Mercy Sayon
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Peace… Lost in Translation
I didn’t grow up in a church that celebrated Advent. I’ve searched out What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent? and then did a post each week following the themes of Advent: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and then a special CHRISTMAS message from me.
Listen to the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Advent Series or the watch my Instagram Live Advent Series videos.
Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE
Soul H2O Devotions/Posts: What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?
Advent Themes Posts: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and a special CHRISTMAS message from me.Instagram Lives: Wednesdays at 12-12:10pm EST in December
Soul H2O Devotion
Peace… Lost in Translation
My friend Claudia Raymundo only moved to Canada when she was about eight. Claudia is a certified translator and has worked on government projects to put English documents into Spanish or vice-versa. Even with all her training, when we’re talking, it seems there will always come a time when she’ll say, “Oh, how do you say this in English?” and sometimes she says there’s really no way to translate this word or phrase in English, so she paints me a picture with her words as to what it means.
Sometimes it’s just difficult to translate words from one language to another. And the word for peace in Isaiah 9:6 is one of those words.
Translating Peace
The English word translated peace here is Shalom in the original Hebrew. It truly is one of those “lost in translation” words. All of our Bibles translate this word to say peace but there really isn’t just one word that aptly defines it. The original word includes all of these definitions: well, happy, friendly; welfare, health, prosperity, peace, (good) health, peace(peaceable, peaceably), prosper(prosperity, prosperous), quiet, tranquillity, contentment, rest, safe(safety), salute, welfare, well, wholly. ¹
Do you see how translating shalom as “just” peace falls short of the original intent of what Isaiah was trying to convey? Jesus is the Prince of Peace but He came to bring much more than peace… much, much more. In our modern language I think holistically healthy and peaceful would be a better way to describe this little word Shalom.
Real Peace
In Luke 2:8-14 the angels proclaim to the shepherds how the Messiah would bring Peace on earth for all men, when they said: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” it wasn’t just some airy-fairy beauty pageant wish for “World Peace”, but a boots-to-the-ground, reality-ready, peace. That doesn’t mean you won’t have difficult circumstances, but that God’s presence, Emmanuel, God with us would bring peace in the midst of chaos, loneliness, and hurt.
Jesus knew what it was like to go through times where he faced complete distress. In the garden of Eden, before His crucifixion, Jesus was under so much anguish that he sweated drops of blood, which we know now is medically possible when someone is that stressed out. The issue isn’t that Jesus stressed this much but that He didn’t stay there.
Through prayer, Jesus released this toxic stress and put His faith in the Father, amidst the most difficult of circumstances. As you read the account of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion, you don’t see a man in worry, fear, or distress… He seems unrealistically calm and peaceful, not allowing the difficulties of life to steal the peace in His heart and mind.
Jesus got to the place of peace through struggle, so he could fully become your Prince of Peace. Now, it’s time for you to apply that peace to your life.
Prayer
Father… Thank You for understanding my need for peace and sending your son .Jesus, I thank You for being willing to come down to this earth and suffer, to be my peace. I ask for your holistically healthy and peaceful presence to invade my mind, emotions, and physical body. Let your true shalom bring peace to every area of my life. In Jesus Name…Amen
Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks
Through The Themes of Advent
Every Wednesday at 12-12:10pm EST
on Instagram LiveDecember 1(Hope), 8(Love), 15 (Joy), 22(Peace)
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1. Isaiah 9:6
- 2. Luke 2:8-14
- 3. Ephesians 2:14
- 4. Colossians 1:20
Soul H2O Resources
*Are you a Christian woman struggling through a difficult situation, feeling alone, questioning God and yourself? Let me travel through the desert of your difficulty with you!
This course will help you grow to trust God with your heart and future, increase your freedom as you break unhealthy patterns, letting go of past or present hurts to trust your decision-making and believe in your value.
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#musicpic
#musicpic SONG: Light of the World by Lauren Daigle
Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/_cLhaZIBSpoSoul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On AppPeace For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #91.
You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/91
Splash Online Event
Childlike Faith Series – Christmas Crackers
Expecting Good Gifts From GodWatch the recorded Facebook LIVE!
Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group to watch the recorded live and be updated for the next live event.
Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season
Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
ENDNOTES
1. Bible Hub Website Accessed: December 1, 2021 Definition of Peace https://biblehub.com/hebrew/7965.htm
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Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy
The third week of Advent is a special week and most everyone celebrates with a focus on JOY, along with a pinky-rose coloured candle.
An article in The Daily Press explained how, “The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday” which means “rejoice.” And what colour is as happy and joyful as the colour pink?
It’s not just a different candle that is lit during the third week of Advent, but there are different carols sung too, songs of joy fill churches.
Soul H2O Devotion
Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy
Pre-pandemic, you just never knew who would be at the Christmas dinner table. My family would often invite people in who didn’t have others to celebrate with and the Lord knows, we always have WAY MORE food than needed. It might be someone who was down and out on their luck or just people who didn’t have family nearby.
I think there’s great joy in knowing that Jesus came to set a seat at the table for anyone, not just a select few.
Take a look at your nativity set and actually think about the people surrounding the manger, along with all the others in the Christmas narratives recorded in Scripture.
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!
Luke 2:10-11 NIV
First of all, there’s a baby. God could have chosen to come down as an adult but he didn’t. He chose to come down as baby. The gospel is for the youngest of the young. Next, there is Mary and Joseph, she’s a teen mom and he was just a young step dad.
The gospel is for the young.
The first people to hear about the good news of the savior coming to earth was actually Mary’s older cousin Elizabeth. When she found out, she was so excited. Elizabeth and her hubby Zechariah housed Mary for the first part of her pregnancy. They were probably in their 40s or 50s as Zechariah was still working… so the gospel is for middle-aged people too.
The gospel is for middle-aged people.
Anna and Simeon in the synagogue were seniors in their later years, waiting for the promised Messiah and they were filled with joy as they recognized Jesus as the Christ.
The gospel is for seniors.
The wealthy, wise, and educated magi came from the east. Men with different skin tones, backgrounds, and beliefs from the others in this story.
The gospel is for the wealthy, wise, and educated.
For people of every nationality or ethnicity.And then, there were the shepherds; just regular, every day, working class people.
The gospel is for the the average Joe or Joanne.
The gospel is good news because it’s for everyone!
No matter your race, creed, colour or family background, the gospel is good news that brings joy for you!
Prayer
Father… I want to thank You for including me into your family. Your gospel is good news for me. Help me to live in a joy-filled way that entices everyone to long for the good news your love can bring into their lives. In Jesus Name…Amen
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1. Luke 2:10-11
- 2. Acts 2:28
- 3. Psalm 16:11
- 4. Luke 24:46-48
Soul H2O Resources
Are you a Christian woman struggling through a difficult situation, feeling alone, questioning God and yourself? Let me travel through the desert of your difficulty with you!
This course will help you grow to trust God with your heart and future, increase your freedom as you break unhealthy patterns, letting go of past or present hurts to trust your decision-making and believe in your value.
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Get a FREE Soul H2O Book Sampler {and a coupon} when you Sign Up to Get the Soul H2O Devotions, Show Notifications, and updates from me!
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#musicpic
#musicpic SONG: Joy Unto the World – The Afters @ 3:56
Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nu018_9wF7k
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On AppJoy For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #90.
You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/90
Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season
Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
ENDNOTES
1. None This Week
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What’s Love Got To Do With It?
In the month of December, I’m running Advent Series all over on, the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show, through the devotions, and on Instagram Lives. This week, the focus is on Christmas Love.
Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show: Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, Jesus
Soul H2O Devotions/Posts: What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent, Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, Advent Inspiration For Your Christmas Season
Instagram Lives: Wednesdays at 12-12:10pm EST in December
Soul H2O Devotion
What’s Love Got To Do With It?
Well, I think Christmas and love are pretty much synonymous. Christmas is celebrating the moment in history when Christ, because of His love, left heaven and came down to earth. Jesus fully God, took on humanity; what theologians call, the incarnation. That Jesus forfeited the comforts of heaven to reach the hearts of people in this world still baffles me. That God the Father allowed His son to come overwhelms me. John 3:16 expresses the motive of love best when John says:
God’s love compelled Him to send Jesus, and in case you’re worried that God was a cruel Father to send His son, I hope you’ll see that love was also Jesus’ motivation for coming as you listen to what he said in John 10:17-18.
The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.
John 10:17-18 NIVJesus also says,
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.
John 10:11And then in John 15:12-14 He says:
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.
John 15:12-13 NIVThe nativity is a beautiful picture of how Jesus’ love compelled Him to come.
Jesus wasn’t forced to leave heaven and give up His life for you as a baby in the manger, or as a man on the cross. He had the authority to do whatever He wanted and, because of His love for you, He came as a baby, grew up and lived as a man, died, rose from the dead, so you could have eternal life and is coming back to live with you for all eternity!
This hope of Christ’s second return is the root focus of Advent. It’s great for you to celebrate His birth and the love that compelled Him to come, but never lose focus that because of His love, He’s not going to leave you in this mess we call the world. Jesus will come back and right now, He’s preparing a place, just for you!
So, what’s love
got to do with Christmas? Everything.
Prayer
Father…I thank You for being willing to let Jesus come. Jesus, I thank You for your love and being willing to leave heaven, so You could become my Emmanuel. Knowing that You are willingly with me and are coming again, gives me the strength to face each new day, each new challenge with hope. In Jesus Name…Amen
Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks
Through The Themes of Advent
Every Wednesday at 12-12:10pm EST
on Instagram LiveDecember 1(Hope), 8(Love), 15 (Joy), 22(Peace)
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1. John 3:16
- 2. John 10:17-18
- 3. John 10:11
- 4. John 15:12-13
Soul H2O Resources
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#musicpic
#musicpic SONG:
Bring on the Holidays by Toby Mac
Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/HIhZ5O3eRJI
Christmas Spotify Playlist: OnlineAdvent Series: Hope For The Holidays | EP #88
Hope For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #88.
You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/88
Advent Series: Love For The Holidays | EP #89
Love For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #89.
You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/89
Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season
Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
ENDNOTES
1. None This Week
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New Name, New Identity
New Name, New Identity is talking about the different name changes in the Bible and how difficult times can reveal your true identity.
Soul H2O Devotion
New Name, New Identity
When I went through divorce, I changed my name back to my maiden name which is Fletcher. It’s pretty cool as far as names go but it was a lot of paperwork changing it back, with every government, business, and banking agency needing to be contacted. Then, when I got re-married to Todd, I had to go through all that legal paperwork again to take on his last name Stahl, an equally cool name that actually means “steel”, so ya, I married a man of steel, with a very soft heart!
Names are a big deal.
New Names
Choosing a baby name is a difficult job these days. When you meet people from older generations, they seemed to have settled on a select number of names and used them repeatedly, but since I was having kids and until the present day, it’s become much more complicated. With access to the internet, the options seem to be endless.
Names are a big deal.
Back in Biblical days, your name held great significance but it’s pretty clear that sometimes, God didn’t think the parents chose the right name because I’ve found about 9 instances in the Bible where people’s names were changed by God. I think Abram, Sarai, Jacob, and Simon are the most well-known name changes.
Crisis Is Often The Catalyst
In each of their lives, there was a crisis that curated the changed name.
For Abraham and Sarah, it was infertility and names that spoke of their destiny to have children; for Jacob, it was fear of an attack from his brother that caused him to wrestle with God and be declared Israel which means God strives and has roots in meaning ‘united people’. God knew exactly what Jacob needed to hear and who he would become.
Simon was a big talker, always sticking his foot in his mouth but Jesus saw more in him, Jesus spoke steadiness into his life by renaming him Peter, the rock who would be one of God’s clearest voices in his generation.
There’s only one account of God naming someone and a person changing that name. It happened when Adam renamed the other h’adam, Eve and changed how the world viewed the role of women from that day forward, but that’s the topic for another show.
Changing a National Identity
In Isaiah 62:2-4, a national crisis culminated in God speaking words of comfort to his people when they were taken captive by other nations and told how he was going to change what people called them and said,
“you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow… No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah, for the LORD will take delight in you…
I’m sure it’s not on the top of your baby list, but Hephzibah means “my delight is in her”. Israel’s new name would bring them hope for their future and bolster their identity in time of crisis.
You’ll soon hear how our interview guest’s name change came as the result of a job loss and resulted in a major identity shift.
A Name Change For You!
What’s interesting to you today is how God says in Revelations 2:17 says… To the one who overcomes, I will give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.
God has a special name for you, and it’s not a put-down, but an identity booster that speaks to your destiny. Spend time listening to him and begin connecting with your new name.
Prayer
Father… I’m so thankful that you see the real me and you like the real me. Help me to listen to you Holy Spirit for my identity and not to the insults of others. You created me, you know me and I want to fulfil the destiny you’ve placed within me, so help me see me, the way You see me. In Jesus Name…Amen
Connecting With Your New Name | EP #85
Karen Fox is on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast show, Episode 85, Connecting With Your New Name. Talks about how difficult times can reveal your true identity.
Listen on your favourite Podcast App or: http://www.soulh2o.com/85Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1.Revelation 2:17
- 2. Name Changes (Genesis 17:3,15; 32:28; John 1:42)
- 3. Isaiah 62:2-4
- 4. Isaiah 56:5
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Soul H2O Resources
#musicpic
#musicpic SONG: Through Your Eyes
by Britt NicoleYoutube Video: https://youtu.be/WJzaQP1GmEc
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On AppSplash Online Event
Snakes & Ladders – Sometimes You’re Up, Sometimes You’re Down from the ‘Child-Like Faith’ Series is our November Online Splash event hosted by Sherry Stahl and the #SoulH2O Team.
Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.
Another Devotion You’ll Find Refreshing
If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
ENDNOTES
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The Fight For Peace Of Mind
This week Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held all over Canada as our American friends honor Veteran’s Day. We live in some of the most peaceful places on the planet, but it didn’t just happen. Soldiers had to fight for us to experience the freedom that brings peace, much like you have to fight for peace of mind.
Soul H2O Devotion
The Fight
For Peace Of Mind
A peaceful mind doesn’t just mysteriously happen, it will only be attained if you fight for it. Thankfully this conflict isn’t fought on the battlefield of combat but combatted in the battlefield of your mind.
I really think Philippians 4:6-8 is a great template for learning how to conquer in the battle for a peaceful mind, so let me remind you of what Paul said in Philippians 4:6-8.
Don’t 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. 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.
If you want peace in your life, you have to fight for peace in your mind first, before you deal with your problems.
The first way to peace in your mind is to not worry about anything
I bet you’re thinking, Seriously??? How can I do that? It’s unrealistic…If Paul was in my shoes, he’d worry…
I just wonder, if it make any difference when I tell you that Paul was in prison when he wrote these verses? If you compare all of Paul’s writings, I think you’ll see how the book of Philippians, over the others, exudes joy, and he wrote it from a place of wrongful imprisonment.
So, how do you not worry about anything???
Follow the second way to peace in your mind – pray about everything!
Turn fear into faith by disciplining your mind to pray, every time you worry.
When you start to feel afraid your kids are going to get hurt riding their bikes, driving the car or dating that guy…Pray… Lord, I thank you for protecting my children.
When you’re afraid of losing your job… Pray… Lord I thank you that this company is not my provider, You are. I look forward to seeing how you’ll provide for my needs.
If you’re afraid of your marriage falling apart… Pray… Lord I bring my marriage to You right now. Fill us with a deep love for each other that will stand the tests of time.
Turn fear and anxiety into catalysts for prayer.
My theory is that the devil will clue in and realize he’s bringing on good things by causing you to fear and eventually he’ll give up… maybe??? Ya, as if!
The third and last way to peace in your mind is to think on good things
And what is gooder than God? Nothing.
Put some worship music on, throw your hands up in the air and begin praising God. It won’t be long until your burdens are lifted, anxiety alleviated, and your heart healed. Then you’ll be in your right mind to deal with your problems.
Does God’s peace make sense?
Not at all, it transcends Understanding and goes beyond human understanding
- • Don’t worry about anything
- • Pray about everything
- • Focus Your Thoughts on God.
Then, tackle your problems.
Rinse and Repeat.
The fight for peace of mind is just that simple.
Prayer
Father… Thank you for giving me the mind of Christ with the ability to control my thoughts. I’m so grateful you provided a plan for peace of mind in your word. Please help me to not be anxious, pray more and think on Your goodness to keep the peace. In Jesus Name…Amen
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1. Philippians 4:6-8
- 2. Isaiah 26:3
- 3. John 16:33
- 4. John 14:27
Soul H2O Resources
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Get a FREE Soul H2O Book Sampler {and a coupon} when you Sign Up to Get the Soul H2O Devotions, Show Notifications, and updates from me!
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#musicpic
#musicpic SONG:
Peace Be Still by Hope Darst
Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsIpGiz3SfQ
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On AppIn Fight For Peace, Kay Wyma is back again, talking about her latest book, The Peace Project and how you can experience true peace on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast show.
You can find today’s Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/86
Splash Online Event
Snakes & Ladders – Sometimes You’re Up, Sometimes You’re Down from the ‘Child-Like Faith’ Series is our November Online Splash event hosted by Sherry Stahl and the #SoulH2O Team.
Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.
Devotions Related to Peace of Mind
If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
ENDNOTES
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Ever Feel Like The Devil’s Trying To Take You Out?
I’ve been sitting on this miraculous story for a few years because I’ve been too embarrassed to share, but today, I feel it’s time to push aside my pride because maybe you’ve been through a time like this?
Do you ever feel like the devil’s trying to take you out?
This is more than a devotion; it’s a testimony of God’s miraculous work and I believe it will encourage you!
Ever Feel Like The Devil’s Trying To Take You Out?
It was April 2016, I was flying here and there, in the middle of a very busy speaking season. I was getting ready to head out to Dallas to speak at the annual Christian Women in Media Conference in a seminar on publishing with some great friends. I can’t tell you how excited I was to get back there and spend time with my tribe of people. God had miraculously provided funding, so I was excited for all he had in store.
GETTING RUN DOWN
In the busyness of that season, I was run down and started experiencing symptoms of a bladder infection. Two days before I was supposed to leave, I had a massive allergic reaction to the medication that was helping get rid of the infection. Hot, itchy hives started on my neck but traveled all over my body. In the middle of the night, I had to get Todd to take me to the hospital as I could feel my throat swelling inside.
Hives In The Hospital
There was no waiting at the ER this time as they rushed me into a room, looked at my throat and started giving me shots of Benadryl and Prednisone straight into my bloodstream through veins in my arm. We were there for hours until my throat swelling went down, and they felt I was stable. I asked the doctor for a note to give the airlines, so I could get a refund on my ticket, but he said I would be absolutely fine by 6pm that day and ready for my 6am flight, cautioning, if they weren’t gone by 6pm to come back.
The hives completely disappeared as I kept taking the prescribed doses of Benadryl and Prednisone, so on the advice of the ER doctor, I boarded the plane.
THEY’RE BACK!
At the stop in Chicago, I felt my neck starting to itch and slight hives begin to resurface.
By the time I got to Dallas, I had hives growing at a fast pace.
Hives In The Hotel
By 2am the hives were everywhere from head to toe, even in my ears. The skin on my face looked like it was drooping off. The symptoms were even worse than what I experienced in Canada, so I woke my friend Kandi up and let her know I was going to the hospital.
Before I left, I thought it would be wise to call my insurance company first and when I did, they told me a hospital visit wouldn’t be covered because I had gone to the hospital in Canada, just days before. I feared the medical bills more than the advice of my friends at the time and decided to stay at the hotel and rest. I had determined I wouldn’t go to the hospital unless my throat felt worse than it did or if I felt God urging me to go.
You can see the hives from head to itchy toe! No need for a collagen plumping in these lips!
The Embarrassing Photos
Not trying to do duck lips! So much larger than they look. My face and neck were drooping. In my ears & scalp Top to Bottom Hives On fire & itchy! I Felt Like The Devil Was Trying To Take Me Out
Have you Ever Felt Like The Devil Was Trying To Take You Out?
John 10:10 tells us how the enemy of our souls has a nefarious plan for your life and mine when it says,
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
John 10:10In that moment, I felt sure the enemy was trying to steal away my chance to attend and speak at the conference, that he wanted to destroy the opportunities God had set up for me and literally wanted to kill me.
I didn’t have the strength to fight, but my hotel roomie, Kandi Rose began to pray for me. As she prayed, I fell back asleep. She told me that she prayed a lot of the night for me but I woke up with no changes and very groggy from taking a little extra of the meds.
She prayed again and then I went back to bed for hours and saw an ever-so-slight change. Kandi brought me food and left me to sleep again, but the next time I woke up hours later, a miracle had taken place and the hives were almost completely gone!
The Miracle Came
This is a picture of me getting ready to leave for the evening service and event called Jeans and Bling. God did the miraculous! I was able to attend the conference the rest of the conference, speak in the seminar, and meet the people God organized for me to meet.
I’m thankful for my roommate Kandi who has continued to be a blessing in my life and also that John 10:10 doesn’t end with the words telling us how the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. Jesus went on to say:
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10No matter how hard the devil tries attacking you, God is greater and He wants you to live an abundant life. Even if your life is taken, the enemy still loses… if you keep your faith. As Paul said in Philippians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Your eternal reward is much greater than life on this earth, but it sure is wonderful to have a miraculous experience, this side of heaven.
Audio Inspiration
I’m praying this testimony of mine helps build your faith in times when the enemy is trying to take you out. If you need a little more inspiration, check out these episodes from my Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show filled with miraculous stories of healing, salvation and rescue, one even from my praying roomie and tv host, Kandi Rose.
Soul H2O Resources
RADIO SHOW EPISODES WITH MIRACULOUS STORIES
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Costumes For Candy And To Conceal
When I was little, I wore costumes for candy, but as I got older, I’ve been known to wear costumes to conceal. How about you?
Soul H2O Devotion
Costumes For Candy
Children will be dressing up in costumes on Sunday to walk their neighborhoods in search of candy. I used to love this time as a kid and so did my children. Beyond all the candy, dressing up was so much fun!
Cute Costumes
This is a picture of my favorite costume, Raggedy Ann. I’m sitting with my cousin Angie and my sister Pebbles, I mean Lori. Weren’t we cute? My mom used to sew and made a lot of our costumes but this will go down as my fave! As the years go on, I appreciate the painstaking effort mom put into making that wig, gluing each strand of yarn onto what I can’t remember. {Thanks Mom!}
The First Costumes
As I was thinking about wearing costumes, my thoughts went straight to Adam and Eve in the garden. This is the first time in history where people put something on to disguise themselves.
“They sewed fig trees together and made coverings for themselves.”
Genesis 3:7Right after Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, guilt overwhelmed them and created a desire to hide. Shrouded in shame, they crafted the first costumes known to mankind out of some fig leaves.
Costumes To Conceal
Everyone has the tendency to be like Adam and Eve when it comes to dressing up, concealing so people can’t see your frailty, your failings, your brokenness, your sin. We’re afraid that if people see who we really are they won’t accept us, worse yet, that God will reject us. That’s what Adam and Eve thought was going to happen in their relationship with God, and I’m guessing you’ve feared that a time or too yourself?
Hiding In The Fear Of Being Rejected
I’m so thankful that Adam and Eve’s fears of God rejecting them didn’t materialize. Sure… they reaped the consequences of their bad choices, but God never rejected them. God never pulled His love away. Instead, He sought after Adam and Eve and then, set into motion a plan for salvation that wouldn’t just “cover-over” their sin but wipe it completely away through Christ’s work on the cross.
There’s no need for you to hide from God. Take off whatever costume you’ve been wearing to conceal yourself and let His love in!
Prayer
Father…I’m so thankful that You don’t reject me. Your Word promises this over and over. Help me to shut the lies of the enemy down that tell me I should cover-up who I am and hide. Help me to lay my heart bare before You so I can experience Your unconditional grace, mercy, love, and acceptance. In Jesus Name…Amen
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1.Genesis 2:25
- 2. Genesis 3:7
- 3. Genesis 3:8
- 4. Romans 8:38-39
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Splash Online Event
It’s the season for wearing costumes. Have you ever felt like the character or person you dressed up as?
Dress UP – To Find Out Who You Are our October Online Splash event is hosted by Sherry Stahl and the #SoulH2O Team.
October 28, 2021 @ 8pm ESTJoin us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.
If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
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Are You Struggling Like Me With Unethical Politicians?
Anyone else struggling with the lack of ethics in our political leaders? Instead of grumbling and complaining 😤 let’s commit to living out what the Bible teaches us and maybe then will we see a change!
Soul H2O Devotion
Are You Struggling Like Me With Unethical Politicians?
Last week in Canada, we had what they call a ‘Snap Election’ where a minority government exercises the right to call an election in hopes they will win a majority government or secure another one for a longer term. This election was quite controversial given that our country is in the middle of a pandemic and already struggling financially, so the $610 million dollar price tag to run an election that only changed a few seats in parliament has many upset and complaining on social media. On top of that, we’re hearing more news of political corruption as a candidate from Alberta was caught on surveillance video removing his closest opposing candidate’s signs and replacing them with his own, which is a federal offence in our country.
Grumbling And Complaining Only Changes Us
Almost daily hearing of a lack of ethics in political leaders around the globe has been disheartening for me. I’ve fallen into the human condition of grumbling and complaining all too often. This pattern of behaviour is so common to our nature and such a waste of time! It seldom is a catalyst for action and usually leads to a dissatisfied, disgruntled, and discouraged way of life… not living the abundant life Christ wants for you or me.
What Scripture Has To Say
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 CSBA Ballot, Not a Mallet
When I read this verse recently, it confronted me with the sin of my grumbling and complaining. I recognized how it was growing a black spot in my heart and decided that maybe it’s time I actually start to pray for my leaders. As I wrestled with this issue, I wrote and recorded my latest radio show episode, A Ballot, Not a Mallet where I share so much more about this topic and a download, to help you give you practical tips in Praying For Your Leaders. {See link below for the download and to the show}. These really are important topics in our day, worth grappling with God about, so you can break free of the struggle and experience peace, even when there are unethical politicians.
Let’s commit to living out what 1 Timothy 2:1-2 teaches us and maybe then will we see a change!
Prayer
Father…I thank you for the leaders in my city, region, province, state, and country. I ask you to draw them close Holy Spirit. Help them know Your love, acceptance, guidance, and grace. May they lead with integrity, passion, and purpose; wisely making decisions, according to Your will. In Jesus Name…Amen
Verses to help fill up your well.
- 1. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
- 2. Romans 13:1
- 3. Luke 13:1-3
- 4. Ephesians 4:15
Soul H2O Resources
Praying For Your Leaders Download
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A Ballot, Not a Mallet | EP #81
A Ballot, Not a Mallet is the title for this week’s Soul H2O Radio & Podcast show to help bring healing after a month of turbulent, divided, and divisive, election campaigning. You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/81
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Repeats (Do Not Worry)If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
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