed because of our obedience.

I pray you are blessed by this victorious worship song below.

 

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THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY | Faith

REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES OFFERS FOUR TOPICS FOR CONTEMPLATION EVERY MONTH. EACH TOPIC IS A 12-MONTH STUDY ASSIGNED TO A SPECIFIC FRIDAY OF THE MONTH. IN MONTHS WITH FIVE FRIDAYS WE REVIEW INSPIRATIONAL CHRISTIAN MEDIA.
On the third Friday of each month in 2022 we’re focusing our life recovery work on The Twelve Laws of Life Recovery: God’s Wisdom and Guidance for Your Journey with Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. This powerful study will take our life of recovery to a level of freedom most of us haven’t yet experienced.

THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY 

Each month we’re looking at a requirement that guides us to a specific result which will ultimately fill our lives with love, gratitude and the serenity we desire.

THE LAW OF FAITH

REQUIREMENT: FAITH
RESULT: HOPE

 

“Our progress is measured in part by how we handle our problems and trials. When we endure the hard stuff, we build strength of character, which in turn builds our faith. It is that faith that leads to hope, which is built on knowing that we are loved by God.”~ THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. ~ Romans 5:3-5

During struggles we need to determine what barriers are keeping us from walking in faith. We must see things from God’s perspective and stop looking at life from our human viewpoint. Battling life challenges builds our character and can bring us hope when we see God’s faithfulness through them.

Our focus scripture above helps us understand how faith can lead to hope even in the midst of challenging life circumstances. Paul shows us see the difference between our self-centered focus and God’s perspective of growth in challenging times. Let’s break it down.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. ~ Romans 5:3

Problems don’t naturally seem like a time to rejoice. But the Word promises if we keep our faith in God these circumstances are bringing us something good.

endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. ~ Romans 5:4

Endurance is pivotal to growing our character. During challenging times is when we grow the most spiritually. These time require us to trust God and wait for Him to change the people or circumstances that are troubling us.

this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. ~ Romans 5:5

While the world and life is filled with disappointments. One thing we can depend on to not disappoint: Hope that comes from God!

This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.  ~ Hebrews 6:19

“The hope we have as a result of faith is a strong and trustworthy anchor that will hold us steady in the midst of our trials and temptations.” ~ THE TWELVE LAWS OF LIFE RECOVERY

Be blessed with this Elevation Worship song: Give Me Faith!

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THE DO IT AFRAID BOOK STUDY :: REST IN THE PROMISE OF ETERNITY

REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES OFFERS FOUR THEMES FOR CONTEMPLATION EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR.
EACH OF THE FOUR POWER-PACKED THEMES ARE A 12-MONTH STUDY SERIES ASSIGNED TO A SPECIFIC FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH. IN MONTHS WITH FIVE FRIDAYS I’LL BE REVIEWING TOUCHING INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC.
On the fourth Friday of each month in 2021 we’re studying Joyce Meyer’s newest book: Do It Afraid. We’re learning how to understand fear, to recognize how fear works in our life and finally how to confront fear. We will learn new mindsets that position us for freedom from our most common fears. Come along and let’s learn something new from Momma Joyce!
This is the eleventh post in The Do It Afraid Book Study series.

FREEDOM FROM THE FEAR OF DEATH

By embracing death Jesus sets free those who live their entire lives in bondage to the tormenting dread of death. ~ Hebrews 2:15

Many people live their lives with a tormenting fear of death or dying. And this isn’t something strange or unusual. Experiencing  something that is unknown can be a fearful. But thankfully, God has given us the answer to that fear in Jesus.

We can first begin by talking about what death entails. The world’s definition of death would say that we cease to exist. But the biblical definition explains that while our physical body does cease to exist, our inner life (our soul) which is our mind, will and emotions, will continue on for eternity. In other words, death is when our soul is separated from our body.

For those of us who are believers in Jesus Christ, this isn’t a fearful thing. We have God’s promise of being in heaven with our new glorious bodies for eternity. But for those who don’t know Christ, this is a serious matter with eternal consequences that most people don’t even consider.

THE REALITY OF HELL

Hell is a difficult subject to discuss. Some people don’t believe hell exists. After all, why would a loving God send anyone to hell? What people don’t understand is that they are the ones who have made the choice to go there. God didn’t send them.

Yes, God is loving. But He is also a God of justice. Evil and sin must be punished. A price must be paid. Jesus lovingly came and sacrificed His life for all of the sinners in the world; freeing us from the punishment of hell where all sinners belong.

“Hell is a place we don’t want to go, so it is important to make the right decisions while we can.” ~ Joyce Meyer

THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION

Believers is Christ don’t need proof of the resurrection. The Holy Spirit placed that in our hearts when we became born again. On top of that, Scripture tells us many witnessed the empty tomb where Jesus left His grave clothes behind and the burial napkin, which had covered His face, was left neatly folded. Much like a person leaving a dinner table will fold their napkin when they are returning.  Many see Jesus’ folded napkin as a sign of His return.

“Don’t worry or surrender to your fear. For you’ve believed in God, now trust and believe in me also.My Father’s house has many dwelling places. If it were otherwise, I would tell you plainly, because I go to prepare a place for you.And when everything is ready, I will come back and take you to myself so that you will be where I am.” ~ John 14:1-3

“Dying is something no one can avoid. We may feel some fear of the unknown, but we have assurance of the resurrection and heaven, and that is cause to celebrate!” ~ Joyce Meyer

If you are living in a dreadful fear of death and dying, if you have never prayed to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, take a couple of minutes to watch  the first video below with Joyce Meyer. After you pray with Joyce, watch the second video from Elevation Worship beautifully singing of the fullness of God’s love and glory for eternity. You will be blessed if you do.

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THE TWELVE LIFE RECOVERY GIFTS :: POWER

REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES OFFERS FOUR THEMES FOR CONTEMPLATION EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR.
EACH OF THE POWER-PACKED THEMES ARE A 12-MONTH STUDY SERIES ASSIGNED TO A SPECIFIC FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH BEGINNING IN JANUARY. IN MONTHS WITH FIVE FRIDAYS I’LL BE REVIEWING TOUCHING INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC. COME ALONG. LET’S LEARN SOME NEW THINGS TOGETHER!
For my addiction recovery work this year I’m going through The Twelve Gifts of Life Recovery by Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. On the third Friday of each month in 2021 I will be sharing the blessings God brings us to honor our choices and encourage our recovery journey. This is the second column in this series. Today we are learning about the gift of Power.

We admitted we were powerless over our problems and that our lives had become unmanageable. ~ STEP 1

I know that nothing good lives in me… I want to do what is right, but I can’t. ~ Romans 7:18

We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. ~ Step 2

God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. ~ Philippians 2:13

The gift of power comes when we recognize and admit that we truly are powerless over our dependencies. In a sense that admitting brings relief because we realize it’s not our power that will keep us from falling into temptation, strengthen our walk or find our freedom.

“As we cease striving and begin to acknowledge in prayer the gift of God’s power in our lives, we experience growth in our recovery.” THE TWELVE GIFTS OF LIFE RECOVERY

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

Sure we have a responsibility to make wise choices with regards to friends, media input, behaviors and environment to avoid potential trigger points. But ultimately, it is the gift of God’s power that will give us the ability to say no to the temptation triggers.

So beware if you think it could never happen to you, lest your pride becomes your downfall. ~ 1 Corinthians 10:12

The minute we think we’ve got this recovery life all figured out and can withstand temptations, that’s when we have stepped out onto the slippery slope that will most assuredly lead to a relapse. The gift of power must be protected! Our life recovery journey must be guarded at all cost.

By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. ~ 2 Peter 1:3

In time God’s gift of power will flow over into other areas as this life recovery journey becomes stronger. Soon we have more confidence to help others in their recovery walk as well. God’s power gift keeps working in and through all we do.

Meditate on the lyrics below and then take a few minutes to soak in the music video by Elevation Worship. Blessings… Tamara

“My weakness is hidden within your glory. Jesus my strength is in you The odds are against me . But you are for me Jesus. My strength is in you.”

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THE NEW LIFE SERIES :: BE THANKFUL

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study with real world applications.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.~ Colossians 3:15

In today’s verse Paul encourages us to let God’s peace rule our hearts. Because we are members of the body of Christ we are called to live in peace. And then should always be thankful.

Umpire of Peace

The word rule in this scripture comes from the language of athletics and refers to an umpire or referee. Our hearts are often the center of conflicting feelings and emotions–hopes and fears, love and jealousy. Paul is telling us to let the umpire of peace choose between the conflicting elements. Which choice will bring peace to our soul or our relationships?

Life of Peace

Having received Christ as our Savior we are now members of His mystical body, the Church. And as such we are called to live peaceful lives. Lives that are peaceful are free from anxiety, fear or worry.

Don’t worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7

With the peace of Christ ruling our hearts we will truly able to be thankful. Here are three things we should all be thankful for:

  • God has chosen us. We should be so thankful that God has chosen us to be a part of His forever family.

You are the people of God; He loved you and chose you for His own. ~ Colossians 3:12

  • God’s gift of Christ. We should be forever thankful for the gift of Christ’s sacrifice which allows us to have relationship with our heavenly Father.

Praise God for his astonishing gift, which is far too great for words! ~ 2 Corinthians 9:15

  • God’s gift of life. We should be thankful for all the things we’ve been given: God’s Word, air, food, water, shelter, sun, rain, family, friends, flowers, dogs, ice cream… for all things!

And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ~ Ephesians 5:20

 Join me in a worship of gratefulness with this awesome song  by  Elevation Worship

Elevation

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THE RED SEA RULES STUDY :: VIEW YOUR CURRENT CRISIS AS A FAITH BUILDER FOR THE FUTURE

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In THE RED SEA RULES series we’re using the wonderful book by Robert J. Morgan as our guideline for a deep study of Exodus 14. Join me on the fourth Friday of each month in 2020 as we apply Morgan’s “10 God-Given Strategies for Difficult Times” to our lives today.

RED SEA RULE 9: View your current crisis as a faith builder for the future. 

The LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. Thus Israel saw the great work which the LORD had done in Egypt; so the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD and His servant Moses.   ~ Exodus 14:30-31

The children of Israel benefited greatly from their experiences at the Red Sea. It strengthened their faith in God which would help them in the challenges ahead.

The unknowability of the future can be a fearful thing. However, it’s important that  we remember God allows everything we experience to grow and build our faith as we trust in Him.

Faith is much like a muscle. It grows in layers as we go through various trials and struggles.  When we want to strengthen our physical muscles we must push them to a limit with some form of exercise. Our faith grows much the same way. It must be tested by the exercises of life challenges.

Faith is simply finding and claiming the promises of God in every situation, and based on those promises, making logical assumptions, being fully persuaded that God has the power to do what He has promised. ~ Robert J. Morgan

As we surrender our life, God will soften our heart and shape our future to be the best that He has designed for us. Let God take over your life and your soul. With Him in control everything will work in your favor when it’s all said and done.

I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future. ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Build your faith with these words. You can trust God. He is good and His love for you is great!

Take a few minutes to build your faith with this Elevation Worship video.

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THE LORD’S PRAYER :: DON’T LET US YIELD TO TEMPTATIONS

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In The Lord’s Prayer Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. He’s not just giving them a prayer to recite, but a model prayer for everyone of us. Join me on the first Friday of each month in 2020 as we study this beloved prayer phrase by phrase and bring fresh application to our lives today.

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. ~ Matthew 6: 9-13

God is always faithful. With every temptation He provides a way out. It’s up to us to look for the way. Let’s look to Jesus…

He Is The Way of Escape

We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously. ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13 TPT

Jesus will always be our way out, over, through, and around all temptations the enemy may throw at us. There’s nothing we face that isn’t filtered through God’s loving hands. No matter what comes God will never fail us. He will take what the enemy means for harm and turn it to good in our life.

What temptation are you facing today?  

Look to Jesus.

See Your Victory!

Let’s praise God for the many victories He brings us with this wonderful worship song by Elevation Worship.

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THE PREPARED TABLE

On the second Friday of each month in 2019 we are studying one of the most memorized chapters in the Bible: PSALM 23. Join me as we bring fresh application of this beloved psalm to our lives.

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me to lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul.

He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;

for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies…

In our culture today we don’t really have enemies surrounding us like David who faced lions and bears that were trying to get his sheep. However later in his life, David had to run for his life many times when being chased by enemies like King Saul and even his own son sought to kill him at one point.

What enemies do we face?

Because you’re reading this column most likely you have all the basic comforts of the Western world: food, clothing, shelter, medicine, etc… In a spiritual sense the biggest enemy we face I believe is doubt and fear. Our physical enemies are often things such as lack or sickness.

Our own worst enemy.

Sometimes my biggest enemy is my own mind. I may have physical struggles although I have all my basic needs met. But when I wake up in the morning my mind goes right to today’s challenges or to the things I wish could be different. Starting my day with worship music always helps me with this. Maybe that’s why David wrote so many songs.

See the blessings not the struggle.

The lesson I get from this portion of Psalm 23 is that no matter what enemy we may be facing: lack, illness, fear or doubt… We need to look around and see all the things we already have before we grumble about the things we don’t have.

God has already blessed us with so much.

See His Goodness now!

Contemplate God’s goodness with this beautiful video by Elevation Worship.